Just as you completed watching “When Life Gives You Tangerines,” and wipe the remaining tears off your face, most of you will undoubtedly admit that this Netflix series is the best K-drama production ever. Don’t you think so too?
But wait. As we are all busy admiring the impressive production and the impeccable performances of the cast, for some people, “When Life Gives You Tangerines” just doesn’t sit quite right. And no. It’s NOT because this is a bad series. Instead, it’s for another understandable reasons that others may not understand.
So today, we’re going to invite you to see the other side of the perspective and get to know why “When Life Gives You Tangerines” may not be the best K-drama for some people.
A Realistic Review of “When Life Gives You Tangerines” Went Viral
As “When Life Gives You Tangerines” continues to break records and dominate discussions as the best K-drama ever, a slightly different perspective recently went viral—and it’s causing waves in the K-drama community.
The drama, which boasts an exceptional 9.3 rating from over 7,328 users on MyDramaList—a rare feat even for the most successful K-dramas—has received near-universal praise. With the impeccable performances of the stellar cast and impressive scenes showing raw and realistic human emotions, everything about this series just screams perfection.
Yet, amidst this overwhelming acclaim, one particular review has captured attention for taking a completely opposite stance.
But before you jump to conclusions—no, the reviewer didn’t think the drama was bad. In fact, they acknowledged that “When Life Gives You Tangerines” is a masterpiece.
In contrast, their reasons for almost giving up on the series came from a much deeper, more personal place. And it’s entirely possible that this reason has resonated with many, yet is often left unspoken.
The Reviewer was NOT Impressed – What Happened?
The viral review came from Korean journalist Yoo Jeong Ryeol of Oh My News. In a personal piece, he truthfully shared his emotional struggle and experience while watching the series. And despite recognizing the brilliance of “When Life Gives You Tangerines” as the best K-drama to watch, he confessed that he almost gave up watching midway.
So, what was so painful that made a seasoned drama enthusiast like him hesitant to continue?
The answer wasn’t about the production quality, the acting, or even the storyline. Instead, the struggle stemmed from a personal emotional journey. He admitted that while the drama beautifully portrays the highs and lows of family relationships—filled with love, loss, and longing—for him, it struck a raw nerve instead.
Having grown up in a broken home with a neglectful father and an indifferent stepmother, he found many of the show’s touching moments almost too unbearable to watch.
The unwavering love of Ae Sun and Gwan Sik to Geum Myeong, their selfless sacrifices, and the warmth of their family ties—these elements, while inspiring for many viewers, felt alien to someone who never experienced that kind of affection growing up.
Therefore, as he continued watching, he admitted that the envy and sadness he felt made it difficult to immerse himself in the story.
“The more I watched, the more I felt like a sulky child, nitpicking for no reason. I wasn’t mad at the drama. I was just jealous. Jealous of a life I never had.”
Yoo Jeong Ryeol .
This candid perspective struck a chord with many viewers who, despite loving K-dramas, often find themselves emotionally distanced from the stories of perfect families and heartwarming love.
“When Life Gives You Tangerines” Will NOT Be the Best K-drama for You – If…
While “When Life Gives You Tangerines” is undeniably a beautiful, well-crafted story that touches the hearts of many, it’s important to recognize that not everyone experiences it the same way. And that’s completely okay.
If you come from a background of unresolved childhood trauma—especially involving emotionally distant parents, a broken family, or a home where love was scarce—this drama may hit too close to home.
Journalist Yoo Jeong Ryeol’s experience has truly highlighted an often-overlooked truth: sometimes, a story that resonates deeply with the majority can be painful for those who have lived through similar circumstances but have yet to heal.
The drama’s powerful depiction of family love, sacrifice, and emotional bonds can feel like a bittersweet reminder of what some viewers never had.
So, if you’ve been through traumatic experiences and are still in the process of healing, watching “When Life Gives You Tangerines” might bring back memories and emotions that you’re not ready to face.
And that’s perfectly fine! You don’t have to force yourself to confront unresolved feelings just because a show is critically acclaimed.
Healing is not linear, and it’s okay to step back when you need to.
Prepare Yourself Completely Before Watching the Series
Now, there are chances that despite all your unresolved issues with family, relationships, and past trauma, you still wish to watch to embark on the emotional journey of this series. After all, you’re not alone. We all just cannot resist to witness why “When Life Gives You Tangerines” deemed as the best K-drama of this year.
If that’s the case, it’s important to prepare yourself emotionally. Believe us, this is not just a lighthearted rom-com or an action-packed thriller. It’s a drama that explores the complexities of life, love, and family with raw intensity. And so, this is how you can mentally prepare yourself:
Acknowledge Your Emotions
Be honest with yourself about your emotional state. If certain themes in the drama might trigger unresolved emotions, consider whether you’re ready to confront them.
Watch with Emotional Support
Consider watching the series with someone you trust. Having someone to talk to can help process the intense emotions that might arise.
Take Breaks if Needed
Now matter how and why people say that “When Life Gives You Tangerines” is the best K-drama, there’s no rule that says you have to binge-watch it in one go. Give yourself time to reflect between episodes if you need it.
Seek Comfort in Other Stories
If “When Life Gives You Tangerines” feels too overwhelming, it’s okay to switch to something lighter. You can always come back to it when you’re ready.
All in all, please remember that it’s okay to protect your emotional well-being first. You don’t have to finish a drama just because everyone else loves it.
When Life Gives You Tangerines – Doesn’t Matter! You Have Done Well
At the end of the day, whether “When Life Gives You Tangerines” resonates with you or not, the most important thing is to always remember that you have done well!
Life doesn’t always give us sweet tangerines—sometimes, they’re painfully sour. And that’s okay. Yoo’s journey reminds us that it’s perfectly fine to walk away from a story that feels too heavy for your heart.
Whether you’ve loved the drama or found it too difficult to watch, know that you’re not alone. Your feelings are valid, and each of your emotional journey is unique.
In fact, the essence of “When Life Gives You Tangerines” lies in its unspoken message: Life is never perfect, but you have done well just by making it through.
So, whether this drama became your new favorite or one you had to walk away from, give yourself the credit you deserve. You have done well, no matter how life’s tangerines taste. And that, after all, is the most important story of all.
Now, what about you? What did you feel when you finished watching “When Life Gives You Tangerines” – was it the best K-drama for you, and why? Please share your thoughts in the comments.
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