Since the Korean search portal Naver launched its first web drama in February 2013, at least 20 web dramas have been produced in South Korea. Although the dramas did not make it on to the television screen, many do feature such big name k-drama stars as Jang Hyuk and Kim Woo Bin and k-pop stars such as 2NE1's Sandara Park and the members of GOT7. As the popularity of web dramas grows, all three of Korea's major drama producers are considering the format, teaming up with producers to create such dramas and providing a viewing platform.
Anyone who spends considerable time on smartphones and tablets is the target audience for web dramas. The 15-minute format makes it easy to watch an episode in between classes or on work breaks.
Web dramas also appeal to producers and directors because they can be cheaper to produce and they allow them to take more risks, occasionally featuring subject matter that may not be suitable for prime time television.
For example, the drama "Prince of Prince," starring F.T.Island's Jonghyun and AOA's Yuna, features a romance between men. That subject might be a no-no for major Korean broadcasters.
Some directors welcome the challenge of fitting a storyline into the very precise format.
For example, Kim Ah Ron, the director of "Love Detective Sherlock K," has directed films but he chose to work with a web drama because he was curious about the format. "It's new to me," he said in an interview with the Korea Times. "I wanted to give myself a challenge. And it helped that the story is fresh and creative."
"Love Detective Sherlock K" stars Girls Day's Yura and Infinite's Sungkyu.
Many web dramas are based on existing webtoons or web comics.
Some examples of recent web dramas are the fantasy romantic comedy "Love Cell," which starred Jang Hyuk, Kim Woo Bin and Kim Yoo Jung. The web drama can be seen in the U.S. via the content provider DramaFever.
The fantasy romance "Dream Knight," co-produced by JYP Pictures and the Chinese video hosting site Youku, stars members of the band GOT7, Miss A's Min and actress Song Ha Yoon, with guest appearances from Park Jin Young and Choi Woo Sik.
The upcoming drama "Dr. Mo's Clinic" will star actor Kim Young Kwang and 2NE1 member Sandara Park.
Major entertainment companies such as SM, YG and JYP are also said to be investing in web dramas, which can serve as an acting vehicle for their stars.
