An honest first look from someone who avoids medical dramas (and didn’t watch Hospital Playlist)
Yep, as the title says, this is unfamiliar territory for me. This is my reluctant dip into a genre I usually steer clear of, no matter how hyped they are. Medical dramas tend to get too technical with all the jargon and revolve around the same predictable plot devices that can feel formulaic fast. Dramatic surgeries, moral dilemmas, a tragic backstory or two. It all ends up feeling cold and repetitive to me; mostly unrelatable too, because I have zero clue how hospital systems work. I’m more of an emotionally driven viewer, and this genre usually doesn’t hit those deeper human notes I tend to look for.So… why did I hit play?
Honestly? One reason, and one reason only: Go Youn Jung. Hehe. I’d watch anything she’s in, even if she’s playing a nun chanting for hours… on a loop.
Just 10 minutes in and I already found myself smiling from ear to ear. O Yi Yeong (Go Youn Jung) is one of those characters who feels instantly familiar, especially if you’re a young adult in your 20s or 30s trying to survive life. The half-dead expression while waking up for work, the quiet resignation of needing to pay bills and the absolute disinterest with bothersome colleagues; she embodies all that so effortlessly in the opening. Just like her sister suggested, “She has a very transparent face”
The humour doesn’t come from loud gags or slapstick. It’s that “I get it, I’ve been there” kind of humour. And immediately, I get why they cast Go Youn Jung. She has one of those faces that gets the moment: subtle, expressive and somehow says everything without needing to try too hard. Just the right kind of relatable.
“Why do we come to work on time but never leave on time?” -O Yi Yeong
The way she carries herself: tired eyes, dry humor, that “I’m just here so I don’t go broke” energy; hints at someone who’s already been burned once. There’s a quiet conflict behind her every action suggesting that she’s disillusioned by reality. Surely she didn’t survive medical school just to be this reluctant about being a doctor. That disconnect feels like the core of her character, and I’m curious to see how the show unpacks it.
This is the story of four colleagues (not friends, yet), first-year residents in a hospital (Team OB-GYN):
* O Yi Yeong– Working for the paycheck, not passion. The most grounded and ironically, the most human.
* Kim Sa Bi– Nerdy bookworm, top student, but zero social EQ. Kind of robotic and struggles with empathy.
* Pyo Nam Gyeong– Kinda obnoxious, trendy gen-z vibe and got that workplace frenemy energy.
* Um "Jay" Il– Overzealous, kind of clueless, pretty-boy energy. Lacks awareness, but is trying.
And then we have the seniors:
* Koo Do Won– The warm sunbae at work.
* Professor Seo Jeong Min– The classic “witch” boss. Cold on the outside, secretly soft underneath. You know the type.
I won’t say the setup is anything groundbreaking. But what does stand out is how relatable they all feel. Even if you don’t work in a hospital (and I absolutely do not), the character types and office politics are familiar. If you’ve ever worked a job, you’ll find something that hits close to home. And honestly? That’s what made even the technical scenes enjoyable for me. That relatability is what makes it accessible, even if you have no clue what a "central line" or "emergency code" is.
The scene that sold it for me was when O Yi Yeong delivered her first baby unexpectedly. I was just watching, minding my business, and then, bam! It hit me. I suddenly understood what makes this job meaningful, even if it’s just for a second. The way the music swelled, the way her face captured every ounce of fear, awe, and adrenaline. It was beautiful. That moment, more than anything, made me think: Okay, I get why people watch medical dramas now.
And again, this is coming from someone who understood none of the medical lingo. It didn’t even matter. The emotion came through anyway. I’m impressed. Like O Yi Yeong said: “This is really a first for me too T.T”
Final thoughts (so far…) (skip to this if you think I yap too much lol):
As expected, it’s still pretty much a standard medical drama at its core: plenty of jargon, lots of time spent in operating rooms and around patient beds. If you're like me and all that technical stuff flies over your head, you might find those parts easy to zone out on. I’m just here for the drama (and Go Youn Jung), not the anatomy lessons.
