Our Unwritten Seoul – A story yet untold
I am disappointed in my own judgment more than anything. I had been putting this series off, thinking the synopsis was too cliché — twins swapping lives? It sounded like a recycled trope from the early 2010s, and to me, it looked like just another vertical C-drama. But what the hell was I thinking? Juggling my studies, I randomly decided to give it a try… and now I regret not watching it sooner.This turned out to be one of the most beautifully layered stories I’ve ever seen — from its emotional plot and soft-burn romance to its soulful cinematography. I realized how much I missed this genre. To me, it was a melodrama soaked in quiet pain, tangled lives, and intense, romantic emotion.At its heart, it’s a hidden identity drama — swapping the lives of two sisters: Mijae and Mirae. Mijae is free-spirited and spontaneous, seen by others as a carefree wild goose, but deep down, she’s sensitive and constantly battling her inner demons. Mirae, on the other hand, is a shadowed soul — consumed by loneliness and struggling in the unforgiving world of Seoul.
Among the male leads, we meet Lee Hosu, an overly empathetic lawyer — a silent fighter with a wounded child’s heart who chooses righteousness over resentment. And then there’s Han Si-jin, a nonchalant young man who’s moved to a small town — he appears laid-back but hides the pain of an unspoken loss.
Romantically, this drama hit every note. Hosu and Mijae were that awkward yet adorably warm couple — the kind you root for from their first scene together. Despite the slow burn, the spark between them never faltered. And then there was Mijae and our “strawberry guy” — emotionally breathtaking, a healing duo that not only mended each other but healed everyone who watched them. Their bond had a rhythm of soulmates finding one another across broken timelines.
Interestingly, I noticed subtle parallels between Mijae and Si-jin, as well as Mirae and Hosu — it felt as though each pair mirrored one another emotionally, almost filling the gaps that the twin sisters couldn’t bridge themselves. Mijae’s lively vulnerability resonated with Si-jin’s concealed grief, while Mirae’s solemn darkness found quiet understanding in Hosu’s emotional depth.
Socially, the drama fearlessly highlighted the darkness in Korean society — workplace bullying, sexual harassment, mental turmoil, and the deeply rooted jealousy that seems to linger from high school well into adult life. It’s frustrating how many K-dramas reflect this same toxicity — yet perhaps it mirrors real life more than we care to admit.
One scene that stayed with me was how Mijae’s interference in Rosa’s life — although well-intended — made things immensely difficult. But it was also deeply satisfying to see the office bullies eventually face justice. Not everyone gets that closure in real life, but the twins were lucky enough to make it out.
Unrealistic? Definitely. Mijae, with no formal graduation, performing full office duties felt like a stretch. And the mother failing to differentiate between her own daughters — when even we viewers never got confused — was slightly unbelievable. Even a fingerprint lock moment made it obvious who was who, yet the mom stayed clueless. But perhaps the story needed those liberties to drive its emotional core.
Cast: Park Bo-young, as always, was perfect. Her acting is both refined and effortlessly natural. She did an outstanding job playing dual roles — not just portraying twin characters, but also swapping their identities — all while maintaining such subtle differences that the audience could always distinguish who was who. That’s no easy feat. While she previously played dual roles in Oh My Ghost, this was an entirely different and more nuanced performance that revealed a deeper, more mature side of her craft. The way she conveyed micro-emotions — from eye flickers to tone shifts — kept the audience continuously engaged. I loved every bit of it.Her earlier roles, like Bong-sun, had a fluffy, comedic charm. But her recent projects — Our Beloved Summer Movie, Daily Dose of Sunshine — have taken a more reflective turn. These are dramas about healing, purpose, and self-exploration, and Park Bo-young seems to shine even brighter in this genre.Another well-deserved shout-out goes to our “strawberry guy.”, Ryu kyung su, He had an eccentric, undeniable charm that made his presence magnetic. I’d absolutely love to see him lead more projects in the future.
