The Red Flag characters display problematic behaviours or traits that indicate they may not be ideal partners. They are there in the K-dramas to create conflict, confusion, and also to highlight important issues and comparison between the characters. Recognizing these traits can help viewers to understand the underlying dynamics of a character and people in reel and real life respectively.
Lets have a look at some of the striking traits of these characters with notable red flags:
Manipulative, Deceptive & Emotionally Cold
Nice Guy:
The Nice Guy- Kang Ma-roo (Song Joong-ki), is a complex and morally ambiguous guy. He is emotionally closed off and often manipulates situations and people to achieve his goals.
His deceptive and vengeful nature can lead to destructive decisions that harm himself and others.
Violent, Emotionally Distant & Secretive
K2:
JI Chang-wook plays the male lead, Kim Je-ha, in the drama K2. He is portrayed as a skilled bodyguard and a generally good person but his tendency to solve problems with violence a big red flag in a relationship.
He is emotionally distant and guarded. His intense focus on his mission and goals can sometimes lead him to neglect the emotional needs and well-being of those around him, including his love interest. He often keeps secrets from those around him.
Violent, Deceptive & Control Freak
Vincenzo:
Taecyeon plays the character of Jang Jun-woo, who is later revealed to be Jang Han-seok, in the drama series Vincenzo.
Jun-woo is extremely violent and does not hesitate to use brutal methods to eliminate his enemies to assert his dominance. His propensity for violence makes him highly dangerous.
His malicious intentions and ability to deceive those around him is a significant red flag.
He is obsessed with power and dominance. His strong desire to control everything and everyone around, leads him to commit heinous acts to maintain his position.
Flirtatious, Emotionally Unavailable & Indecisive
Nevertheless:
Song Kang portrays the character Yoo Na-bi in the series Nevertheless.
He is depicted as someone who enjoys flirting and casual dating, which may suggest a lack of seriousness or commitment in his relationships.
Yoo Na-bi initially appears emotionally distant and reluctant to commit to any serious relationship.
His indecisiveness regarding his feelings and relationships with Jae-eon and other characters can lead to confusion and emotional turmoil.
Communication Issues, Controlling Nature, & Commitment Phobia
Because this is my first life:
The protognist Se-hee, an overly practical man ( Lee Min Ki) displays the prospensity to control the people around him. He also struggles with communication in the relationships, leading to misunderstandings and conflicts.
He is meticulous and prefers to structure his life according to strict rules, routines, living arrangements and personal habits.
He also exhibits fear towards commitment and is hesitant to fully invest in relationships or make long-term plans.
Bullying, Aggression & Jealousy
Itaewon:
Ahn Bo Hyun in Itaewon plays the character Jang Geun-won. His character exhibits red flag traits that make him a highly problematic individual.
Geun-won is a notorious bully, who uses his power and privilege to intimidate and harm others. He also lacks empathy and respect for others. Geun-won is aggressive and displays dangerous tendencies.
He harbors intense jealousy and resentment towards Park Sae-ro-yi, the protagonist and gets engage in vindictive actions against him.
Arrogance, Controlling & Vindictive Nature
Hierarchy:
Kim jae-won plays a notable character of Jang Seon-yool in Hierarchy- the Korean drama. He displays a high level of arrogance, believing he is superior to others due to his status and background.
He attempts to control the lives of those around him, seeking to maintain power and influence. This controlling behavior can be stifling and oppressive.
When wronged, he tends to hold grudges and seeks revenge, shows his vindictive nature.
It’s possible to meet Red Flag guys in real life. But unlike K-drama the guys having red flag traits don’t redeem themselves. So don’t fall prey to those impossibly dreamy and practically perfect bearers of big, bright red flags. Take a hint soon, abort the mission and move on.