That said, if you adore GYJ, then yes, she’s already reason enough to hit play. And if you’re looking for something light, character-driven, and easy to digest, this is worth checking out. It’s warm, familiar, and before you know it, you’re a little hooked. But if you're in the medical field, you might roll your eyes at how chill these residents are. It's probably not the most accurate representation of hospital life. I don’t imagine doctors being this unserious on the job, even if they’re only in their first year… though what do I know?
What I do know is that it’s kind of refreshing to see a take where being a doctor isn’t glamorised the way K-dramas usually do with the genius, effortlessly cool types who always save the day at the last second. This one shows the messy, exhausting side of the job that can make you want to give up before you’ve even really begun. And for someone like me who usually avoids anything remotely hospital-related, this is the first time I’ve found myself thinking, “Huh. Maybe I’ll keep watching.”
I probably won’t update this review much going forward. I might even drop the show if it loses me halfway. But I still wanted to put this out as an early review, especially for those who are like me and are always on the fence when it comes to medical dramas. I know I’m not alone.
Also… full disclosure: I am ridiculously biased when it comes to Go Youn Jung. So take that as you will. (~_^)
Ps: The music? Surprisingly really good. Big plus.
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Quietly Profound, Deeply Human
Resident Playbook is the kind of show that sneaks up on you. As a long-awaited spin-off of the beloved Hospital Playlist, it carries that same quiet warmth and steady heartbeat, but with a slightly rawer, more grounded edge. It doesn’t chase big twists or adrenaline-pumping drama. Instead, it offers something far more meaningful: time with characters who feel real.At the heart of the show are its richly drawn characters. Oh I-yeong leads with a story that becomes the emotional anchor of the series - her arc from burnout to quiet resilience is portrayed with such empathy that it's impossible not to root for her. Around her is an ensemble of flawed, funny, and achingly relatable figures. Sa-bi’s personal illness, Do-won’s quiet steadiness, and Nam-kyung’s strained maternal relationship aren’t mere subplots. They’re small windows into lives that feel lived-in, honest, and full of depth.
The medical cases reflect this same grounded sensibility. Rather than indulge in melodrama, Resident Playbook focuses on the human side of medicine. It’s more interested in how these young doctors live - how they push through long shifts, carry emotional burdens, and face ethical grey zones. Episode 7, which grapples with whether to withhold a cancer diagnosis, doesn’t offer a clear right or wrong. Instead, it lingers in the uncertainty, the kind that stays with you long after the episode ends.
There’s a beauty in its simplicity. It’s not driven by cliffhangers or shocks. Instead, it leans into slow-burn storytelling and emotional honesty, where quiet moments carry unexpected weight. Everything, from its soft soundtrack to its warm cinematography, moves to a gentle rhythm. Episodes end not with a bang, but with a sigh. Like a cup of tea after a long day, it doesn’t demand your attention. It simply invites you to stay.
Resident Playbook doesn’t try to be flashy, and that’s exactly what makes it special. It’s a thoughtful, deeply human story about connection, purpose, and the quiet heroism of getting through the day. If you’re looking for something warm, real, and quietly profound, this might just become your new favorite drama.
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Refreshingly different - but also a nostalgic ride !
Let me start by saying that I watched and loved Hospital Playlist, so this story being based in the same universe was already enough for me to give it a chance - and I was not disappointed.While quite different in story and characters, Resident Playbook has the familiar flair of Hospital Playlist and the generous cameos in each episode is enough to take the old fans on a nostalgic ride but even as a stand-alone story, Resident Playbook has its charm and is a decent watch.
Unlike HP, where the characters were established in their lives, careers and friendships and dealt with their hardships by finding comfort in familiarity, RP is about starting new journeys, experiencing new things, making mistakes and learning new things as they try to make a foothold in a new surrounding and slowly make their way towards new friendships!
Each character has a strong individual personality and makes human mistakes; Resident Playbook portrays their journey as they learn and grow while maintaining their chaotic lives as resident doctors.
