Netflix’s Latest K-Drama: A Closer Look

Featuring prominent K-drama stars IU and Park Bo-Gum, this new Netflix series has generated quite a buzz. The expectation is high, especially given its significant budget and global recognition. I’ve been watching it in four batches of four episodes each. Now, should I compare it to other recent Korean tales?

Opening Scene: The series kicks off with a group of elderly men and women engaging in poetry writing sessions at a park. Amidst them, one woman softly draws a blue line, reminiscent of ocean waves.

Central Themes: Set in the 1950s, AE-Sun and Gwan-Sik are neighbors, but their relationship runs deeper than mere observation. AE-Sun’s mother, while somewhat brusque, cares for her. After her passing, AE-Sun is left to navigate life alone, though Gwan-Sik secretly steps in to support her.

Similar Shows: This series, which captures the essence of childhood innocence and lifelong love, channels a Notebook vibe.

Personal Impression: If you’re drawn to those poignant, once-in-a-lifetime love stories that linger in the details of life, then When Life Gives You Tangerines might be your thing. The initial pace is slow, and while the main romantic plot emerges at the end of the pilot, the richer character development in the earlier portions makes the wait worthwhile.

The first hour centers heavily on the love AE-Sun shares with his mother, Jeon Gwang-rye. In one memorable scene, AE-Sun expresses disappointment over the teacher snubbing his class president votes, favoring the general’s son instead. Gwang-rye takes it upon herself to advocate for her child, showcasing her love through these small, yet significant acts.

As we transition to AE-Sun and Gwan-Sik’s adult lives, even with limited screen time, their personalities become clear. Throughout the series, we witness their ups and downs, testing their bond, but they remain steadfast companions.

Content Note: This romance unfolds healthily, devoid of sexual content or nudity, especially in the opening hour.

Closing Scene: The narrative leaps forward in time, illustrating AE-Sun and Gwan-Sik’s enduring partnership. In a charming moment, AE-Sun darts away from Gwan-Sik’s grandmother at a market, leading to a quick time jump where Gwan-Sik catches her hand as they run together.

Notable Performance: Kim Tae-young, portraying young AE-Sun, skillfully captures the emotional peaks and valleys of her challenging childhood.

Memorable Line: Reflecting on her role as a mother, she observes, “I was destined to be a porter. Everyone relies on me, yet only this child truly cares to lighten my load.”

Final Recommendation: Stream it. This slowly unfolding love story, woven through the tapestry of life, is definitely worth your time.