Somebody: A Bold Take on Taboo Topics in K-Dramas
Korean dramas have been gaining popularity worldwide, but some argue that they lack diversity in their themes and storylines. However, the recently premiered K-Drama series Somebody challenges this notion by tackling taboo subjects that are rarely explored in the genre. Directed and written by Jung Jiwoo in collaboration with Han Jiwan, Somebody premiered on Netflix on November 18, 2022. Somebody is an 8-episode thriller, melodrama, and crime series that follows the story of a software developer who gets caught up in a murder investigation as her created social media app is found to be linked to a crime scene. Some may argue that murder and crime dramas are common in the K-Drama genre, but Somebody takes a unique approach by addressing taboo issues such as mental health, domestic violence, and sexual assault. In light of this, is it possible that Somebody could inspire a new wave of K-Dramas that challenge the norm and delve into more complex and sensitive subjects?
The main protagonist of Somebody is Kim Sum, played by Kang Haelim, who is a unique character in the world of K-Dramas. She has Asperger’s Syndrome, a condition that makes it difficult for her to connect with others on an emotional level. However, despite her social difficulties, she has a natural talent for machines and programming. This talent leads her to create the social contact and dating app Somebody. The app becomes an instant hit and brings Sum to the forefront of the tech world. However, the success of the app also becomes the catalyst for a series of unexpected events. When the app becomes intertwined with a murder investigation, Sum must confront the harsh realities of the world she had previously avoided.
The show's depiction of Kim Sum's character and her struggles with Asperger's Syndrome is a breath of fresh air in the world of K-Dramas. Unlike other shows, which often shy away from portraying characters with disabilities, Somebody gives a voice to individuals who are often marginalized. Throughout the series, Sum's interactions with the people who use her app help her learn how to navigate social situations and form meaningful connections with others.
The show's willingness to tackle taboo subjects head-on is what sets it apart from other K-Dramas — it does not shy away from addressing difficult topics, such as disability and abuse, in a realistic and unflinching manner. For instance, Somebody includes a character who is physically disabled and relies on the help of others. The character is vulnerable to abuse and manipulation, as demonstrated by the antagonist, Seong Yuno (played by Kim Youngkwang), who steals her wheelchair to render her defenseless. Through this storyline, the show sheds light on the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and the need for society to protect and support them.
Somebody also does not shy away from exploring some darker subjects, and this is particularly evident in its frank portrayal of sexual content. From scenes of masturbation to intimate moments between the characters, the show does not hold back in depicting explicit content that is not commonly seen in Korean dramas. Furthermore, the show is noteworthy for its inclusion of a lesbian relationship, an uncommon topic in K-Dramas, which adds to its progressive nature. The series also touches on the issue of violence with attempted rape scenes and a murderer who suffers from impotence, highlighting the extent to which societal expectations and stereotypes can impact a person's psyche.
Aside from tackling taboo topics, Somebody delves into issues related to abandonment and how they can impact an individual's emotional well-being. The series' antagonist, Seong Yuno, is portrayed as someone who has suffered from a lack of love and affection from his mother, a traumatic experience that has contributed to his emotional struggles and ultimately driven him to commit heinous crimes. Through this character's experiences, the series highlights the importance of parental love and its impact on a child's development, while also highlighting the potential consequences of neglect and abandonment.
Despite its controversial topics, Somebody manages to explore them with sensitivity and depth, making it an engaging watch for those who are willing to take a chance on a Korean drama that is not afraid to push boundaries.
The ending of the show leaves viewers with a question: would the murderer have been different if his mother had loved and accepted him? The protagonist's choices also come under scrutiny as she continues to date the man who nearly killed her best friend. Will she eventually be convinced to take his side, or will she find a way to move on from him?
Overall, Somebody is an intriguing and thought-provoking K-Drama that breaks away from the typical themes and storylines of the genre. It is definitely worth a watch for those who are looking for something that is both engaging and challenging.
Edited by Deshalia Murray