ABS-CBN Korean Dramas In 2013: A Complete List

Hey guys! Remember 2013? What a year for Korean dramas on ABS-CBN! For Filipinos who love K-dramas, ABS-CBN was the channel to watch. They brought some seriously amazing shows to our screens. So, let’s take a trip down memory lane and check out all the Korean dramas that aired on ABS-CBN in 2013. Get ready for some nostalgia!

Why ABS-CBN Was the Go-To Channel for K-Dramas

Before we dive into the list, let’s talk about why ABS-CBN was such a big deal for K-drama fans. Back in the day, streaming wasn't as huge as it is now. ABS-CBN played a crucial role in bringing high-quality, dubbed Korean dramas to Filipino households. The network had a knack for picking dramas that resonated with the local audience, making them a household name for K-drama lovers.

ABS-CBN wasn't just showing any random dramas; they were carefully selecting shows that would appeal to Filipino viewers. They considered themes, actors, and overall storyline to ensure that the dramas would be a hit. This meticulous approach is why so many Filipinos have fond memories of watching K-dramas on ABS-CBN. Plus, the Tagalog dubbing made the dramas even more accessible, allowing viewers to fully immerse themselves in the stories without the barrier of subtitles.

The network also timed their broadcasts strategically, often airing dramas during primetime slots to maximize viewership. This meant that families could gather around the television after dinner and enjoy a captivating K-drama together. ABS-CBN created a shared viewing experience that strengthened the bond between the dramas and their audience. They even had special segments and features that provided behind-the-scenes looks and interviews with the cast, making the experience even more engaging.

Moreover, ABS-CBN invested heavily in promoting these dramas. They would create trailers, teasers, and promotional events to generate buzz and excitement. The network understood the importance of marketing in making a drama successful, and they pulled out all the stops to ensure that their K-dramas were a hit. This comprehensive approach, from selection to promotion, is what set ABS-CBN apart and made them the go-to channel for K-dramas in the Philippines.

The Must-Watch Korean Dramas of 2013 on ABS-CBN

Alright, let's get to the main event! Here’s a list of the Korean dramas that ABS-CBN aired in 2013 that you absolutely had to watch. Prepare for a wave of nostalgia!

1. Rooftop Prince

Rooftop Prince is a fantastic time-traveling romantic comedy that had everyone hooked. The story revolves around a Joseon-era prince who, after the mysterious death of his wife, travels 300 years into the future with his entourage. They land in the middle of Seoul and encounter a woman who looks exactly like his deceased wife, leading to a series of hilarious and heartwarming events.

The drama was a perfect blend of comedy, romance, and mystery, making it a hit with a wide range of viewers. The comedic timing of the actors was impeccable, and the fish-out-of-water scenarios were endlessly entertaining. But beyond the humor, Rooftop Prince also had a compelling storyline that kept viewers on the edge of their seats. The mystery surrounding the death of the prince's wife and the secrets of the past added depth to the narrative, making it more than just a typical romantic comedy.

ABS-CBN's dubbing of Rooftop Prince was also top-notch, capturing the nuances of the characters' personalities and emotions. The Tagalog voice actors did an excellent job of bringing the drama to life for Filipino viewers. The success of Rooftop Prince on ABS-CBN is a testament to the network's ability to identify and promote dramas that resonate with the local audience. It remains a beloved K-drama classic for many Filipinos, and its airing on ABS-CBN in 2013 solidified its place in the hearts of viewers.

2. Big

Big is a body-swap drama with a supernatural twist. It stars Gong Yoo as a successful doctor who gets his soul swapped with an 18-year-old student after a car accident. The switch leads to all sorts of complications and comedic situations as the doctor tries to navigate life in a teenager's body while dealing with the student's girlfriend, who happens to be his teacher. Trust me, it's as wild as it sounds!

