Love Begins in the World of If (2025)

Different, interesting but lackluster finale & kissing....

This series plays out in two worlds, one the reality and one the perfect version of the same reality. But as it is with perfect versions, it may seem perfect at first, but life is not interesting when all is perfect.

The main character realizes this when thrown in the perfect world, everything is too easy, there are no challenges and there is no room to grow. So he reflects on himself, breaks out of his box of thinking and recognizes his own faults and misinterpretations. Storywise the series is perfect. But the finale lacks in the intimate scenes considerable. There is no real kissing and also the longing of Kano is not delivered in the way I wish they had.

Both actors did a great job to play out the characters but failed when intimacy was required. The production quality is also top notch with very nice cinematography and variety in the vibes of the show through the lighting. Still a very good show even when it's sometimes a slow burn, but with a downer in the end. Because the story is unique it is still on my recommanded list. Too bad such a good story could not have been executed perfectly.

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What if I am the change I have been waiting for!

When I read the synopsis, I was expecting a love story across parallel timelines with that 'what if' gimmick, but after finishing it, it has left me with a question or realisation that "What if life doesn't change because the world shifts but because you finally stopped standing in your own way?" Well, rude question but valid! This is a story about choice, stagnation, the cost of staying the same and understanding growth frustratingly requires effort.

The story starts with Kano Akihito emotionally boxed in. He isn't unlikeable but a very passive person. A person who lets life happen around him instead of actively stepping in. I liked how the drama did a good job at showing how that mindset slowly transitions into quiet dissatisfaction, even though nothing is " wrong" yet nothing feels right.

With the frustration, he has shifted to a new world... his ideal world. The ideal world where Kano is expressive, takes accountability, and doesn't wallow in self-pity and avoidance. I liked how this upgrade was handled. It showed that it doesn't matter whether you are in a different world or were given another chance, unless you reset your habits, every world is the same. I might have taken this whole shift too philosophically than intended lol, but it was refreshing to see a plot where you are not rewarded for enduring but rather noticing yourself and prioritising.

Coming to our other lead Ogami, I enjoyed his character too. We didn't get a detailed POV of him, but he is very observant. At first glance, he is like any other office character we have, who is cold, aloof and calm in a dreading way but as we get to see more of him, he is more like quiet, kind and mature. What I liked about him was how he didn't try to change anyone. He tried helping in Kano in the best way he could. Kano and us realised it late.

Moving to romance, I would say this is not a drama you solely watch for romance. It is definitely present but it is not loud. They really had good chemistry and I liked how Ogami didn't act as a saviour or fixer, just nudged Kano when needed. The tension between them comes less from any dramatic misunderstanding but more from emotional hesitation which felt surprisingly real.

That said, it could have benefited from 2 more episodes because the pacing was a bit uneven for all aspects, whether it is romance or the realisation. Some reflection scenes work well, but a few felt very fast-paced. The last episode felt a little too convenient.
Also, the fantasy aspect of drama is more introspective and unexplored. I would advise holding all the theories after episode 1 because that isn't the focus.

Acting-wise, it was a good performance by both the leads. The expressions were on point and in sync with scenes. Production and cinematography were good and it somehow elevated the watching experience. Lighting choices matched the mood of the scenes. Even though there are not too many outdoor shots, the sets felt lived in, like the office. Special mention to the opening OST. Loved it!

Overall, this was a thoughtful watch, or maybe I went too deep into the rabbit hole because of how relatable the struggles were. This will not drown you in over-the-top melodrama or spoon-feed you fluffy romance, but let you sit with some uncomfortable but well known facts that sometimes the only way out of your miseries is change, not external but internal.
Again, not promising a perfect, not life-altering drama considering the run time, but surprisingly reflective. If you are into this, I would definitely recommend this.

Thank you for reading my review and Merry Christmas! <3

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Too Good, Too Short

Love Begins in the World of If is a charming BL gift from Japan. What starts off slow for me ultimately became the series I looked forward to each week. That said, with its short runtime and only six episodes, it never fully reaches its potential and ends up falling a little flat.

Let’s dive in.

