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Many K-Dramas are set in offices and illustrate a workplace culture in South Korea. They feature characters that work in big companies, small businesses, or start-ups. Their stories are often about employees facing challenges, chasing promotions, and building relationships with their coworkers. Some TV series have a serious story, while others focus on a fun or romantic workplace environment.
But what are the exact aspects of South Korea's workplace culture do Korean dramas really show? Are office rules and daily routines the same in real life? This article will uncover what is real and not.
Examples of K-Dramas That Depict Korean Workplace Culture
Before exploring the aspects of workplace culture in South Korea that K-Dramas depict, let's take a look at a few popular series with an office setting. These examples show different views of office life, from touch challenges to fun romance.
"Misaeng: Incomplete Life" (2014)
This drama follows Jang GeuRae (played by Im SiWan), a former baduk (Go) player who starts as an intern at a trading company. He experiences a hard time adjusting to office life while learning about teamwork and how to survive in a corporate world. The show also stars Lee SungMin, Kang SoRa, and Kang HaNeul.
"What's Wrong with Secretary Kim" (2018)
This TV series focuses on a perfectionist CEO, Lee YoungJoon (played by Park SeoJoon), whose world turns upside down when his loyal secretary, Kim MiSo (played by Park MinYoung), decides to resign. The CEO tries to make her stay, and while doing so, he starts to develop feelings for her. Even Kim falls for him.
"Start-Up" (2020)
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This is one of the best examples of K-Dramas depicting the workplace culture in South Korea. It is about Seo DalMi (played by Bae Suzy), Nam DoSan (played by Nam JooHyuk), and other young entrepreneurs competing in the fast-paced start-up industry. They chase their dreams while making tough business decisions and solving personal challenges. Other main cast members include Kim SeonHo and Kang HanNa.
"Business Proposal" (2022)
This series is about Shin HaRi (played by Kim SeJeong), an office worker who goes on a blind date in place of her friend, only to realize the man is her company’s CEO, Kang TaeMoo (played by Ahn HyoSeop). Shin tries hard to hide her true identity from the CEO, but love does complicate absolutely everything eventually. The drama also stars Kim MinKyu and Seol InAh.
"Forecasting Love and Weather" (2022)
This drama focuses on Jin HaKyung (played by Park MinYoung), a smart and organized weather forecaster, as she navigates love and work at Korea’s national weather service. She ends up in a tricky relationship with a younger coworker. The series also features Song Kang, Yoon Park, and Yura.
"Agency" (2023)
This is also one of the top examples of K-Dramas illustrating South Korea's workplace culture. It is about Go AhIn (played by Lee BoYoung), a talented but lonely woman who rises to the top in a competitive advertising company.She faces both office drama and private battles when trying to succeed in a field consisting of mostly men. Jo SungHa and Son NaEun, with Han JoonWoo, are featured in the series.
"The Auditors" (2024)
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This TV show follows an audit team led by Shin ChaIl (played by Shin HaKyun), a sharp and ruthless leader, as they investigate corruption within a major corporation. A new young worker joins the team, and together they face strong enemies and find hidden secrets. The drama also stars Lee JungHa, Jin Goo, and Jo ARam.
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