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K-Dramas that would be a Hit as Western Adaptations (But Please don't Ruin them)

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Posted by ean1994 Wednesday, July 30, 2025 7,420

Not all K-dramas need to stay within the boundaries of Korean television. Some of them are practically begging for a Western remake, with storylines, characters, and aesthetics that could easily resonate with a global audience. From supernatural thrillers to nostalgic teen dramas, these six titles stand out as perfect candidates for adaptation.

1. 'Reply 1997'

The wave of nostalgia in 'Reply 1997' makes it a strong contender for a Western remake. Set in the late 90s, the show explores the lives of high school students as they navigate friendships, crushes, and the early days of fandom culture. A Western version could dive into boy band obsessions, mix tapes, and dial-up internet while keeping the heartfelt coming-of-age themes intact.

2. 'Goblin'

'Goblin' blends fantasy, romance, and mythology in a way that could thrive with a Hollywood budget. Western studios excel at visual effects, and this story of an immortal guardian seeking peace after centuries of wandering would look stunning with top-tier CGI. The emotional weight and sweeping visuals could reach entirely new audiences in a Western adaptation.

3. 'Kingdom'

If you're still craving the thrill of a zombie outbreak, 'Kingdom' might just be what the Western world needs again. Think of it as 'Game of Thrones' meets 'The Walking Dead' with a royal twist. With its high-stakes palace intrigue, survival horror, and period setting, this drama would make for a fresh and exhilarating adaptation that could reignite the zombie genre in the West.

4. 'Hotel Del Luna'

'Hotel Del Luna' mixes eerie ghosts with luxe aesthetics and emotional backstories. Western filmmakers know how to create bone-chilling ghost stories, and this series offers the perfect platform to combine that expertise with a visually captivating hotel filled with wandering spirits. Add in bold fashion choices and moody lighting, and you'd have a stylish paranormal drama ready for prime time.

5. 'Dream High'

Fans of 'Dream High' will instantly draw comparisons to 'Glee' or 'High School Musical', but this K-drama adds a deeper emotional layer as it follows aspiring musicians chasing their dreams. A Western remake could tap into today's pop culture, music competitions, and social media fame, giving it a modern spin while maintaining the story's inspirational core.

6. 'Bloodhounds'

For fans of gritty action and underground fighting rings, 'Bloodhounds' delivers hard-hitting drama and brutal fight scenes. A Western adaptation could push the boundaries even further with more intense combat choreography and raw storytelling. Think 'Creed' with a street-fighting edge, blending heart and violence into something that hits hard both physically and emotionally.

SEE ALSO: 2PM's Taecyeon announces his marriage through a handwritten letter

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  5. Kim Go Eun
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  9. Taecyeon
  10. Wooyoung
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