Netflix’s latest Korean drama, When Life Gives You Tangerines, has been attracting significant attention across the globe. The show, set in the 1960s on the picturesque island of Jeju, beautifully showcases the region’s stunning landscapes. With rolling waves, vibrant yellow canola fields, and bustling markets, the drama transports viewers to a time of struggle and resilience.
Since its premiere on March 7, When Life Gives You Tangerines has gained massive popularity. As of March 12, the drama ranked sixth globally in the Netflix TV show category, according to FlixPatrol. It reached No. 1 in 13 countries, including several in Asia and the Middle East. The title, which translates to “Pokssak Sogatsuda” in Jeju dialect, means “You’ve worked hard,” symbolizing the perseverance of the characters.
The drama follows the lives of Ae-sun, her mother Gwang-rye, and Gwan-sik, whose destinies are intertwined with the sea. Set in Jeju, the show’s beautiful coastal setting plays a central role in the storytelling. This seaside village genre continues to captivate viewers, as seen in previous hits like When the Camellia Blooms and Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha. These shows use coastal settings to tell touching and relatable human stories.
In the first four episodes, When Life Gives You Tangerines has received praise for its stunning cinematography and realistic depiction of 1960s life. While the themes of struggle and love may seem familiar, the drama’s emotional depth stands out. Ae-sun, portrayed by IU, is a determined girl from a family of female divers. She faces many challenges but ultimately finds love and support in Gwan-sik, played by Park Bo-gum.
The drama’s strong performances from the cast have also been highlighted. Child actress Kim Tae-yeon, who plays young Ae-sun, and Yeom Hye-ran, who portrays Ae-sun’s mother, have received critical acclaim. Their heartfelt performances enhance the drama’s authenticity, as viewers see the characters grow through different stages of life.
With a budget of 60 billion won ($42 million), When Life Gives You Tangerines brings together top talent. Writer Lim Sang-choon, known for When the Camellia Blooms, and director Kim Won-seok, of Signal and My Mister fame, lead the project. The high-quality production is evident in every scene, with Ryu Seong-hie’s set design adding a cinematic touch.
While the show is expected to succeed in Asia, its appeal in North America remains uncertain. Cultural critic Kim Hern-sik notes that the series is deeply rooted in Korean culture. However, director Kim Won-seok believes the story’s universal themes of life and human emotions will resonate worldwide.
As the drama nears its finale, fans eagerly anticipate how the story will unfold, hoping for more heartfelt moments and beautiful scenery. When Life Gives You Tangerines continues to capture hearts with its relatable characters and picturesque setting, marking a new milestone for Korean streaming content.
