Top 6 Highlights of Korean Cinema in 2016

Korean filmmakers have shown great ingenuity in surprising audiences by featuring modes of transport that are typically associated with the military or high-level political activities: helicopters. The inclusion of helicopters has added a cool, charismatic edge to the leading men. From the helicopter that transports Captain Yoo Shi Jin (Song Joong Ki) in *Descendants of the Sun* to the one that helps Doctor Hong Ji Hong (Kim Rae Won) reunite with his first love and former student 13 years later in *Doctors*, and even the helicopter used to transport the humorous news anchor Lee Hwa Shin (Jo Jung Suk) in *Jealousy Incarnate*, helicopters have been seamlessly integrated into the plot. These appearances not only enhanced the drama’s excitement but also added a surreal quality to the characters, leaving audiences swooning and dreaming.

In 2016, networks like SBS, KBS, and tvN spared no expense for their productions, with most dramas featuring at least one or two scenes filmed abroad. This smart investment paid off, as ratings soared and hit impressive double-digit numbers. Some of the most iconic international filming locations include *Descendants of the Sun*, which filmed numerous scenes in Greece; *Legend of The Blue Sea*, with stunning shots from Spain; *Goblin*, which featured several beautiful locations in Canada; and *Jealousy Incarnate*, which captured the exotic charm of Thailand, the Land of Smiles.

In this category, if the famous YG model duo takes second place, no one would dare claim the top spot. Both actors appeared in various projects throughout 2016. While Lee Sung Kyung became a familiar face through *Cheese in the Trap* and *Doctors*, Nam Joo Hyuk captured the hearts of Korean drama fans with *Moon Lovers*. Most recently, the duo teamed up in the hit drama *Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo*, where they portrayed the adorable 'Kinh-Ta' couple. Their undeniable chemistry and cuteness made fans swoon, and many hope to see more projects together in the future, so audiences can once again melt at their charming expressions and perfect pairing.

Written by the renowned Korean screenwriter Kim Eun Sook, *Descendants of the Sun* captivated audiences with its gripping storyline and stellar cast, including Song Joong Ki, Song Hye Kyo, and Kim Ji Won. The drama’s memorable soundtrack and captivating narrative made it the hottest show of the first half of 2016. Not only did it become a national sensation, but it also sparked conversations across Asia, dominating social media. The immense popularity of the series led to *Descendants of the Sun* (Hậu Duệ Mặt Trời) becoming the most searched keyword of the year.

Although aired on the paid cable channel tvN, *Goblin* shattered the record previously held by *Descendants of the Sun*, receiving 303 points from TV critics and topping the media index for Korean dramas in 2016. This drama, created by the brilliant Kim Eun Sook after five years of development, was brought to life by a star-studded cast including Gong Yoo, Kim Go Eun, Lee Dong Wook, and Yoo In Na, ensuring its success in late 2016. Moreover, *Goblin* set a new viewership record for tvN, with the highest ratings reaching 20.5%.

It’s no exaggeration to say that being a doctor was the hottest profession in Korean dramas in 2016. From the start of the year, audiences were captivated by the ageless beauty of Dr. Kang Mo Yoen (Song Hye Kyo) in *Descendants of the Sun*. In the middle of the year, viewers were enchanted by the capable and beautiful Dr. Yoo Hye Jung (Park Shin Hye) in *Doctors*, as well as the charming Dr. Oh Yoen Joo (Han Hye Joo) in *W - Two Worlds*. By the end of the year, Dr. Yoon Seo Jung (Seo Hyun Jin) in *Romantic Dr. Kim* once again reminded fans of the appeal of these talented, beautiful, and strong-willed female doctors on Korean TV.