7.7 / 10 (based on 1430 reviews)
Encaged in a gold-clad life of secrets and lies, two women in a conglomerate family seek to topple all that stands in their way of finding true joy.
Genre: Drama, Mystery
Main Cast: Lee Bo-young, Kim Seo-hyeong, Ja-Yeon Ok, Hyun-Wook Lee
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1 season, 16 episodes, 70-minute runtime
Shows Most Like Mine (2021)
Law School (2021)
8 / 10 (based on 2537 reviews)
When a grim incident occurs at their prestigious school, justice through law is put to a test by a tough law professor and his ambitious students.
Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery
Main Cast: Myung-Min Kim, Kim Bum, Hye-young Ryu, Lee Jeong-eun
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1 season, 16 episodes, 65.0-minute runtime
Nevertheless (2021)
7.2 / 10 (based on 6479 reviews)
The intoxicating charm of a flirtatious art school classmate pulls a reluctant love cynic into a friends-with-benefits relationship.
Genre: Drama, Romance
Main Cast: Han So-hee, Song Kang, Lee Ho-jung, Yang Hye-Ji
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1 season, 10 episodes, 70.0-minute runtime
Yi Guyeokui Michin X (2021)
7.9 / 10 (based on 2131 reviews)
Bothered to realize they are next-door neighbors and share a psychiatrist, a man and a woman find it’s impossible to stay out of each other’s way.
Genre: Comedy, Drama, Romance
Main Cast: Woo Jung, Yeon-Seo Oh, Su-Hyun Lee, Lee Hye-Ra
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1 season, 13 episodes, 30.0-minute runtime
Move to Heaven (2021)
8.5 / 10 (based on 7098 reviews)
Working as trauma cleaners, both Gu-ru and Sang-gu uncover various stories of the deceased while experiencing different emotions and sentiments toward life, death and family.
Genre: Drama
Main Cast: Olivia Castanho, Lee Jehoon, Tang Joon-sang, Sanyee Yuan
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1 season, 10 episodes, 60.0-minute runtime
SKY Castle (2018)
8.6 / 10 (based on 3468 reviews)
A satirical drama that closely looks at the materialistic desires of upper-class parents in South Korea and how they ruthlessly secure the successes of their families at the cost of destroying others’ lives.
Genre: Drama, Mystery
Main Cast: Jung-ah Yum, Tae-ran Lee, Yun Se-ah, Na-ra Oh
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1 season, 20 episodes, 75.0-minute runtime
Love (ft. Marriage & Divorce) (2021)
6.8 / 10 (based on 545 reviews)
Everything comes unraveling for three successful women who work on a radio show as twists, turns and troubles plague their seemingly happy marriages.
Genre: Drama, Romance
Main Cast: Sung Hoon, Lee Ga-Ryeong, Tae-gon Lee, Joo-mi Park
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2 seasons, 32 episodes, 70.0-minute runtime
Neoneun Naeui Bom (2021)
7.4 / 10 (based on 736 reviews)
A hotel concierge and a psychiatrist with traumatic childhoods form a heartfelt bond when they become entangled in a perplexing local murder case.
Genre: Drama, Romance, Thriller
Main Cast: Hyeon-jin Seo, Dong-wook Kim, Bak Yoon, Gyu-ri Nam
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1 season, 16 episodes, 70.0-minute runtime
Binsenjo (2021)
8.4 / 10 (based on 20990 reviews)
During a visit to his motherland, a Korean-Italian mafia lawyer gives an unrivaled conglomerate a taste of its own medicine with a side of justice.
Genre: Comedy, Crime, Drama
Main Cast: Song Joong-ki, Jeon Yeo-bin, Taecyeon, Kwak Dong-yeon
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1 season, 21 episodes, 80.0-minute runtime
Gan Tteoleojineun Donggeo (2021)
7.7 / 10 (based on 3375 reviews)
The thrilling love story of Shin Woo Yeo, a 999-years-old gumiho who wants to become human, and Lee Dam, who accidentally swallowed his fox bead.
Genre: Comedy, Fantasy, Romance
Main Cast: Jang Ki-Yong, Hyeri Lee, Kang Han-na, Kim Do-Wan
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1 season, 16 episodes, 65.0-minute runtime
Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha (2021)
8.4 / 10 (based on 14512 reviews)
A big-city dentist opens up a practice in a close-knit seaside village, home to a charming jack-of-all-trades who is her polar opposite in every way.