The story started a little slow and did not make the leads very likable from the start but as they story progresses, they all kind of grow on you and make you root for them. Not to mention, Oh Yi-Yeong is an absolute vibe. The romance - though not a central part of the story - is nice and sweet and takes the familiar slow-burn approach of Hospital Playlist.
Overall, the plot and characters are interesting enough as a stand-alone and keeps you curious without feeling boring. As a spin-off, it is a nice trip down the memory lane since, liked I said, this has pretty decent cameos so we can see more of how the old characters are doing. So, I'd say, pretty worthwhile as long as you realise this is a different story and give it a fair chance.
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my thoughts ?
Residential Playbook – Episodes 1 to 4Just watched the first four episodes of Residential Playbook, and I’ve got to say—it’s off to an interesting start. The show dives into the everyday chaos of a residential society, but it’s not just the usual stuff. There’s drama, secrets, and characters who definitely have more going on than they show.
Each episode slowly builds up the tension between the residents, and you can feel that something bigger is coming. The characters feel real, and their problems are pretty relatable—nosy neighbors, hidden pasts, silent rivalries. It’s the kind of drama that doesn’t try too hard but still keeps you watching.
So far, I’m enjoying it. Not overly dramatic, but it keeps you curious. Let’s see where it goes from here.
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This review may contain spoilers
Just okay, lacks the heart!
I know people have said this is a different drama, and fans of Hospital Playlist should not expect the same vibes. I agree and disagree. I don't think it's unreasonable for fans of Hospital Playlist to expect that this drama would be as good as Hospital Playlist, especially when from the get-go, they said this was a spin-off of the drama. At the very least, the quality of the drama should at least resemble, no? I'm obviously not saying the plot should've been the same but so far, I feel like this drama is lacking in many ways.It's not realistic that almost all, if not all, residents are so unaware about BASIC practices like showing empathy to patients, or my favourite, Yi-young holding the scalpel in the wrong direction and hurting a fellow doctor DURING SURGERY, hello????? It's obviously not impossible, but the way it was enacted was too careless.
I wish there was a balance showcasing all residents' growth journey, in a way that does not make them look like they're college students, they're already doctors for crying out loud! The hand-holding is just way too much for such a profession.
My other qualm about this show is the love storyline, to ME - it feels very forced, and frankly, unneeded. The in-laws falling in love trope is not the worst but also, why? LOL. I'm genuinely confused about how we got here - it felt so sudden that Yi-young just started liking and pursuing Do-won? I'm sure they'll likely show us the backstory in later episodes, and he may have liked her first, we'll see. It feels like that has become a key focus of the show - the show is literally called Resident Playbook, LOL. Shouldn't it then balance showcasing all residents' journeys, in a nuanced, meaningful manner??? So far, the other residents characters lack depth, IMO, for a show that was marketed as an ensemble? For instance, I thoroughly enjoy Shin Siah's acting and character so I'd love to learn more about her outside of her seemingly being boy obsessed and her flaws at work. I know GYJ is the main lead so obvi more screen time but I actually wish they let us watch GYJ's character develop first before this love plot. It'd be interesting to watch how her relationship to work evolves, the debt issue (which 6 episodes in has not been properly explained yet?), her relationship dynamics with her colleagues, and her internal growth journey, in a deep, meaningful way. I truly feel like this love plot is a distraction because otherwise, the drama plot would be very shallow. I think this is also why there are so many HP cameos, to fill in the gaps in the writing.
There have been a few heartwarming moments, especially with the patients, which I've truly loved, and appreciated, so it's not ALL bad :))
I read reports that there were several re-shoots and I'm also aware that the drama delayed airing because of the doctor strike in SK so may be they got rid of critical scenes that would have made me feel more connected to the cast and the plot, but as is, the storyline feels all over the place and the characters journeys are not compelling enough including the love plot, idk. I'll keep watching and hope things get better.
