Buzz
1. Katun – Love Is Not Fault, Fault Lies with the Best Friend
This character, betrayed by her best friend of 20 years and her boyfriend, was one of the most talked-about in the first half of 2016. After the first season ended, Katun won the hearts of the audience when she took revenge during the wedding of her two betrayers. In the second season, the series sparked controversy due to excessive and inhuman plotlines. After the show, the actress playing Katun gained more recognition in Vietnam. Not only that, but short women also learned tips on how to dress to elongate their legs, inspired by Katun’s style. Beauty enthusiasts were excited to 'cosplay' Katun in seductive outfits, with makeup emphasizing the eyes and using nude tones, and her signature long, curled hair became a popular trend among Vietnamese girls.
2. Lee – Love Is Not Fault, Fault Lies with the Best Friend
Whenever Katun is mentioned, Lee, her best friend, is sure to follow. If there were a poll for the most disliked female character on TV, Lee would undoubtedly top the list. From the first season, her smug expression during the wedding with her friend’s boyfriend infuriated viewers. In the second season, the audience’s anger towards Lee reached its peak. With her cunning, manipulative nature, pretending to be innocent in front of others, Lee remained a constant topic of discussion, keeping her presence strong from season one to season two. Lee didn’t fall behind her best friend Katun in popularity, and her fashion style became widely shared among fans. Lee’s makeup was usually light and natural, complemented by flowing long hair. Additionally, fashion stores jumped on the bandwagon of the popular series, selling accessories and outfits similar to those worn by Lee and Katun in the show.
3. Ha Hao Khinh Yi - The Divine Warrior Zhao Zilong
This character has been the subject of much media discussion since late 2015 and continued into mid-2016. Ha Hao Khinh Yi, the lead female character in the TV epic The Divine Warrior Zhao Zilong, quickly became known as one of the most famous historical beauties on screen. The role was portrayed by Yoon Ah, a member of the girl group SNSD. As Yoon Ah expanded her career in China, she received mixed reviews from fans. The most controversial aspect was her character's appearance. The costume was overly extravagant, with elaborate accessories, bright colors, and excessive makeup, which made the portrayal of the refined young lady seem outdated and lackluster.
4. Boi Vy Vy - Love at First Sight
This year, fans were treated to both the TV and movie adaptations of the popular romantic novel 'Love at First Sight.' It became more than just a battle between two film crews; it was a fierce competition between the fans of the two leading actresses, Zheng Shuang and Angela Baby. The two portrayals of Boi Vy Vy quickly became hot topics on film forums. Angela Baby’s portrayal of Boi Vy Vy in the movie was praised, with many admiring her smooth performance, though some still questioned her acting. Meanwhile, Zheng Shuang’s version of Boi Vy Vy in the TV series received mixed reviews, with many feeling her portrayal lacked the charm that Angela Baby brought to the role.
5. Jon Snow - Game of Thrones Season 6
Fans of Game of Thrones were thrilled by the mysterious return of Jon Snow. Before the season aired, viewers speculated about whether he would live or die, and Jon did not disappoint. He became the most memorable and talked-about character of Season 6. His dramatic comeback set the stage for his rightful claim to rule Westeros as the son of Rhaegar Targaryen. By the end of the season, Jon Snow had emerged as the new ruler of the North, leaving a powerful legacy.
6. Daenerys - Game of Thrones Season 6
Another key character in Game of Thrones Season 6 was Daenerys. The Mother of Dragons was the most anticipated character for the upcoming Season 7. Throughout the show, Daenerys ascended to a leadership role, commanding the Unsullied army, the Ironborn navy, the Dothraki, and her advisors Tyrion and Varys. The season concluded with the long-awaited moment when Daenerys, Tyrion, Varys, and Missandei set sail for Westeros, preparing for a battle that fans had eagerly awaited.
7. Negan - The Walking Dead Season 6
The final character on this list is Negan, known as the 'most ruthless villain' in The Walking Dead universe. Though Negan only appeared in the season finale of Season 6, he became a major talking point among fans, setting the stage for intense discussions in the following season. In the final moments of the season, Negan killed one member of Rick’s group, and the identity of the victim remained a mystery. According to the comics, the victim was ‘Asian hero’ Glenn. This event sparked a massive debate and kept Negan in the spotlight, making him one of the most talked-about characters in the series.
8. Yoo Shi Jin – Descendants of the Sun
Descendants of the Sun has taken the top spot in the ratings for Korean dramas this year. The drama captivated audiences with the charming portrayal of Yoo Shi Jin, a soldier whose every word and action towards his love made female fans swoon. His fashionable, youthful yet sophisticated military attire only added to his appeal. Just thinking about his radiant smile was enough to make viewers happy. Yoo Shi Jin has undoubtedly become one of the most talked-about TV characters this year. Fans have also embraced various trends inspired by the show, such as fan art of Yoo Shi Jin, photo edits featuring military uniforms, and recreating the doctor-soldier relationship through photoshoots, covers of the show’s soundtrack, and even clothing and accessories worn by the cast.
9. Hong Seol – Cheese in the Trap
Cheese in the Trap quickly became a sensation from its very first episodes. The character Hong Seol, played by Kim Go Eun, stood out with her cute, curly hair and down-to-earth appearance, which was a refreshing change from the glamorous leads of typical dramas. Initially, some viewers doubted her looks compared to the manga version of the character, but it was her natural acting, adorable fashion sense, and the relatable, determined personality of Hong Seol that won everyone over. Cheese in the Trap sparked a trend for webtoon adaptations. Additionally, Hong Seol’s cute style, from her tousled, light brown curly hair to her simple, fresh makeup and her casual mix-and-match outfits, became a fashion sensation. After the show aired, trends like dungarees, layering camisoles with long-sleeve shirts, and matching sets of dresses and tops returned to popularity.
10. Duk Sun – Reply 1988
Duk Sun from Reply 1988 is an unforgettable character from the beloved 'Reply' series. Her role helped elevate the acting career of Hyeri from Girl’s Day, with fans debating whether her success was due to her good fortune in landing the perfect role or her natural talent as an actress. Regardless, the innocent, lovable Duk Sun, experiencing her first crush in the small neighborhood of Ssangmundong, has left a lasting impression on viewers. Moreover, her vintage fashion and short bob haircut sparked a trend, making Duk Sun an icon for retro style. Her 'old-school' outfits captured the hearts of female audiences, and her endearing portrayal remains one of the highlights of the year in K-drama.
