Recently I noticed that 90% of my Netflix recommendations are made up of Korean dramas! All I can say is “yee haw”, and apparently I’m not alone! A growing number of women over 50 are discovering the rich, emotional, and often refreshingly unique world of Korean movies. And once they start, they don’t look back. I know I haven’t!
But what is it about these films that make them my current “go-to”?
Here’s what I think…
Emotion That Feels Real and Relatable
Korean movies don’t shy away from emotion. In fact, they embrace it—whether it’s love, grief, longing, or quiet joy. For women who’ve lived through love, loss, parenting, caregiving, and reinvention, these stories resonate on a deeper level.
Strong, Layered Female Characters
Korean films often portray women of all ages as the emotional core, decision-makers, survivors, and dreamers. These aren’t characters obsessed with youth or perfection. They’re us.
Slow Burn
Sometimes American movies can feel like too much too quickly! Action, explosions and special effects. In contrast, I feel that the storytelling in Korean films is patient, thoughtful, and intentional.
We’re Different But The Same
You learn about Korean traditions, foods, family dynamics, but beneath all of that are themes that cross every border: love, sacrifice, regret, resilience. It reminds us that no matter where we live, we’re more alike than different.
They Respect Our Intelligence
Korean movies rarely talk down to the viewer. They don’t over-explain. They invite you to pay attention, to read between the lines, to feel more than be told. For women over 50 who’ve spent a lifetime tuning in emotionally to the people around them, this kind of storytelling is deeply satisfying.
To Wrap Up
I don’t mind a good action film every now and then, but at this stage in life I’m mostly looking to be moved through stories that I can relate to. As women in our 50s, I think that we crave stories that speak to our experiences, stir our hearts, and maybe even awaken dreams we’ve put on hold. I think that Korean films deliver all of that and more.
I’ve included some movies below to check out. Give them the 15 minute test and I challenge you to not fall in love with Korean movies even just a little.
“Kim Ji-young: Born 1982” A quietly powerful portrait of motherhood and identity. (Free on tubitv)
“A Moment to Remember” Reflects the complexity of a woman’s journey. (Free on tubitv)
“Little Forest” Comforting, gentle, and utterly beautiful. (Free on tubitv)
“Tune in for Love” A nostalgic love story set across decades. (Netflix)
“20th Century Girl” A sweet, poignant coming-of-age story. (Netflix)
This is “our” time, our season to enjoy stories that speak to our soul. And sometimes, those stories just happen to have subtitles.
Have you fallen in love with a Korean movie lately? I’m always looking for suggestions, please share!
