One of the biggest reasons I started watching Kdrama back in 2007-2008 was because of the uniqueness of Korean dramas. I particularly liked that most everything I watched was uplifting, hopeful, but in particular, there was a clear beginning and end. No waiting for another 'possible' season.
Another couple aspects of Korean shows I really enjoyed: 1) how subtitles were made. Certain Korean words used for family members, older women or men, or emotional responses to certain situations were included in the subtitles (with short translations) helped me to learn Korean language at the same time. 2) Occasional, quirky sounds, or graphics, of expression to enhance a moment or emotion. Like a sound made when someone blinks, or increased heartbeat when someone is excited to see a loved interest, etc. I remember one series during a fun fight scene, fight words were used on screen. Just made me smile. This practice was so different, I found it fun and increased my interest in Korean programming.
These practices have mostly stopped, not just with programming on platforms like Viki, but everywhere else as well. Which I find frustrating and sad.
When I noticed more and more Korean programming showing up on Netflix and other American streaming platforms, I worried about how our expectations and customs would impact the very things I loved about Korean programming. Especially when people started demanding more seasons. I hoped those who were in charge of deciding to give into these demands would hold their ground and let it be known, this was part of the uniqueness of Korean programming. I feel the same way with translations and inclusion of common Korean words as well as the quirky sounds.
There are other little things that used to happen frequently with Korean programming that I think are being lost as more of their programming is becoming common place in the U.S. I worry about how much more will be lost if those in charge of Korean programming don't stand firm on what makes their programming unique and why so many love what they do.
I find myself going back to Viki more often lately looking for shows that would not be found any where else, like historical period series/movies.
Another couple aspects of Korean shows I really enjoyed: 1) how subtitles were made. Certain Korean words used for family members, older women or men, or emotional responses to certain situations were included in the subtitles (with short translations) helped me to learn Korean language at the same time. 2) Occasional, quirky sounds, or graphics, of expression to enhance a moment or emotion. Like a sound made when someone blinks, or increased heartbeat when someone is excited to see a loved interest, etc. I remember one series during a fun fight scene, fight words were used on screen. Just made me smile. This practice was so different, I found it fun and increased my interest in Korean programming.
These practices have mostly stopped, not just with programming on platforms like Viki, but everywhere else as well. Which I find frustrating and sad.
When I noticed more and more Korean programming showing up on Netflix and other American streaming platforms, I worried about how our expectations and customs would impact the very things I loved about Korean programming. Especially when people started demanding more seasons. I hoped those who were in charge of deciding to give into these demands would hold their ground and let it be known, this was part of the uniqueness of Korean programming. I feel the same way with translations and inclusion of common Korean words as well as the quirky sounds.
There are other little things that used to happen frequently with Korean programming that I think are being lost as more of their programming is becoming common place in the U.S. I worry about how much more will be lost if those in charge of Korean programming don't stand firm on what makes their programming unique and why so many love what they do.
I find myself going back to Viki more often lately looking for shows that would not be found any where else, like historical period series/movies.