7.2 / 10 (based on 519 reviews)
Tells the story of a tough and rogue female prosecutor, who one day loses all of her memories and changes places with a conservative housewife who looks just like her.
Genre: Comedy, Drama, Romance
Main Cast: Lee Hanee, Sang-yoon Lee, Seo-Yeon Jin, Won-geun Lee
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 16 episodes
Shows Most Like Won Deo Umeon (2021)
Yumieui Sepodeul (2021)
8.2 / 10 (based on 2345 reviews)
The story of an ordinary office worker named Yumi-from the point of view of the many brain cells in her head controlling her every thought, feeling, and action.
Genre: Comedy, Drama, Romance
Main Cast: Kim Go-eun, Ahn Bo-Hyun, Jinyoung Park, Sang-yi Lee
Creators: Jae-Jeong Song
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 14 episodes, 70.0-minute runtime
Kyeongchalsueob (2021)
7.3 / 10 (based on 780 reviews)
The series depicts the story of a National Police University campus, and the conflict and harmony between professor and students.
Genre: Comedy, Drama, Romance
Main Cast: Tae-Hyun Cha, Jung Jinyoung, Krystal Jung, Soo-Hyun Hong
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 16 episodes, 65.0-minute runtime
Geomeun Taeyang (2021)
7.5 / 10 (based on 923 reviews)
A spy investigation show with a story about a top National Intelligence Service (NIS) agent. In his endeavor to uncover the internal traitor that brought him to his downfall, he confronts a much bigger enemy behind the organization.
Genre: Action, Crime, Drama, Mystery, Thriller
Main Cast: Min Namkoong, Ha-seon Park, Ji-Eun Kim, Jang Young-Nam
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 12 episodes
Hong Cheon Gi (2021)
7.6 / 10 (based on 1090 reviews)
Set during the Joseon era, Hong Chun Gi is a female painter with genius like painting talent. She is picked as the first female painter of the Dohwaseo. For her, painting is everything. One day, she meets Ha Ram.
Genre: Drama, Fantasy, History, Romance
Main Cast: Kim Yoo-jeong, Ahn Hyo-Seop, Myoung Gong, Si-Yang Kwak
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 16 episodes, 70.0-minute runtime
Secret Royal Inspector Joy (2021)
7.2 / 10 (based on 559 reviews)
Set in Joseon dynasty, it tells the story of a young gourmet who unintentionally becomes a royal inspector and a divorced woman who rushes to find happiness, as they team up to investigate and defeat corrupt politicians.
Genre: Comedy, Drama, History, Mystery
Main Cast: Nam Mi-Jung, Taecyeon, Kim Hye-Yoon, Jung Soon-won
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 16 episodes
Jirisan (2021)
7.4 / 10 (based on 1117 reviews)
Set against the backdrop of towering views of Mount Jiri, it depicts the story of rangers and other employees of the Jirisan National Park who climb through the mysterious and unexplored regions of the mountain.
Genre: Action, Drama, Mystery, Thriller
Main Cast: Ju Ji-Hoon, Jun Ji-hyun, Jo Han-chul, Go Min-Si
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 16 episodes
Otsomae Bolkeun Kkeutdong (2021)
8.5 / 10 (based on 2119 reviews)
Based on a novel of the same name, it tells the record of a royal court romance between the King of Joseon who believes his duty is to his country first above love, and a court lady who wants to protect the life she has chosen.
Genre: Drama, History, Romance
Main Cast: Jun-Ho Lee, Se-yeong Lee, Jang Hie-jin, Ji-Young Park
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 17 episodes, 70.0-minute runtime
Happiness (2021)
7.9 / 10 (based on 6681 reviews)
An apocalyptic thriller that takes place in a time in which infectious diseases have become the new normal.
Genre: Action, Fantasy, Horror, Thriller
Main Cast: Han Hyo-joo, Park Hyung-Sik, Woo-jin Jo, Joo-hee Park
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 12 episodes
Usumudang Gadooshim (2021)
7.1 / 10 (based on 345 reviews)
A story of a high school girl born with an undesired fate who transfers to a haunted school where a student who came last on the test commits suicide.
Genre: Fantasy, Mystery
Main Cast: Kim Sae-ron, Nam Da-reum, Soo-Jang Baek, Bae Hae-Sun
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 12 episodes, 20.0-minute runtime
Kimaira (2021)
7.4 / 10 (based on 386 reviews)
An explosion took place in the past. That explosion led to a serial murder case known as the Chimera case. 35 years later, a similar explosion takes place.
