The article discusses the once-popular genre of campus youth dramas in South Korea, particularly focusing on series such as ‘Non-Stop’, which aired from 2000 to 2005, showcasing the vibrant and romanticized lives of university students. These shows fostered a sense of hope and aspiration among high school graduates, who believed that university life would lead to success and fulfillment.

However, since the 2020s, this genre has largely disappeared from television, with few new productions and disappointing viewer ratings when they do air. Factors contributing to this decline include the changing reality of university life, which has become more challenging and less romantic, as well as a shifting audience demographic that is less interested in such portrayals. The nostalgia and idealism once inspired by these dramas seem to be at odds with the current experiences of students.

The article highlights the evolution of student life in Korean media from the 1990s to the 2010s, mentioning iconic series such as 'Three Men and Three Women' and 'KAIST', which portrayed college students’ friendships and romances, garnering high ratings and creating stars. As society changes, so do the narratives that resonate with audiences, prompting the question of whether the charm of student life can be effectively captured in contemporary drama.