From Tears to Triumph: Life, Family, and Revenge
2024 could have been a pretty uneventful year for me if not for the wonderful K-dramas that kept me company during solitude. Without many friends to hang out with, these dramas became a source of comfort, making me realize that I could truly enjoy my own time. Watching K-dramas has now become one of my favourite ways to spend quality time and embrace my own company.
As 2025 approaches, I reflect on the journey these dramas took me on throughout the year. The excitement of waiting for new episodes, the eagerness to see where the story would lead next — it was a mix of pleasure and agony. The suspense of what’s to come kept me hooked week after week.
Interestingly, most of the dramas I watched in 2024 revolved around profound themes like family, life on the brink of death, enduring friendships, and the quest for revenge. Each one left a unique imprint on my heart, teaching me lessons, evoking deep emotions, and sometimes even making me see life differently. Here, I’ve compiled a short summary of the dramas I watched in 2024 that stood out the most:
1. Marry My Husband
Getting a second chance in life means I can do anything
It was early January, the cusp of a new year when I found myself stepping back into the physical classroom after three long years of virtual classes. It was my final year of Bachelor’s studies, a bittersweet return to a world I had almost forgotten. Coincidentally, this drama premiered on January 1, as if heralding a fresh start for both its protagonist and me.
The story revolves around Jiwon, a cancer patient who discovered her best friend and husband were having an affair. In the final stages of her life, when hope seemed all but lost, a twist of fate transported her back to the past, giving her a second chance. Fueled by the flames of betrayal, she vowed to take control of her destiny and seek revenge. Though the premise might sound fantastical, it resonated deeply with me. In Jiwon’s second chance, I saw a mirror of my own — a chance to turn the page, to reclaim what felt lost. The drama was more than a tale of vengeance; it was a masterclass in self-respect and resilience. It reminded me never to allow others to devalue me, to prioritize self-care, and to tread cautiously in a world where good and bad intertwine.
2. Queen of tears
It’s sunny. The clouds look pretty, and the birds are chirping. This world is annoyingly beautiful. So of course, I want to live.
I wasn’t initially planning to watch Queen of Tears, but then funny reels started popping up on my Facebook feed, and I became curious. I’ve always been a big fan of Kim Ji-won, who became my lady crush after watching Heirs. I also admire Kim Soo-hyun for his personality, acting, and his constant effort to stay ahead of trends with his dramas. At first, I hesitated to watch Queen of Tears because the title made me think it would be a sad drama, and I tend to feel displaced for weeks after watching something emotional. But after seeing the reels, my interest was piqued, especially because of the comparisons to the Samsung princess, Lee Yoon-hyung.
The story centres around the troubled marriage of Chaebol Hong Hae-in of Queens Group and Baek Hyun-woo, the son of farmers from Yongdu-ri. After three years of marriage, their once-loving relationship has reached a breaking point, with Hyun-woo contemplating divorce. The initial spark has faded, replaced by indifference and resentment. However, their lives take a sudden turn when Hae-in is diagnosed with brain cancer. This health crisis forces them to confront their deep-rooted issues and reassess their love for one another. As Hae-in’s condition worsens, Hyun-woo begins to recognize his own selfishness and the mistakes he’s made, realizing how deeply he loves her and the importance of cherishing their time together.
The drama highlights how a lack of communication with loved ones can lead to misunderstandings. It also serves as a reminder that when we chase after money, prestige, and grudges, we often forget that health is the most valuable thing in life. As our health deteriorates, we wish for nothing more than to be healthy again. So, no matter how important events in life might seem, always prioritize your health.
3. Love next door
I want to be happily unemployed.
It's interesting how Queen of Tears and Love Next Door seem to revolve around the theme of health crises, but each drama presents a unique perspective. In Queen of Tears, the focus is on brain cancer, while in Love Next Door, our main character Bae Seok-ryu is a stomach cancer survivor.
The story of Love Next Door follows Seok-ryu, who had been living the perfect life abroad working at one of the world’s top companies and engaged to an international lawyer. However, she suddenly returns to Korea. Seok-ryu’s childhood friend, Choi Seung-hyo, is now a top architect in Korea. Despite being virtually connected to her family, no one knew about her battle with cancer and depression while living abroad. Eventually, she decided to leave her unhealthy job environment and move back to Korea permanently to spend time with her family and pursue her passion for cooking.
