Lee Jong-suk (Image provided by SBS), Seo In-guk, and Ahn Jae-hyun (Image provided by YouTube's Starship)
Depictions of LGBTQ+ characters and themes in Korean film, television, and music have traditionally only made up a small portion of the country's media landscape. But in recent years, such representations have become more diverse and frequent, reflecting a more positive trend. As Pride Month continues, let's take a closer look at the evolution of LGBTQ+ depictions in Korean entertainment.
LGBTQ+ Representation in Korean Dramas
Secret Garden
Korean drama “Secret Garden” features an early gay plot in Korean dramas. It revolves around four main characters, each struggling with their own personal issues. One of them is Oska, played by actor Yoon Sang-hyun. Oska is a carefree Korean star whose fame is fading. When Oska meets musical genius Han Tae-sung (Lee Jong-suk), she finds a new meaning in life.
It was refreshing to see an openly gay character in this K-drama, set over a decade ago in 2010. Even though the character was a small one and played by now hugely popular star Lee Jong-suk, the drama set a precedent for future Korean dramas.
Maid
Set in the 1930s and inspired by Sarah Waters' novel Fingersmith, The Handmaiden depicts a lesbian couple from diverse backgrounds. Released in South Korea on June 1, 2016, the film received critical acclaim and grossed over $38 million worldwide. It won the Best Non-English Speaking Film award at the 71st BAFTA. While The Handmaiden is known for its complex storyline, it is the portrayal of the romantic relationship between the two women that resonates with us the most.
As the protagonist Sugi (Kim Tae-ri) and heiress Hideko (Kim Min-hee) begin to fall in love, the film explores how their relationship changes perceptions. The story unfolds not only about their emotional connection, but also how the men around them manipulate and abuse them. This powerful film portrays love not only as something that brings joy, but also as a transformative force that fundamentally changes our perception of the world around us.
Be melodramatic
Positive progress in LGBTQ+ representation is evident in the recent Korean drama “Be Melodramatic,” which follows three female best friends navigating their 30s while dealing with changes in their personal lives and careers.
The series also places special emphasis on the older brother of one of the characters, drama producer Lee Hyo Bong, being in a committed and loving relationship with another male producer. Though not specifically a gay-themed Korean drama, “Be Melodramatic” captivates viewers with its heartfelt storytelling and three-dimensional characters that resonate deeply with audiences.
The moment I turned 18
This Korean drama is a coming-of-age story centered around a young male student who chooses to be lonely after transferring schools. However, his life and that of his classmates are full of turmoil and emotional turmoil. One of the key subplots revolves around Oh Jae, played by the late ASTRO member Moon Bin. Oh Jae is athletic and physically strong, and is looked up to by many girls. However, in episode 13, it is revealed that he is gay.
In an emotionally charged scene, Da-heeun (Kim Bo-yoon) goes to the nurse's office and Oh-jae bravely faces the truth. He confides in her that he likes someone who is not a girl. A raw and emotional moment as he struggles with his feelings. This confession triggers another student to overhear their conversation, setting off a chain of events that accelerates the drama's rollercoaster ride. K-Pop star Moon Bin plays a gay character in a K-drama, highlighting the positive strides being made in on-screen representation.
Itaewon Class
Korean drama “Itaewon Class” quickly became a genre sensation in 2020, thanks in part to the presence of LGBTQ+ character Hyun-Yi. In addition to its compelling storyline, viewers appreciated Hyun-Yi joining Saeroyi's journey to achieve his dream of opening a bar restaurant and defeating his nemesis.
While Hyun-yi's journey has not been without its challenges, “Itaewon Class” expertly depicts the supportive environment that surrounds her and her acceptance of her true worth. She meets Sae-ro-yi at the factory where they both work, and throughout the series, it is revealed that she is a transgender woman who is saving up for sex reassignment surgery. As she becomes more confident in her gender identity, Hyun-yi's character resonates deeply with viewers and quickly becomes a fan favorite.