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A Drama That Feels Like a Glimpse Into My Future
Watching Resident Playbook as a medical student feels like peeking into a life I’m slowly walking toward. This drama doesn’t just tell a story — it feels real. The long shifts, the emotional weight, the pressure, the learning, the teamwork — everything hits close to the heart.Oh Yi-young’s journey especially moved me. She’s not perfect, and that’s exactly why I love her. She’s clumsy, tired, unsure — but she keeps showing up, keeps trying. Her resilience makes me feel seen. It reminds me that it’s okay to fall, as long as I keep standing back up. The entire group of residents — all so different, yet all carrying the same weight of responsibility and hope — made me feel like I’m not alone on this path.
There’s something comforting about seeing their small wins, their shared laughter in the middle of exhaustion, and their quiet moments of doubt. It makes the dream of becoming a doctor feel even more meaningful. It’s not just about textbooks or exams — it’s about learning to care, to grow, to be human in a world that needs compassion.
Resident Playbook is a reminder that medicine isn’t just about treating patients — it’s about growing through struggles, leaning on each other, and finding purpose in every moment. It beautifully captures the heart of what it means to care, to learn, and to never give up, no matter how difficult the road gets.
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For medical drama lovers-(friendship,medical,character development l)
I've been waiting since last year for this,I can't explain how happy i am.This is a type of drama for people who love to see friendships and character developments.
Only one episode released today but i'm already loving it cause i'm a medical drama fan,it's a drama that's a bit chaotic,but hey, i'm here for it cause that's what i'm looking for, it gives off vibes from hospital playlist,dr romantic and trauma code. So if you loved those dramas you should really check out this one,cause it's a must watch.
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Resident Playbook has Stolen My Heart
After 10 episodes:First I have to say I have not watched Hospital Playlist, but I've watched clips via You Tube, listened to the OST, read reviews, and with that I knew it was good. I'm also familiar with some of the actors in HP.
With that said....I am enthralled with Resident Playbook!!!
I'm currently up to episode 10 of the series and I absolutely love it!! Each episode are new patient stories, new adventures with the residents, yet surrounded by continuing stories of I Young's family, her crush on Do Won who is also her senior doctor, and the day-to-day "colleagues but enemies but friends" relationship of these residents as they learn and grow into competent doctors.
It's dramatic, scary, funny, heartwarming, and so sad when the medical community loses a life. I've laughed and cried so many times in these few episodes and right now I never want it to end.
I love that they are bringing in surprise guest stars to add to the storyline, and I love it!! But this isn't carrying the story. It's great, don't get me wrong......but the cast is really carrying the story. Great writing, great actors, superior production equals perfection in a drama series. I'm already rooting for the second season.
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This review may contain spoilers
Might Turn Out Better in the Future
Last week when I went to the hospital, this was the kind of scene i saw there- unmotivated resident doctors fleeting through medical checkups, lifeless, trying to commit their duties stoically!Sequel to the popular 2019 hit “Hospital Playlist”, “Resident Playbook” lacks the warmth and genuinty of its predecessor. Some might find that frustrating, because we presume that most medical dramas are dedicated to showcasing the main lead’s genius skills and talents. If you are looking for something similar to “Dr. Romantic” or the recent “Trauma Code”, you will be sorely disappointed. Set in the midst of the OB-Gyn Department, the show is focused on the struggles faced by the resident doctors. They have textbook knowledge but are unskilled when it comes to handling real-time situations. The drama draws empathy as we are given a glaring glimpse into their lives as first year residents adjust to their new lives where they struggle to maintain a foothold. They lack passion or are burnt out or not empathetic enough to handle the patients with care. For each of the main leads, it is a different journey, and we are here to summarize everything related to them!
