Frankly Speaking is currently airing on JTBC, occupying the Wednesday and Thursday slots. This drama follows a news anchor whose personality takes a dramatic turn after a tragedy, giving viewers a peek into the real world of work at a television station.
Not only does Frankly Speaking dive into the broadcasting world, but many other early 2024 Korean dramas explore a variety of professions, from police officers to doctors. Here are 17 Korean dramas from early 2024 that showcase the ins and outs of different careers.
A Look at the Broadcasting Industry
1. Frankly Speaking
Starring Go Kyung Pyo and Kang Han Na, Frankly Speaking explores the world of work at a television station through news and reality shows. The drama is a compelling portrayal of the challenges and ethical dilemmas faced by news anchors, making it a must-watch for those curious about the media industry.
Image source: jtbcdrama on Instagram
2. Chief Detective 1958
Set in 1958, this drama highlights the passionate and courageous actions of detectives upholding justice. Chief Detective 1958 offers a nostalgic yet thrilling glimpse into the past, focusing on the determination and bravery required in law enforcement.
Image source: mbcdrama_now on Instagram
3. Connection
Released on May 24, Connection follows an ace detective who is framed as a drug addict. This drama not only delves into the investigative world but also the personal struggles and moral conflicts faced by detectives.
Image source: sbsdrama.official on Instagram
4. Crash
This drama begins with the story of an intelligent policeman who is transferred to the traffic crime investigation team. Crash is set to captivate audiences with its unique focus on traffic-related crimes and the dynamics within the police force.
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Exploring Corporate and Medical Professions
5. Queen of Tears
Apart from highlighting the dynamics of marriage, Queen of Tears presents the struggle for power within conglomerate companies. This drama vividly portrays the intense competition and corporate maneuvering in the business world.
Image source: tvn_drama on Instagram
6. A Good Day to Be a Dog
This fantasy drama is set in a high school and centers on a teacher who has a hereditary curse. A Good Day to Be a Dog combines elements of romance and supernatural intrigue, providing a fresh take on the teaching profession.
Image source: mbcdrama_now on Instagram
7. Blood Free
Airing on Disney+ Hotstar, this drama tells the story of a biotechnology company researching artificial meat. Blood Free explores the cutting-edge world of biotechnology and the ethical questions it raises.
Image source: disneypluskr on Instagram
8. Flex
Showing the detective profession, Flex is another intriguing addition to the early 2024 lineup. It focuses on the lives of detectives and their relentless pursuit of justice.
Image source: sbsdrama.official on Instagram
9. Branding in Seongsu
Accompanied by a mystery thriller genre, this drama tells the story of a competent and workaholic career woman. Branding in Seongsu explores the high-pressure world of marketing and personal branding.
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10. Doctor Slump
With a theme of a love-hate relationship, Doctor Slump tells the story of two talented doctors who face the lowest points in their lives. This drama is a poignant exploration of the pressures and emotional toll within the medical field.
Image source: jtbcdrama on Instagram
11. Marry My Husband
With a time travel theme, Marry My Husband shows the working world of employees in large food sector companies. It creatively intertwines romance and corporate life, offering a unique take on both.
Image source: tvn_drama on Instagram
12. My Demon
This drama tells the story of a contractual marriage between a demon and a human, and also highlights the world of work and the struggle for position within it. My Demon blends supernatural elements with corporate drama.
Image source: sbsdrama.official on Instagram
13. Nothing Uncovered
Starring Kim Ha Neul, this drama highlights the story of a reporter who collaborates with detectives after being accused of murder. Nothing Uncovered offers a gripping look at investigative journalism and its intersections with law enforcement.
Image source: kbsdrama on Instagram
14. Queen of Divorce
This drama showcases the actions of experts in resolving divorce cases, assisted by lawyers. Queen of Divorce brings a unique perspective to the legal profession and the complexities of family law.
Image source: jtbcdrama on Instagram
15. The Impossible Heir
This 12-episode drama tells the story of the ambitions of three young people striving to reach the highest positions in a conglomerate company. The Impossible Heir delves into corporate ambition and the personal sacrifices involved.
Image source: disneypluskr on Instagram
16. The Story of Park’s Marriage Contract
Apart from telling the story of time travel and a contract marriage, this drama also presents the world of work in a large company. The Story of Park’s Marriage Contract blends fantasy elements with corporate intrigue.
Image source: mbcdrama_now on Instagram
17. My Happy Ending
A thriller genre drama, My Happy Ending follows the story of a young and successful CEO who is betrayed by those around him. This drama explores themes of trust and betrayal within the corporate world.
Image source: tvchosuninsta on Instagram
Korean dramas have a knack for weaving intricate stories around various professions, providing both entertainment and a deeper understanding of different career paths. Frankly Speaking stands out for its bold approach to the ethics and realities of journalism, something rarely depicted with such intensity. The dynamics in Queen of Tears and Doctor Slump also strike a chord, shedding light on the high-stakes environment of corporate and medical professions.
Each drama on this list brings something unique to the table, making early 2024 an exciting time for K-drama fans interested in the world of work. Whether it’s the nostalgic justice-seeking in Chief Detective 1958 or the corporate power struggles in Queen of Tears, these dramas offer a diverse and engaging look at different careers.
