‘XO, Kitty’: A Delightful Blend of K-Drama and Hollywood Magic

As an extension of the beloved To All the Boys I’ve Ever Loved franchise, XO, Kitty takes us on a thrilling journey that merges the captivating charm of K-dramas with the glitz and glamour of Hollywood.

If you were enchanted by the story of Lara Jean Song Covey in the first two installments, get ready to fall head over heels for her vivacious younger sister, Kitty Song Covey. In this limited series, Kitty takes center stage as she embarks on her own romantic adventures. With an unrivaled talent for matchmaking, Kitty sets off on a daring quest to win the heart of her teenage crush, Dae, even if it means enrolling in the same school as him on a different continent.

Born to a Korean mother and an American father, Kitty’s journey to South Korea is not just about finding love. It’s a chance for her to uncover the mysteries surrounding her mother’s past and discover her own identity. As she arrives at the prestigious Korean Independent School of Seoul (KISS), Kitty soon finds herself entangled in a web of secrets, both about her mother and her crush, Dae. Will she choose to abandon her new life in South Korea or embrace it wholeheartedly?

XO, Kitty will transport you back in time, evoking a delightful sense of nostalgia, particularly for K-drama fanatics and those who fondly remember binge-watching classics like Boys Over Flowers. Nigerian women, known for their adoration of K-dramas, will be thrilled to dive into this captivating series. Just like Boys Over Flowers, XO, Kitty captures the essence of a sophisticated and luxurious high school experience, where the elite rule. The Korean Independent School of Seoul in the series exudes opulence and sets the stage for a breathtaking visual journey, reminiscent of Shinhwa High School from its K-drama predecessor.

One cannot help but be enchanted by the meticulously designed school uniforms at KISS. Korean fashion has always been known for its elegance, and the uniform selection in XO, Kitty does not disappoint.

While XO, Kitty isn’t a K-drama in the traditional sense, it seamlessly blends American and Korean actors, creating a unique fusion that feels right at home in the K-drama family. Though it may not include the clichéd soundtracks that often accompany love-at-first-sight moments in K-dramas, XO, Kitty captures the essence of these beloved shows. Gone are the ten-minute long gazing contests, but the chemistry between the characters is palpable and heartwarming.

South Korea itself shines as a breathtaking backdrop throughout the series, further enhancing the allure of XO, Kitty. As we’ve come to expect from many K-dramas, the show displays the country’s beauty, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in its rich culture and picturesque landscapes.

XO, Kitty is the perfect blend of K-drama magic and Hollywood charm. With its engaging storyline, talented cast, and a dash of nostalgia, this series promises to captivate audiences around the world. So, get ready to fall in love with XO, Kitty as it takes you on an unforgettable journey through the exhilarating world of high school romance and self-discovery.

Release Date: 18 May 2023

Streaming service: Netflix

Director: Jenny Han

Cast: Anna Cathcart, Gia Kim, Choi Min-Young, Anthony Keyvan, Jocelyn Shelfo