Read the complete article here-
https://kcdramamusings.wordpress.com/2025/04/15/resident-playbook-first-impressions/#more-1728
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they're trying a bit too hard to say they're "too young" that's why they're uncaring, unsympathetic and experienced, but 28 isn't that young, also these characteristics aren't just for "naive" people, I've met old adult drs like that
but I’m a sucker for two things, maybe three
1. Cuties, long haired fl is my favorite, ie my new cutie, honestly she works the hardest and learned the fastest
2. “Calm normal mls”, older ml is totally my type, minus his protective slightly nearing obsession interest in fl which I get cuz otherwise everyone is just a stranger and kdramas hate that
3. The cameo(s) showing the progress of the og cast, eventho I dropped s2
I still hate fl’s uncaring nature and silent expressions and existence, and I don’t like the smart fl “not understanding compassion”
Also now I understand why so many things were “lost” to me, cuz the Arabic subs don’t translate half the things going on
Rather than saying they’re dumb, they’re so, one dimensional
Fl, and her uncaring nature is just a frozen faced mong/blank look of “she can’t remember anything or anyone”, not even her high school classmate and she just “doesn’t care”
i mean i met a highschool classmate, we were friends but not that close and we were in different classrooms, I met her again after 5 or so years at the hairdresser/saloon, she looked at me and i'm a shy person so I thought she was working there hovering waiting for me to tell them how i wanted my hair cut xD my mom was with me and she asked her "do you know each other" and she said yes xD
Ml, is randomly suffering from the idol syndrome, not even big grouped members have that, he goes around signing and over complicating any syndrome
Glasses fl, the “smarts one” is emotionally detached
And last fl is just, a cutie who’s too emotional
older ml's connection to the fl that whole scene was so badly done... going in the apartment together, showing someone playing footsie then also suddenly showing the four on the table like a family without clarifying who the older woman was, just to find out he's her brother in law's brother... lol that's so long, but they can't just leave people without any connection ;p
I get both if honestly not all of the four are “privileged”, spoiled in the sense that they didn’t face hardships, and thus also “sheltered”, many ppl in this generation are like that because of the increased opportunities
And it’s not a bad or wrong thing, it’s a bit hypocritical when the “older” generation treat us as kids when they like, then also shame us for being “too old to be clueless”, spoil us then also get upset we don’t work till our bones hurt
So I don’t see it here as that much of an impact and I wish they focus more on the growing friendships, which for me was the best part of the og
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FIRST HALF REVIEW: why you should watch resident playbook.
"Resident Playbook" plunges us into the high-stakes world of first-year OBGYN residents, offering a raw, unfiltered look at their demanding journey. The series doesn't shy away from the chaos, anxiety, and the occasional loss of passion that define those early years. Instead, it uses these challenges to highlight the residents' growth, the dismantling of biases, and their transformation into the seasoned doctors we all admire."Resident Playbook" offers a refreshing perspective on the medical drama genre. Unlike its predecessor ( Hospital playlist) which focuses on the lives of seasoned doctors, this spin-off delves into the formative years of these medical professionals. The series masterfully captures the raw, unfiltered experiences of first-year residents, showcasing the challenges, anxieties, and lack of motivation they face.
The narrative shifts from the polished expertise of established doctors to the chaotic and often messy reality of those just starting their careers. It provides a glimpse into the roots of the skilled physicians we admire, revealing their initial struggles and the hurdles they overcame. The series emphasizes the growth and development of these characters, highlighting their journey to overcome biases and become seasoned doctors.
With a new cast and a distinct thematic approach, "Resident Playbook" distinguishes itself from other medical dramas. It offers a compelling narrative that resonates with viewers, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in the medical field.
The series excels in showcasing the characters' journeys, growth, and development, a key element woven throughout each episode. Every episode presents the residents with new challenges, highlighting their learning process through mistakes and triumphs. This structure effectively tracks their progress, making their character arcs engaging.
The narrative embraces the complexities of human development, avoiding a straightforward path. Characters experience both forward steps and setbacks, creating a relatable cycle of learning and growth.
An overview of the characters includes;
Oh Yiyoung, a compelling and relatable character in "Resident Playbook." Initially portrayed as a nonchalant and emotionally distant woman, Yiyoung's journey is one of profound transformation. She begins her residency with a lack of passion, driven more by obligation than a genuine desire to practice medicine. This disinterest is evident in her interactions and actions, making her feel distant.