Cinematography:The ending preview, with its close-up camera shots, perfectly captured the aesthetic beauty of the series. There was something truly captivating in the way their eyes moved—subtle yet deeply expressive—as if they were still acting even in silence. The cinematography stood out not only for its emotional depth but also for its artistic flair, especially in how the lens gradually shifted in tone and color, giving the scene a dreamlike, almost poetic quality.
To those who haven’t started or dropped this series midway —
Give it a chance. It might not initially seem like your cup of tea, and the synopsis may feel cliché or misleading, but this story is far from sad or depressing. It’s a gentle, healing journey — one that soothes rather than burdens.
This drama has a quiet magic that lifts you from despair and heartbreak, and reminds you of the simple, powerful joy of living. It urges you not only to bring light into the lives of others but also to reclaim your own — to embrace your chaos, take charge of your unfinished chores, and fill your days with all the messy, vibrant noise that life brings.Switch off the silent mode. It won’t help you grow.
In the end, it wasn’t just a drama — it was a gentle reminder that even in life’s noise, healing begins when you stop muting your own story.
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It is story about losers and so it is boring to watch
The two sisters are .. well... losers. Both are very faulty and not making any progress... There is some self reflection but not enough at all. They keep doing dumb selfish things. .This drama lacks COMMUNICATION. Perhaps it will happen later but so far has not happened and I am on ep 4. It does not look it will ever happen.
The overall vibe is ... hopeless isolation...
For example, the twin sisters switched places, but they are NOT calling each other to ask how to grow strawberries or answer corporate things...
and the stupid corporate pion is trying to "do her job" in very vile dirty work
and the farm person has not done anything about farming
I dont like their lying to people straight to their faces, etc
It is not funny, it is not charming, ... it is not smart, it is not cool, ... it is not funny or witty ...
There are some realizations like "hey I did not know my sister" but there is NO ACTION whatsover to correct that.
The drama is really about 2 selfish young women who are living their lives just to scoot by, without any dreams or striving, ...
and so... it is utterly boring
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The Slate of Us
Our Unwritten Seoul is a masterfully crafted ode to the quiet, often unseen resilience of human relationships across generations. With each episode, the drama paints an intricate mosaic of lives — female-centric, yes — but deeply human and profoundly relatable to anyone who has ever loved, lost, or longed for connection.From the very first scene, the storytelling draws you in with a depth that never once lapses into predictability. Each character is carefully developed, their arcs interwoven with tender authenticity. The drama doesn't rely on spectacle — instead, it finds its power in the intimate: a mother’s unspoken sacrifices, a stepmother’s boundless love, the poignant bond between a grandmother and her granddaughter, and the lasting ache of daughters who grew up missing their father — whose absence left a tender, unhealed space in their hearts.
Particularly moving is the portrayal of a grandmother from the 1950s — an illiterate woman shaped by a world that gave her little, yet whose friendship and strength leave a lasting impression. Her quiet dignity mirrors the battles fought by many women of her time — a subtle yet powerful thread running through the narrative. Equally compelling are the modern-day struggles: the chaotic demands of corporate life, the complexity of blended families, and the evolving definition of motherhood.
There were countless moments that left me in tears — not because they demanded sorrow, but because they mirrored the small heartbreaks and triumphs of everyday life. The editing is crisp, the pacing perfect — managing to convey a world of emotion in just 12 episodes. Not a second feels wasted. And above all, the acting — uniformly excellent — breathes truth into every frame.
Ultimately, Our Unwritten Seoul is not merely a drama. It’s a reminder: that life, with all its pain and unpredictability, is also full of warmth, love, and fleeting grace. Like a box of assorted fine chocolates, each story leaves its own flavor, its own memory. I found nothing to complain about — only gratitude for having watched it.
Without hesitation, this is my favorite drama of the year — and I suspect, no other will surpass it.
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Oh my cocoon. How big of a butterfly are you trying to become?
gimmicky concept that promises a lot of hijinks which makes its emotional moments all the more compelling.it's a simple story with complex characters and personal histories, one that is deeply honest. this show hurts but it also heals. so gentle, warm, and funny.
Park Bo Young is nothing short of revelatory, taking on this kind of acting challenge at this stage of her career. she always blows me away but it's quite impressive how she's able to embody two starkly different characters.
