Why IU Was Brought to Tears—Netflix Drama Sets Sky-High Expectations Before Its Premiere

Even before its official release, Netflix’s upcoming drama When Life Gives You Tangerines is making waves. From an emotional script that brought its cast to tears to a teaser that has already garnered over 660,000 views, the drama is shaping up to be one of the most highly anticipated K-dramas of the year.

A Stellar Lineup of Storytelling Powerhouses

On March 5, the drama’s press conference was held at Conrad Seoul, with director Kim Won-seok, writer Im Sang-chun, and lead actors IU, Park Bo-gum, and Moon So-ri in attendance.

Set against the backdrop of Jeju, When Life Gives You Tangerines follows the life journeys of Aesun, a rebellious yet warm-hearted young woman, and Gwansik, a steadfast and hardworking man. Director Kim Won-seok, known for My Mister, Misaeng, and Signal, has been dubbed a “master of life-changing dramas,” while writer Im Sang-chun, behind Fight for My Way and When the Camellia Blooms, is renowned for her heartfelt storytelling.

The cast is equally impressive. IU (also known as Lee Ji-eun), playing the young Aesun, has long established herself as both a top-tier singer and actress, with Hotel Del Luna and My Mister showcasing her range. Aesun is described as a timid yet feisty literature lover who remains hopeful despite her hardships.

Park Bo-gum stars as Gwansik, a quiet and dependable man who struggles to express his emotions, especially when it comes to love. Having starred in Reply 1988 and Love in the Moonlight, Park’s ability to bring sincerity to his roles has fans excited to see his chemistry with IU.

Additionally, Moon So-ri and Park Hae-joon play the adult versions of Aesun and Gwansik, while veteran actors Na Moon-hee, Kim Yong-rim, and Yum Hye-ran further strengthen the cast.

“The Script Moved Me to Tears”

Director Kim shared his vision for the series: “I want this drama to be a tribute to our grandparents and parents while serving as a message of encouragement to younger generations. In a world where invisible walls between people seem to grow higher, I hope this story helps break them down.”

Regarding reports that the drama’s production cost reached 60 billion KRW, he acknowledged, “I don’t know the exact figure, but a significant investment was made. We’re confident this will be a meaningful and enjoyable work.”

IU and Park Bo-gum both cited their trust in the production team as the key reason for joining the project. “The moment I read the script, I knew I had to do it. I decided to take the role in less than a day,” IU revealed.

Meanwhile, Park Bo-gum, who chose the drama as his first project after military service, shared, “The way Aesun and Gwansik’s journey unfolds through the four seasons really touched me.”

Moon So-ri, who portrays the older Aesun, admitted that she couldn’t hold back her emotions while reading the script. “I cried multiple times. The story is just that powerful.”

The 16-episode series will be released in an unconventional format, with four episodes dropping each week. Director Kim explained, “Rather than binge-watching at double speed or skipping to the ending, I wanted viewers to fully experience the natural flow of life’s seasons, just as the story intends.”

Netflix’s senior director Bae Jong-byung echoed this sentiment, stating, “From the start, we discussed with the creators how to best preserve the artistic intent. The drama was designed in four acts, and we wanted to honor that in the release schedule.”

Here’s the full Netflix release schedule for When Life Gives You Tangerines:

Episodes 1–4: March 7

Episodes 5–8: March 14

Episodes 9–12: March 21

Episodes 13–16: March 28

A Teaser That’s Already Winning Hearts

The excitement surrounding When Life Gives You Tangerines is palpable. The official teaser, released on February 21, has already racked up over 660,000 views, with comments pouring in:

"The teaser alone had me in tears."

"This feels like a masterpiece in the making—flawless casting and a compelling storyline."

"2025 belongs to When Life Gives You Tangerines."

"I’ve been waiting for this drama, and I just know it’ll bring comfort and joy to so many people."

"This teaser already feels nostalgic, heartwarming, and deeply moving."

"It’s been a long time since a drama teaser alone got me this excited!"

With a stellar team behind it and sky-high anticipation, When Life Gives You Tangerines is poised to be one of the biggest dramas of the year. Fans won’t have to wait much longer—the journey begins on March 7.