The first episode is rough to get through. If this is any reassurance: trust me, it gets better. A large chunk of the beginning is spent establishing Kano’s workplace dynamics and the circumstances that land him in this situation in the first place. While necessary, it feels tedious. The series picks up almost immediately in episode two, once we’re introduced to this altered world and to Ogami as Kano experiences him there. That’s when the question of who “nice” Ogami really is begins to take shape.

What I loved most is that this so-called “new world” isn’t new at all. It’s essentially a replica of the life Kano could have had if he’d simply asked for help and opened up to his coworkers. The Ogami in this world is sweet and passionate, but he isn’t the Ogami Kano needs, or even wants. Realizing that, Kano returns to his original world and confronts reality head-on, choosing to actively make things better rather than escape into a fantasy.

It might have been the height difference (it probably was), but I really enjoyed their dynamic. I liked how it’s initially strained, then gradually shifts as both of them take initiative and work through what they’ve gone through. It definitely helps that Kano constantly has to look up at Ogami like he’s a God.

Unfortunately, the ending is where the series loses me. Everything is wrapped up far too quickly. We’re given maybe five minutes to glimpse what their new relationship looks like, capped off with a dead-fish kiss. Sigh. When will this curse finally end?

Ratings:

Story: 8.5/10 - intriguing premise and storytelling. The title sequence is GORGEOUS. The first episode is very bleh and the least episode is anticlimactic. The height dynamic is everything to me.

Acting: 8/10 - Neither leads stood out to me really. I don't like that Daigo Kotaro had one facial expression for everything. Nakagawa Daisuke did the best between the both of them.

Music: 6/10 - didn't pay much attention to it.

Recommendation Value: 6/10 - There's a shot of Ogami from the back as he takes his shirt off. Trust me, you will love it.

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Somewhat lacking in chemistry

This was overall an 'ok' series, just... very mid... nothing spectacular but won't leave a bad taste in your mouth.

I liked the storyline, that at the end of the day, you have the power to change and mold the future you want. I liked the acting, decent, subtly emotional delivery from the 2 MLs. I liked the musicality, especially the opening sequence. I liked the cinematography, the template sequence. I even liked the character design and development.

However there was just something lacking in the chemistry between the 2 actors. It felt somewhat unnatural and while there were moments, little flickers of chemistry, it just wasn't delivered fully. In fact, the scene which probably had the most chemistry might just be the opening sequence.

If you're looking for a somewhat refreshing plot with likeable MLs played by actors that can act you could try this out, but I would manage my expectations, it just didn't tug at the heart strings as much.

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Every change begins with the word if, followed by the will and small first step.

This is for sure more of an office slice of life with romance, rather than romance set in the office. Rather than the story leading to romance, the romance is part of the greater self-discovery and development journey of our cute protagonist - Kano Akihito.

The thing is - I went into this completely blind not even knowing there will be a fantasy element (imagine my surprise at the end of episode 1), but no matter the set up it became clear to me this is Kano’s story and everyone else is there to highlight his improvement and growth, and I was all in. At first I was scared that the parallel world would hinder the romance and make me not invested in the plot, but romance is honestly not the goal here, but rather a result of a character driven story. It’s the cherry on top, not the main course.

There were many important life lessons in it, but two that for sure I enjoyed the most were:
You should not compare yourself at the beginning of your journey to someone who is miles ahead of you. You underappreciate your own abilities and also the other person’s hard work to achieve what they did.

Often how people treat you is a direct reflection of how you treat them. Taking the initiative and the first step can help you form close bonds and dear friends who will help and support you no matter what. You can all learn from each other and grow as people. Instead of staying in the vicious circle of being distant towards people because they are distant towards you, and them being distant towards you because you are acting distant towards them - take that first step to close the gap and create a healthier environment.

That said, even if the romance was not the highlight, it was still great. I cannot just ignore the height difference - even if it does not play an important role in any of the scenes, and it’s just existing there quietly, it’s enough for me. I also love how obvious to us the dynamics between them is, and how oblivious to it Kano was. But that’s the charm of the drama - we can witness how Kano figures out that words can be used for communication between people, not only powerpoint presentations for work. The love story in it was honestly great. It’s all in small gestures, unspoken worlds, stolen glances. It’s about taking care of the other person, not wanting them to suffer, wanting to support them and lessen their burden. It’s slow and gradual, but it’s well executed. Wish the change of heart was a bit better presented though. With Kano I kind of get when and why, but I don't fully feel it.

