From Secret Garden’s Lee Jong Suk to Seo In Guk and Ahn Jae Hyun in K.Will’s All The Way: Evolution of queer representation in K-world

Depictions of LGBTQ+ characters and themes in South Korean film, television, and music have traditionally constituted a small portion of the country’s media landscape. However, these representations have become more varied and frequent in recent years, reflecting a more positive trend. As Pride Month continues, let’s delve into the evolution of LGBTQ+ portrayals in Korean entertainment.

LGBTQ+ representation in K-dramas

Secret Garden

The K-drama Secret Garden features one of the early gay plots in Korean drama. It revolves around four main characters, each grappling with their own personal challenges. Among them is Oska, portrayed by actor Yoon Sang Hyun, a carefree Hallyu star whose fame is waning. His life takes on new meaning when he encounters Han Tae Sun (played by Lee Jong Suk), a musical genius.

In the K-drama set over a decade ago, in 2010, witnessing an openly gay character was a refreshing experience. Even though the character was small and played by the now highly popular star Lee Jong Suk, it set a precedent for future developments in Korean dramas.

The Handmaiden

Set in the 1930s and inspired by Sarah Waters’ novel Fingersmith, The Handmaiden features a lesbian couple from diverse backgrounds. Released in South Korea on June 1, 2016, the film received widespread critical acclaim and grossed over USD 38 million worldwide. At the 71st British Academy Film Awards, it won Best Film Not in the English Language. The Handmaiden is renowned for its complex plot twists, but what resonates with us the most is its portrayal of a romantic relationship between two women.

As our protagonist, Sookee (Kim Tae Ri), and the heiress Hideko (Kim Min Hee) begin to fall in love, the film delves into how their relationship transforms perceptions. It becomes a story not only about their emotional connection but also about how the men in their lives manipulate and mistreat them. Love in this film is depicted as a transformative force that not only brings joy but also fundamentally alters their understanding of the world around them, making up for a powerful watch.

Be Melodramatic

In a more recent K-drama, Be Melodramatic, positive strides in LGBTQ+ representation are evident. The show follows three female best friends navigating their thirties, confronting changes in their personal lives and careers. 

The series also notably highlights Lee Hyo Bong, the openly gay brother of one of the characters, a drama producer in a committed and affectionate relationship with another male producer. While not specifically a gay-themed K-drama, Be Melodramatic captivates viewers with its heartfelt storytelling and three-dimensional characters that resonate deeply with its audience.

Moment of Eighteen

This K-drama is a coming-of-age story centered on a young male student who chooses to be a loner after transferring schools. However, his life and that of his classmates are filled with turmoil and emotional mess. One significant subplot revolves around Oh Je, portrayed by the late ASTRO member Moonbin. Oh Je is athletic, physically fit, and admired by many girls. However, in episode 13, it is revealed that he is gay.

In an emotionally charged scene, Da Heen (Kim Bo Yun) finds herself in the infirmary, where Oh Je bravely confronts his truth. He confides in her, admitting that he likes someone who isn’t a girl, a moment filled with raw emotion as he struggles with his feelings. This confession sets off a chain of events when another student overhears their conversation, propelling the rollercoaster plot of the show. Moonbin, a beloved K-pop idol portraying a gay character in a K-drama, highlights the positive strides in on-screen representation.

Itaewon Class

K-drama Itaewon Class rapidly emerged as a 2020 sensation in its genre, partly due to its standout LGBTQ+ character, Hyeon Yi. Alongside its compelling storyline, viewers appreciated seeing Hyeon Yi as part of Sae Ro Yi’s journey to realize his dream of opening a bar restaurant and overcoming his nemesis.

Hyeon Yi’s journey wasn’t without its challenges, but Itaewon Class skillfully portrayed the supportive environment around her and the acceptance of her true worth. She meets Sae Ro Yi at a factory where they both work and throughout the series, it’s revealed that she is a transgender woman saving up for her sex reassignment surgery. As she grows more confident in her gender identity, Hyeon Yi’s character resonates deeply with viewers, quickly becoming a fan favorite.

A Time Called You

It’s well-known that Ahn Hyo Seop and Rowoon share a close friendship, often delighting fans with their heartwarming interactions. Their bond, enriched by their talent and striking visuals, is truly special. However, in the time travel K-drama A Time Called You, the duo took on a unique BL (Boys Love) storyline. 

The series revolves around a young woman (played by Jeon Yeo Been) grieving her boyfriend’s death (portrayed by Ahn Hyo Seop). Transported back in time to inhabit a high school student’s body, she encounters someone strikingly similar to her lost love.

Episode eight of the K-drama begins with Ahn Hyo Seop’s character attending class when he encounters Rowoon’s character, Tae Ha. After class, Ahn Hyo Seop heads to the roof, contemplating how to confess his feelings to his friend. 

Meanwhile, Rowoon’s character seems to hint at his own feelings as he discusses traveling far for a cram school, hinting he is the reason why Tae Ha travels so far. The scene transitions to a road trip where Tae Ha practices driving, leading to casual conversation and a moment of intimacy when their hands touch while searching for CDs. Ahn Hyo Seop’s character tentatively reaches for Rowoon’s character, Tae Ha’s hand, initially met with uncertainty. However, after a brief pause, Rowoon’s hand relaxes, and they share a smile, signaling their mutual feelings for each other, which are becoming more evident.

Unfortunately, the characters’ story took a tragic turn as they were involved in a car accident. Despite its briefness, netizens were captivated by Rowoon’s unexpected cameo and the unique BL role he portrayed in the drama. In an exclusive interview with Pinkvilla, too Ahn Hyo Seop revealed he felt a little awkward filming this scene with his friend but still said he had fun. Even though brief, the scene was emotional for him as an actor, too.