Japanese manga has become popular all over the world, captivating fans with its gripping storylines and endearing characters. The drama industry across the globe continues to draw inspiration from Japanese manga’s rich storytelling and diverse genres, reimagining them with fresh cultural twists and dynamic performances. Korean dramas, in particular, have thrived in this space, bringing fresh interpretations to classic manga tales.

Here are seven popular K-dramas that were successfully adapted from Japanese manga, each one bringing its own twist to a beloved narrative.

1. Boys Over Flowers

Based on the beloved Japanese manga ‘Hana Yori Dango’ by Yoko Kamio “Boys Over Flowers” is one of the most popular K-dramas that became a cultural phenomenon and a cornerstone of the Hallyu wave. The story follows Geum Jan Di as she enrolls in an elite high school on a scholarship. There, she clashes with Gu Jun-pyo, the arrogant leader of F4. Despite their differences and constant bickering, romance inevitably blooms, leading to a whirlwind of emotional ups and downs.

2. City Hunter

Adapted from the Japanese manga of the same name by Tsukasa Hojo, ‘City Hunter’ blends action, romance, and revenge. While the original manga has a more comedic tone, the K-drama adaptation leans into a darker, more action-oriented narrative. It follows a skilled operative seeking justice for his father's wrongful death, navigating a web of corruption and secrets in Seoul.

3. Playful Kiss

A charming romantic comedy, ‘Playful Kiss’ is based on the Japanese manga series ‘Itazura na Kiss’ by Kaoru Tada. The story centers on a naive yet determined high school girl who ends up living under the same roof as her crush — an aloof and brilliant student. Kim Hyun-joong and Jung So-min bring the beloved characters to life, captivating the viewers.

4. Parasite: The Grey

Netflix’s 2024 hit series ‘Parasite: The Grey’ is a live-action spin-off of the Japanese science fiction horror manga series ‘Parasite’ by Hitoshi Iwaaki. The drama centers on mysterious parasites that fall from outer space and take control of human hosts by seizing their brains and bodies. The story follows Jung Woo In, who is infected with a parasite on her hand and starts a strange cohabitation as it fails to steal her brain.

5. Liar Game

Based on the Japanese manga of the same name by Shinobu Kaitani, ‘Liar Game’ is a popular mystery thriller drama. It revolves around an innocent college student, Nam Da-Jung, who joined a reality show where participants strive to win money by deceiving others. The K-drama adaptation, starring Kim So-eun, Shin Sung-rok, and Lee Sang-yoon, adds intense dramatic flair and deeper character development while retaining the mind games and suspense of the original manga.

6. To The Beautiful You

‘To The Beautiful You’ is adapted from the Japanese manga ‘Hana-Kimi: For You in Full Blossom’ by Hisaya Nakajo. Sulli stars as a girl who disguises herself as a boy to attend an all-boys school and meet her idol, a high-jump athlete played by SHINee’s Minho. The drama offers a light-hearted, youthful take on identity and teenage love and remains a charming adaptation.

7. Cantabile Tomorrow

‘Cantabile Tomorrow’ is based on the Japanese manga ‘Nodame Cantabile’ by Tomoko Ninomiya. This music-centered drama follows two classical musicians — one perfectionist and driven, the other eccentric and free-spirited. Starring Joo Won and Shim Eun-kyung, it’s a heartwarming watch for anyone who enjoys orchestral performances and character-driven stories.

K-dramas adapted from Japanese manga continue to resonate with global audiences by blending the charm of the original stories with the emotional depth and visual style unique to Korean storytelling.

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