When I call you
It's well-known that Ahn Hyo-seop and Rowoon are close friends and delight fans with their heartwarming interactions. Their bond, forged by their talents and striking looks, is truly special. But in the time-traveling Korean drama, The Time of You, the pair take on a unique BL (Boys' Love) storyline.
The series revolves around a young woman (Jeon Yeo-bin) who is grieving the death of her lover (Ahn Hyo-seop), and finds herself transported back in time into the body of a high school student, where she encounters someone who bears a striking resemblance to her deceased lover.
The eighth episode of this K-drama begins with the protagonist, played by Ahn Hyo Seop, attending class and meeting the protagonist, Tae Ha, played by Rowoon. After class, Ahn Hyo Seop heads to the rooftop to think about how to confess his feelings to his friend.
Meanwhile, Rowun's character seems to hint at his own feelings as he talks about traveling far for cram school, implying that he is the reason Taeha travels so far. The scene shifts to a road trip where Taeha practices driving, leading to a casual conversation and an intimate moment where their hands touch as they search for a CD. Ahn Hyo-seop's character hesitantly reaches out for Rowun's character Taeha's hand, making him feel uneasy at first. But after a brief pause, Rowun's hand loosens and they share a smile, indicating their feelings for each other are becoming more apparent.
Unfortunately, the characters' storyline took a tragic turn when they were involved in a car accident. Though it was a short scene, netizens were enthralled by Rowoon's unexpected cameo and the unique BL role he played in the drama. In an exclusive interview with Pinkvilla, Ahn Hyo Seop also revealed that he found filming the scene with his friends a bit awkward, but that he still enjoyed it. Though it was a short scene, it was still an emotional one for him as an actor.
Where the gaze stops
“When Your Eyes Shine” offers everything fans of the best romance K-dramas want: amazing chemistry, enchanting romance, and unforgettable kisses. Kang Gook (Jang Eui Soo) and Han Tae Joo (Han Ki Chan) have shared a friendship for 15 years, but Kang Gook has deeper feelings for Tae Joo and wants to confess but can't.
In contrast, Tae-joo has had many girlfriends, but there is strong unrequited sexual tension between him and Kang-guk. The arrival of a female student threatens to upset their dynamic, pushing the two friends to emotional breaking points. This unique plot development has led to “Where Your Eyes Linger” being praised by audiences as one of the best gay K-dramas with significant LGBTQ+ representation. Notable screenings at the 24th Puchon International Fantastic Film Festival and the 80th Venice International Film Festival highlighted the work's impact both in Korea and abroad.
K.Will's next song “All The Way”
On June 18, K.Will unveiled the music video teaser for “No songs can express me,” the title track from his upcoming seventh mini-album, “All The Way.” This comeback is especially significant as it marks K.Will's return after a hiatus of over six years. The teaser also revealed a special reunion: actors Seo In-guk and Ahn Jae-hyun, who co-starred together in the music video for his hit 2012 song “Please don't…,” are reuniting in the new music video.
In 2012, K.Will's song “Please don't…” became an internet sensation with its major twist of LGBTQ+ representation. The music video was based on the theme of unrequited love, and surprised netizens by revealing that Seo In-guk's character had feelings for Ahn Jae-hyun's character, rather than the heroine. Nearly 12 years later, fans still remember this moment vividly. As such, the announcement of K.Will's comeback featuring both actors generated a lot of excitement, with many speculating whether the new work would continue the storyline of the iconic music video.
The collaboration between the two iconic actors in K.Will's comeback during Pride Month represents a significant moment for LGBTQ+ representation. The teaser begins with Seo In Guk playing out the life of a typical office worker, followed by the introduction of Ahn Jae Hyun, creating a heartwarming and dramatic exchange between the two. Their scenes portrayed a contrasting spectrum of calm and security to passionate and intense love and emotion. The teaser teases a near-kissing scene between the two men, leading to a final scene that has the internet buzzing and building anticipation for the music video release.