Unique Differences Between Historical Dramas In China, Japan And Korea

There are lots of fun traditional dramas that have come out of China, Japan, and Korea. Check out some of the subtle differences between them!

1. China

Most of them are pre-produced, so sometime entire scenes must be re-filmed even if the drama has entered the editing process.

Korean dramas tend not to do this as it raises the cost of production. It’s possible for Korean dramas to be finished editing mere hours before the episode airs.

For dramas set in the Qing Dynasty, actors must shave their heads for the role. 

Though costume makeup has developed, many actors still shave their heads to make the drama more realistic.

2. Japan

Japanese dramas about the Edo period also require male actors to shave parts of their head. 

Supposedly, this hairstyle made it easier for samurai to wear their helmets and was a sign of honour.

On NHK, they have an annual historical drama called “Taiga dramas” that broadcast every Sunday, from January to December.

Each story changes every year, and the tradition began back in 1963. At the end of the year, they broadcast a special 3 to 4 hour version of the full story.

3. Korea

Many actors in Korean traditional dramas decide to forgo the hairstyle of their ancestors, and simply cover their heads with traditional headgear.

According to ancient texts, this is how their ancestors styled their hair.

It’s understandable that Korean actors decided to avoid this unique hairstyle.