Genre: Comedy, Romance
Main Cast: Shin Min-a, Kim Seon-Ho, Harrison Xu, Lee Bong-ryun
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1 season, 16 episodes, 70.0-minute runtime
Mobeomtaeksi (2021)
8 / 10 (based on 3559 reviews)
The story of a deluxe taxi driver who gets revenge on behalf of his passengers. It is based on the webtoon Deluxe Taxi by Carlos and Lee Jae-jin
Genre: Action, Crime, Drama, Thriller
Main Cast: Lee Jehoon, Esom, Eui-sung Kim, Pyo Ye-Jin
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1 season, 16 episodes, 70.0-minute runtime
In 2021, the South Korean television landscape was graced with a show that quickly caught the attention of viewers worldwide. “Mine” is a series that dives deep into the lives of women entangled in the complexities of high society, unraveling mysteries and exploring themes of ambition, identity, and liberation. This article will explore what makes “Mine” a standout series, from its gripping storyline and complex characters to its visual storytelling and broader themes.
The Storyline
At its core, “Mine” is a narrative about two women, Seo Hee-soo and Jung Seo-hyun, who navigate their lives within the suffocating confines of a chaebol family. Hee-soo, a former top actress, and Seo-hyun, born into the chaebol family, find themselves in a labyrinth of secrets, lies, and societal expectations. The show masterfully intertwines various subplots involving family members and household staff, each with their own secrets and ambitions.
One of the most compelling aspects of “Mine” is its ability to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. The series is structured around a central mystery that gradually unfolds, revealing the dark underbelly of a world that seems glittering and perfect on the surface. It’s not just about the suspense, though. The show delves into the personal growth and transformation of its characters, particularly the two female leads, as they seek to find their true selves amidst the chaos.
The Characters
Seo Hee-soo
Hee-soo, played by Lee Bo-young, is a character that many viewers find themselves rooting for. Her journey from a celebrated actress to a member of a powerful chaebol family is fraught with challenges. Despite the glitz and glamour, Hee-soo struggles to find her place and voice within the family. Her resilience and determination to protect her son and find her identity are what make her character arc compelling.
Jung Seo-hyun
Seo-hyun, portrayed by Kim Seo-hyung, is another fascinating character. Born into privilege, she has always conformed to the expectations of her family. However, beneath her poised exterior lies a woman yearning for freedom and love on her own terms. Her subtle defiance and pursuit of happiness add depth to the narrative, making her one of the most intriguing characters in the series.
Visual Storytelling
“Mine” is not just a feast for the mind but also for the eyes. The show’s visual aesthetics are nothing short of stunning. From the opulent interiors of the chaebol mansion to the exquisite fashion, every frame is carefully crafted to reflect the luxurious yet constrained lives of the characters. The use of color, lighting, and composition all contribute to the storytelling, enhancing the emotional impact of each scene.
Themes and Messages
Beyond its gripping plot and complex characters, “Mine” tackles several significant themes. It challenges traditional gender roles and societal norms, particularly in the context of a conservative society. The show celebrates female empowerment, with its leads breaking free from the roles prescribed to them by their family and society.
Moreover, “Mine” addresses issues of identity, privacy, and the human desire for genuine connection. It prompts viewers to reflect on what it means to truly “own” one’s life in a world where appearances often take precedence over authenticity.
Why “Mine” Stands Out
In a sea of TV shows, “Mine” distinguishes itself for several reasons. Firstly, its storytelling is both intricate and engaging, blending mystery, drama, and social commentary in a way that feels fresh and relevant. Secondly, the performances by the cast, particularly the leads, are powerful and nuanced, bringing depth to their characters.
Additionally, the show’s production values, from its cinematography to its set design, are top-notch, creating a visually arresting experience. Lastly, “Mine” resonates because it speaks to universal themes of love, ambition, and the search for identity, making it relatable to a broad audience.
Final Thoughts
“Mine” is a series that defies easy categorization. It’s a drama that combines elements of mystery, social critique, and character study, all set against the backdrop of a world that is as beautiful as it is brutal. For viewers looking for a show that offers more than just entertainment, “Mine” is a treasure trove of thought-provoking themes, compelling characters, and stunning visuals.
In a landscape where it’s easy to stick to tried and true formulas, “Mine” breaks the mold, offering a narrative that is both engaging and enlightening. It’s a reminder of the power of television to not only entertain but also to challenge and inspire. Whether you’re drawn to its mystery, its commentary on society, or the journeys of its characters, “Mine” is a series that rewards viewers willing to delve beneath its glittering surface.