Dream High

Dream High

Dream High is a beloved Korean drama that follows the lives of six aspiring K-pop stars at Kirin Arts High School as they navigate the challenges of chasing their dreams in the competitive music industry. The story centers on Go Hye Mi (played by Bae Suzy), a talented but arrogant student forced to pursue a career in music to pay off her family’s debts. Alongside her are Song Sam Dong (Kim Soo Hyun), a country boy with raw musical talent, and Jin Gook/Hyun Shi Hyuk (Ok Taec Yeon), a passionate dancer with a troubled past. At Kirin Arts, friendships and rivalries develop as students compete for the spotlight. Yoon Baek Hee (Ham Eun Jung) transforms from Hye Mi’s best friend to her fiercest competitor. Meanwhile, the school’s quirky personalities, like the cheerful Jason (Jang Woo Young) and shy yet talented Kim Pil Suk (IU), add depth and humor to the journey. Under the guidance of eccentric teachers like Kang Oh Hyuk (Uhm Ki Joon) and Yang Jin Man (Park Jin Young), the students learn to overcome personal struggles and work together to succeed. As they grow, the characters face not only external challenges like auditions and performances but also internal battles with self-doubt and insecurities. Themes of perseverance, love, and friendship shine as they pursue their individual dreams while supporting each other. Romantic tensions and heartfelt moments create a captivating narrative that resonates with audiences. Directed by Lee Eung Bok, Dream High combines inspiring performances, emotional storytelling, and a star-studded cast to deliver a drama that captures the highs and lows of aspiring artists. With its iconic soundtrack and unforgettable characters, the show remains a fan favorite, embodying the spirit of hope and ambition.

Details

🙂 Native Title: 드림하이
🌎 Also Known As: Deurim Hai, Dream High Season 1
🎭 Genres: Music, Comedy, Romance, Drama
🏷 Tags: High School, School Bullying, Love Triangle, Character Development, Youth, Friends to Lovers, Multiple Mains, Cohabitation, Strong Female Lead, Weight Loss
✍ Screenwriter: Park Hye Ryun
🎬 Directors: Lee Eung Bok, Kim Seong Yoon
🇰🇷 Country: South Korea
🎬 Episodes: 16
🗓️ Aired: Jan 3, 2011 – Feb 28, 2011
📅 Airing Days: Monday, Tuesday
📺 Original Network: KBS2
⏰ Duration: 1 hr. 10 min. per episode
🔞 Content Rating: 15+ – Teens 15 or older

  • Go Hye Mi’s (Bae Suzy) emotional audition, where she sings her heart out, showcasing her growth as a character.
  • The unforgettable duet between Song Sam Dong (Kim Soo Hyun) and Go Hye Mi, blending talent and emotion.
  • Kim Pil Suk (IU) revealing her true self after her inspiring weight loss journey, touching on themes of self-acceptance.
  • Jin Gook (Ok Taec Yeon) and his powerful dance performance, embodying his passion and determination.
  • The final group stage performance, uniting all the main characters in a heartwarming and inspiring showcase of their hard work.
  • Kirin Arts High School, a fictional school brought to life through sets in Seoul, served as the central filming location.
  • The beautiful Namsan Tower, featured in romantic and reflective scenes.
  • Hongdae streets, where the characters experience moments of youthful freedom.
  • Jongno Academy, which doubled as the school’s exterior.
  • The serene Han River, providing the backdrop for key emotional moments and character reflections.
  • The bright, youthful uniforms of Kirin Arts High School, symbolizing the characters’ dreams.
  • Kim Pil Suk’s (IU) colorful, quirky outfits, reflecting her shy yet vibrant personality.
  • The sleek and professional stage costumes used during performances, adding authenticity to their K-pop journey.
  • The natural, everyday styles of the characters, making them relatable to the audience.
  • The glamorous outfits in flashback scenes of Go Hye Mi, showcasing her initial arrogance and elegance.
  • Chasing Dreams: Highlights the struggles and triumphs of aspiring artists in the competitive entertainment world.
  • Friendship and Teamwork: Emphasizes the importance of supporting each other to achieve shared goals.
  • Overcoming Challenges: Inspires viewers with stories of resilience, self-discovery, and personal growth.
  • Love and Rivalry: Explores romantic relationships and the complications they bring.
  • Self-Acceptance: Encourages embracing one’s unique qualities and breaking free from societal expectations.
  • Dream High marked Bae Suzy’s acting debut, earning her praise for her natural performance.
  • The series featured real-life K-pop idols, including IU, Ok Taec Yeon, and Jang Woo Young, adding authenticity to the story.
  • Kim Soo Hyun learned singing and dancing to portray his character, impressing both fans and critics.
  • The drama’s OST, including “Dream High,” became a chart-topping hit and an anthem for aspiring artists.
  • The show was so successful that it inspired a second season, continuing its legacy in Korean entertainment.

Awards and Nominations for “Dream High” (2011):

  • 2011 KBS Drama Awards:

    • Best New Actor: Kim Soo-hyun
    • Best New Actress: Bae Suzy
    • Best Supporting Actress: Lee Yoon-ji
    • Popularity Award (Actor): Kim Soo-hyun
    • Best Couple Award: Kim Soo-hyun & Bae Suzy
  • 2011 4th Korea Drama Awards:

    • Best New Actor: Kim Soo-hyun
    • Popularity Award: Kim Soo-hyun
  • 2011 3rd Bugs Music Awards:

    • OST of the Year: “My Valentine” by Taecyeon and Nichkhun featuring Park Jin-young
  • 2012 Rose d’Or Awards:

    • Golden Rose Award – Children and Youth
  • 2013 9th USTv Students’ Choice Awards:

    • Best Foreign Drama
There are no confirmed reports or credible information indicating that any real-life romantic relationships developed among the cast members of Dream High. While the on-screen chemistry between actors like Kim Soo Hyun and Bae Suzy sparked rumors, no off-screen romance has been publicly acknowledged. The cast is known for their professionalism and dedication to their roles.

Seasons

Dream High Season 2
Dream High Season 2

Trailer

Music / OST

Gallery

Cast

Bea Suzy
Bae Suzy
IU
IU
Kim Hyun Joong
Kim Hyun Joong
Kim Soo Hyun
Kim Soo Hyun
Ok Taec Yeon
Ok Taec Yeon
Park Eun Bin
Park Eun Bin

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