JTBC's Classic Extreme Dramas Following "The World of the Married"

The popularity of jTBC's Friday-Saturday drama "The World of the Married", which recently surpassed 20% in viewer ratings (based on Nielsen Korea), reminds us of the drama "SKY Castle", which aired at the same time last year by the same broadcaster. Like when "SKY Castle" aired, now everyone is curious about the next content of "The World of the Married" like a sensation.

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The "The World of the Married" and "SKY Castle" are also similar in that they show the other side of a middle-class family that seems harmonious. Viewers may imagine Kang Ye-seo of "SKY Castle" appearing in "The World of the Married" because they saw similar aspects in the two dramas. Although they look like 'extreme dramas' considering the amount of infidelity and entrance exams shown in a provocative manner, the completeness of the script and production helps the dramas gain the formula 'well-made'.

There are a few more dramas other than "SKY Castle" that tiptoe on the line of extreme and masterpiece. They are "Misty" and "Woman of Dignity". Even Kim Hee-ae's "Secret Love Affair" can be included in the list. "The World of the Married" follows the lineage of jTBC dramas that deal with stories of middle-class families in high quality.

These dramas have something in common, that they put problematic subjects at the forefront. "The World of the Married" deals with infidelity, "SKY Castle" with entrance exams, "Woman of Dignity" with status rise, and "Secret Love Affair" with men and women with big age differences. It creates dramatic interest by creating a sophisticated atmosphere with provocative materials. If necessary, dramas will go beyond into adult ratings.

At the heart of the story is always a woman. Ji Seon-woo (Kim Hee-ae) of "The World of the Married", Han Seo-jin (Yum Jung-ah) of "SKY Castle", Ko Hye-ran (Kim Nam-joo) of "Misty", Oh Woo-jin (Kim Hee-sun) and Park Bok-ja (Kim Sun-a) of "Woman of Dignity" and Oh Hye-won (Kim Hee-ae) of "Secret Love Affair". Each have their desires when incidents or hardships occur and they try to protect those desires and their dignity. The dramas delicately depict the psychology and relationships of characters who have met conflict, giving them probability and inducing immersion. It also shows a cross-section of the Korean society, especially the hypocrisy and vanity of the middle class, through various human groups surrounding the main character.

There is one more thing in common. They don't get good reviews at the end of the story. The dramas, which were applauded for their drastic layout, somehow left a regret in the final episode. The characters so suddenly and awkwardly chose to reconcile with their conflicts. Thus, curiosity builds for where "The World of the Married" is headed.