When Life Gives You Tangerines, the Netflix K-drama starring IU and Park Bo Gum, has taken the world by storm. This heartfelt series, set on the picturesque Jeju Island, follows the lives of Oh Ae Sun and Yang Gwan Sik across decades. It’s a story of love, family, and resilience that has touched millions. The drama has earned praise for its emotional depth, topping IMDb’s popularity charts and securing nominations at the 2025 Baeksang Arts Awards. Beyond its captivating plot, the series shares timeless lessons about navigating life’s highs and lows. Here’s a closer look at the powerful messages it delivers.
A Story Rooted in Real Emotions
The series begins in the 1950s on Jeju Island, where Oh Ae Sun, played by IU, grows up in poverty. Despite her struggles, she dreams of becoming a poet. Yang Gwan Sik, portrayed by Park Bo Gum, is her quiet but devoted childhood friend. Their bond deepens over time, facing challenges like societal norms and personal losses.
The drama spans six decades, showing their journey from youth to old age. Moon So Ri and Park Hae Joon play the older Ae Sun and Gwan Sik, bringing depth to their later years. Directed by Kim Won Suk and written by Lim Sang Choon, the series blends romance, history, and slice-of-life moments. Its rich storytelling and stunning visuals make every episode feel alive.
“When Life Gives You Tangerines is an ode to the older generations who lived their lives with such resilience and a song of encouragement for the younger generation, who have their whole lives ahead of them,” said Kim Won Suk.
Life’s Beauty Lies in Its Messiness
One of the drama’s biggest lessons is that life doesn’t follow a plan. Ae Sun faces a tough childhood after losing her father. Her mother, Gwang Rye, a haenyeo diver, works tirelessly to support her. Yet, Ae Sun refuses to let hardship define her. She chases her dreams with courage, even when the odds are against her.
Gwan Sik, on the other hand, is steady and hardworking. He loves Ae Sun fiercely, supporting her through every storm. Their story shows that life’s unpredictability is what makes it meaningful. You don’t need all the answers—just the will to keep going.
Life throws challenges at everyone, but it’s how you respond that shapes your path.
Mistakes and setbacks are part of growth, not failure.
Every new day offers a chance to start again.
Family Holds You Together
Family is at the heart of When Life Gives You Tangerines. Ae Sun’s bond with her mother is complex but unbreakable. Gwan Sik’s family disapproves of Ae Sun, yet he stands by her. As they build their own family, their daughter Yang Geum Myeong faces her own struggles, showing how family ties evolve.
The series portrays family as a source of strength. Whether through arguments or quiet moments of care, these connections ground us. The drama reminds viewers to value their loved ones, no matter how messy those relationships can be.
Family doesn’t have to be perfect to be meaningful.
Small acts, like sharing a meal, build lasting bonds.
Forgiveness and understanding keep families strong.
The love between Ae Sun and Gwan Sik is raw and real. It’s not about grand gestures but quiet sacrifices. In one memorable scene, Gwan Sik swims across the ocean to reunite with Ae Sun, proving his devotion. Their relationship faces trials—poverty, disapproval, and loss—but they never give up on each other.
“I believe that she has been head-over-heels in love with him from the beginning,” IU said about Ae Sun. “But even though that’s the case, Ae Sun is someone who’s too proud to admit that.”
The drama also explores other forms of love. Geum Myeong’s romantic journey teaches that love is about finding someone who lets you be yourself. From parental love to lifelong partnerships, the series shows love’s many shapes.
True love grows through patience and trust.
It’s the everyday acts—like listening or staying—that matter most.
Love doesn’t fade, even when life changes.
Cherishing the Moment Matters
When Life Gives You Tangerines urges viewers to hold onto the present. Ae Sun often reflects on lost chances, while Gwan Sik quietly gives up his dreams for others. Their story is a reminder to appreciate what you have now.
The series captures Jeju Island’s beauty—its canola fields, rocky shores, and tangerine groves. These settings ground the characters’ lives, showing that joy hides in simple things. Fans on social media echoed this, sharing how the drama made them rethink their priorities.
“Did I finish When Life Gives You Tangerines, or did it finish me?” an X user wrote. “It finished me. It FINISHED ME.”
Don’t wait to tell people you care.
Small joys, like a sunset or a laugh, are worth savoring.
Life moves fast—pause to notice what’s around you.
Youth Is a Time to Live Fully
The drama celebrates youth as a season for growth. Ae Sun and Gwan Sik make bold choices in their younger years, from chasing dreams to defying expectations. Their mistakes teach them resilience, and their joys—like their first kiss—remind them to live.
“For me, the first time that I read the script written by writer Lim, I thought instantly that all of the seasons that the two characters Gwan Sik and Ae Sun go through are so beautiful and so endearing and lovable,” said Park Bo Gum.
The series shows that youth isn’t just about surviving—it’s about creating memories. Whether it’s Ae Sun’s poetry or Gwan Sik’s quiet support, their early years shape who they become.
Take risks, even if they scare you.
Memories you make now will carry you later.
Youth is fleeting, so live it with heart.
A Drama That Stays With You
When Life Gives You Tangerines is more than a K-drama—it’s a mirror of life’s ups and downs. IU and Park Bo Gum deliver performances that feel honest and raw. The supporting cast, including Yeom Hye Ran, Na Moon Hee, and Kim Yong Rim, adds warmth and depth. With a reported budget of ₩60 billion, the series shines in its detailed sets and cinematography.
Social media buzz reflects its impact. Fans shared emotional reactions, calling it a “masterpiece” that left them crying and inspired.
“When Life Gives You Tangerines has me sobbing on the floor, I don’t remember the last I sobbed non-stop while watching a kdrama,” an X user posted.
The series aired from March 7 to March 28, 2025, releasing four episodes weekly. Its 16 episodes weave Jeju’s culture and Korea’s history into a universal story. Viewers praised its pacing, which unfolds slowly like peeling a tangerine, revealing layers of meaning.
Directed by Kim Won Suk, known for My Mister and Signal.
Written by Lim Sang Choon, who penned When the Camellia Blooms.
Filmed in Jeju and Andong from March 2023 to February 2024.
Features haenyeo divers, highlighting Jeju’s traditions.
