Judy's thoughts:
I just finished up a highly rated oldie....Moon Embracing the Sun and confirmed the fact that Koreans really, really know how to cry.
I'm not talking about a few tears or sobs. I'm talking full-on crying with no faking here. Overflowing eyes, continual tears dripping down their faces, noses running, facial grimacing, just an all-out cry fest. And never a tissue in sight! I've seen this in many Kdramas from Start-Up to Moon Embracing the Sun. It's fascinating to me that they're so good at it! And the men! Emperors, company execs, parents, leading men....they all cry without hesitation. Men, women, young, old... it doesn't matter. They all seem to have this intrinsic ability to cry on command.
I challenge any of you to watch a Kdrama that features crying and not notice this characteristic of Kdramas.
This just in:
While watching another Kdrama an attorney was making a public announcement to build support for his client and asked his assistant if she had a 'tear stick.' A WHAT??!!! Yep, if you google it, you learn there is such a thing! They contain menthol or camphor and apparently generate tears when applied below the eyes. I'll bet actors know this stuff but regular folks like the GMamas? Nope... no clue. Even with this knowledge I like to think that my Korean actors are just incredibly empathetic and their tears are natural. Who says I don't have a grip on reality?
I also think that Korean Society is more accepting of crying; especially from the men. Perhaps that's one of the attractions for me? The stoic, macho man of American actors isn't necessarily that appealing.
Yes, they do seem to cry a lot and with ease. I was going to ask if their tears were induced by chopped onions or sorrowful personal memories or what, but I bet they use those tear sticks.