By Dennis Gorecho
Music is the hidden language of cinema.
An original soundtrack (OST) is more than background music — it’s a storytelling tool that heightens emotion, sets the tone and strengthens the narrative flow of a film or television series.
Korean drama (K-drama) fans were recently serenaded by Korean singer Isaac Hong, known for his hit OSTs “My Love By My Side” from “When Life Gives You Tangerines,” “Fallin’” from “Queen of Tears” (2024) and “In You” from “Our Unwritten Seoul.”
OST Symphony II: K-Drama in Concert brought to life the drama, nostalgia and passion of beloved K-drama soundtracks through the masterful performances of the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra (PPO) last October 25, 2025, at the Samsung Hall, SM Aura, in Taguig City.
Aside from Hong’s songs, the PPO delivered powerful renditions of iconic OSTs from “Crash Landing on You,” “Goblin,” “Squid Game,” “Extraordinary Attorney Woo,” “Mr. Sunshine,” “The World of the Married,” “Lovely Runner,” “Itaewon Class,” “King of the Land,” “Hospital Playlist,” and “Jewel in the Palace.” Other performers included rising Korean artist YEGNY, and Filipino singers Kyline Alcantara and Angel Guardian.
The concert proved that great stories transcend borders — and that the universal language of music continues to unite hearts, one heartfelt soundtrack at a time.
Whether it’s a tear-jerking drama, an action-packed thriller or a laugh-out-loud comedy, the right song at the right moment can transform an ordinary scene into something unforgettable. Music is not a mere accessory; it is an essential element that shapes how audiences feel, remember and interpret what they see.
Music can evoke joy, sadness or suspense, define characters through recurring motifs, and anchor stories within a specific time and place.
I was not originally an avid fan of K-dramas. But during the pandemic lockdown, I found myself binge-watching — consuming multiple episodes in one sitting — and discovering their depth and artistry.
K-dramas have evolved over time and are now easily accessible through global streaming platforms like Netflix, expanding their reach far beyond South Korea.
Filipino director Joey Reyes once said that the Philippines could learn a lot from K-dramas and Korean films. In his April 11, 2020 blog entry “Choking On My Adobo,” he asked: “What makes Koreanovelas such favorites among Filipinos?”
He noted that Pinoys are drawn to K-dramas because of their complex, relatable and flawed characters, emotionally charged performances, and stunning cinematography and direction.
“The scripts are so well-written,” Reyes wrote. “More important, the plots vary. There’s an assortment of genres to choose from. Even if they deal with familiar themes, Koreans make them feel new.”
“The writing of K-dramas is on-point, carefully studied and precisely structured. They engross audiences without wandering aimlessly just to stretch the story.”
“K-dramas dramatize through tenderness. You are fed an emotional scene, but it cuts just when you know how to react — followed by, strangely yet effectively, a light comedic moment.”
Indeed, K-dramas are known for their non-repetitive, character-driven plots and unexpected twists that keep viewers hooked.
“While K-dramas often use familiar character templates, they present them in ways that differ sharply from Filipino television,” Reyes said. “You’re not stuck in the same narratives that have long numbed local audiences.”
Filipinos have embraced Korean culture so deeply that it has become part of their daily lives.
“K-dramas, because they’re detached from our cultural tendency to glorify romantic suffering, provide refreshing alternatives,” Reyes explained. “They don’t just entertain — they challenge audiences.”
Another key appeal is their shorter format: Most K-dramas run only 16 to 24 episodes, unlike local series that often drag on for months or even years.
“Each drama offers something new,” Reyes added. “Every actor gets the chance to reinvent themselves, create fresh characters and hone their craft — not just play half of a love team. K-dramas showcase versatility because they’re not confined by celebrity marketing.”
“For those tired of repetitive storytelling, it’s no surprise they’ve turned to K-dramas to satisfy their craving for genuine entertainment.”
Reflecting this growing influence, the University of the Philippines Diliman began offering an elective course on K-drama analysis in academic year 2020-2021 — a sign that Korean storytelling has become not just entertainment, but a subject of serious study.
As they say in Korean: “Annyeonghaseyo.”
Enjoy your binge-watching.
***
“Peyups” is the moniker of the University of the Philippines.
***
Atty. Dennis R. Gorecho heads the Seafarers’ Division of the Sapalo Velez Bundang Bulilan Law Offices. For comments, e-mail info@sapalovelez.com, or call 0917-5025808./WDJ