"When Life Gives You Tangerines."
When I first heard its title, I was honestly confused. What kind of title is that? I wasn't sure if it was based on a Korean phrase of proverb, or just something I wasn't familiar with. Either way, the title felt unusual, and it definitely made me wonder what kind of story it would tell. As someone who's been a long-time K-Drama fan, I'm no stranger to the creative (sometimes bizarre) titles these shows often have, but this one really piqued my interest.
What will it be about? Why is the title like that? Will it be good? These were the questions that kept running through my mind before I even started the drama. It's not that I doubted the actors. It's just that, if I'm being honest, I find it hard nowadays to finish an entire K-Drama. They don't always hit the same way they used to. But I'm really glad I gave this one a shot, because it did not disappoint! If it's not the best K-Drama, then I don't know what is. It left such a lasting impression on me.
The series is about real life—if I had to sum it up. It doesn't feed you unrealistic hopes or fantasies. Instead, it shows you what life is truly like. I love how it tells the story of the young Ae-sun all the way through to the story of her daughter, Geum Myeong. Watching them grow made me feel deeply connected to the characters. I found myself understanding them more with every episode, and I know many viewers feel the same way. The characters are just that relatable.
I saw and heard a lot of people said that the series made them cry from the first episode to the last, that's how emotional and relatable it. But honestly, for me, the first 12 episode didn't make me cry. Not because it wasn't good, instead of tears, those episodes made me feel so many things and made me reflect on my own parents: how they acted, the decisions they made, the lives they must have lived as kids and teens. It gave me a glimpse into their world, and that alone made the drama incredibly meaningful. Call me OA, but I honestly don't know how to explain just how much this show taught me and helped me see things I didn't understand before.
That being said, it would be a lie to say I didn't cry at all! The last four episodes really hit home. When the focus shifted more to Geum Myeong, I saw myself in her. Maybe that's why I even paused watching. I had to stop for a while, especially during the scenes where her dad was in the hospital. Having gone through something similar when I lost my mom, those moments brought back so many memories . It was too much for me emotionally.
After pausing for about three hours, I finally gathered the courage to finish the series. And it was so, so worth it. This drama teaches you so many life lessons and makes you appreciate the people more in your life, especially your parents, even more.
If I had one tiny complaint, it's that Kim Seon-ho's cameo left me hanging! I need him back in acting now! Seriously, give this man more projects. His on-screen chemistry with IU was chef's kiss! Overall, this K-Drama is perfect for me. I'd rate it 1B/10 (yes, that's "B" for billion, because that's how much I loved it). I'll definitely rewatch it, maybe in a couple of years, after I've recovered emotionally. The plot, the cast especially IU! She is not only a great singer but also an incredible artist! The acting, everything was on point! The makers of this drama truly chose the right people for each role.
So, if you're looking for a K-Drama that speaks to your soul and lingers in your heart, try watching this one. It's raw, real and beautifully written. It just doesn't tell a story: it teaches you, reminds you, and in many ways, heals you. Prepare your tissues and your heart because once you watch this K-Drama, it won't leave you the same.
Truly, a story that will stay with you.
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