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Everyone Has an inner Struggle
Finished watching this show last night and while I felt the last 2 episodes were a bit rushed, everything was wrapped up.The two young leads were excellent, with Mi-Ji having a more meaty role. All the supporting cast did a great job and added their own parts to the story.
Basically no one is perfect, every person & family have their own struggles. What may appear on the outside as perfect once seen from inside shows the fractures.
I also enjoyed seeing when anyone was too down, a friend or family member would support them. You also re-evaluate what is 'family'. Is it only by blood, time together etc.
Things I didn't like were obvious gaps in the story, like why would the daughter (Mi-Ji) not introduce her mother to the woman she spent multiple episodes helping (Rosa Restaurant). There was also the mother having preference for Mi-Rae as she was 'successful' yet didn't know her struggles and how unhappy she was.
I also was hoping Ho Su's mother would have some re-connection to her family. That was pretty harsh and I admire her will to be a 'mother' to a young boy she barely knew. In a way this relationship showed no matter how broken a relationship is (mother - son) the will of love can overcome.
Overall this was a solid show and I enjoyed it.
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OUR UNWRITTEN SEOUL IS THE BEST K DRAMA OF 2025!
This show is actually a masterpiece in every way shape and form. My reasoning for this opinion is down to two major contributors, story and acting. 1st the story is phenomenal being a perfect slice of life show that really brings attention and care to all characters, and story plot lines. 2nd the acting is amazing having especially park bo young as the twins, she can really play the gut wrenching scenes beautifully. As well as everyone else in the cast, they do act their characters in a way that feels so believable bringing them to life. All around I can feel that this show was made with genuine love and a clear vision to make a one of a kind show. Especially today where you can some drama's being half baked and cash grabs, our unwritten seoul differs with having such great quality's to it's name. This show truly means a lot to me, and I would highly recommend. :)Was this review helpful to you?
Melo of the Year
I guess this is the melo drama of the year.Because the tone of the drama is soo good that I don't think anyother drama could match this. Certainly one of the best from pby.
Both the male leads in this show deserves a lot appreciation, they're very well written and hope I see them more,. Casting team really did a great job.
Park Bo Young, once again did a fine job by portraying two different characters at same time. She's the best when it comes to a cheerful and bittersweet characters. I really wanna see her do a one entirely cheerful and energetic role.
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This review may contain spoilers
Absolutely A Must-Watch for All
Everyone should watch this drama. A lot of things said will hit you straight in the head, heart and your entire being in a subtle, yet powerful way. This drama is generously peppered with phrases that wowed me. You'll be wowed, too.This is Life. They kept it as Real (as possible) and that kept me watching till the end. The writer did a great job.
It depicts a lot of, I'd say 'useful' situations at home and at work. Useful for anyone's life in general, maybe now, maybe keep it for reference later. Things happen and this will make coping with the unexpected easier.
A lot of emotional hurt builds up because we feel 'only I alone' have such bad experiences, but this drama opens up to reveal that what you may have believed to be happening to just you is often occurring widespread.
SPOILERS!
Park Bo Young shone as the main actress(es). Not easy to play two roles which are not so outrageously different in personality, but she did a magnificent job. I truly felt I was watching two people playing the twins. Bravo! *standing ovation*
Park Jin Young was the right choice as the gentle, strong Ho Su who makes me anticipate his every sensible and supportive reply. I saw Ho Su's strength and maturity within his calm expressions.
Ryung Kyung Soo played my most favourite character to watch. Han Se Jin is brought to life by this very talented actor. I also love his voice. Superb performance!
Kim Sun Young as the sweet, kind and very polite Bun Hong had me wishing I was her next door neighbour. Shy and often a little too careful with interactions, KSY delivers with the way she talks, walks and looks at others. This seasoned actress so awesomely kept in character every step of the way. Yes, I love her!
Now the drama itself. A good healing series it is.
Many lessons to be learnt. Too many to list, of course. Here's one.
Mi Rae's way of thinking differed from Su Yeon. The office was a quiet hellhole for both. Getting on the lousy side of the bosses was bad enough, but to also be totally ostracised and shunned by their colleagues is really common sense time to just leave.
