Get ready to see Jeju Island in the 1950s, where the beautiful ocean hides tough realities, and a gentle love story starts. “When Life Gives You Tangerines” shows us a unique way of life and a sweet romance, with characters that pull you right into their world.
First, let’s dive into the world of the haenyeos, the real stars of Jeju’s rugged coastline. These “sea women” are more than just divers; they’re a living testament to resilience and tradition. Picture this: without modern scuba gear, they plunge into the ocean’s embrace, holding their breath for minutes at a time, gathering treasures from the seabed. Their knowledge of the sea is profound, passed down through generations, and their bodies are honed to withstand the crushing pressure and the chilling cold. The show captures the essence of their lives – the camaraderie, the hardship, and the sheer bravery it takes to face the ocean’s depths every day.
Young Ae Sun and her mother, Jeon Gwang Rye. Photo: Netflix
We see this bravery exemplified in Ae-Sun’s mother, Jeon Gwang Rye (portrayed by Yeom Hye Ran). She is not just a mother, but a powerful haenyeo, a vital part of the island’s backbone. Her struggles and resilience are a constant presence in Ae Sun’s life, showing the strength that the young girl is surrounded by.
Ae Sun (portrayed by IU). Photo: Netflix
Now, let’s meet the heart of our story: Ae Sun (portrayed by IU). She’s a young woman with a spirit as vibrant as the tangerines of her island home. She dreams of becoming a poet, finding solace in books and words, even amidst the tough realities of her life. Her intelligence and gentle nature draw us in, and we can’t help but root for her aspirations.
Gwan Sik (portrayed by Park Bo Gum). Photo: Netflix
Then there’s Gwan Sik (portrayed by Park Bo Gum). He’s the epitome of sincerity and devotion, portrayed with a charming earnestness. His eyes light up when he’s around Ae Sun, and his actions speak volumes of his quiet admiration. He’s a steadfast presence, a comforting constant in Ae Sun’s world, and their budding romance is a delicate dance of stolen glances and unspoken feelings.
Their interactions feel like a warm, gentle breeze on a summer day. Ae Sun, with her head full of poetry and dreams, finds a kindred spirit in the sincere and devoted Gwan Sik. Every stolen glance, every shared secret, and every shy smile is a moment of pure sweetness. You can’t help but root for them as they navigate the awkwardness and excitement of first love. It’s the kind of love that makes your heart flutter, the kind that reminds you of your own youthful dreams.
But their love story isn’t just a fluffy romance; it’s grounded in the reality of their surroundings. The haenyeo’s struggles, the island’s economic hardships, and the societal pressures they face add depth and complexity to their relationship. It’s a love that blossoms amidst adversity, making it more precious.
Ae Sun (IU) and Gwan Sik (Park Bo Gum) selling cabbages and fishes. Photo: Netflix
“When Life Gives You Tangerines” masterfully weaves together these compelling characters and the unique world they inhabit. The strength of the haenyeo and the tenderness of Ae Sun and Gwan Sik’s love create a captivating narrative that will leave you wanting more. It’s a story that reminds us that even in the harshest of environments, love and resilience can flourish.
So, if you’re looking for a drama that will tug at your heartstrings and introduce you to a world of extraordinary women, dive into “When Life Gives You Tangerines”. You won’t be disappointed!
Watch When Life Gives You Tangerines trailer below:
