When major TV studios like ABS-CBN and GMA networks began producing local adaptations of hit ‘90s Latinovelas, it became apparent that Koreanovela remakes would be the next trend.
True enough, a few years since Meteor Garden started the Asianovela craze in the country, major TV networks embarked on a K-Drama remake spree.
ABS-CBN, which spearheaded the Asianovela craze in the country via the phenomenal airing of the original Meteor Garden in 2003, produced its first K-drama adaptation in 2009 via the Angel Locsin-starrer, Only You, and based on the 2005 South Korean drama of the same title.
Parts were taken and shot in South Korea and aired from April 27 to August 21 in the same year. Only You became a certified hit as it consistently wins in the rating game. The finale episode garnered a whopping 39.8% national rating, according to rating firm Kantar Media.
In the same year, ABS-CBN premiered its adaptation of the massive 2004 South Korean drama hit, Lovers in Paris.
The original series got aired by ABS-CBN and made an overwhelming success in TV rating the same year it got aired in South Korea.
The Filipino version had KC concepcion, Piolo Pascual, and Zanjoe Marudo play in the leads. Unlike its original version, however, this remake was unable to duplicate its predecessor’s success.
It took the Network three more years before making its third Koreanovela remake.
In 2011, ABS-CBN premiered Green Rose, based on the 2005 South Korean drama of the same title.
The remake starred Kapamilya actors Anne Curtis, Jericho Rosales, Alessandra de Rossi, and Jake Cuenca as the lead stars. The drama followed the story of Jerome Delgado (Rosales) and his revenge against those who framed him up for a crime he did not commit.
Following the success of the 2011 K-drama, 49 Days, ABS-CBN decided to adapt the series for local audiences.
It had a remake on Pure Love, aired on the Network’s pre-primetime slot from July 7 to November 14, 2014. It was about a young woman in a coma after a tragic car accident.
The series starred Yen Santos, Yam Concepcion, Anna Luna, and Alex Gonzaga as lead roles. The cast also included Matt Evans, Joseph Marco, Arjo Atayde, and Aaron Villafor.
The production was highly considered both a critical and commercial success. Its official Filipino soundtrack, Gisingin ang Puso, was also a chart-topper.
In the same year, ABS-CBN produced and aired its sixth and last Korean drama adaptation.
Two Wives, which starred Erich Gonzales and Kaye Abad in the title roles. It was based on the critically-acclaimed Korean drama of the same title.
The series ruled its time slot in TV rating.
As Korean wave continues to sustain its popularity among Filipino audiences, new adaptations are also expected to be created on the heels of the success of the original Korean series.
This year alone, adaptations of global Korean hits, The World of the Married (based on British drama, Dr. Foster) and Flower of Evil, are already in the works, with their airing expected to take place early next year.
Which of the aforementioned Korean drama adaptations is your ultimate favorite? What are your thoughts about ABS-CBN’s upcoming remakes?
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