5 K-Dramas To Watch About New Beginnings

If you're having trouble seeing the excitement in new beginnings, you can watch one of these K-Dramas for inspiration. Here are 5 K-Dramas about starting anew that you should definitely add to your watchlist.

Dyllan Mykel, Kpopmap Editor
4 min to read · Published : Dec 28, 2022 · Updated : Mar 24, 2023

5 K-Dramas To Watch About New Beginnings

tvN

It's hard to believe that the end of the year is already upon us and 2023 is right around the corner. Along with the lingering holiday cheer, it's exciting to think about all the things that are to come with the new year. This might include moving to a another city, sticking to a New Year's resolution, or pursuing a new career.

While change can be scary, it's an opportunity to start anew and move onto another thrilling chapter of life. But if you're having trouble seeing the excitement in new beginnings, you can watch one of these amazing K-Dramas for inspiration. They can become the perfect reminder that change is sometimes necessary and is totally worth it in the end.

Here are 5 K-Dramas about starting anew that you should definitely add to your watchlist.

1. "Twenty Again"

This iconic tvN drama features Choi JiWoo, Lee SangYoon, Choi WonYoung, Kim MinJae, and Son NaEun. Choi JiWoo plays 38-year-old Ha NoRa who once dreamed of becoming a dancer. However, she had to give up on her dreams after meeting her future husband at 19 and unexpectedly became a mother. After living most of her life for her family, she decides to attend university and experiences life like someone in their 20s.

"Twenty Again" is heartfelt and serves as a reminder that life doesn't always go as planned. Even if that's the case, it is never too late to pursue your dreams and aspirations. It does not matter if those dreams are modified or slightly toned down, you should simply go for it rather than live with regrets. "Twenty Again" is the perfect dose of courage to take in the face of new beginnings.

2. "Still 17"

Some people maintain a youthful mind and soul all throughout life. For Woo SeoRi (played by Shin HyeSun) in "Still 17", she doesn't really have a choice. SeoRi was once a 17 year old genius violinist whose future seemed promising and bright. However, one day she gets into an accident, falls into a coma, and remains in a vegetative state for 13 years. She miraculously wakes up at the age of 30. Afterwards, she meets Gong WooJin (played by Yang SeJong) and begins a new chapter of her life.

The SBS drama has many lighthearted, comical moments that will have you grinning from ear to ear. But it also successfully tackles the idea of getting a second chance at life and making the best of it. While it's important to be grown up and mature, there's something special to maintaining even the smallest bit of childhood innocence. "Still 17" is a true gem worthy of all its praise.

3. "Romance Is a Bonus Book"

How could we not bring up "Romance Is a Bonus Book" when talking about new chapters in life? The lovely tvN drama features Lee NaYoung as Kang DanYi and Lee JongSuk as Cha EunHo. Kang DanYi is 37 years old and was once a successful copywriter, wife, and mother. However, she loses everything and is unable to land a new job due to her impressive background. She's finally able to find work at the publishing company where her friend, Cha EunHo, is employed as a writer and chief editor.

This drama might have the typical friends to lovers trope, but as the story unfolds, it becomes much more. It weighs in the importance of our choices, working past your regrets, and finding your true self. Even if the process of self-realization begins later on in life, as long as you have resilience and drive, you are able to accomplish anything. "Romance Is a Bonus Book" is a drama you will be automatically drawn to, from beginning to end.

4. "18 Again"

"18 Again" features Kim HaNeul as Jung DaJung, Yoon SangHyun as 37-year-old Hong DaeYoung, and Lee DoHyun as 18-year-old Hong DaeYoung. The drama follows Hong DaeYoung who returns to his 18-year-old self. He changes his name to Go WooYoung and begins to live a brand new life.

"18 Again" has the perfect balance of humor and life lessons, providing tears filled with joy and heartfelt emotions. As much as it's a story about new beginnings, it also tackles topics such as familial and fatherly love, married life, and societal expectations. The drama highlights that while our past might be filled with many high moments, it's important to continue moving forward, no matter the circumstance.

5. "My ID is Gangnam Beauty"

The webtoon-based drama captured the hearts of millions during its original run. "My ID is Gangnam Beauty" stars Im SooHyang and ASTRO's Cha EunWoo as its main leads. It follows Kang MiRae (Im SooHyang) who was an outcast in high school due to her looks. Because of this, she decided to receive plastic surgery in order to live a happy, new life. After receiving surgery, she becomes a college freshman and embarks on a new chapter.

"My ID is Gangnam Beauty" is a journey of figuring out one's self worth. It has many relatable scenes of passionate youth and tackles the burden of societal expectations. This pressure affects everyone in various ways and the drama handles these sensitive topics with gentle care. The cast really bring the characters and drama to life, making the series an unforgettable watch from start to finish.

What drama comes to your mind when you think of new beginnings? Let us know in the comments!