Kiran Rao Names Her Favourite K-Drama
Rao admitted that her interest in Korean dramas might surprise people because she does not usually follow popular culture closely.
“I watch K-dramas,” she said, adding that she finds it surprising that she has joined the growing audience for Korean shows.
The Dhobi Ghat director then praised Reply 1988, describing it as a fantastic series. She also revealed that she would love to remake the show.
Her comments could spark interest in the possibility of an Indian adaptation, although she did not announce any confirmed plans for a remake.
Why Kiran Rao Loves Reply 1988
Set in Seoul in 1988, Reply 1988 follows several families living in the same neighbourhood.
The story focuses on young people growing up together as they face school, romance, heartbreak, and other challenges. Some characters are entering high school, while others are moving into college and adulthood.
Rao explained that the series captures the experiences of young people as well as the relationships that shape their lives.
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She praised the show’s ability to balance personal struggles with the warmth of neighbourhood life.
The Older Characters Make the Show Special
For Rao, the appeal of Reply 1988 goes beyond its young characters.
She said the older women, especially the mothers, are among the show’s biggest strengths. The parents also have their own stories, relationships, and struggles.
Rao highlighted how the series explores the lives of different generations at the same time.
She described these parallel stories as one of the reasons the drama stands out. The filmmaker also recommended it as the first K-drama viewers should watch.
Kiran Rao’s Recent Directorial Projects
Rao’s latest work includes a short film segment in Netflix’s anthology Lust Stories 3, which premiered on September 18, 2026.
Her most recent feature film, Laapataa Ladies, arrived in Indian theatres on March 1, 2024, before streaming on Netflix.
The film received international attention after India selected it as its official entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the 97th Academy Awards.
Rao’s interest in Reply 1988 has now raised the possibility of another project inspired by a story from a different culture. However, she has not confirmed that a remake is in development.