Resident Playbook

hmm mixed feelings...

For me unfortunately, it did not live up to the expectations I had. I am originally not like a full on fan of hosplay as well but I did enjoy that drama cause the characters were fun and interesting. However in this drama which follows a similar concept, it was really hard to find likable characters.

At the end of the drama the characters I like the most were Nam Kyung and Jaeil. Wah sorry but the leads made like no impact to me. I could barely relate to them and Yi young's story was just boring. I heard there was alot of heat about the romance to be honest they could have just continued without the romance plot. Both "couples" even the one hinted in the last eps felt very forced...Felt yi young's character was very awkward...so yea other than the professors i only found 2 residents likable...

Not sure why but the stories this time were not very emotional, or maybe because there were just too many people it became hard to get attached to one storyline. There were quite alot of scenes showing the stressful lives of residents. Also because everything was centered to one department only, after awhile it became boring...

I feel like it really depends on people's taste, some prefer the slice of life kind of slow pace drama while some prefer more intense fast pace kind. I guess im just the latter. I watched almost all the episodes together so yea it definitely made me wanna watch in x2 speed cause it was so long and quite slow paced. Didnt find the funny scenes funny as well...

Its still a decent drama! just not my style...

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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.

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…)
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.


****Future Me with the Post-Show Thoughts****

I’m honestly a little sad that this is the last week I’ll be spending with my Resident Playbook crew. It really feels like I’ve grown alongside the four residents over the past six weeks, and now my time as an intern with them is coming to a close. This show has quietly become my favourite drama of 2025. It might not be a 10/10 like WLGYT, but the bond between the four residents and all the everyday, mundane moments were done so relatably and entertainingly that I’ve grown to love it deeply. Watching them go from strangers who couldn’t stand each other to colleagues who find comfort in each other through shared struggles was one of my favourite parts.

I’m also a fan of the main couple. It’s so rare to see someone not conventionally known for being “good-looking” (he’s attractive in his own way) being paired with Go Youn Jung. Plus, this time, it’s the girl who’s bold and flirty and doing the chasing. That reversal is refreshing. I liked that the show didn’t overly focus on romance, yet it still shines when the attention shifts there. It’s like 70% story, 30% romance, and the balance works well.

Resident Playbook even made me, someone who avoids medical dramas like the plague, curious enough to start Hospital Playlist last week. That says a lot. I never thought I’d find myself willingly in this genre, but here we are.

And oh, Shin Shi Ah (Pyo Nam Gyeong), what a gem! You’ve really left an impression, and I’ll definitely be looking forward to your future work and will be there to support it.

I really hope Season 2 happens, even though I’ve heard some uncertain news about it. Ratings have been climbing steadily, so maybe that will help change their minds. Either way, thank you for this beautiful show. I’ll miss it a lot.

Until then, intern PW signing out!

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A Phenomenal Journey Which You Become A Part Of!!!

Once in a while comes a drama that is little over-the-top and yet a perfect slice of romance!

Sequel to the popular 2019 hit “Hospital Playlist”, “Resident Playbook” doesn’t immediately offer solace or warmth that was so characteristic of its predecessor. The show revolves around four very burned, unsure resident doctors who are still finding their own path. That being said, this isn’t their individual journey, the storytelling focuses on the inner workings of the OB-GYN, something that has never been catered too before. In the backdrop are the lives and journeys of our first year residents who are trying to figure out what they want from life in general. This show doesn’t automatically turn them into geniuses without the span of twelve episodes; no it doesn’t. When the show ends, these characters are still flawed but on their way to becoming better. I loved how realistic it was, how it perceived its characters and gave them room to breathe!

Read the complete article here-

https://kcdramamusings.wordpress.com/2025/05/20/resident-playbook-series-review/

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Loved the realistic portrayal of the OB/GYN profession

A reviewer wrote that the show wasn't realistic. I totally disagree. I was a surgical technologist for 7 years, and the show is in fact quite realistic in almost everything, particularly the OR scenes. The only parts I found questionable was the open sharing of medical information and the huge c-section incisions, they're usually much smaller than what was portrayed. Not sure what the law says about patient privacy in South Korea but in the US talking about medical information with random people is a big no. Otherwise, I found the medical part super accurate. Everything from intubation scenes, blood transfusions, and even the scrub tech was legit. Also the scenes about how important it is to get a HPV shot to prevent cervical cancer was surprising! Cervical cancer is super preventable. Get your HPV vaccine and Pap smear. I worked at a teaching hospital for a few years, and yes interns and first year residents are absolutely clueless and chaotic. Had a few pass out right in the OR, had others almost stab surgeons in the middle of emergency surgery, and other such nonsense just like in the show. I also absolutely loved the realistic portrayal of what it's like to give birth. The show showed many realistic depictions, of what happens during childbirth and what women go through. No medical show in the US would ever show such accurate scenes. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the show and was never bored.

