Viewers Embrace Relatable Stories in Popular Series That Explore the Dark Side of Online Interactions

Netflix

Two recent Korean dramas have captivated local audiences with their intimate portrayal of lives influenced by social media. Netflix's suspense series "Celebrity" and cable channel ENA's "Battle for Happiness" shed light on the dynamics of social media interactions and have resonated with viewers through their unique and relatable narratives.

While social media usage has been depicted in various forms of creative content, including dramas, films, and variety shows, these two series shine a spotlight on the intricacies of characters' interactions on digital platforms.

"Celebrity," a 12-part series, revolves around Korean social media influencers and focuses on the journey of a young woman named Seo A-ri. It delves into her sudden rise to stardom and subsequent downfall in the world of social media megastars. The influencers in the show adhere to a strict hierarchy based on follower count and influence, obeying those with higher numbers while engaging in the spread of fake news and attacking one another.

Since its premiere on June 30, "Celebrity" has garnered significant attention and acclaim, ranking in Netflix's global top 10 chart for TV series, according to streaming analytics firm FlixPatrol. The series has also secured the top spot on Netflix's TV show chart in South Korea. 

▲ ENA
ENA's "Battle for Happiness" explores the lives of young Korean mothers engaged in a fierce social media competition to showcase their perceived happiness. Initially portrayed as close friends, the mothers post encouraging comments and like each other's content. However, they soon become entangled in a vicious online battle, vying for their children to take the spotlight in a kindergarten musical performance. As the show progresses, the characters reveal their two-faced nature, using hateful speech and sarcastic comments to disparage one another's children.

Despite the fictional nature of these dramas, viewers have expressed a deep sense of connection to the stories, as they reflect elements of truth in their portrayal of social media-driven lives. The local analytics firm Good Data Corp. reports that "Battle for Happiness" has consistently maintained high popularity since its premiere on May 31. The series has consistently ranked in Good Data's top 10 chart for the most talked-about TV dramas over six consecutive weeks.

"Celebrity" and "Battle for Happiness" are not the first Korean creations to examine the impact of social media on human relationships. Netflix's thriller series "Somebody" (2022) delved into the challenges of forming genuine friendships through dating apps and explored the boundaries of trust in interactions with strangers.

Director Jung Ji-woo, who helmed the eight-part series "Somebody," expressed his belief that as more people connect through social media and dating apps, there will be a growing demand for original stories that delve into these evolving connections.

The popularity of "Celebrity" and "Battle for Happiness" underscores the significance of exploring the multifaceted influence of social media on our lives. These Korean dramas serve as a reminder of the impact digital interactions can have, urging viewers to reflect on the complexities of their own online experiences and relationships.

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