K-Drama Epic Adaptations
These dramas/movies are adapted from other source material, but in my opinion are worthy of being considered as standalone works. Note: this is still being updated.
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1. Death Note
Japanese Movie - 2006
Jdrama adaptation of the Japanese manga (original read) : Great young cast and solid effects in a pretty good adaptation of a manga into a 2h movie. I will forever picture FujiTatsu and MatsuKen as Light and L.
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2. Alice in Borderland
Japanese Drama - 2020, 8 episodes
Jdrama adaptation of the Japanese manga (original not read): Well conceived and executed concept. The games are fairly interesting and there is still the mystery of who the people (if they are people) behind these games are, and what their purpose is. Eagerly awaiting season 2!
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3. Sweet Home
Korean Drama - 2020, 10 episodes
Kdrama adaption of the Korean webtoon (original read): The characters/story have been changed in parts, but these have actually been made to the benefit of the on screen adaptation. Live action adaptations of monsters are also sometimes hit and miss but the effects in the drama are pretty well done. It's a cliffhanger ending that enticingly promises new, original content for the next season!
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4. Misaeng: Incomplete Life
Korean Drama - 2014, 20 episodes
Kdrama of the Korean mahnwa (original not read): I'm not a big fan of slice of life series but the cast of characters are so charming and gel so well together that you can't help but root for them, as they struggle through their work and private lives.
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5. Liar Game
Japanese Drama - 2007, 11 episodes
Jdrama adaptation of the Japanese manga (original not read): I found the various psychological games/tests featured throughout the series very interesting and well conceived. I didn't mind the characters being stereotypical and over the top, as their exaggerated characteristics were mainly used as a plot device to highlight the psychogical outcomes of each game.
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6. Strangers from Hell
Korean Drama - 2019, 10 episodes
Kdrama adaptation of the Korean webtoon (original not read): Siwan did a great job and I will never look at Lee Dong Wook the same way again... Yes, this drama gives me the creeps, however I did enjoy the chilly ride...!
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7. Nobuta wo Produce
Japanese Drama - 2005, 10 episodes
Jdrama adaptation of the Japanese novel: Cute young cast in a high school drama where 2 popular guys decide to befriend and makeover the misfit, "ugly" girl in the class. The friendship in the drama is uplifting and fun to watch.
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8. Couple or Trouble
Korean Drama - 2006, 16 episodes
Kdrama adaptation of the American movie "Overboard" (original watched). OK, so maybe it's not a masterpiece, but I'm guilty of thoroughly enjoying this fluffy romcom. Oh Ji Ho/Han Ye Seul brought their own hilarious spin to their Kurt Russell/Goldie Hawn counterparts.
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9. Gokusen
Japanese Drama - 2002, 12 episodes
Jdrama adaptation of the Japanese manga (original read in parts): Featured a then up and coming cast, this drama was pretty popular at the time. It was entertaining watching the awesome Yankumi shape her class of boy rascals into decent young men.
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10. Boys over Flowers
Japanese Drama - 2005, 9 episodes
Jdrama adaptation of the Japanese manga (original read): Not a bad adaptation of one of my favourite mangas, mostly due to the solid casting. Story-wise it could have been better, but as a standalone I think people would have enjoyed it.
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