Acting wise I loved the performances of both leads. Kano Akihito as this slightly neurotic salesman and Ogami Seiji as the stoic and what seems like a perfect senior. But it’s more than meets the eye - they both had their insecurities, hesitations, and fears. They both thought they made the right choices to help the other to later find out it was a misunderstanding and misstep for both of them. Especially big props to Nakagawa Daisuke with his dual performance, which had to seem close enough that it could be the same person in parallel words, but also different enough to justify the set up in the first place. Also, his tiny pinning moments? Amazing.

Overall, what a pleasant surprise. I went with the idea that fluff office romance will be enough, but instead got food for thought, soul and heart.

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A Captivating Parallel World Romance

Another great officer romance from Japan, but this one hits on a completely different level. The darker cinematography instantly sets it apart from the usual light Japanese BLs, giving the story a moodier, more mature tone that I absolutely loved. I am obsessed with height-difference dynamics and Ogami and Kano being noticeably taller than average had me hooked from the very beginning.

The story is intriguing, emotional, and layered in a way that pulls you in effortlessly. Both actors deliver incredible performances, capturing that mix of vulnerability, admiration, and unresolved tension perfectly. Their chemistry simmers quietly beneath every interaction, and I cannot wait to see how their feelings slowly transform into something deeper and undeniable. I am fully hooked already and what a fantastic series.

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thinking about an ideal self

Overall: intriguing to think of how we treat others changes how they treat us and vice versa as well how this changes our view of the world. Based on "If no Sekai de Koi ga Hajimaru" by Umino Sachi which I didn't read and I reviewed the series based on its own merits. 6 episodes about 25 minutes each. Aired on GagaOOLala https://www.gagaoolala.com/en/videos/6042/love-begins-in-the-world-of-if-2025-e01 (everywhere except Japan and Korea) and Viki https://www.viki.com/tv/41300c-love-begins-in-the-world-of-if

What I Liked
- thinking about how changes to oneself affect others,
- production value (use of color to denote the mood and location)
- a character had realizations and communications was sought after

Room For Improvement
- I was just about to note good consent but then a character said stop and the other character said they couldn't wait any longer and went ahead anyway
- a dead fish lip press
- didn't actually show the chocolate sharing
- that very end part was odd, were they hinting at a sequel
- needed more relationship development

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How to Do a Short Series the Right Way: No "if's" about it

In three distinct aspects, “Love Begins in the World of If” demonstrates how to do a series right. Two of these aspects relate to the dramatic structure: first, it nails the intricacies of its primary genre (parallel universe); second, it delivers a masterclass in pacing a brief series (three hours runtime spread across six 30 minute episodes). The third relates to the narrative and characters: the story delivers an emotional weight that belies its brief runtime. These accomplishments are not beholden to any specific genre: manifesting these qualities would make any series better. Since many potential viewers may have arrived at this review thinking the series was BL, let me offer this reassurance: the series delivers satisfactory BL fare alongside the well-done parallel universe story—especially for us BL addicts who consume the genre because, when well-done, we get to mainline serotonin. Tightly written, sprightly paced, and well-acted, Love Begins in the World of If absolutely merits three hours of your time.

Let’s unpack how the series blends parallel universe tropes with BL tropes. The story details the connection between two work colleagues, Kano Akihito and Ogami Seiji. The story begins a year after Kano, trained as an engineer, has been transferred to his company’s sales department. He finds his performance in this role lacking in comparison to his peers whose backgrounds prepared them for the role of salesman. He has befriended none of them, holding himself aloof from workplace interactions out of a fear that his personal shortcomings will become a burden to the unit. Kano finds Ogami particularly intimidating. The more experienced salesman constantly checks Kano’s work and seems not to trust the newcomer’s judgment. One dark night, Kano wanders into a shrine, where a sign nailed to a tree challenges him to look into a mirror then imagine his ideal self. Partisans of fantasy will instantly recognize indications of a trusty old trope. The appearance of the mirror in a swirling fog amidst a woodland setting despite a moment earlier having been in the middle of a city, can mean only one thing: something magical is about to happen. We do not get an explanation; we do not need one. The magic advances the story; it is the point of the story. So be it. Kano unpours his inadequacies and insecurities as a salesman into the mirror, then wishes he were better at his job and had the respect of his colleagues, especially Ogami.

