My love for Korean cinema began suddenly, actually, it was due to unfortunate circumstances, but the result was my introduction to the world of South Korean cinema. While bedridden, I looked for long-running television shows that would occupy my time while my family fussed over me.
My journey started with the English-dubbed version of "Love of Thousands of Years", a show that today seems naïve and full of clichés. But back then, in the beginning, I was captivated. The dialogue seemed lively and authentic, and the way people spoke was reminiscent of my grandmother's stories, who had survived World War II and escaped to Nanjing.
There was a unique purity of emotions in the series, a naivety of relationships that reached deep into the soul. As a screenwriter, I was impressed by the way these stories were crafted. Each episode was imbued with sincerity, and the anticipation for a simple act – for example, when characters finally joined hands – became a genuine challenge for the audience.
It was a time when Korean films and television series were known for their unique charm, distinctive storytelling style, and attention to detail. However, as time has passed, the industry has seen changes. Today, we can see that K-pop and Korean cinema have lost some of their popularity. This is not just due to the influence of streaming services like Netflix or Western clichés. The magic that once drew viewers has also faded. Historical sagas no longer have the same allure – costumes are more monotonous and lack the attention to historical eras. Actors are also increasingly turning to plastic surgery, with "plastic faces" with inflated lips and forehead botox appearing on the screens.
It's particularly painful to see the changes in the relationships between characters. The purity and sincerity once found in Korean stories are no longer present. Dialogues are simpler, traditional language has given way to modern slang, and deep emotional connections have given way to superficial relationships.
Recent years have been particularly challenging for fans of the Korean entertainment industry. One after another, scandals have emerged that shake the foundations: from accusations of sexual harassment to financial fraud. These incidents not only destroy careers but also shatter people's lives and drive them to despair.
This has a particularly intense impact on the international fan community. Haters are becoming more aggressive, and conflicts between fans and critics have escalated. Foreign fans who once enthusiastically embraced Korean culture are now frequently targeted.
Despite all these changes, I remain convinced of the power of Korean cinema. There is something unique about it that continues to captivate viewers around the world. Perhaps it's the very sincerity that initially attracted me to "Love of a Thousand Years".
And although the industry continues to evolve, I hope that it can maintain its unique identity by returning to the values that made it special in the first place. After all, every setback is not only a failure, but also a chance for growth and transformation. And perhaps, after facing all the challenges, the Korean entertainment industry will be able to go back to its roots and regain the magic that once captured the hearts of millions around the world.