“When Life Gives You Tangerines” is a new Kdrama which should be on your watchlist and here is why.
The drama has all the features to make it a must watch for Kdrama fans. It is a deeply emotional, visually stunning, and beautifully crafted story that will become your favourite Kdrama in no time.
If you’re still wondering whether to watch it, here are five top reasons why we think “When Life Gives You Tangerines” should be at the top of your 2025 Kdrama watchlist.
A Unique Story That Has All – Romance, History, and Life Lessons
Unlike the usual modern day Kdramas, that focus on modern romance, office settings, or fantasy, When Life Gives You Tangerines will transport you back to 1960s Jeju Island.
It will give you glimpse into the past (especially South Korea’s past), showing the struggles, dreams, and relationships of ordinary people, living and dependent on the sea.
The drama follows Ae-sun (IU), a bold young woman with big dreams but bad luck. She is supported by Gwan-sik (Park Bo-gum), a quiet and innocent looking boy, who is devoted to Ae-sun since childhood.
Their story stretches several decades in time, showcasing how love, time, and choices shape our lives in ways we never expect.
When Life Gives You Tangerines isn’t just a romance—it’s about dreams, fate, choices, love and life. It is about everything which we experience in our life, nothing extraordinary, but everything beautiful.
IU and Park Bo-gum’s First Drama Together
Everyone knows about IU and Park Bo-gum. They both are one of the most loveable Korean actors, with fans from all over the world.
Fans have been eagerly waiting for IU and Park Bo-gum to star in a drama together and they didn’t disappoint. You will love their chemistry in When Life Gives You Tangerines.
IU as Ae-sun, brings her sweat, innocent and emotional depth to the character. You will believe everything she has to say and you will believe in her dream.
Park Bo-gum as Gwan-sik, a man of few words but deep emotions. You will love how silently, using less words, Gwan-sik shows us how much he loves and cares about Ae-sun.
Both of these actors have beautifully portrayed their roles in this drama. You will laugh when they laugh and you will cry when they do. The emotions in their eyes will speak to you. The scene where Gwan-sik for the first time breaks, is one of the most heart breaking scenes of the entire drama.
In addition to these 2 actors, Moon So-ri and Park Hae-joon play the older versions of Ae-sun and Gwan-sik, adding even more layers to the story.
Stunning Cinematography That Feels Like a Movie
When Life Gives You Tangerines is directed by Kim Won-seok, the same person who gave us My Mister and Signal.
This drama is cinematically stunning and beautiful.
Jeju Island’s tangerine orchards, cliffs, and traditional villages create a nostalgic and visually stunning scenes. You will not only love the storyline of this Kdrama but also the beautifully crafted scenes. The shooting locations have been carefully selected, offering us a look at the beautiful world of Jeju Island, in different timelines.
A Strong, Independent Female Lead Who Breaks Stereotypes
Ae-sun is not your typical K-drama heroine. She dreams big and refuses to be bound by societal norms. She speaks her mind but also deeply cares for those around her. She wants more than what life has given her and isn’t afraid to fight for it. She is what many of us aim to be.
Her character is relatable, inspiring, and different, making her one of the most memorable Kdrama female leads. Call it how she was written or how IU portrayed her, she is the character you will love. (That might also be the reason why IU plays the role of mother and daughter)
Available on Netflix – Easy to Watch Worldwide
When Life Gives You Tangerines is available to watch on Netflix, making it accessible to a global audience. Netflix chose to release episodes in different parts, forcing us to wait for new part every week.
To conclude, you should watch When Life Gives you Tangerines, if you love Kdramas with beautiful, simple love story featuring real life struggles, extraordinary characters, stunning visuals and unforgettable actors.
So, Are you watching When Life Gives You Tangerines?