Koreanness: Netflix's Teen Drama 'XO, Kitty' Doesn't Offer a Credible Image of Korea, and Perhaps It Doesn't Need To

The Netflix series 'XO, Kitty' presents South Korea through the eyes of its American protagonist, Kitty, who moves from Portland to Seoul to attend an elite international school. The show, a spin-off of the 'To All the Boys' film series, introduces viewers to a world of wealthy students, a long-distance boyfriend, and the lingering presence of Kitty's deceased mother's past.

For viewers familiar with Korea, the series offers a blend of elements that resonate and others that might seem less authentic. The show's portrayal of South Korea often aligns with how many might imagine the country, blending familiar cultural touchstones with dramatic narrative arcs.

The third season, which premiered in early April, sees Kitty entering her final year of high school in Korea. The plot centers on the complexities of her relationships and romantic entanglements, which become a primary source of drama and conflict as she navigates this pivotal year.

While 'XO, Kitty' aims to capture the essence of a young American's experience in a new cultural setting, its depiction of Korea is largely filtered through a lens of teen drama and romantic fantasy. The series does not necessarily strive for strict realism but rather uses its setting to explore themes of identity, love, and self-discovery.