Reply 1988: 10 funniest scenes that define K-drama humor

Scene from Reply 1988 | Image Via: tvN
Scene from Reply 1988 | Image Via: tvN

Reply 1988 is a Korean drama worth watching. Since its debut in 2015, it continues to be a favorite among viewers. It's definitely one of the most binge-worthy shows around.

It's not just the engaging storyline that draws viewers in; the warm humor also contributes to its charm. These unique funny moments hold a special place in audiences' hearts.

So, let's revisit some of the funniest scenes from the show.


Reply 1988: 10 funniest scenes that define K-drama humor

1) Deok-sun and Sun-woo

Reply 1988 | Image Via: tvN
Reply 1988 | Image Via: tvN

At the start of the third episode of Reply 1988, we see a funny scene. Deok-sun is practicing with two friends when Sun-woo, Jung-hwan, and Dong-ryong walk into the cafe to eat. Sun-woo’s behavior toward Deok-sun makes her friends think he might have a crush on her.

After hearing this, Deok-sun starts to feel shy around Sun-woo. Later that day, Sun-woo comes over to their house. She quickly gets ready and begins applying her makeup.

However, as she steps out, everyone is surprised to see her face. The compact powder she used was too light for her skin tone and wasn't blended properly. This moment is truly one of the funniest moments in Reply 1998.


2) Bora’s jacket in episode 2

Reply 1988 | Image Via: tvN
Reply 1988 | Image Via: tvN

Bo-ra and Deok-sun do not start with a close bond. Bo-ra is a top student, while Deok-sun struggles academically. This part of the K-drama illustrates how Deok-sun’s mother tries to prevent a fight over a jacket. Deok-sun took Bo-ra’s jacket and wore it to school. Bo-ra begins looking for her jacket, increasingly annoyed. Deok-sun’s mother instructs her brother to inform her so she can return the jacket quickly. She then rushes home and manages to give back the jacket without Bo-ra noticing.


3) Deok-sun’s practice

Reply 1988 | Image Via: tvN
Reply 1988 | Image Via: tvN

In the first episode of Reply 1988, Deok-sun practices for the Olympics while dressed in a hanbok. She walks around in front of her house holding a poster, and at that moment, Jung-hwan steps out. As soon as he sees Deok-sun, he is completely taken aback, visibly scared, and asks if she is a ghost. Deok-sun responds by asking if it's his first time encountering someone in a hanbok. This scene is truly funny and highlights Deok-sun’s playful relationship with Jung-hwan, showcasing their friendly banter. Sun-woo also arrives at the same time and is equally shocked to see Deok-sun’s outfit.


4) Deok-sun loses her camera in episode 3

Reply 1988 | Image Via: tvN
Reply 1988 | Image Via: tvN

A funny moment in Reply 1988 occurs when Deok-sun loses her family’s only prized possession—her camera—during a field trip. While boarding the train with her classmates, she accidentally leaves it behind. Upon exiting the station, she realizes the camera bag is missing.

Overcome with tears, she fears her mother might be furious. Her homeroom teacher tries to soothe her. She then calls Deok-sun’s mother to explain about the lost camera and asks her not to be angry. Her mother’s reaction is hilarious; she pretends everything is fine and tells Deok-sun not to worry, despite her true feelings.


5) Bus ride in episode 4

Reply 1988 | Image Via: tvN
Reply 1988 | Image Via: tvN

The bus they took is completely packed with passengers. Deok-sun, Jung-hwan, and Dong-ryong were on the bus. Every stop or sharp turn the bus made crammed the passengers even more. Suddenly, the bus driver brakes hard. Deok-sun starts to fall. She tries her best to catch Jung-hwan. However, instead of holding him, she rips his shirt. The unexpected physical humor in this scene from Reply 1988 lingers with the viewers.


6) Sung-kyun and Deok-san’s greeting

Reply 1988 | Image Via: tvN
Reply 1988 | Image Via: tvN

Among the funny moments in the K-drama, Deok-sun and Sung-kyun’s greeting dance stands out as truly memorable. After getting home, Sung-kyun tries to connect with his family but can’t quite do it. He steps outside and sees Deok-sun still practicing for the Olympic walk.

He greets her by calling her President Sung, and Deok-sun responds to him in the same humorous way. Then they begin their little dance routine. This scene in Reply 1988 shows Deok-sun’s bond with Sung-kyun and sets the tone for the series.


7) Taek’s entry

Reply 1988 | Image Via: tvN
Reply 1988 | Image Via: tvN

One of the funniest and most memorable moments in Reply 1988 is when Taek arrives at Jung-hwan’s house in episode 2. All the parents of the friend group gather and wait for him. As he enters the house, Deok-sun’s father bows to him, and the mothers' group starts saying that he will be their son-in-law. Jung-hwan’s parents stand up and welcome him with open arms, saying he is their new son. This moment shows how much they care about Taek.

After Taek enters the room where his friends are waiting, they are surprised by how much prize money he has. They start chanting "Tteok-bokki" for him. This moment in Reply 1988 is both funny and heartwarming.


8) Hilarious parents

Reply 1988 | Image Via: tvN
Reply 1988 | Image Via: tvN

In the third episode of Reply 1988, Sun-woo’s mother, Jung-hwan’s mother, and Deok-sun’s mother sit outside their house chatting. At that moment, Jung-hwan’s father approaches. Jung-hwan’s mother is completely fed up with her husband and tells her friends she would give up her marriage, allowing them to marry him instead. As Jung-hwan’s father begins to tell cringeworthy jokes, Sun-woo’s mother and Deok-sun’s mother understand why Jung-hwan’s mother is so frustrated with him. Later, Deok-sun’s father arrives carrying a large amount of green vegetables. He explains that he couldn’t bear to see an elderly woman selling these vegetables, and bought them from her.


9) Study session in episode 4

Reply 1988 | Image Via: tvN
Reply 1988 | Image Via: tvN

This list wouldn't be complete without this scene from Reply 1988. Deok-sun isn't a top student. In this episode, where she sits with Sun-woo, Jung-hwan, and Dong-ryong for a study session with Bo-ra, viewers are thoroughly entertained. Bo-ra is surprised by their progress, especially Deok-sun's.

She's worried about her studies, thinking they might be prepared in English, but they struggle with that subject too. Bo-ra asks Deok-sun and Dong-ryeon if they know any English words. Their response will definitely remain one of the most memorable moments of Reply 1988.


10) Bo-ra’s driving in episode 6

Reply 1988 | Image Via: tvN
Reply 1988 | Image Via: tvN

In the sixth episode of Reply 1988, Bo-ra’s driving not only quickens her family's heartbeats but also remains one of the series' funniest moments. No-eul tells Bo-ra about her aunt’s death and that they will need to visit her. Bo-ra decides to drive the car. However, her driving terrifies her parents, and they repeatedly insist she take the bus or even hire a taxi. As Bo-ra begins to drive, they all pray for a safe trip.

Reply 1988 blends genuine emotion with hilarious moments. The humor highlights the strong bond between the characters.


For more interesting pieces like this, stay tuned to Soap Central.

Edited by Yesha Srivastava