Genre: Mystery, Thriller
Main Cast: Park Hae-soo, Lee Hee-joon, Nam Gi-Ae, Joon-seok Heo
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 16 episodes
Ingansilgyeog (2021)
8.3 / 10 (based on 367 reviews)
A forty year old woman who feels like she has not accomplished anything in life and a twenty-seven year old man who’s frightened of himself.
Genre: Drama
Main Cast: Jeon Do-yeon, Ryu Jun-Yeol, Ji-Young Park, Yoo Su-bin
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 16 episodes
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
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 16 episodes, 70.0-minute runtime
In the realm of television, where every new series vies for attention amidst a sea of content, “Won Deo Umeon” (2021), also known as “Wonder Woman,” has carved out a niche for itself. This South Korean drama, not to be confused with the DC Comics superhero of the same name, offers a refreshing narrative that intertwines the lives of its characters in a complex web of emotions, ambitions, and societal expectations. Let’s get into the details without any unnecessary fluff.
The Premise
At its core, “Won Deo Umeon” is a story about the trials and tribulations of Oh Yoon-Hee, played by the talented Kim Hee-Sun, and the lengths she will go to provide a better life for her daughter amidst the cutthroat world of the elite in South Korea. The show doesn’t shy away from depicting the harsh realities of social stratification and the almost insurmountable barriers those from less affluent backgrounds face.
Characters and Performances
The strength of “Won Deo Umeon” lies in its well-rounded characters, each bringing a unique flavor to the story’s rich tapestry. Kim Hee-Sun’s portrayal of Oh Yoon-Hee is both powerful and poignant, capturing the desperation and determination of a mother in a society that often looks down upon the less privileged. Her performance is complemented by a stellar cast, including Park Shin-Hye and Lee Min-Ho, who bring depth to their roles and keep viewers invested in their journeys.
The Villains
No story is complete without a compelling antagonist, and “Won Deo Umeon” delivers on this front. The show presents not just one, but a series of adversaries, each with their own motivations and methods of causing turmoil in Oh Yoon-Hee’s life. These characters are not evil for the sake of being evil; their actions are often a reflection of the societal pressures and personal ambitions that drive them. This nuanced approach to villainy adds layers to the narrative, making the conflict more engaging.
Themes and Messages
One of the show’s most striking aspects is its exploration of themes such as social mobility, the sacrifices parents make for their children, and the corrupting influence of power and wealth. “Won Deo Umeon” doesn’t just tell a story; it holds up a mirror to society, asking viewers to reflect on the disparities and injustices that exist within it.
Social Mobility
The struggle for social mobility is a recurring theme throughout the series. Oh Yoon-Hee’s efforts to climb the social ladder, by any means necessary, highlight the systemic barriers that prevent individuals from breaking out of the cycle of poverty. The show does an excellent job of showcasing the lengths to which people will go to secure a better future for their offspring, even if it means compromising their morals.
Sacrifices of Parenthood
Another poignant theme is the sacrifices parents are willing to make for their children’s happiness and success. “Won Deo Umeon” presents various parental figures, each with their own approach to parenting, yet all are united in their desire to provide the best for their children. This aspect of the show resonates with viewers, making the characters’ struggles and triumphs all the more impactful.
The Dark Side of Wealth
Wealth and power are double-edged swords in “Won Deo Umeon.” The show delves into how these can corrupt individuals, leading them to commit acts they might not have considered otherwise. It’s a stark reminder that the pursuit of material success can sometimes lead to moral bankruptcy.
Why It Stands Out
In an industry saturated with romantic comedies and action-packed thrillers, “Won Deo Umeon” stands out for its willingness to tackle difficult subjects head-on. The show’s blend of drama, suspense, and social commentary makes it a compelling watch for anyone looking for something that goes beyond surface-level entertainment.
Relatable Characters
Despite the high-stakes world in which they operate, the characters in “Won Deo Umeon” are incredibly relatable. Their fears, aspirations, and dilemmas mirror those of the average viewer, making it easy to empathize with them. This connection between the audience and the characters is a testament to the show’s writing and the actors’ performances.
Engaging Plot
The plot of “Won Deo Umeon” is a rollercoaster of emotions and twists. Just when you think you have the story figured out, it throws a curveball that keeps you guessing. This unpredictability is one of the show’s biggest strengths, ensuring that viewers remain hooked from the first episode to the last.
Final Thoughts
“Won Deo Umeon” is more than just a TV show; it’s a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition. Through its complex characters, intricate plot, and unflinching examination of societal issues, it offers a viewing experience that is both entertaining and enlightening. Whether you’re drawn to the drama, interested in the social commentary, or simply looking for a series with substance, “Won Deo Umeon” is definitely worth your time.