To celebrate the 250 years of the “Queen of Yearning,” Jane Austen, a diverse and exclusive list of 6 swoony K-Drama and Jane Austen book pairings has been curated for fans of both genres. Author Leesa Cross-Smith draws parallels between the yearning, slow burns, and pursuit of happy endings in both K-dramas and Austen’s works. The similarities include quirky and nosy family members, comic relief, delightful sidekicks, and clever twists. Cross-Smith’s novel “As You Wish” is a testament to this beautiful connection, focusing on three American au pairs in Seoul who are determined to secure their own love stories, mirroring Austen’s heroines.
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The first pairing highlighted is “Pride & Prejudice” by Jane Austen and “King the Land,” showcasing the enemies-to-lovers trope in both stories. The rich and powerful male leads in both narratives undertake grand gestures to win over their love interests, emphasizing the importance of overcoming prejudice and misconceptions in the pursuit of love. Similarly, “Persuasion” and “Crash Landing on You” draw parallels between Captain Wentworth and Ri Jeong-hyeok, illustrating their yearning and separation from their beloved, leading to heartwarming reunions that make the wait worthwhile.
“Northanger Abbey” and “Yumi’s Cells” explore the lives of adorable protagonists who tend to live in their heads, navigating their emotions and relationships with a touch of whimsy. Both characters, Catherine Morland and Kim Yumi, face challenges in distinguishing reality from fiction, ultimately learning valuable lessons about self-reflection and emotional control. Another pairing includes “Mansfield Park” and “My Liberation Notes,” highlighting the journeys of quiet, delicate women as they navigate complex family dynamics and blossoming feelings amidst societal expectations.
“Sisters!” The comparison between “Sense & Sensibility” by Jane Austen and “Little Women” emphasizes the bonds of sisterhood and the struggles faced by the Dashwood and March sisters as they navigate love and class distinctions. The narratives showcase the sisters’ resilience and love for each other as they make life-altering choices in pursuit of happiness. Lastly, “Emma” and “True Beauty” delve into the lives of self-assured young women who navigate relationships, societal expectations, and self-discovery with wit and charm, offering a delightful blend of romance and comedy.
Each pairing offers a unique blend of themes, character dynamics, and storytelling styles that resonate with audiences of both K-dramas and Jane Austen’s literature. The connections drawn between these beloved works serve as a tribute to the enduring appeal of stories centered around love, self-discovery, and the complexities of human relationships. As fans immerse themselves in these enchanting pairings, they embark on a journey that traverses cultural boundaries and time periods, highlighting the universal themes that continue to captivate audiences worldwide.