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Disappointed

Just my personal opinion, but here's what I liked and what I didn't:
LIKED:
-Music, especially when the cast of HP was singing
-the cameos
-Lee Bong Ryun as Professor Seo. She had a commanding presence, but could be supportive when need be. I think she was my favorite character.
NOT SO MUCH:
-FL. Pouty, threatening to quit, even as late as the last episode. Being a doctor isn't something you just "put up with". Plus, she wasn't a true first-year, so she should have known a lot more than she did.
-The other first-years. He was an idiot, one was a robot, and the other seemed like she wanted to be some kind of influencer or something.
-The leads were all unlikeable and didn't gel with one another. I will say things got better after episode 10.
-The stories weren't that interesting.

Now, I'm not saying not to watch it. Please do, since I tend to be harder on shows than others.

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Average with decent acting and lovely guest roles but just not memorable enough

Subjective Gut Rating: 7.75


Instead of my usual super long review, this is going to be a short one for “Resident Playbook”. In short, the drama is average. It’s not as good as “Hospital Playlist” (HP) as a slice-of-life drama, or as good as “Dr. Romantic” (DR) as a drama with exciting moments. If those two dramas are A grade, then “Resident Playbook” is a B- or C+.

“Resident Playbook” is missing the excellent backstory that HP doctors have, and how they came to develop such a strong friendship. The fun part is not as fun, and the sad part is not as sad. The medical cases and interpersonal issues are also OK. They are not as memorable as those in DR.

I do like the focus is in the OB/GYN department, as we don’t see medical dramas pay such attention to it. The acting is pretty good overall, and I love seeing so many guests from HP for a visit.

The romance is minimal and it’s so minimal that they should have completely taken it out, or give it more screen time. I do in fact enjoy the cute and adorable moments between O I Yeong and Koo Do Won. It’s just the relationship doesn’t have a lot of depth.

Overall, it’s an OK watch. “Resident Playbook” is unable to find the balance of great friendship and mentorship, romance, and memorable moments. If you are a fan of the leads, it’s worth a shot. The actors did a pretty good job and Go Young Jung is beautiful, even as a tired intern.

Completed: 6/2/2025 - Review #587

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Light-hearted goodness

This is similar to Hospital Playlist in its slice-of-lifeness, where we get to follow a few characters around the hospital and just living their lives. The main cast of characters is fun to follow and they have a really enjoyable dynamic, and of course I loved seeing all the cameos each episode.

I do think the plot starts getting a little muddied? It's hard to explain because there's not really a clear A-plot, but I do think that as the episodes went on, they started to blur into each other a little bit because the main characters weren't having such clear plotlines, and the subplots of their patients also became less memorable and impactful, with less clear messages or ends. Some arcs that started were wrapped up a little haphazardly, and I wish we'd gotten more character development for our main girl; she started off in a lower place and while it was clear from the start that she was a good doctor and cared about people, I feel like the actual trajectory of her attitude was more told to us than shown.

Ultimately, I still think this was a really enjoyable watch and it's something I think people could rewatch as a feel-good show. I'm honestly not sure if I'll remember anything from it but I made my weekends relaxing.

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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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Resident Playbook is Like a Dazzling Sunset!

If Hospital Playlist is like a warm blanket on a cold night, then Resident Playbook is like a dazzling sunset on a warm summer night. This fantastic spin-off series beautifully captures many elements of the previous series that have captivated millions. Hospital Playlist is one of my all-time favorite series. I have most of the songs on my iPod, and while I still feel that Hospital Playlist is a better series, make no mistake - Resident Playbook is simply delightful. It’s also different in many respects.

Resident Playbook follows four first-year residents in the OBGYN department. You’ll note that Hospital Playlist’s protagonists were four men and one woman. Here, we have three women and one man. One difference is that the characters from Hospital Playlist knew each other for years, and it was apparent with the chemistry they all had. Here, four first-year residents are pooled together, with only two of them knowing each other as former classmates.

