This Korean Drama Is Reigning Supreme — And It Only Has One Big-Name Star

A newly premiered Korean drama is off to a soaring start, capturing top spots in viewership ratings and dominating streaming charts. The drama, Resident Playbook (working title, Korean title: Once Upon a Small Wise Resident Life), is a spin-off of the beloved Hospital Playlist series and follows the trials and growth of first-year OB-GYN residents.

Since its debut on April 12, Resident Playbook has achieved standout results. Episode 1 earned an average rating of 4.4% (6.2% peak) in the Seoul metropolitan area, and Episode 2 climbed to 4.5% (5.1% peak), according to Nielsen Korea. Even more impressively, it ranked No. 1 in the coveted 2049 demographic—across all networks, including public broadcasters. The drama also secured No. 1 in its time slot among teen and 40-something viewers, demonstrating broad generational appeal.

A Streaming and Search Sensation

According to FlixPatrol, Resident Playbook entered Netflix’s Top 10 in 44 countries. It also ranked in Good Data Corporation’s drama search keyword Top 10 for April’s second week. Cast members Go Youn-jung (Oh I-young), Jung Joon-won (Koo Do-won), Kang You-seok (Um Jae-il), and Shin Si-ah (Pyo Nam-kyung) were all listed among the most buzzworthy actors.

The second episode portrayed the chaotic yet touching lives of the OB-GYN residents: charting, morning rounds, medical studies, and more. Residents Oh I-young, Pyo Nam-kyung, Um Jae-il, and Kim Sa-bi struggle under the stern feedback of fellow doctor Myung Eun-won (Kim Hye-in), and tensions arise when Oh I-young is left to clean up others’ mistakes. In a moment of emotional exhaustion, she finds comfort from seniors Koo Do-won and Choo Min-ha (Ahn Eun-jin).

Meanwhile, Pyo Nam-kyung and Kim Sa-bi learn the value of building rapport with patients. Pyo is moved to tears by one patient’s words, while Kim begins to form his own medical approach centered around clinical results over emotion.

The drama also highlights warm moments between junior and senior staff—from buying meals to offering protection from hospital hazing. One scene where they exchange “See you tomorrow” after their first paycheck subtly shows how their teamwork is solidifying.

Cameos and Nostalgia for Longtime Fans

Cameos have added to the show’s emotional depth. Actress Ra Mi-ran appeared in Episode 1 as a bank employee in Oh I-young’s dream and reality, while Ahn Eun-jin’s return as Choo Min-ha in Episode 2 brought comforting guidance. A brief phone call with Yang Seok-hyung (Kim Dae-myung) also stirred nostalgia among Hospital Playlist fans.

As a spin-off expanding the Reply/Hospital Playlist universe, Resident Playbook introduces new faces while reintroducing fan favorites, with more cameos from the original “99z” crew confirmed by producers.

Episode 3 Airs April 19 at 9:20 PM KST — Here’s What to Watch For:

1. A New Chapter in the “Hospital Playlist” Universe

Set in OB-GYN at Yulje Hospital’s Jongno branch, the spin-off introduces new characters and storylines. Expect intricate connections between medical staff, patients, and families—plus surprise appearances from the beloved 99z.

2. A Fresh Cast from the Shin Won-ho Universe

Director Shin Won-ho’s knack for discovering rising stars shines again. The cast includes Go Youn-jung, breakout star Shin Si-ah (who beat 1,408-to-1 odds in auditions), Kang You-seok, Han Ye-ji, and Jung Joon-won—delivering powerful performances as interns and residents.

3. Life, Birth, and Everything in Between

The OB-GYN department is the only place in the hospital where “new life” begins. The drama captures the 24/7 lives of first-year residents as they deal with exhaustion, conflict, and the quiet triumphs that come with helping others. From delivery rooms to tearful farewells, the department becomes a place where hope, sorrow, and healing intertwine.

Still haven’t tuned in? Now’s the time to jump in—and discover why Resident Playbook is already one of 2025’s hottest K-dramas.

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