10 interesting facts about short dramas

Short dramas, or mini-dramas, are hidden gems in the world of entertainment. With quick episodes and engaging stories, they’ve been winning over fans worldwide. However, behind their short and straightforward narratives lie fascinating details that you may have never noticed.

From hidden easter eggs to cast improvisations, these short dramas are filled with secrets and curiosities that make the viewing experience even richer. Check out 10 intriguing facts about short dramas below!

1. Easter Eggs Inspired by Famous Movies and Series

Many short dramas include subtle references to major films and series as a treat for sharp-eyed fans. In Reset (China), for instance, the café where the characters often meet is called “Déjà Vu Café,” a direct nod to the time-loop theme seen in movies like Groundhog Day and Inception.

2. Iconic Improvised Scenes

While the scripts for short dramas are precise due to their brief runtime, some iconic scenes were improvised. In Move to Heaven (South Korea), the scene where the protagonist reads a letter left by a deceased person was partially improvised by actor Tang Joon-sang, adding more emotion to his performance.

3. Hidden Cultural References

Short dramas frequently include cultural references that enrich their stories. In Extraordinary Attorney Woo – Special Episode, some of Woo’s lines are inspired by Korean proverbs that reinforce the central message of the episode. These small details help connect the dramas to both local and global audiences.

4. Real Locations Turned Tourist Spots

Because of their short runtime and low budget, many short dramas use real-life locations instead of constructed sets. Places like the park in Navillera (South Korea) or the streets in Itaewon Class have become tourist attractions for fans who love to recreate memorable scenes.

5. Filmed in Record Time

Are known for their speed, not only in runtime but also in production. The drama Reset was filmed in just 50 days, an incredibly short time considering its visual and narrative complexity.

6. Small Budgets, Big Ideas

Unlike longer dramas, many short dramas operate on reduced budgets, which demands creativity. In Youth of May, the team used special editing techniques to simulate large crowds despite having few extras on set.

7. Stars Who Started in Short Dramas

Many big-name actors began their careers in short dramas before becoming famous. Timothée Chalamet, for example, starred in independent shorts before becoming an international star. In South Korea, Lee Do-hyun appeared in smaller dramas before shining in larger productions.

8. Partnerships Between Famous Writers and Directors

Short dramas have often served as a starting point for partnerships between writers and directors who later collaborate on larger projects. The collaboration between the writer of Goblin and the director of Hotel Del Luna began with experimental shorts, showing how this format can be a creative platform for talent.

9. Characters Inspired by Real People

Many short drama characters are based on real-life individuals. The protagonist of Move to Heaven was inspired by a real trauma cleaner whose story deeply moved the writer. This adds a touch of authenticity to the stories.

10. Hidden Messages in Titles

The titles of short dramas often hide deeper meanings. For instance, Reset isn’t just about time loops but also symbolizes the idea of restarting life and changing destiny, which is reflected in the characters’ every decision.

Conclusion

May be short in length, but they are rich in details, creativity, and hidden meanings. Whether through cultural references, emotional improvisations, or hidden messages, they offer an experience far beyond their runtime. Now that you know some of these curiosities, why not revisit your favorites and try to spot other hidden secrets? After all, in short dramas, every minute counts!