Her family is initially dissatisfied with her decision to leave her prestigious international job, but as they learn about her struggles with cancer and depression, they begin to regret their previous attitudes. The drama teaches the same valuable lesson as Queen of Tears that living a healthy life, fulfilling your dreams, and enjoying it with your family is one of the greatest blessings life can offer.
While Love Next Door shares some thematic similarities with Queen of Tears, the vibe in this drama is completely different. Jung So-min, one of my favourite actresses, brings a cheerful energy to her roles, and I’ve enjoyed how many of her dramas have that uplifting tone. This is also my first time watching Jung Hae-in, and now I’m excited to explore more of his work.
4. Family by choice
I shouldn't have pretended to be okay or acted like an adult. I should have told you everything. That I was in pain and sad too. And that I was scared and wanted a hug from you.
Family by Choice is a Korean adaptation of the Chinese drama Go Ahead. While I was already familiar with the storyline from watching Go Ahead, I was curious to see how the K-drama would approach it and what differences it would bring.
The drama tells the heartfelt story of Kim San-ha, Yoon Ju-won, and Kang Hae-jun, three individuals who, despite not being related by blood, form an unbreakable bond during their teenage years. They are raised with love and care by Ju-won’s father, Yoon Jeong-jae, who owns a Kalguksu restaurant, and San-ha’s father, Kim Dae-wook. Together, they grow up as a family, even though they are motherless. The two fathers create a nurturing and joyful environment for the trio. However, circumstances pull San-ha and Hae-jun away from this close-knit family, and they are separated. A decade later, the three reunite, uncovering long-buried memories and rekindling the profound connections that shaped their lives.
Though the storyline of the main leads is similar to the original drama, I find myself more impressed with the second lead in this version. The title of Family by Choice suits the storyline perfectly, as it highlights the idea that family is not just defined by blood, but by the people who truly care for and support you. In a world where people often say "blood is thicker than water," this drama shows that living under the same roof, sharing your lives, and caring for each other can create a bond that is just as strong, if not stronger, especially when your biological family may be toxic.
5. Mr Plankton
My vacation is ending. It’s like catching up on my homework.
Mr. Plankton is a drama that aired earlier in November, but I just finished it on December 30, so I feel I can write more about it now. Although Wikipedia categorizes it as a comedy series, the ending is surprisingly hurtful. From the very first episode, it’s clear that the main character, Hae Jo, is going to die. He’s diagnosed with the final stage of brain cancer and has only three months left to live. During this period, he embarks on a journey to find his father, kidnapping his ex-girlfriend, Jo Jae-mi, on her wedding day.
Hae Jo, whose birth was the result of a mistake with a random 'seed,' had to live a life of wandering without a family. Jo Jae-mi, on the other hand, suffers from premature menopause, which is especially painful for her since she has always dreamed of becoming a mother. The two set out on a fun yet emotional journey to find Hae Jo's father, during which they reminisce about their past and rekindle their connection. They had once cursed their lives, and now, it seems those curses are coming true.
The drama is both fun and emotional, with a rollercoaster of laughter and sadness. In the end, as Hae Jo nears the end of his life, he finds himself in the arms of Jae-mi. While this is heartbreakingly tragic, I try to convince myself that, at least in the final moments of his life, he was able to spend time with a family of his own making.The ending is bittersweet, but it underscores the importance of finding peace and connection, no matter how short-lived. There are many twists and turns that could be considered spoilers, so I’d recommend watching this drama for yourself to fully appreciate its impact.
6. When the phone rings
Sometimes it’s necessary to pretend not to know and let things slide. That’s how you get some breathing room.
When the Phone Rings is an ongoing drama that has generated an incredible amount of hype, and it truly deserves all the attention it’s getting. I’ve watched the first 10 episodes that have been released so far, and I’m absolutely hooked. The story is gripping, and I’m eagerly waiting to see how it all unfolds. The tension, twists, and character developments keep me on the edge of my seat, and I can’t wait for the next episode to see where it all leads. It’s definitely a drama worth watching!
