It started with a kiss series has captured the hearts of viewers worldwide with its charming characters, engaging storylines, and memorable romantic moments. Originating from a popular manga, this franchise has expanded into multiple adaptations, including Taiwanese dramas, Japanese series, and even a South Korean remake. Whether you're a long-time fan or just discovering the series, this guide provides an in-depth look into its history, adaptations, characters, and why it continues to resonate with audiences today.
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Overview of the It Started with a Kiss Series
Origins and Inspiration
The series is based on the Japanese manga Itazura na Kiss (いたずらなKiss) written and illustrated by Kaoru Tada. The manga was first published in 1977 and has become a classic romance story loved across generations. Its universal themes of love, perseverance, and personal growth have made it a timeless favorite.
Key Themes
- Love overcoming obstacles
- The contrast between different personality types
- The importance of perseverance in relationships
- Family and friendship dynamics
Popularity and Cultural Impact
Since its debut, the series has inspired numerous adaptations, each bringing its own flavor while maintaining the core story. The franchise's popularity is reflected in its dedicated fanbase, merchandise, and ongoing discussions on social media platforms.
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Adaptations of the It Started with a Kiss Series
1. Taiwanese Drama Series
The Taiwanese adaptation, titled It Started with a Kiss, aired in 2005 and is arguably the most famous version. It starred XY and Joe Cheng as the leads and became a massive hit in Taiwan and beyond.
Key Details:
- Number of episodes: 20
- Main cast:
- Joe Cheng as Jiang Zhishu
- Ariel Lin as Yuan Xiangqin
- Plot highlights: Focuses on the unlikely romance between a diligent but poor student and her brilliant, aloof classmate.
2. Japanese Live-Action Series
The original manga's country of origin, Japan, produced its own live-action adaptation titled Itazura na Kiss, which aired in 1996, 2005, and later in 2013.
Notable features:
- Emphasizes the manga's humor and emotional depth
- Features different actors across adaptations, with the 2013 version starring Fumi Nikaido and Yuki Furukawa
3. South Korean Remake
In 2013, South Korea released Mischievous Kiss, a modernized version with updated settings and cast.
Highlights:
- Gained popularity for its fresh take on the classic story
- Starred Kim Hyun-joong and Kim So-eun
4. Chinese and Other International Versions
The franchise's worldwide appeal led to various adaptations and remakes in different languages, each tailored to local audiences while preserving the core narrative.
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Main Characters and Their Development
Yuan Xiangqin (Taiwanese Version)
- A cheerful, hardworking girl from a humble background
- Develops confidence and independence throughout the series
- Her heartfelt perseverance endears her to viewers
Jiang Zhishu
- A genius student and heir to a wealthy family
- Initially cold and aloof but warms as the story progresses
- Represents the "tough exterior, soft interior" trope
Supporting Characters
- Yuan's friends and family who provide comic relief and emotional support
- Antagonists who challenge the protagonists' relationship, adding tension
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Why the Series Continues to Captivate Audiences
1. Universal Love Story
At its core, the series explores the timeless theme of love overcoming social barriers and personal insecurities. Its relatable characters and heartfelt moments resonate across cultures.
2. Memorable Characters and Chemistry
The chemistry between leads, especially in the Taiwanese version, has become iconic. Their genuine interactions make viewers emotionally invested.
3. Humor and Heartfelt Moments
Balancing comedic scenes with emotional depth, the series appeals to a broad audience, making it both entertaining and meaningful.
4. Nostalgia and Cultural Significance
For many fans, the series is nostalgic, reminding them of their youth and the universal experience of first love.
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Impact of It Started with a Kiss Series on Pop Culture
Influence on Romance Dramas
The franchise set a standard for school-based romantic dramas, inspiring countless similar stories across Asia.
Fan Engagement and Community Building
Dedicated fanbases have created forums, fan art, and fan fiction, keeping the series alive long after its original broadcast.
Merchandising and Spin-offs
From DVDs to clothing and accessories, the franchise’s merchandise continues to thrive, showcasing its lasting popularity.
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Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of It Started with a Kiss
The It Started with a Kiss series remains a beloved romantic franchise that has touched millions around the world. Its compelling characters, heartfelt storytelling, and cultural significance ensure that it will continue to be celebrated for generations to come. Whether in its original Taiwanese form or its various international adaptations, the series exemplifies the universal power of love stories and their ability to connect people across different backgrounds.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is there a sequel or spin-off to the series?
Yes, some adaptations have produced sequels or related series. For example, the Taiwanese version has a follow-up called They Kiss Again, which continues the story of Yuan Xiangqin and Jiang Zhishu.
Q2: Where can I watch the different adaptations?
Availability varies by region, but popular streaming platforms like Viki, Netflix, and YouTube often host episodes of the most famous versions. Fans should check regional licensing.
Q3: Are the adaptations faithful to the manga?
While each adaptation preserves the core story, they often incorporate regional cultural elements and may update settings or character backgrounds to appeal to contemporary audiences.
Q4: Why is the Taiwanese adaptation considered the most popular?
Its engaging performances, chemistry between the leads, and faithful adaptation of the manga's humor and emotional moments contributed to its widespread acclaim.
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Final Thoughts
The It Started with a Kiss series stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of heartfelt romance stories. Its multiple adaptations across countries showcase its universal themes and relatable characters. Whether you're revisiting old favorites or discovering the series for the first time, its charm and warmth continue to make it a beloved part of Asian pop culture. Dive into its world, and experience the magic of love that truly started with a kiss.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main plot of the 'It Started With a Kiss' series?
The series follows the romantic and comedic journey of a sweet but academically average girl, Kotoko, and her genius but aloof neighbor, Naoki, as they navigate love, misunderstandings, and life's challenges after she confesses her feelings to him.
Is 'It Started With a Kiss' available on streaming platforms?
Yes, the series is available on various streaming platforms such as Viki and Netflix, depending on your region, allowing fans worldwide to watch the episodes legally.
Are there remakes or adaptations of 'It Started With a Kiss'?
Yes, the story has been adapted into multiple versions including the Taiwanese drama 'It Started with a Kiss,' the Japanese remake 'Itazura na Kiss,' and a South Korean adaptation, each with its unique cast and style.
Who are the main actors in the original 'It Started With a Kiss' series?
In the Taiwanese version, the main roles are played by Joe Cheng as Naoki and Ariel Lin as Kotoko. Different adaptations feature their own respective casts but these actors are iconic in the original series.
What themes does 'It Started With a Kiss' explore?
The series explores themes of love, perseverance, self-confidence, family support, and the importance of staying true to oneself despite life's obstacles.
How many seasons or episodes does 'It Started With a Kiss' have?
The original Taiwanese series consists of two seasons with a total of 40 episodes, along with a spin-off and various special episodes that expand on the story.
Why is 'It Started With a Kiss' considered a classic romantic comedy?
Its charming characters, heartfelt storytelling, and relatable portrayal of unrequited love and perseverance have made it a beloved classic among fans of Asian dramas worldwide.
Has 'It Started With a Kiss' influenced other dramas or media?
Yes, its popularity has inspired numerous similar romantic comedy stories and adaptations across Asia, contributing to the genre's growth and inspiring many creators.
Is there a sequel or continuation to 'It Started With a Kiss'?
While there isn't a direct sequel, the story has been revisited in various adaptations and spin-offs, and fans often enjoy watching different versions to see how the story is retold.
