The South Korean entertainment industry has a global fanbase, with its dramas, films, and KPop resonating with audiences worldwide. It’s no surprise that many Korean dramas are set within this vibrant industry, offering a glimpse into the lives of those behind the scenes. From managers and PR teams to aspiring idols, these shows offer a unique look at the industry. Here are ten must-watch Korean dramas set in the entertainment world.
Behind Every Star (2022)
Behind Every Star follows the lives of top artist managers at Method Entertainment. The drama highlights Ma Tae Oh, the clever and gentle CEO who isn’t afraid to use cunning strategies to achieve his goals. Alongside him is the competitive and workaholic Cheon Je In, whose frequent disagreements with Ma Tae Oh create tension. The drama also features Kim Dong Joon, Ma Tae Oh’s gentle friend and colleague, and rookie manager So Hyun Soo, who often finds himself in trouble.
This series is a remake of the French show Call My Agent! and stars Lee Seo Jin, Kwak Sun Young, Seo Hyun Woo, and Joon Hyun Young. Directed by Baek Sung Ryong, known for Surplus Princess and Pegasus Market, Behind Every Star offers a captivating look at the strategic and often dramatic world of celebrity management.
- Cast: Lee Seo Jin, Kwak Sun Young, Seo Hyun Woo, Joon Hyun Young
- Episodes: 12
- Where to watch: Netflix
Shooting Star (2022)
Shooting Star, another hit from tvN, dives into the hectic lives of PR teams, managers, and reporters in the Korean entertainment industry. Oh Han Byul, portrayed by Lee Sung Kyung, heads the PR team of an agency and frequently clashes with star Gong Tae Sung, played by Kim Young Dae. Their constant bickering eventually turns into a romantic connection.
This romantic comedy, directed by Lee So Hyun, known for Find Me in Your Memory and Awaken, aired on April 22, 2022. Shooting Star provides a humorous yet insightful look at the behind-the-scenes chaos of the entertainment world.
- Cast: Lee Sung Kyung, Kim Young Dae
- Episodes: 16
- Where to watch: Viki, iQIYI
Entertainer (2016)
Entertainer, produced by SBS and directed by Hong Sung Chang and Lee Kwang Young, tells the story of Shin Seok Ho (Ji Sung), a successful idol group manager who struggles to replicate his success with his own label. He meets Jo Ha Neul (Kang Min Hyuk), an aspiring singer who gave up his dream after his parents’ death. Ha Neul’s sister, Geu Rin (Hyeri), becomes his manager, leading to a heartwarming journey of ambition and redemption.
This drama showcases the emotional and professional struggles of those striving to make it in the competitive entertainment industry.
- Cast: Ji Sung, Hyeri, Kang Min Hyuk
- Episodes: 18
- Where to watch: Viki
The Best Hit (2017)
Directed by and starring Cha Tae Hyun, The Best Hit explores the unpredictable life in the entertainment industry, including scandals and the uncertainties faced by trainees. The story follows Lee Ji Hoon (Kim Min Jae), an aspiring singer, and his childhood friend Choi Woo Seung (Lee Se Young), who meet Yoon Hyun Jae (Yoon Shi Yoon), a singer from 1993 who time-travels to 2017. This drama combines time travel with romance and ambition, offering a unique narrative.
- Cast: Yoon Shi Yoon, Kim Min Jae, Lee Se Young
- Episodes: 32
- Where to watch: Viki
The Producers (2015)
Airing on KBS2, The Producers dives into the lives of television producers. Ra Jun Mo (Cha Tae Hyun), a seasoned variety show PD, works alongside Tak Ye Jin (Gong Hyo Jin), a music show PD, and rookie PD Baek Sung Chan (Kim Soo Hyun), who left law for the entertainment industry. The diva Cindy (IU), known as the “ice princess,” navigates her fame with a guarded heart.
This drama sheds light on the behind-the-scenes efforts to save TV shows from low ratings and the interpersonal dynamics among producers and stars.
- Cast: Cha Tae Hyun, Gong Hyo Jin, Kim Soo Hyun, IU
- Episodes: 12
- Where to watch: Netflix, Viki
My Love From The Star (2013)
In My Love From The Star, an alien named Do Min Joo (Kim Soo Hyun) has lived on Earth for over 400 years and becomes the manager of Hallyu star Cheon So Yi (Jun Ji Hyun). Using his superpowers to protect her, Min Joo faces the dilemma of revealing his identity. Directed by Ong Choong Hwan, this SBS drama combines science fiction with romance and the glitz of the entertainment world.
- Cast: Kim Soo Hyun, Jun Ji Hyun
- Episodes: 21
- Where to watch: Netflix, Viki
Be Melodramatic (2019)
Be Melodramatic follows three friends working in the entertainment industry: scriptwriter Im Jin Joo (Chun Woo Hee), marketing head Hwang Han Joo (Han Ji Eun), and documentary director Lee Eung Jung (Jeon Yeo Been). The show, which aired on jTBC, explores their professional and personal struggles as they navigate their 30s. Written and directed by Lee Byung Hun and Kim Hye Young, the drama is a heartfelt portrayal of friendship and ambition.
- Cast: Chun Woo Hee, Han Ji Eun, Jeon Yeo Been
- Episodes: 16
- Where to watch: Viki
Imitation (2021)
Based on a webtoon, Imitation tells the story of Lee Ma Ha (Jug Ji So), a new member of the girl group Tea Party, and her interactions with SHAX’s popular member Kwon Ryoc (Lee Jun Young). The drama delves into the hardships and aspirations of idols, highlighting themes of loss and perseverance. Aired on KBS2, Imitation offers an inspiring look at the challenges faced by those pursuing stardom.
- Cast: Jung Ji So, Lee Jun Young, Park Ji Yeon
- Episodes: 12
- Where to watch: Viki, iQIYI
Idol: The Coup (2021)
jTBC’s Idol: The Coup follows the girl group Cotton Candy as they strive for their first win before disbanding. Featuring real-life idols like EXID’s Hani and WJSN’s Exy, this drama portrays the struggles and determination of idols. The touching narrative emphasizes resilience in the face of adversity.
- Cast: Ahn Hee Yeon (Hani), Kim Min Kyu, Exy
- Episodes: 12
- Where to watch: Viki
Record of Youth (2020)
Directed by Ahn Gil Ho, Record of Youth centers on model-turned-actor Sa Hye Joon (Park Bo Gum) and makeup artist Ahn Jung Ha (Park So Dam). Along with their friends, they navigate the challenging entertainment industry, balancing dreams and relationships. This drama offers a poignant exploration of ambition and friendship in the world of acting and modeling.
- Cast: Park Bo Gum, Park So Dam, Byun Woo Seok
- Episodes: 16
- Where to watch: Netflix
These ten Korean dramas provide a fascinating glimpse into the entertainment industry, blending romance, ambition, and the often tumultuous journey to success. Whether you’re a fan of behind-the-scenes drama or heartwarming stories of perseverance, there’s something for everyone in this lineup. So grab some popcorn and get ready to dive into the captivating world of Korean entertainment!
