The perpetuation of negative stereotypes about women: a thematic analysis of three selected Korean dramas

K-dramas, or South Korean television dramas, have achieved widespread global popularity. Their appeal lies in captivating visuals, high-quality cinematography, talented casts, and diverse storylines, making it clear why audiences are hooked. Though they might appear simplistic, a deeper examination shows layers of meaning, including the prominent influence of the female gaze in many of them. Women in Korean television dramas are portrayed as modern, multifaceted, feminine, and feminist. However, despite their seemingly rich, varied, and complex personas, these female characters still adhere to traditional concepts of femininity, even when presented as feminist. By analysing a range of popular K-dramas, this study aimed to highlight the stereotypical representations and examined the impacts of these portrayals of women on viewers through selected Korean dramas.