As the series progresses, Yiyoung faces a series of challenges and realizations that force her to confront her apathy. Her character development is marked by moments of wanting to quit, but her journey unveils numerous facets of her personality. She demonstrates a helpful side, an ability to own up to her mistakes, a willingness to learn and grow, and a newfound compassion for her profession.
Yiyoung's character is a mirror to many of us today, her relatable dialogue and complex personality make her a joy to watch. Her chaotic and funny moments add depth to her character, making her a memorable and engaging figure in the series.
Pyo Namkyung, a standout character, embodying a friendly and caring nature. She also has a strong sense of style, often clashing with the demands of her OBGYN residency. This internal conflict adds depth to her character, as she navigates the challenges of her profession while staying true to herself.
Namkyung's interactions with her patients are heartwarming, showcasing her compassionate side. Her willingness to embrace her flaws and strive for improvement is a key aspect of her character arc.
Overall, Namkyung leaves room to grow, making her a relatable and inspiring figure. Her dedication to her patients and her personal growth make her a memorable character.
Kim Sabi, an AI-like character, is defined by her high IQ but initially lacks emotional intelligence. She approaches problems with a textbook-focused mindset, believing that all solutions can be found in academic texts. However, her residency marks a turning point as she realizes that real-world situations often require more than just theoretical knowledge.
Sabi's journey involves developing empathy and understanding the nuances of human interaction. While staying true to her core self, she works on personal growth, recognizing the importance of emotional intelligence in her field.
Additionally, Sabi's competitive nature is evident, but she learns that being first isn't always the priority. This shift in perspective makes her a compelling character, illustrating her development and adaptability within the medical field.
Um Jaeil, the former K-pop idol, provides comic relief while embodying a sunshine and caring personality. Despite his hard work, things don't always go his way, which adds to his relatability.
Jaeil's compassionate nature shines through, and his willingness to learn from mistakes and collaborate with others makes him an interesting character.
Overall, Jaeil's positive attitude and growth throughout the show make him a valuable addition to the cast.
Go Dowon, a fourth-year resident and chief supervisor, embodies maturity and consideration. He is level-headed, intelligent, and skilled in his field, yet remains approachable.
Dowon's friendly demeanor and guidance provide a supportive anchor for the first-year residents. He helps them learn from their mistakes and find solutions, making him a valuable mentor.
Overall, Dowon's character brings balance and expertise to the show, contributing positively to the narrative.
The series incorporates romance, which enhances the viewing experience without overshadowing the core plot. It's a youth drama, and the inclusion of romance adds excitement without dominating the narrative.
The primary focus remains on the OBGYN department, exploring diverse challenges, patient stories, friendships, and personal growth. This slice-of-life approach, though initially slow-paced, becomes increasingly engaging.
The show masterfully blends chaos, comedy, realism, and emotional depth. This balance ensures a captivating and well-rounded viewing experience that resonates with viewers.
In conclusion: Unlike some medical dramas that focus on established professionals, this series delves into the origins of these admirable doctors. It offers a raw look at their beginnings, showcasing the chaos and messiness of their early careers.
This journey requires patience and understanding, promising a mix of humor and frustration. The experience of watching "Resident Playbook" is ultimately rewarding.
It's a journey worth undertaking, offering a unique perspective on the medical world and the characters' evolution.
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Relatable and Emotional
I am biased towards Go Youn Jung as she is my most favorite actress ever, and that's why i can't find any faults in her acting or the drama. To me, this drama is absolutely beautiful. It doesn't fail to match the vibe of Hospital Playlist and I love Resident Playbook more since we can see their friendship slowly building and blooming into a strong bond, and that is very wholesome to see.The residents interactions with the patient made me tear up so many times, though Sabi hasn't had many meaningful interactions with her patients, but that one patient she had to apologize to was pretty nice to see.
This drama is a slice of life, unlike from general fast paced kdramas that are full of thrill and drama, and this is one of the many reasons why I love this so much.
And that one scene where OYY and KSB operated together made me bawl!
Overall, I really love this drama and wish it all the success in the world. I also strongly support the making of a second season as well!
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