Su Yeon's resigning from work stopped further stress and saved her from suicide perhaps? Which is what happened to Mi Rae who decided to stay put.
We should not go beyond our limits. Quit if necessary. Try and go on to the next. Like what Se Jin said "If you don't let go, you can't grab on to anything else".
My one gripe with the script.
Four people struggled with depression. Mi Ji, Ho Su and Su Yeon were locked in. Mi Rae tried to commit suicide. None of these four were capable of helping themselves.
Luckily, they did have someone who took action. Mi Ji's mother whacked the door knob, Ho Su's mum barged in, Su Yeon's brother infiltrated the office and Mi Ji saved her twin.
And this is where my 'Real (as possible)' comes in - couldn't the writer have explored other possibilities other than repeating all three locking themselves in? Plus they had saviours who succeeded so easily? Well, in the case of Mi Ji she went out when grandma collapsed, but she miraculously recovered after that? C'mon...
*Share, Share*
Now to just share why I so loved watching the character 'Han Se Jin'.
His personality is absolutely delightful and Ryung Kyung Soo played the role with much charm and gusto. He is the rainbow where the rest are getting drenched. He is pure, innocent, cute fun!
Unlike the other characters, this guy has no relatives, no sign of friends (just ex-colleagues), no wife, girlfriend, neighbour or... well, he's just by himself. Only a regret about his grandfather, but no major illness or deep depression, no one depending on him and he's not responsible for anyone either. He's free and easy and very rich (without any airs).
What he has is a great sense of humour, uber optimism and a lot of humility. He is an adult kid, lovable, unpredictable and yes, suddenly he's wearing cool shades standing next to that bright yellow Lamborghini he'd abruptly bought, right smack in the middle of Mi Rae's walk. Like I said, he has oodles of money.
Money that he stopped making to tend to the strawberry farm. He realized, albeit a little late, that people are more important. He didn't crumble with regret. I'm thinking his optimism was what kept him grounded (see if you get this pun of mine). He's overall quite a lucky person to be born with positive qualities, I guess.
That's my review. My first one, in fact. Thanks for reading it all the way to here :}
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this drama healed me
I barely have words. I just finished the best drama of 2025 and probably of 2024 too. I love this on so many levels and I have my heart full, thanks to the amazing acting and plot. The story is rich, heartwarming, thoughtful and full of life lessons. The characters are complex, flawed and perfectly built, with much room for development and it is so easy to get attached to any of them. I loved this to the core, it was done so well and so carefully executed!!! from Ho-su's mom to Kim Rosa's backstory, to Mirae's coworker, to their youth days.. there is not one single backstory scene I wanted to skip over. It is rare to find a kdrama that can glue your eyes and heart to the screen like this. I cried (a lot lol), laughed, giggled, frowned and sighed like I was in their universe too, like the twins were real and this was more than just a script. I will cherish this drama and its lessons in my heart for a long long time. Can't wait for time to pass so I can rewatch it and fill my heart with them all over again. Thank you director, thank you writer, thank you actors. I mean it.Was this review helpful to you?
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Our Written Seoul
This drama depicts different types of grief; the loss of a father, a grandmother, a husband, your past self, your dreams...it has it all.Watching this drama, I could tell they put so much care into every single character, even the side characters. I usually don't even remember the names of a smaller character in a drama, but the story of Kim Rosa and Hyeon Sangwol made me cry a river.
Every bond in this drama is very complex. The mcs don't have your usual wholesome supportive family, but what they have is much more genuine. I started out hating almost every character, except Miji. As every episode went, I just felt so deeply understood by this drama. Its not that I understood these characters, its more like they understood me, a part of me that I didn't even know existed. Hosu's character was probably the most relatable character I've ever come across in a drama.
Many people said that the misunderstandings were so annoying, but I think its just more realistic. We can speak more when we don't mean it, it's harder to be honest sometimes, and I feel like some people don't understand where the characters are coming from. Mirae's decision of taking down her company would have been just an empty heroic act if she wasn't struggling so much because of it. Miji closing her room's door wouldn't be such an inspiring act if she didn't lock herself away for years. Hosu asking Miji to stay with him, despite being sick wouldn't be as intimate as it was if he didn't spend his whole life feeling like a burden.
