Clean with Passion for Now

Clean with Passion for Now is a South Korean television series that aired on JTBC from November 2018 to February 2019 for a span of 16 captivating episodes. It showcases an intriguing blend of romance, comedy and life lessons, brilliantly executed under the direction of Noh Jong-chan and beautifully penned by Han Hee-jung.

The show is based on a popular webcomic of the same name, which was first published in 2013 on Naver Webtoon and written by Aengo. The adaptation enhances the comic’s charm, providing its ardent fans with a delightful visual experience.

The narrative revolves around Jang Sun-gyeol, a man who has mysophobia, an excessive fear of germs, and therefore lives a life full of cleanliness and sanitation. He is the owner of a cleaning company, aptly named 'Cleaning Fairy', wherein he ensures every speck of dust and dirt is wiped away. The cleaning company isn't just a business for him, but is more of a therapeutic solution to his mysophobia. It provides him a controlled environment where he is able to maintain his self-imposed threshold of cleanliness and hygiene.

In stark contrast, we have Gil Oh-sol, a job seeker who has given up on cleanliness to survive in her difficult life circumstances. Oh-sol is a carefree character who prioritizes survival over sanitation and does not bother about keeping things tidy. The show pivots on the ramifications of their contrasting worldviews, and the magic that happens when these two individuals cross paths.

When Oh-sol ends up working for Sun-gyeol’s company ‘Cleaning Fairy’, sparks fly as neat freak Sun-gyeol is continuously irritated by messy Oh-sol. Strangely, their contrasting personalities bring them closer together and kick-starts an impressive narrative focusing on understanding, acceptance, love and above all, the power of human connection.

Amidst their irregular rom-com-esque existence, the show also touches the chord of family dynamics. Sun-gyeol’s estranged relationship with his mother, and Oh-sol’s affectionate bond with her family, further highlights their differential upbringing and its impact on their personalities.

Both Yoon Kyun-sang and Kim You-jung have portrayed their respective characters masterfully. Yoon, as Jang Sun-gyeol, convincingly displays the constant internal struggle of a mysophobe, while Kim You-jung, as Gil Oh-sol, perfectly expresses her character’s vibrant spirit and resilience. Their chemistry is profoundly organic, filling the show with an emotional depth that leaves the audience enchanted.

One of the particularly noteworthy aspects of this show is its omnipresent undertone of teaching life lessons without being preachy. It subtly highlights how our fears and insecurities might envelop us into their shadows, but facing them can lead to a cathartic release. It also points out that dirt and clutter are part of life, and chasing an utopian cleanliness is not only unachievable but also unsustainable.

The show is visually appealing, with cinematography being one of its major strengths. It paints a vivid picture of the struggles of a mysophobe, and how even the usual day-to-day chores can be traumatizing. The active use of colors and the constant contrast between the clean and dirty environments are treated like characters in themselves, playing a crucial role in narrating the story.

Equally noteworthy is its music, which perfectly complements the series’ tone – ranging from playful to profound. The soundtrack, with its subtle tunes and emotive lyrics, unerringly captures the vibe of the series and enhances the overall viewing experience.

In conclusion, Clean with Passion for Now is a heart-warming drama that skillfully intertwines romance, comedy, and self-discovery in a unique way. It stands as an enjoyable watch, replete with moments that can make one laugh, tear up, and ponder over life's subtle realities. A must-watch for individuals who seek a light-hearted TV show with an underlying significant theme. Through its storytelling, it delivers the message that it’s okay to embrace our fears and imperfections, and that accepting them makes us more human. This charming tale will undoubtedly leave a clean, refreshing feeling in your hearts.