The trope of “childhood friends” or “arguing couple” is familiar to K-dramas. However, when applied at the right time, this familiar formula creates a positive impact on viewers. The main couple in “Love Next Door” is a great example, as these childhood friends constantly argue every time they meet, with neither willing to back down.
A lesson for adults: learning to find happiness in imperfection
Beginning with a journey back to her roots, “Love Next Door” paints an emotional contrast between the luxurious and glamorous life in the United States and the peaceful warmth of home. Seok-ryu, despite her enormous success abroad, feels an emptiness inside. Loneliness, fierce competition, and invisible pressures in modern society make her realize that material wealth cannot bring true happiness.
The male protagonist, Choi Seung-hyo, also faces many challenges as he starts his own company. With no capital and no clients, this talented architect with numerous awards is struggling to make his dreams come true. Seok-ryu’s mother is both pitiful and somewhat to blame, as she placed all her hopes and dreams in her daughter, only to emotionally collapse when she learned that Seok-ryu had lost his job and called off his engagement.
Many viewers sympathize with Seok-ryu, who lived and worked like a machine just to meet her parents’ expectations. Her words during an argument struck a chord with many: “Why do I always have to be your pride? Can’t I just be your daughter?”
Sometimes, parental expectations put pressure on children to always succeed. When exhaustion reaches its peak, both parents and children are hurt by their selfish thoughts. Seok-ryu’s timely expression of feelings and his mother’s understanding opened a way for both of them to heal. After all, family remains the place to return to and heal from life’s wounds.
When healing becomes a “hot trend”
The word “healing” refers to the tendency to seek healing, emotionally and physically. This “healing” tendency has been embraced, especially as urban dwellers feel overwhelmed by immense pressures.
Before the wave of healing became a global post-pandemic trend, series like “Reply,” “When the Camellia Blooms,” and “Dear My Friends” pioneered deep emotional connections with audiences. The success of these shows demonstrates the enduring appeal of dramas that focus on everyday life, human relationships, and core values.
Unlike other genres that often emphasize tension or escapism, therapeutic dramas emphasize overcoming life’s challenges and finding inner peace and community.
When young people flock to the cities, drawn by the neon lights and the frenetic rush for opportunities and dreams, they can also feel lost and alone. It is only by returning to their hometowns, among vast fields and calm rivers, that they rediscover peace of mind. There, they are embraced by the love of family, share simple village stories, and experience the true meaning of life.
While healing films don’t shy away from portraying life’s hardships, they are known for their positive and hopeful messages. Characters’ journeys toward peace or achieving their dreams inspire a sense of optimism and encourage viewers to believe in miracles in their lives.
Another important aspect of healing dramas is the soothing atmosphere and scenery they often depict. Poetic and rustic settings, such as the streets of Hyereung-dong, Hong Jin Village, Jeju Island, or the Ssangmundong district in “Reply,” contrast sharply with the fast-paced, bustling city life. These tranquil rural landscapes and beautiful natural settings act as a rejuvenating tonic for the soul, providing mental relief from everyday stress and creating a space for viewers to relax and reflect.
According to Dr. Dang Thieu Ngan, a Korean culture expert, “Urban life in all major cities around the world is very stressful. Seoul, in particular, is extremely pressured, especially with large companies and corporations that impose rigid demands on their employees’ time and work efficiency. When life and work become tough, with high competition and increasing stress, movies that depict romantic love and peaceful lives help balance the psyche of people in modern Korean society.”
Source: Travellive
