17 Again! Korean Drama Review on Netflix
Synopsis
"17 Again!" is a popular South Korean drama that premiered on Netflix in 2022. The series is based on the 2009 American film "17 Again," starring Zac Efron. The Korean remake takes the original concept and adds its own unique spin, exploring themes of identity, family, and first love.
Storyline
The drama follows the story of Gong Woo-Young (played by Yang Se-Jong), a 37-year-old man who feels like he's lost his way in life. He's unhappy in his marriage, struggling in his career, and disconnected from his family. One day, he magically transforms back into his 17-year-old self (played by Kim Yoo-Hwan) and enrolls in high school again.
As Woo-Young navigates high school for the second time, he reconnects with his long-lost first love, Ja-Young (played by Kim Kang-Hyun), and forms new friendships with his classmates. Through his experiences, he learns to re-evaluate his priorities, heal old wounds, and find a new sense of purpose in life.
Characters
Gong Woo-Young (Yang Se-Jong)
The protagonist of the story, Woo-Young is a complex and relatable character. His transformation back into his teenage self forces him to confront his past mistakes and re-examine his relationships. Yang Se-Jong brings depth and nuance to the character, making it easy to empathize with his struggles.
Ja-Young (Kim Kang-Hyun)
Ja-Young is Woo-Young's first love and the reason he wanted to turn back time. Kim Kang-Hyun shines as the feisty and determined Ja-Young, who is not afraid to speak her mind.
Themes
Identity
The drama explores the theme of identity, particularly in the context of adulthood. Woo-Young's transformation forces him to re-evaluate his identity and rediscover what makes him happy.
Family
The importance of family is a recurring theme in "17 Again!" Woo-Young's relationships with his wife, daughter, and parents are put to the test as he navigates his new reality.
First Love
The drama romanticizes first love, highlighting its intensity and passion. Woo-Young's rekindled romance with Ja-Young adds a sweet and sentimental touch to the story.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Engaging storyline with a unique premise
- Strong performances from the cast, particularly Yang Se-Jong
- Heartwarming and sentimental moments
- Themes of identity, family, and first love are well-explored
Cons
- Some plot twists feel contrived or convenient
- Pacing can be slow in certain episodes
- Limited character development for supporting characters
Is it Worth Watching?
"17 Again!" is a heartwarming and engaging drama that explores themes of identity, family, and first love. With strong performances from the cast and a unique premise, it's a great addition to your Netflix watchlist. While it's not without its flaws, the drama's sentimental moments and engaging storyline make it a worthwhile watch.
Rating: 4/5 stars
