In recent times, K-Dramas have gained large popularity and fanbase across the world due to the Hallyu wave. Korean creators are known and appreciated by the global audience for their unique storytelling style, compelling and gritty characters, and high production values. The success and popularity of Korean content have influenced other film industries, including India, which has led Indian filmmakers to create Indian adaptations or remakes of some of the popular Korean content. One remake of a K-drama series that created a stir amongst the Indian audiences is Drashti Dhami and Gulshan Devaiah starrer 'Duranga'. This cross-cultural exchange allows for the exploration of different storytelling styles and cultural perspectives.
Let’s have a look at some of the Indian adaptations of popular Korean films and series to watch.
'Duranga' (ZEE5)
An Indian adaptation of the popular Korean drama ‘Flower of Evil’, 'Duranga Season 1' was loved by the audience. Season 1 follows the story of Sammit played by Gulshan Devaiah and Ira played by Drashti Dhami. Ira begins investigating multiple murders by the suspected accomplice of a serial killer, and this leads her to discover some revelations about her husband's twisted past. While season 1 ended on a cliffhanger, leaving fans in anticipation; the long wait has finally come to an end as ZEE5 has announced Season 2 recently. This season will see the tension building up as Abhishek’s search for his father's accomplice becomes a dangerous game of cat and mouse.
'Blind' (JioCinema)
'Blind' is a remake of the 2011 Korean film of the same name. The film follows the brutal cat-and-mouse game between a blind ex-cop Gia Singh played by Sonam Kapoor Ahuja and a psychopathic serial killer played by Purab Kohli, who likes to torture and kill young women. How Gia along with the assigned detective Prithvi tries to unravel the dark secrets and expose the malevolent orchestrator forms the crux of the film. This crime thriller marks Sonam Kapoor Ahuja’s OTT debut and should not be missed.
'Kaisi Yeh Yaariaan' (JioCinema)
The popular Indian series ‘Kaisi Yeh Yaariyaan’ is a remake of the Korean series Boys Over Flowers. Touted to be one of the best Korean dramas, Boys over Flowers gained popularity across the world and the Indian adaptation is also making the waves in India. Kaisi Yeh Yaariaan explores the love story of Manik and Nandini and revolves around a group of friends trying to navigate college, family, relationships, and friendships all at once.
'Dhamaka' (Netflix)
Starring Kartik Aaryan and Mrunal Thakur, 'Dhamaka' is an official remake of the Korean movie, The Terror Live. The story revolves around a top news anchor on prime-time TV, Arjun Pathak Played by Kartik Aaryan who gets demoted to radio. He views a mysterious phone call from a bomber as a silver opportunity to reclaim his lost glory. The bomber threatens to blow up the Bandra–Worli Sea Link unless his demands are met. With lives at stake, does Arjun salvage his dwindling career or the people held hostage on the bridge? Watch the film on Netflix!
'Ek Villain' (Disney+ Hotstar)
The film is based on the 2010 Korean film, 'I Saw The Devil'. The story centres around Guru, a gangster whose life changes after he falls in love with Aisha and decides to mend his ways. When Aisha gets murdered by a serial killer, Guru begins to search for the culprit. The narrative delves into themes of love, redemption, and the blurred lines between good and evil.