Apparently, the mirror listened: Fog swirls. The light changes. And Kano faints away. When he regains consciousness, Ogami stands over him. How his work colleague happened to stumble across him lying unconscious in the woods is unclear to Kano, but the veteran watcher of BL can probably guess already. Brusquely, Kano dismisses Ogami’s concern and rushes into the night. At his apartment, he notes several curious discrepancies: for examples photos of events for which Kano has no memory. His befuddlement extends into the next day at work where everyone treats him differently. Kano intuits quickly that the mirror somehow transferred him into a parallel universe, a universe where the local Kano2 handled his transfer by relying on others for help instead of fearing to become a burden. Ultimately, Kano1 spends a full month living out this uncanny version of his life. The experience leaves him to speculate how his own life might have turned out differently if he had made different choices following his transfer. Such epiphanies epitomize character development in parallel universe storytelling.

The most striking difference in the lives of the two Kanos centers on the engineer’s relationship with the local Ogami2. This Ogami not only trusts Kano, but they work closely together. To the surprise of Kano1, Kano2 even confided his deepest secret to Ogami2. Anytime Kano experiences high stress, his body temperature drops precipitously and he suffers fainting spells. In Japanese BL, the uke figure almost invariably manifests some odd quirk, which the seme figure will balance out. Here, the symptoms of stress serve that function. In true BL fashion, anytime Kano experiences acute stress Ogami2 proves to be nearby, ready to assume the mantle of hero/rescuer. In such moments, Ogami proffers a timely hug, shares a coat, or produces chocolate, all of which soothe Kano’s frayed nerves. (Sweets like chocolate alleviate Kano’s symptoms because—in a rom-com—of course sharing sweet things will do that!) In this way the BL story buttresses the parallel universe story because Kano1 realizes that Kano2’s cozy relationship with Ogami2 is something he might have enjoyed himself.

I deem parallel universe to be the series’ primary genre because if we removed the BL element entirely, we’d still have a workplace drama where the struggling character must learn to better himself. To effectuate that result, the writers would need to introduce only minimal changes to the plot and character beats. On the other hand, both plot and character arcs would require substantial reworking if the parallel universe aspect was not present. Any number of workplace BL series demonstrate the viability of romance in such settings, but the mechanism that inspired the change (here, seeing how Kano2 did it) would require complete reworking. In that sense, Love in the World of If stands among those occasional BL series where the BL buttresses the tropes of a dominant primary genre rather anchor the story with its own tropes.* As in those other examples, the BL storyline never drives the action forward. When romance does motivate the characters’ behavior, their choices also reflect an evolution in the parallel universe aspect. Yes, the story features many trappings associated with BL—including the all-important serotonin shot near the climax—but consider that romantic outcome a bonus to a well-told parallel universe story rather than the reason World of If exists in the first place.

The real emotional pay-off to this tale arrives when Kano returns to his proper universe. Once back, he must use his new found coping skills not only to improve his job performance but also to establish a fresh new dynamic with Ogami1. I give the writers tremendous credit for evenly dividing the series’ limited time between the Prime Universe and the alternate. Episodes 1, 5, 6 take place in Kano’s “natural” setting, while 2, 3, 4 unspool in the alternate. That even split served the story well. Too often, a parallel universe series becomes so invested in the alternate universe that it gives short shrift to how the “lesson learned” gets applied when the characters return home—if they ever do. Credit to the actors as well, who had to play subtle variations in their characters depending on which universe they were in. Moreover, I appreciated that Kano had to start over with Ogami1, where many series would have skimped on that, forgetting that Ogami1 is, technically speaking, a completely different being than Ogami2.

In closing, Love in the World of If stands as an exemplar of excellent storytelling, whether for BL or for parallel universe. The series paces plot and character moments evenly across six episodes. It balances its time between the two parallel universes. It smoothly blends professional development and personal development. It relies on familiar tropes yet deploys them in ways that feel fresh. The insecurity felt by Kano feels plausible, and so does the manner of resolution. The lessons Kano learns in the alternate are made to matter in the prime. The story cultivates a slow-burn romance between the leads that the viewer wants to root for and can feel building. No series can be perfect in all things, and World of If will likely disappoint some fans of the BL crowd. Certainly, that segment of BL fandom that always wants the BL story front and center will feel this show missed their mark. That is not a flaw of the series, it just never aspired to suit that particular taste. Additionally, BL fans who prize NC scenes, those who dislike slow-burn romances, and those who want the leads to establish their couple-ship early enough that the viewer gets to spend time with them as a couple may all come away feeling shortchanged. None of those factors makes or breaks a BL series for me; so, I don’t mind missing them here. What I do prize includes compelling character arcs and a narrative that buttons down big and small details alike. In that regard, Love in the World of If delivers.