Yes, this drama has its flaws, but I just loved how it handled grief. It was realistic, raw, and it left a lasting impact on me. It even motivated me to forgive myself. I think if you ever went through the loss of someone you love, or yourself, or your dreams, you'd love this
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Hang In There, You Will Meet A Good Person
"Yesterday is over, tommorow is yet to come, today... is unknown"For the umpteenth time I have to say that this genre is not my tea. However once again, I fall for this show. This show is a story of people with their own hardships, when they are so down and nothing goes in the way they want. They feel like they have to go through all of the sh*ts alone with no one to trust and to hold on. But hang in there, a good person will come, it will be over. The story is about two twin sisters whose have polar opposite personality. Yu Mi Ji is a free spirited and cheerful person, but she doesn't feel to have any life meaning. On the other hand her twin, Yu Mi Rae seems like a decent and smart girl, but actually she is overworked and just barely hanging on. All of these situations are the result of their overbearing mother. Funny enough that their mom is the only one who can't distinguish the twins, while others like their grandmothers, neighbours and even classmates can do it.
Park Bo Young is definitely the star of this show. She exceptionally plays two characters who have totally different personalities. And don't forget Lee Jae In as the young twins, she does a great job. To me, it has been a while since I saw a drama with such chemistry. Bo Young and Park Jin Young have a great chemistry, even when the romance is not someting very ecsatic. I guess that's the correct romance though, nothing you can expect when you start a relationship with someone you already knew for more than 10 years, right? The villains are borderline between okay-ish and too dragging, but I'll take it as okay. The conflicts at the corporation aren't too overcomplicated. I feel the amount of problems is appropriate, compared to the number of episodes. The visual effects are great, they put a lot of double Bo Young scenes smoothly. Additionally, the soundtrack is excellent.
There are some things that are still bothering me. Compared to Mi Ji and Ho Su who already knew each other for long, I feel the romantic development between Se Jin and Mi Rae is too fast, especially Mi Rae is the type of person who shove her feelings. There should be a reason behind it (and I think they both have a past connection, considering this is a K-Drama after all). It is also unknown how does Se Jin notice it is Mi Rae at first, considering he isn't from Duson-Ri and he has never met Mi Ji before.
"Love isn't about winning or losing. It's about remaining on the same team until the very end even if you lose."
It's a shame that the writer choose to translate that quote through misunderstandings and unecessary breakup. Problem is they already have some misunderstandings before. By doing it that way the story becomes repetitive and boring, even when the reasons behind it are understandable. The final episode is beautiful but storywise it's kinda filler. Most of the plot in the last episode don't really impactful to the main story.
On top of that, I feel like this is a good healing drama. There are a lot of lessons we can take from this show alone. This show is worth to watch when you are looking for something to comfort you.
"I'm going to make it out. Everyone is waiting outside."
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Masterpiece
I rarely give such a high score, yet I am convinced: this masterpiece will be hard to surpass. This time, the high professionalism of the Korean cinematography met talents on their pics working harmoniously togehter towards thisexcellent result. The brilliant acting of Park Bo Young in the double role of the twins is doubled by excellent contributions of Won Mi Kyung (restaurant owner) and Cha Mi Kyung (grandmother) and of Kim Sun Young and Jang Young Nam (the two mothers) and all the others. The camera work is more than detailed and creative. many beautiful views of Seoul are carefully chosen, the production had a particular eye for details.
The writing supports all this: delicate, sarcastic, full of humor, deep, playfull at times, never exaggerated, always at the right place and peace. What it makes me appreciate even more: the idea of twins helping each other is not new, no smashing techniques are used (see for a contrast comparison "When life gives you tangerines"), the whole value comes from inside: from the feelings, ideas and human problems that are treated in the very right, aequilibrate yet decisive way. I am really impressed.
This series is 700% worth its viewing time, I fully recommend it.
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