The drama explores themes of identity, love, and responsibility, making it more than just a lighthearted comedy. The performances of Gong Yoo and Lee Min-jung were particularly noteworthy, as they brought depth and nuance to their characters. The chemistry between the leads was also a major draw, as viewers couldn't help but root for their unconventional romance. The supernatural elements of the story added an extra layer of intrigue, keeping viewers guessing until the very end.

ABS-CBN's decision to air Big was a smart one, as the drama's unique premise and talented cast made it a hit with Filipino viewers. The network's promotion of the drama also played a key role in its success, as they highlighted the comedic and romantic aspects of the story. Big remains a popular K-drama among Filipino fans, and its airing on ABS-CBN in 2013 helped to solidify its place in K-drama history.

3. That Winter, the Wind Blows

For those who love a good melodrama, That Winter, the Wind Blows was a must-watch. Starring Jo In-sung and Song Hye-kyo, this drama tells the story of a con man who pretends to be the long-lost brother of a blind heiress. The plot thickens as they develop a complicated relationship, filled with lies, secrets, and a surprising amount of genuine affection. Get your tissues ready because this one's a tearjerker.

The drama's stunning cinematography and emotional performances made it a critical and commercial success. The actors were able to convey the pain and vulnerability of their characters, drawing viewers into their world. The intricate plot twists and turns kept viewers on the edge of their seats, as they wondered whether the con man would be able to pull off his deception or if the truth would eventually be revealed.

ABS-CBN's airing of That Winter, the Wind Blows introduced many Filipino viewers to the beauty and depth of Korean melodramas. The network's sensitive dubbing and promotion of the drama helped to highlight its emotional themes and complex characters. The drama's success on ABS-CBN is a testament to the network's ability to cater to a wide range of tastes, from lighthearted comedies to heart-wrenching dramas. That Winter, the Wind Blows remains a beloved melodrama among Filipino K-drama fans, and its airing on ABS-CBN in 2013 helped to cement its place in the hearts of viewers.

The Impact of ABS-CBN on K-Drama Popularity in the Philippines

Let's be real, ABS-CBN played a huge role in popularizing K-dramas in the Philippines. By bringing these dramas to a wider audience through free television and Tagalog dubbing, they made K-dramas accessible to everyone. It wasn't just about entertainment; it was about cultural exchange and creating a shared viewing experience for families across the country.

ABS-CBN's influence on the popularity of K-dramas in the Philippines cannot be overstated. The network's commitment to selecting and promoting high-quality dramas, combined with their excellent Tagalog dubbing, made K-dramas a household staple. They created a loyal fan base that eagerly awaited each new drama, and their influence can still be felt today.

The network's strategic timing of broadcasts, often during primetime slots, ensured that K-dramas reached a wide audience. They also invested in promotional events and behind-the-scenes features that engaged viewers and created a sense of community. This comprehensive approach to broadcasting K-dramas is what set ABS-CBN apart and made them a key player in the K-drama phenomenon in the Philippines.

ABS-CBN's efforts also paved the way for other networks and streaming services to follow suit. As K-dramas gained popularity, other platforms began to offer them as well, further expanding their reach. ABS-CBN's pioneering work in this area helped to establish K-dramas as a mainstream form of entertainment in the Philippines, and their legacy continues to inspire and influence the industry today.

Where Are These Dramas Now?

So, you're probably wondering where you can watch these classics now, right? Well, thankfully, with the rise of streaming services, many of these dramas are available on platforms like Netflix, Viu, and iFlix. Just search for the titles, and you might be able to relive those memories. Happy watching!

Conclusion

2013 was a fantastic year for K-drama fans in the Philippines, thanks to ABS-CBN. The network brought us some unforgettable dramas that we still talk about today. So, whether you’re a long-time K-drama fan or just getting started, these dramas are definitely worth checking out. Who knows, you might just find your new favorite show!

And that’s a wrap, folks! Hope you enjoyed this trip down memory lane. Let me know in the comments which of these dramas was your favorite! Until next time, keep watching and keep loving K-dramas!