Elsa

This drama is set during the IMF crisis in Korea, and honestly, it captures that era with so much sincerity. Our male lead doesn’t grow into the typical “tough hero” K-dramas love to sell us. Instead, he becomes a real man — soft, humble, emotional, and someone who cries in his mother’s arms without shame. He’s a good friend, a good son, and even though his father never said it out loud, you can feel that quiet, unspoken love in the background.

Then we have our female lead — the true backbone of her family. Strong, determined, and carrying responsibilities bigger than her age. She’s the sole earner, yet somehow still holds on to her dreams with both hands. Watching her grit and resilience was honestly one of my favorite parts of the show.

If you enjoyed the cozy nostalgia and family warmth of the Reply series, this one will definitely hit a similar emotional chord. The only difference? I’ve rewatched Reply 1988 more than 5 times… but this one? Probably not. It’s beautiful, meaningful, touching — but a one-time emotional journey for me.

Still, it’s a heartfelt story about family, hardship, growth, and love that doesn’t need big gestures to feel real. Worth a watch for anyone who loves quiet, grounded storytelling.