“It’s Okay to Not Be Okay” is a South Korean drama series that explores mental health issues, family dynamics, and the power of love and healing. The drama stars Kim Soo-hyun as Moon Gang-tae, a psychiatric ward caretaker who has dedicated his life to taking care of his autistic older brother, Sang-tae (Oh Jung-se). Gang-tae‘s life takes an unexpected turn when he meets Ko Moon-young (Seo Ye-ji), a children’s book writer with an antisocial personality disorder.
The drama is unique in its portrayal of mental health issues, as it goes beyond the surface-level symptoms and delves into the root causes of the characters’ conditions. It shows how childhood trauma and family dynamics can shape a person’s personality and behavior, and how these issues can be addressed through therapy and self-reflection.
One of the standout performances in the drama comes from Seo Ye-ji, who plays the complex character of Ko Moon-young. Moon-young is a successful author who hides her vulnerability behind a tough exterior, but as the series progresses, we see her slowly opening up to Gang-tae and confronting her past traumas. Seo Ye-ji‘s nuanced portrayal of the character adds depth and complexity to the story and makes her one of the most compelling characters in the series.
Kim Soo-hyun also delivers a strong performance as Gang-tae, a character who has sacrificed his own dreams and desires for the sake of his brother’s wellbeing. He portrays the character’s inner conflict and emotional turmoil with sensitivity and depth, and his chemistry with Seo Ye-ji is palpable on-screen.
The drama’s visual style is also worth noting, as it features stunning cinematography and surreal imagery that reflect the characters’ inner thoughts and emotions. The use of fairy tale motifs and symbolism adds to the dreamlike quality of the drama and gives it a distinct and memorable visual identity.
The supporting cast is also strong, with notable performances from Oh Jung-se as Sang-tae, Gang-tae‘s brother who struggles with his own trauma, and Park Gyu-young as Nam Ju-ri, a nurse who harbors a crush on Gang-tae. Their stories and relationships with the main characters add depth and richness to the overall narrative.
One of the themes of the drama is the power of storytelling and how it can help us confront our inner demons and heal from past traumas. Moon-young‘s children’s books serve as a metaphor for this theme, as they are both a source of comfort and a means of exploring difficult emotions.
Overall, “It’s Okay to Not Be Okay” is a compelling and thought-provoking drama that explores complex themes with sensitivity and depth. Its unique visual style, strong performances, and engaging storyline make it a standout entry in the Korean drama landscape, and it’s a must-watch for fans of the genre.
