My (almost) Decade-Long Journey With K-Dramas ..Part 1 ?

I started watching Korean dramas (TV shows) in 2016—almost ten years ago. But how did I get into them?

First, I learned about K-dramas through a high school classmate back in 2012-2013. (We’re still friends today—one of my longest friendships, Priscilla this is dedicated to you) At the time, though, I was dismissive of her interest in asian culture.

Back then, I was living in Côte d’Ivoire (Abidjan), a former French colony, and I was fully immersed in American and European culture thanks to their overwhelming soft power. I was the epitome of the African bourgeoisie—judgmental, entitled, and convinced that my narrow worldview was something to be proud of.

At 17, I was a self-proclaimed « Little Miss Know-It-All. » I thought I was smarter because I devoured France 24 and CNN, loved geopolitics, and had a decent grasp of economics and philosophy for my age. I attended a French private school, had good grades, and was spoiled by my parents with everything a teenager could want.

Life was far from a struggle for me, and that privilege blinded me to some of the realities of the world.

So, how did my classist self finally open her mind and heart to Asian culture—specifically, Korean dramas? Unsurprisingly, it was through an article in Le Monde (a reputable French newspaper). The piece raved about Descendants of the Sun (D.O.T.S.), praising its record-breaking popularity and the charisma of its leads.

What my longtime friend couldn’t accomplish, a complete stranger did with just one article from a source I « trusted ». I read it at the end of summer and was intrigued. The show was on Netflix Canada, so I started it on a Friday afternoon. I remember that moment vividly—I was in a trance and finished the entire series by the end of Saturday that same weekend.

That was the beginning of my K-drama journey, and I’ve never looked back since.

I could excuse myself by saying I was just a teenager—a young adult who didn’t know better. And that’s partly true. But I also need to take accountability.

I’d like to apologize to my friend Priscilla. Even if my jokes were meant harmlessly, I’m sure they hurt her—especially as a young girl who was different from the « norm. »

But what is the norm? Was it me liking hip-hop because I was steeped in American soft power? Or should the norm simply be liking what you want without fear of judgment?

The world would be a much better place if everyone could embrace their own « normal » as long as it doesn’t harm others.

In my decade of watching K-dramas, I’ve experienced so many emotions. To some, they might seem trivial, but like all media, they can be lifelines—and they’ve been one for me.

My second thought goes to all the cultures and people who’ve been belittled by ignorant individuals like my past self. My wish is for people to try before judging.

I know the current state of the world doesn’t encourage that. And despite my privilege—and the discrimination I faced as a Black kid—I wasn’t immune to discriminating against others myself.

I truly believe I’m a better person today than I was ten years ago—not just because of my experiences, but because of what the world has gone through.

Humanity is capable of both the best and the worst. What I urge everyone to do is question yourself—your beliefs, morals, and actions. Self-awareness is crucial.

I was lucky. I didn’t go through these changes alone. I had shelter, loving parents, and friends who supported me, challenged me, and celebrated my growth.

Not everyone is as fortunate, but everyone can choose to open their minds and hearts.

As I write this, I’m speaking to my 16-to-19-year-old self. I do have mitigating circumstances—youth is a time for mistakes and growth. (Come on, my frontal lobe wasn’t even fully developed yet!)

But now, as I approach 30, the mistakes of a 19-year-old are no longer excusable. Adults have a duty to be informed for society to function. In an era where critical thinking is under attack, I beg you: Don’t let others dictate how you think or live.

This is the first post in my K-drama series. Many more will follow.

Until next time,
MalyneVi