Korean dramas have a knack for captivating audiences with their intriguing crime genres and intricate mysteries. The complex cases they present, combined with the unique charm of their detective characters, create an irresistible allure. Often, these detectives don’t solve cases alone but team up with reporters, adding a compelling layer of collaboration to their investigations. Here, we explore four Korean dramas that masterfully depict the exciting partnerships between detectives and reporters. These shows are too thrilling to miss!
1. The Good Detective (2020)
still cuts from The Good Detective (doc. JTBC/ The Good Detective)
The Good Detective spins a riveting tale of a detective duo who join forces with a dedicated reporter. Kang Do Chang (Son Hyun Joo), an eccentric detective with 18 years of experience, relies heavily on his personal connections rather than traditional investigative methods. His approach contrasts sharply with his colleague, Oh Ji Hyuk (Jang Seung Jo), an elite detective who meticulously studies crime details and prioritizes evidence.
Their dynamic partnership is further enriched by the inclusion of Jin Seo Kyung (Lee Elijah), a passionate newspaper reporter with five years of experience. Together, they navigate complex cases, each bringing their unique skills to the table. The blend of Kang Do Chang’s unconventional methods, Oh Ji Hyuk’s analytical prowess, and Jin Seo Kyung’s investigative journalism makes The Good Detective a standout in the crime drama genre.
2. Taxi Driver 2 (2023)
still cuts from Taxi Driver 2 (instagram.com/sbsdrama.official)
Taxi Driver 2 delves into the world of vigilante justice, with a unique twist involving a collaboration with a reporter. The series follows the members of Rainbow Taxi, a group that helps clients seek revenge and justice. This team includes Jang Sung Chul (Kim Eui Sung), the boss, and Kim Do Ki (Lee Je Hoon), a skilled driver, along with a team of hackers and mechanics.
In a notable arc, Rainbow Taxi aids a reporter who is determined to uncover the Black Sun case, inspired by real-life events. The reporter’s detective partner mysteriously commits suicide, pushing the reporter to seek the truth with the help of Rainbow Taxi. This collaboration not only brings justice to light but also adds an emotional depth to the series, highlighting the stakes involved in their fight against corruption.
3. Nothing Uncovered (2024)
still cuts from Nothing Uncovered (instagram.com/kbsdrama)
Nothing Uncovered introduces Seo Jung Won (Kim Ha Neul), a fearless journalist renowned for her investigative television shows. Her career is fraught with danger, earning her many powerful enemies. The drama takes a personal turn when Seo Jung Won’s husband, a crime novelist, is caught in an affair with a famous actress, who is subsequently found dead. Seo Jung Won becomes the prime suspect, feeling ensnared in a conspiracy.
Desperate to clear her name, she collaborates with Detective Kim Tae Heon, her ex-boyfriend. Their shared history and combined expertise create a gripping narrative as they work together to uncover the truth. The show’s exploration of personal betrayal and professional integrity adds a rich, dramatic layer to the crime-solving plot.
4. Connected (2024)
still cuts from Connected (instagram.com/sbsdrama.official)
Connected features Jang Jae Kyeong (Ji Sung), a meticulous detective in the Drug Eradication Division, who finds himself in a perilous situation after being kidnapped and drugged. Struggling with addiction, he must navigate his way through a labyrinth of deceit to find the perpetrator. His journey becomes even more complex when he teams up with Oh Yoon Jin (Jeon Mi Do), a local reporter and an old friend.
Their combined efforts to clear their names and solve the case of Park Joon Seo’s death showcase a thrilling partnership. The interplay of past friendships and present dangers heightens the drama, making Connected a must-watch for fans of crime thrillers.
In these dramas, the collaboration between detectives and reporters not only drives the narrative but also highlights the synergy between investigative journalism and police work. Each series presents a unique take on this partnership, blending personal stories with high-stakes crime-solving. Whether you prefer the eccentric methods of The Good Detective or the emotional intensity of Nothing Uncovered, there’s a drama here to captivate every crime genre enthusiast.