Mr. Plankton
| Netflix’s Instagram
In Bengaluru, 34-year-old AI engineer Atul Subhash tragically took his own life at his residence, leaving behind a 24-page suicide note and a 1.5-hour video detailing his struggles. Originally from Uttar Pradesh, Atul spoke about his battles with systemic issues, false accusations in over nine cases, and personal challenges within his marriage.
Among his heart-wrenching revelations, one statement has sparked concern over K-drama consumption: “Meri wife din bhar romantic K-drama dekhti thi, aur inka expectation tha ki main Korean aadmi jaisa ban jau, par main Indian aadmi hu, aur main aise hi theek hu, thank you.”
This candid remark highlights the growing obsession with Korean dramas, particularly among women, and raises questions about whether these shows set unrealistic standards that can strain real-life relationships.
The popularity of K-dramas
K-dramas have taken the world by storm, being one of the most preferred series across the world. These shows are known for their heart-melting storylines, beautiful cinematography, and dashing leads who set the bar high when it comes to romance. From True Beauty, which reflects love from within, beyond outer beauty, to Descendants of the Sun, where a soldier’s devotion to a doctor is almost otherworldly, these dramas are tales of unconditional love and grand gestures.
For fans, K-dramas offer an escape from reality—a perfect mix of fantasy, chemistry, and hope. Who wouldn’t want to be swept off their feet by a thoughtful, well-dressed, emotionally intelligent partner who knows just the right thing to say and do?
How it’s shaping real-life connection
However, the charm of these dramas lies in their ability to create fairytale romance, and this is where the problem arises. Real-life relationships rarely resemble what is shown on screen. Grand confessions under cherry blossom trees, meticulously timed love triangles, and picture-perfect partners are the exception, not the norm.
For some viewers, the constant exposure to such idealised love stories can unintentionally shape their expectations of real-life relationships. Subconsciously, they might begin to desire the kind of effort, perfection, and romance that is scripted in K-dramas but hard to imitate in the messiness of real life.
Why are K-dramas so addictive?
There’s no denying that K-dramas are expertly crafted to hook viewers. Here’s why they are so compelling:
Relatable emotions, unrelatable perfection: The emotions in K-dramas—love, heartbreak, redemption—are universal, making them relatable. However, the polished delivery and impossibly perfect scenarios lead them to desired fantasies.
Visually stunning: K-dramas are a feast for the eyes, with stunning sets, fashionable characters, and dreamlike backdrops. It’s easy to get lost in their beauty.
Idealised male leads: Whether it’s the tender CEO, the charming idol, or the fearless soldier, male protagonists in K-dramas are often depicted as sensitive, romantic, and devoted—traits that many viewers crave in their partners.
The Trunk | Netflix | Instagram
Do k-dramas harm relationships?
The answer isn’t straightforward. For many, K-dramas are harmless entertainment. They inspire hope, provide comfort, and offer a delightful escape from reality. However, when viewers begin to measure their partners against the impossibly high standards set by fictional characters, problems can arise.
Sagarika Choudhary, a 26-year-old Korean series admirer from Mumbai, shared, “While I love watching K-dramas and I do enjoy the mushy stuff shown in the stories, I also understand that it’s all fiction at the end of the day and cannot be replicated in real life. I’m not saying that selfless love or cute acts for your partner is not doable, but it is also important to know the difference between reality and fiction/fantasy. At the end of the day, such acts and efforts should come naturally and to each their own, and forcing what we watch on screens on our partners can do more harm than good.”
Unrealistic expectations can cause dissatisfaction in relationships. Real-life partners, no matter how loving, are unlikely to resemble the flawless, infinitely patient, and endlessly romantic characters found in K-dramas. When this difference becomes evident, it can lead to conflict and feelings of inadequacy for both partners.
