9 Shows & Movies Like Start-Up (2020)

Description: This series combines romance with elements of fate and personal reinvention, focusing on characters who must overcome past failures to build new futures, mirroring the entrepreneurial spirit.

Fact: The drama was unique for its use of a supernatural twist, where the male protagonist could see glimpses of the future, adding an intriguing layer to the storyline.

Description: This drama explores themes of personal growth, resilience, and finding one's place in the world, much like the journey of young entrepreneurs. It blends emotional depth with a realistic portrayal of life's struggles and triumphs.

Fact: The series was praised for its raw and honest depiction of human relationships and was one of the highest-rated cable dramas in Korean television history.

Description: While primarily an action thriller, this drama includes themes of loyalty, betrayal, and personal redemption, with characters fighting against powerful adversaries to protect what they believe in.

Fact: The series is known for its high-octane action sequences and was one of the first K-dramas to feature a strong female antagonist in a political thriller setting.

Description: Centered around themes of self-acceptance and societal pressures, this drama follows a young woman's journey to redefine herself, paralleling the struggles of young professionals finding their identity.

Fact: The series sparked discussions about beauty standards in South Korea, as it was based on a popular webtoon addressing plastic surgery and self-esteem issues.

Description: A romantic comedy that delves into the balance between professional ambitions and personal passions, showcasing characters who are deeply committed to their careers while navigating love and self-discovery.

Fact: The drama is notable for its portrayal of fangirl culture, offering a rare glimpse into the world of K-pop fandoms through its protagonist.

Description: A story about ambition, class struggles, and young love, featuring characters who must navigate the challenges of wealth and power while pursuing their dreams, much like the competitive world of startups.

Fact: Often referred to as a modern-day 'Cinderella' story, the drama was a massive hit internationally, contributing to the global spread of K-dramas.

Description: Focusing on the lives of ambitious women in the tech industry, this drama explores themes of power, competition, and personal growth, set against the backdrop of corporate rivalries and digital innovation.

Fact: The series was praised for its strong female leads and its feminist undertones, breaking away from traditional romantic K-drama tropes.

Description: A tale of revenge, perseverance, and entrepreneurship, following a young man's journey to build a successful business from scratch while facing numerous obstacles and societal prejudices.

Fact: The drama was groundbreaking for its diverse cast, including a transgender character and a mixed-race individual, challenging traditional norms in Korean television.

Description: This series highlights the struggles and aspirations of young people trying to make their mark in competitive industries, blending personal dreams with the harsh realities of professional life.

Fact: The drama provided a realistic portrayal of the modeling and acting industries in South Korea, resonating with many young viewers.