“Mr. Plankton” is a romantic comedy that follows the final journey of Hae-jo (Woo Do-hwan), a man who believes he was born by mistake, and Jae-mi (Lee Yoo-mi), the unluckiest woman of the world, who ends up accompanying him against his will. According to Netflix’s Top 10 website, “Mr. Plankton” ranked fifth globally in the non-English TV category for the week of November 11-17 it also secured a place in the Top 10 in 42 countries, including South Korea, proving its widespread popularity even in its second week of release.
Published Nov. 8, “Mr. Plankton” showcases the characteristic warmth, humor and insightful perspective of director Hong Jong-chan and writer Jo-yong. The series has been praised for its deep emotional impact and the touching reflection it leaves on viewers. Compelling performances from an all-star cast, including Woo Do-hwan, Lee Yoo-mi, Oh Jung-se and Kim Hae-sook, bring Hae-jo and Jae-mi’s journey to life as they navigate loss, connection, and the value of life.
Writer Jo-yong’s reflections on the series
Q. What story did you want to tell through “Mr. Plankton”?
Plankton, the smallest creature in the marine food chain, may seem insignificant, but it supports Earth’s vast ecosystem through the oxygen it produces. Their existence is humbling and beautiful. It got me thinking: Is there anyone or anything in this world that isn’t precious?
However, people often complain “Why was I born? I have no talent, no dreams, no purpose.” I wanted to portray the aimless wanderings of these individuals, like adrift microorganisms, pushing them towards unpredictable challenges to watch them grow and reflect. Through life’s trials, perhaps they would come to realize their worth, the value of a single day, and the happiness they bring to others.
The series represents the intense reflection of a young man on the edge of life, coming to terms with his purpose. When asked if “Mr. Plankton” has a sad or happy ending, I replied that life is a mix between the living and the memories of those who are no longer here. There is therefore no definitive end, our history is “without end”. I hope viewers won’t be sad for too long, as Hae-jo is still with us in spirit.
Q. What does the title “Mr. Plankton” means?
The word “plankton” comes from a Greek term meaning “wanderer” or “wanderer.” Hae-jo, born rootless and adrift in life, has become the perfect embodiment of this title. On a larger scale, the title refers to all the characters, Hae-jo, Jae-mi and others, each with their own flaws and shortcomings as they face life’s journey.
Q. What was the underlying message behind Hae-jo and Jae-mi becoming each other’s happiness despite their difficulties?
Hae-jo, who had never truly settled down or cared for anything, finds a new sense of attachment and value in life through his journey with Jae-mi. He learns to cherish the love and fleeting moments he once took for granted.
Jae-mi, whose dream of becoming a mother was shattered, discovers through Hae-jo that her true desire was not motherhood but unconditional love, both in giving and receiving it. His dream ultimately comes true through their connection.
Q. The concept of “home” seems significant to Hae-jo and Jae-mi. Why?
For both characters, “home” symbolizes a space they desperately wanted but never truly had. Hae-jo called her commission center “Commission House,” as if to allude to her desire for a place to belong. Jae-mi similarly sought refuge in a traditional family, even if it wasn’t truly hers. Their inability to find a permanent home mirrors their fate as wanderers, destined to continue drifting together.
Hae-jo’s touching phrase, “I’m not here because I have nowhere else to go. I’m here because I don’t want to be anywhere” encapsulates the theme of questioning society’s expectations of having a purpose, a home, or a family. Must we always have a goal or destination? Sometimes wandering is just another path in life.
Q. A message for viewers who love “Mr. Plankton”?
Thank you for loving Hae-jo, Jae-mi and all the characters. Thank you for encouraging them as they stumbled and struggled and grew. I am deeply grateful to director Hong Jong-chan, the crew and the talented cast, whose efforts made this long journey memorable. Thank you all for your support.
Source: Daum