*--In case this meaning isn’t clear, I have in mind series like Khemjira (primarily a supernatural thriller); Manner of Death (primarily a whodunnit); or Spare Me Your Mercy (primarily a whodunnit + debate on medical ethics). All of the above feature prominent BL stories as well, but the characters in those romances are chiefly concerned with other responsibilities. That take applies as well to my reading of this series: the BL results as a repercussion to developments in the parallel universe story.

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Would have benefited of a longer runtime

The idea behind this BL story is really good with the fantastic twist that allows the main character to grow out so much. Unfortunately, if I like the concept in itself and I was pretty convinced by the arc of the main character and the office environnment/issues, I think the romance aspect would have benefited from a longer runtime to feel more fully-fleshed.

I would recommend this to people that are looking for an original BL office story. It lacks a bit in terms of romance but the main character arc, which is full of hope and life lesson is really well made.

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The power is in YOU to change your own destiny

After watching the first episode, I was wondering if my expectations were too high especially when a couple of my friends rated “Love Begins in the World of If” pretty positively. I’m glad in the end, I agree with them and I’m not disappointed.

I already know this is a drama about Kano’s growth as a person, and romance takes a back seat. But I have to say, I am very satisfied with the romance and how it all complements Kano’s growth. I am also a sucker for someone who cares and supports behind-the-scenes quietly, and guessing of those does-he-like-me-or-not situations.

Echoing many reviewers, I also really like the change in Kano. The way he’s being treated in the ideal world is a consequence of Kano's actions. It’s not just because it is the ideal world. I enjoy how Kano discovers how he could improve the current situation in the real world by taking actions upon himself in making that change. Not only that, my favorite part (being a romance lover) is Kano’s realization of real-world Ogami’s quiet support and care. Seeing the contrasting ways the two Ogami behave towards him and him realizing who is the ‘better’ Ogami is the turning point for me in rating this drama a solid 8.5 and not lower.

This ‘turning’ point also reassures my gut impression of the ideal Ogami. There is something about his smiles that seem fake and creepy to me, and I didn’t know why. I thought I was just not used to seeing this version of Ogami, especially when I quite like the cool and direct Ogami in the real world.

Because this is only a 6-episode drama, I’m glad the writers don’t spend the whole drama in the ideal world and not leave enough time in the real world. Would I have loved the drama to be a little longer? Sure! But I also feel that I am satisfied with 6 short episodes. The only part I felt a little weird about was the intimate scene (I can’t believe I said this! LOL). That felt somewhat out of place. I guess after everything is out in the open, it liberates them both, and Ogami needs to prove that he’s better than the overprotective salesman.



Completed: 12/26/2025 Review #656

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Good show, nice plot

This is a lovely show about feeling like the wrong puzzle piece in your own life and then realising you have the power to change that by connecting to other people and asking for help. Such a beautiful message and executed in a very simple and concise manner. Oh, and they sort of epilogue this with a gay romance too...
I will say this though, romance is not the focus here, there is a shadow of it throughout the show but it's not central. Mostly this is a wholesome drama about being the best version of yourself to create your best version of life and it was very heart-wearming and nice.
Nothing special to add here. I think this is a relaxing show that can definitely be enjoyed by everyone.

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Sweet look on perspectives

This is a very sweet story about misunderstandings, vibes and the importance of a smile. The little things that make a big difference... Or maybe not so little you just have to go to a different universe to find all those little things that can untangle the misunderstanding and help you find those little things. So no not so little indeed.

Also it gives a bunch of different perspektives and will have you ask questions about kindness, love and friendship.

Anyway, leads and sides are cute. There is lots and lots of chocolate and yummy stuff. so do not watch this while hungry.

A quick easy binge that wil cater that sweet tooth.

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