Korean dramas with a high school setting have consistently attracted a large youth audience due to their relatable themes and memorable characters. Stories about friendships, personal growth, and secret struggles behind the school uniform continue to resonate with viewers. Many K-dramas in this genre also blend romance, comedy, and mystery, offering a diverse viewing experience for fans.
Below are five recommended school-themed Korean dramas that are worth watching for their engaging plots and representation of student life.
1. School 2017
This drama focuses on the challenges faced by high school students striving to achieve their dreams. The main characters endure intense pressure from a competitive educational system that values grades above all else. School 2017 presents the daily lives of students who navigate difficult rules while dealing with personal aspirations. According to audience reviews and commentary, this series stands out for its realistic depiction of teenagers’ struggles in the modern Korean school environment.
2. True Beauty
True Beauty tells the story of a high school girl who suffers from low self-esteem due to bullying at her previous school. Her life changes after she transfers to a new school and experiments with makeup, quickly gaining popularity among her peers. Despite her new social status, she hides her bare face from everyone, constantly fearing exposure. Data from Naver TV reports True Beauty as one of the most talked-about youth dramas, highlighting the pressures of beauty standards in Korean society.
3. School 2021
Unlike its predecessors, School 2021 centers on students at a vocational high school who focus on career ambitions instead of pursuing university education. Each student’s background and life choices create a dynamic group. For instance, Gong Ki Joon balances part-time work with studies after giving up a sports dream due to personal setbacks. Other characters such as Jin Ji Won and Kang Seo Young represent different aspirations and the conflicts they face with family and expectations. This drama provides insight into alternative educational paths and their impact on youth identity.
4. Revenge of Others
Set in a high school environment, Revenge of Others introduces Ok Chan Mi, a girl determined to uncover the mystery behind her twin brother’s suspicious death. Her investigation brings her into contact with Ji Su Heon, a bullied student who is seeking revenge for his own suffering. The narrative explores darker themes such as violence, bullying, and justice among teenagers. Based on industry analysis, Revenge of Others is praised for its suspenseful plot and portrayal of peer relationships within the classroom.
5. All That We Loved
All That We Loved follows Goo Yoo, a fearless high schooler who joins the basketball team not out of passion, but due to a quirky belief that it will help him grow taller. Beyond his athletic pursuits, he is loyal to his sick best friend, even going as far as donating a kidney. The drama explores deep bonds of friendship alongside adolescent romance and everyday school life. Viewer surveys indicate that All That We Loved resonates with those who appreciate emotional storytelling and themes of sacrifice.
Choosing a school-themed K-drama allows viewers to relate to characters experiencing the highs and lows of youth. The five dramas above showcase different perspectives on school life and adolescent challenges. Fans seeking stories with both heartfelt and dramatic moments will find these series to be strong recommendations.
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