My First First Love

Netflix's South Korean drama, My First First Love, is a romantic coming-of-age series that draws heavily on themes of friendship, love, and the pangs of growing up. Premiered in 2019, the series stars popular Korean actors Ji Soo, Jung Chae-yeon, and Jinyoung, who each deliver authentic and heartfelt performances that charmingly portray the complexities of youth.

The series opens with Yoon Tae-oh, played by Ji Soo, a college student with a freewheeling spirit, who takes pleasure in his independence provided by his rich family who live abroad. He resides alone in a charming, well-appointed house in the heart of Seoul. His tranquil solo life, however, takes a turn when he unexpectedly becomes the host for his friends who, due to different personal complications, find themselves homeless and end up moving into Tae-oh's place, transforming his peaceful days into an amusing chaos.

Audiences will appreciate and relate to the five main characters, each distinct with their personality traits and personal struggles. They include Han Song-yi, played by Jung Chae-yeon, Tae-oh’s childhood best friend with an enduring spirit; Seo Do-hyun, portrayed by Jinyoung, a hardworking business major and Tae-oh’s best friend from college; Ryu Se-hyun, played by Choi Ri, a rival and love interest of Song-yi at their university’s Architectural Department; and lastly, Oh Ga-rin, portrayed by Kang Tae-oh, a runaway rich girl with a fierce, independent streak.

On the surface, My First First Love might seem like a charming, lighthearted drama about friends sharing a living space, but it delves deeper into the seminal themes of coming-of-age. At its core, the show explores the tribulations of adulting, from dealing with financial struggles, familial responsibilities, academic pressures, career uncertainties, to the pull and push of romantic relationships. What makes the series endearing is its real and raw premise. The makers have paid keen attention to crafting each character’s arc, showing in detail the realities of young adulthood, the challenging decisions they must make, and the personal growth they experience throughout the series.

The performances by the ensemble cast are enthusiastic and compelling, bringing to life the characters' diversity and dynamic. Ji Soo, recognized for his talent in portraying the emotional nuances of his characters, gives life to Tae-oh’s character with warmth and depth. Meanwhile, Jung Chae-yeon, a member of the K-pop group DIA, impresses with her elegant portrayal of Song-yi's spirited charm and resilience. Jinyoung, a member of the boy band B1A4, brings a perfect mix of seriousness and kindness to his character, Do-hyun, balancing the sometimes intense emotional scenes with levity.

Apart from its gripping storyline, the show features picturesque cinematography, with each frame capturing the buzzing and scenic locales of Seoul beautifully. The soundtrack is filled with comforting and soulful K-pop melodies, that resonates well with the show’s youthful and emotional essence, setting the perfect ambiance for each scene.

Director Oh Jin-seok, known for his work on hit series like "Yong Pal" and "Goddess of Marriage", does an excellent job of drawing viewers into the lives and experiences of the main characters. He expertly uses visual aesthetics and storytelling techniques to create an engaging narrative that navigates between romance, comedy, and drama.

Scriptwriter Kim Min-seo, acclaimed for her work on the popular drama "Little Black Dress", crafts a compelling narrative filled with twists and turns. The dialogues are intelligent and expressive, laden with humor, emotion, and wisdom. The expertly written plot leaves the audience eagerly anticipating how each character's journey will unfold, making each episode a captivating watch.

Over its two-season run, My First First Love maintains its youthful appeal while dealing with complex themes that bring ample depth and maturity to the narrative. It beautifully captures the emotional roller coaster ride of first love, friendship, and growing up, making it a must-watch series for those looking for a wholesome and nostalgic exploration of youth, love, and friendship. This Netflix series is a testament to the charm of Korean dramas, offering a sparkling blend of intense emotion, warmth, and unique storytelling.