Do give it a try
It really should’ve been titled “Chūgakkō Kyōshi Nikki” instead. The female lead is clearly at the center of the story, while everyone else, including the male lead, feels more like supporting cast. I was initially hesitant to watch it since it revolves around a teacher-student romance, especially with the student being underage. However, the series handles the subject with surprising sensitivity, beautifully depicting the teacher’s emotional journey once their relationship comes to light.
The characters are well written and actors have done justice to it. The female lead is kind yet strong, but never pitiful. What stood out the most to me is the student's mother's character. She would do everything within her means to make sure her kid doesn't go astray and finishes his education. Her character is a blend of rainbow themes, being warm and loveable at the beginning to strict and terse, seemingly heartless as the story progresses. The school principal, too, is portrayed with such warmth and empathy; her eyes alone convey the compassion one expects from someone in her role.
The only annoying character is female lead's fiance whose feelings keeps ping-ponging between 2 women, never really sure of what he wants, or may be both ;-)
Story and pacing is perfect. The narrative is strong and well-paced, no filler moments or unnecessary dragging. Every character serves a purpose, contributing meaningfully to the story’s progress. I especially loved how the plot unfolds over several years, allowing the characters to grow naturally without rushing to a resolution.
The cinematography is stunning — from lush green rice fields to sparkling blue oceans and winding coastal roads, it’s an absolute visual delight.
What could’ve made it a 10/10:
The male lead often feels too passive. If he had shown more initiative truly stepping into a leading role instead of being passively driven by the circumstances, it would’ve elevated the show to greatness.
Overall:
A deeply emotional, heartfelt series that left a lasting impression.
The characters are well written and actors have done justice to it. The female lead is kind yet strong, but never pitiful. What stood out the most to me is the student's mother's character. She would do everything within her means to make sure her kid doesn't go astray and finishes his education. Her character is a blend of rainbow themes, being warm and loveable at the beginning to strict and terse, seemingly heartless as the story progresses. The school principal, too, is portrayed with such warmth and empathy; her eyes alone convey the compassion one expects from someone in her role.
The only annoying character is female lead's fiance whose feelings keeps ping-ponging between 2 women, never really sure of what he wants, or may be both ;-)
Story and pacing is perfect. The narrative is strong and well-paced, no filler moments or unnecessary dragging. Every character serves a purpose, contributing meaningfully to the story’s progress. I especially loved how the plot unfolds over several years, allowing the characters to grow naturally without rushing to a resolution.
The cinematography is stunning — from lush green rice fields to sparkling blue oceans and winding coastal roads, it’s an absolute visual delight.
What could’ve made it a 10/10:
The male lead often feels too passive. If he had shown more initiative truly stepping into a leading role instead of being passively driven by the circumstances, it would’ve elevated the show to greatness.
Overall:
A deeply emotional, heartfelt series that left a lasting impression.
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