Understanding the Orange Drinking Water in Reply 1988

The show Reply 1988, a beloved Korean drama, often features drinking water with an orangey hue that has sparked curiosity among its viewers. Why is the water often depicted with this distinct color? This article delves into the aesthetic, historical, and practical considerations behind this unique visual element.

Aesthetic Choice: Capturing the Era

The orange color of the water in the drama is a stylistic choice rather than an accurate representation of the water's color or quality in real life. It primarily evokes nostalgia and creates a specific atmosphere that resonates with viewers about their childhood memories. The show aligns with its multidimensional intent to capture the essence of South Korea during the 1980s, reflecting the era's cultural and social nuances through its visual and narrative choices.

The Reality Behind Orange Water

Contrary to the show's depiction, the orange color in drinking water is usually not a reality but a stylistic choice. Historically, the use of colored glass bottles and containers was common in the late 1980s. These vessels could give the water a tinted appearance, contributing to the drama's nostalgic feel. However, this was not due to any specific water quality issue but rather a design choice to enhance the aesthetic of the scene.

Water Consumption Habits in 1988 and Modern Times

While the show portrays characters indulging in tea rather than water, this reflects the real-world habits of many Koreans during the time period of the drama. Even then, many people were hesitant to drink tap water directly, due to uncertainty about water quality. As a result, many households boiled their water and used tea as a filtering method, much like the grandmother mentioned in the context provided.

Even today, many Koreans still do not drink from the faucet directly. Instead, they rely on water filtration devices to ensure that the water they consume is safe and free from impurities. This practice stems from a general preference for bottled or filtered water over tap water, a habit that continues due to perceived concerns about water quality, though in modern times, such concerns are often baseless.

Personal Perspectives: From Korea to the US

Interestingly, perspectives on drinking water can vary even among those who have lived in different regions. While many Koreans might prefer bottled water because of these historical and current habits, it is not uncommon for those born and raised in the United States, like the person mentioned, to also opt for bottled water. This preference can be driven by a general distrust of tap water or simply a preference for the taste and convenience of bottled water.

Regardless of the context, the show Reply 1988 effectively uses the visual element of orange drinking water to capture a specific era, evoke emotions, and provide a glimpse into the cultural and social dynamics of the 1980s in South Korea.

Note: The show's portrayal of drinking habits and water consumption might reflect real-world practices during the time period depicted, but it does not necessarily represent the general population's behaviors in a specific historical context. It is a creative choice that enhances the drama's narrative and visual appeal.