Discovery of Romance

Discovery of Romance, often known as "Finding True Love," is a compelling South Korean television drama broadcast on KBS in 2014. This show skillfully straddles the genres of romantic comedy and drama, presenting viewers with an evocative exploration of love, heartbreak, and the complexities of human relationships. The series was applauded for its realistic depiction of modern relationships, intricately plotted storyline, and powerful performances, cementing its position as one of the leading K-dramas of its year.

The story revolves around three central characters – Han Yeo-reum, Kang Tae-ha, and Nam Ha-jin. Yeo-reum, portrayed by the talented Jung Yu-mi, is a talented furniture designer who operates her own workshop. She’s driven, independent, and has an infectious zest for life. However, beneath the resilient exterior, Yeo-reum carries emotional scars from a past relationship that ended abruptly.

Enter Kang Tae-ha, Yeo-reum's ex-boyfriend, played by Eric Mun. Tae-ha is the owner of an interior design company and is a charismatic and successful businessman who seems to have it all. However, his chance encounter with Yeo-reum unravels hidden emotions, leading him on a journey of self-discovery and a revaluation of his past romance with Yeo-reum.

Adding another layer to the melodrama is the character of Nam Ha-jin, played by Sung Joon. He’s a kind-hearted plastic surgeon who is deeply in love with Yeo-reum and wants to marry her. Despite his seemingly perfect exterior, Ha-jin has his own struggles and insecurities, particularly surrounding his relationship with Yeo-reum in the shadow of her past.

Yeo-reum's two best friends, Yoon Sol and Do Joon-ho, also offer their shares of laughter and wisdom throughout the series. Sol, an aspirational jewelry designer, and Joon-ho, a confident and successful chef, both add a unique dynamic to the storyline with their personal narratives and their relationships with the main trio.

With the stage set, Discovery of Romance dives deep into the multifaceted world of adult relationships, as old feelings resurface, fresh romances bloom, and hidden secrets come to light. The show masterfully balances moments of light-hearted comedy, poignant drama, and heart-wrenching emotion to captivate its audience.

The exploration of romance in this series is unique; it delves into the complexities of dating, breakups, and everything in between. It offers a refreshing take on the journey of finding true love - underscoring that it can be far from perfect, filled with obstacles, and at times painful, but ultimately worthwhile. This relatable narrative contributes to the series' resonance with its viewers.

Aside from its gripping storyline, the series boasts excellent cinematography. With beautiful scenes set in the vibrant city of Seoul and the striking coastal town of Gangneung, the show captures the beauty of South Korea with authenticity and flair. The soundtrack also contributes significantly to the overall mood of the show, using music to accentuate the emotional depth of key scenes.

On the whole, Discovery of Romance offers a beautiful blend of romance, drama, and comedy, presenting an intelligent and emotionally engaging storyline. It is a show that isn’t afraid to delve into the messy, complex, and often confusing aspects of love and relationships, offering a more authentic, relatable viewing experience. Both the show’s lead and supporting characters are complex and well-rounded, each carrying their own set of hopes, dreams, and disappointments.

On top of the critical acclaim for its storyline and execution, the series also received several nominations at the KBS Drama Awards, including Best Actress for Jung Yu-mi and Best Actor for Eric Mun. Furthermore, it won the Best Couple award, which further asserts the on-screen chemistry between the leading actors.

To summarise, Discovery of Romance is a heartfelt exploration of love and relationships, graced by stellar performances, stunning visuals, and a captivating storyline. It is a sophisticated show that intricately handles the dynamics of love, heartbreak, and reconciliation, offering viewers a poignant and immersive viewing experience.