When you feel stuck in life (which unfortunately happens to even the most cheerful of us), one of the things specialists advise is to take a short break and step back from the situation. This will give you a new perspective on things and may lead to fresh ideas.
Of course, the most escapist way to spend time is to watch K-dramas. And there's a double benefit to watching shows that feature a lead in a similarly overwhelming situation to yours. A little inspiration never hurts.
Here are seven South Korean series with female leads crawling their way out of life's dumps.
Hello, Me! (2021)
IMDb Rating: 7.3/10
Where to stream: Netflix, Roku, Plex
Ban Ha-ni is a 37-year-old part-time worker who seems to have lost her spark. She is single, servile, timid, constantly anxious and unhappy. One day, her fiery 17-year-old self from the past comes to her and demands change.
Into the Ring (2020)
IMDb Rating: 7.3/10
Where to stream: Prime Video, Viki
The protagonist, Koo Se-Ra, decides to become a local politician despite being poor, unemployed, and seemingly having no chance of winning. Her mission proves difficult and life doesn't improve overnight, but the journey is truly inspiring.
Oh My Venus (2015)
IMDb Rating: 7.7/10
Where to stream: Netflix, Viki
Kang Joo-eun is a 33-year-old lawyer who used to be popular because of her perfect figure. Since then, she's become overweight and her boyfriend dumps her because of it. On top of that, she loses her apartment and is struggling financially. Fortunately, there is a Hollywood trainer who, with the right amount of persuasion, can help her find a place to live and get healthy.
Summer Strike (2022)
IMDb Rating: 7.8/10
Where to stream: Netflix, Prime Video, Viki, Aha, Kocowa
Lee Yeo-reum decides to take a break from her miserable life and moves to a seaside town where she meets a handsome librarian. The show is quite grounded and slow paced, which allows it to better convey the main idea: succeeding IN life and succeeding ONE's life are two very different things.
Start-Up (2020)
IMDb Rating: 8.0/10
Where to stream: Netflix, Prime Video
Despite her traumatizing background and modest financial situation, Seo Dal-mi dreams big. She wants to become South Korea's Steve Jobs. But the cutthroat world of the high-tech industry is not a place to be taken lightly.
Romance Is a Bonus Book (2019)
IMDb Rating: 8.0/10
Where to stream: Netflix
To call Kang Dan-i's life situation crappy is to say nothing. Once a copywriter, she left her professional life behind for the sake of her family, only to find herself dumped and struggling many years later. Now she has to pull herself together and find a source of income to survive. Luckily, an old friend is willing to help.
Fight For My Way (2017)
IMDb Rating: 8.1/10
Where to stream: Netflix, Prime Video, Viki, Aha, Kocowa
As the title suggests, this drama is about four young adults who have big career dreams and aspirations and are fighting their way to achieve them. At the beginning, they are in depressing dead-end jobs and have many circumstances working against them. But as always, dedication proves to be the key.