Oi Young is the reluctant young woman who started the resident program previously but quit. She’s also in serious debt and living with her sister, her sister’s husband, and the husband’s brother, Koo Do Won, whom Oi Young has a crush on. Koo Do Won is a charming and delightful upper resident of the OBGYN department. Oi Young doesn’t realize that she has great, natural ability, but she’s always a bit hesitant and unsure of herself. She’s easily the most unhappy of the four, always trying to find a way out of her predicament rather than finding the joy in her work. Of course, as time moves on, she slowly begins to realize her gift.

Pyo Nam Gyeong is the drama queen of the group. That isn’t a knock against her. She actually brings a lot of charm for someone who loves to shop and read the latest horoscopes. She has an even bigger heart than she realizes, and she forms a quick attachment to a patient who appears to be too demanding. Pyo Nam Gyeong wears her heart on her sleeve.

Um Jae Il is the “energizer bunny” of the group! This guy’s got a full tank and then some in reserve. He’s very eager to learn but even more eager to help the patients as much as possible. It’s a bit of a perfectionist when it comes to making sure he does things right, which drives from the second-year residents crazy! He’s a bit too cautious sometimes and struggles to learn how to be confident in his decision-making. He’s not shy about losing sleep if it means being there for a patient.

Finally, we come to my personal favorite, Kim Sa Bi. Nicknamed “the android” due to her intellectual prowess and really not caught up in feelings, she tends to drive people crazy with how much she knows. However, even Kim Sa Bi has to learn the difference between book knowledge and experience. She can come across as a bit arrogant, and she doesn’t like it if someone appears to know more than she does, which got her into a brief spat with Oi Young. She even speaks in an almost robotic-clipped manner, which, frankly, I found endearing. She rarely smiles, but when she does, she lights up the room. However, even Kim Sa Bi can’t hide her admiration for previous all-boy band member, Um Jae Il! Their dance sequence is easily one of the highlights of the series! Her struggles are about trying to be more empathetic and caring toward her patients.

Resident Playbook is a series that gets off to a somewhat slow start. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing as there are many new characters to get to know within the span of the first few episodes. However, once it gets going, it keeps going until you can’t wait to see the next episode. After only 12 episodes, I was a bit sorry that the series didn’t extend to the usual 16. I wanted more.

Performances are fantastic, and seeing yet another collective group of performers do so well that you like all of them says a lot about the depth and quality of the characters. Of course, anyone who has seen Hospital Playlist will gasp and cry out with joy when you see all five of them make cameo appearances throughout this series. They also got together to contribute more songs!

Resident Playbook is a different type of series in which we see the struggles of four new residents trying to learn and stick it out in a very stressful department. One can only imagine the number of hours and amount of dedication it takes for someone to endure all of the trials and tribulations that go with it. One can’t help but be impressed.

Much like its parent show, Resident Playbook has a number of heartfelt moments as well as inspirational ones that will touch your heart and soul. There are also quite a few moments to tickle your funny bone too.

Resident Playbook is simply a terrific feel-good series that has the viewer wishing that there was still more to come!

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my thoughts ?

Residential Playbook – Episodes 1 to 4

Just 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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The Drama That Comforted Me Week After Week

I honestly didn’t expect to fall for Resident Playbook that deeply, but I did. After the first 1-2 episodes, I thought it had too light a tone or that it wouldn't be as comforting or interesting of a medical show as I had thought,t but from episodes 3- 4 it began to turn out to be so much more. It steadily grew on me every upcoming week and so did each of our first-year residents. The show doesn’t rely on flashy plot twists or dramatic character overhauls. Instead, it gently and honestly portrays young doctors learning to live with their flaws, finding meaning in the everyday grind and growing into their roles both professionally and personally.

What struck me most was its realism. The medical cases weren’t all life-or-death emergencies; they were often mundane but never meaningless. This grounded approach made their journeys feel all the more human and relatable. Watching the residents celebrate small wins, face burnout and learn to support each other was deeply moving.

The romance arcs were warm and sweet, adding a lovely layer of connection and vulnerability to the story. And of course, the special cameos from Hospital Playlist actors felt like a warm hug to longtime fans.

Resident Playbook became my comfort show over the past few weeks a gentle reminder that growth doesn’t have to be grand to be meaningful. I’ll truly miss it. And will never stop hoping for a Season 2!

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