Rugal, Itaewon Class, A Business Proposal: Hit Korean dramas adapted from webtoons

With no new film releases and theatres sluggishly moving towards normalcy, Korean dramas have been providing us with all the entertainment, romance, drama, and chills we needed to get through the lockdown. While these shows have become a source of family viewing entertainment, did you know that many of these were adapted from webtoons? Whether it is action, you crave or a little romance, here's a list of some hit series inspired by webtoons.

The webtoon 'Rugal', followed a police officer who loses everything when he attempts to bring down a nationwide criminal organisation. The action-packed comic by Rel.mae was a hit and the web series that followed, with Kang Ki Beom in the lead, gave fans a dose of adrenaline with all the action and suspense unfolding on the screen.

The webtoon 'Itaewon class' by Jo Gwang-jin was adapted into a K-drama by the same name and was an instant hit. Not only was the show one of the most talked-about series, airing all of last year, but even Park Seo-jun’s comic-accurate bowl haircut created quite the buzz. The story follows Park Sae-ro-yi on a quest to avenge his father's death and his group of friends who help him get through life and all its challenges.

Currently one of the global bestsellers, 'A Business Proposal' follows a couple who venture out on a blind date. However, things take an unexpected turn when the lady realises that the mystery man from her steamy date was in fact the handsome CEO of her company. While the webtoon was a hit, the K-drama is set to roll out soon with Ahn Hyo-Seop and Kim Se-Jeong in the lead. Those who prefer the book over TV shows can read all about this office romance on KrossKomics while the rest of you can enjoy the series playing on YouTube.

Written by novelist Kim Yong-ki, 'Hell Is Other People' is unlike many other webtoons as it sets the tone for its dark and cynical plot, with its monochrome colour scheme. The webtoon follows a young man by the name of Yoon Jong-woo as he leaves the lush countryside to take up an internship in Seoul, only to find himself living in a cheap rental room where he encounters the strangest neighbours.

The smash-hit series 'True Beauty' debuted on streaming platforms in 2020 was also adapted from a webtoon by Yaongyi. The K-drama revolve around a teen girl who struggled with her appearance and was often ridiculed. She decided to go in for a total makeover and have a fresh start at a new school. From drama, to high school romance, love triangles, light-hearted humour, and more--this one has it all.

The rom-com 'Backstreet Rookie' that debuted in 2020, is based on a webtoon from 2016-2017 titled 'Convenience Store Saet-byul'. Written by Hwalhwasan, the story follows Choi Dae-Hyun (Ji Chang-Wook) and his chance encounter with three teen girls, one of who even kisses him. Fast forward to a couple of years later, and Dae-Hyun now manages his family's convenience store. In a twist of fate, the teen girl from years ago comes knocking at his door in search of a job as a part-time worker.

'Memorist' is the perfect action thriller for those who live for adrenaline. Based on a webtoon of the same name by Jae Hoo, the K-drama became just as popular as the comic that aired in 2020 on tvN. The crime mystery tells the story of Dong Baek (Yoo Seung-Ho) who solves crimes with the ability to read people's memories. Jae Hoo, the creator of the webtoon, expressed his delight about how the actual drama adaptation turned out. Not only are the cast members perfect for their roles, but the storyline also follows the original work.