JTBC presents a Korean romantic comedy drama with office nuances called Frankly Speaking. This series revolves around the life of the main character, Song Ki Baek (played by Go Kyung Pyo), a 33-year-old man with anchoring skills.
Song Ki Baek has been with the JBC Broadcasting Office for 8 years. Despite keeping his personal life private, he has successfully crafted a positive image. His colleagues perceive him as coming from a wealthy background, having no problems, always staying composed, handsome, and competent. He’s even earned the nickname “Share Blue Chip.”
The first two episodes highlight Song Ki Baek’s struggles, contradicting the perceptions of his colleagues. Here’s a summary of the challenges he faces:
1. Feeling Unsettled at Home
Na Yoo Jung (Kang Ae Shim), Song Poong Baek (Lee Jin Hyuk), Song In Soo (Shin Jung Keun), and Song Woon Baek (Hwang Sung Bin) in the drama Frankly Speaking (instagram.com/jtbcdrama)Song Ki Baek is the eldest of three siblings. His younger brother, Song Woon Baek, struggles financially after his gym business failed. The youngest, Song Poong Baek, neglects his studies and relies on pocket money without contributing to the family. Their father, Song In Soo, struggles to provide for the family after a past car accident. As the primary breadwinner, their mother, Na Yoo Jung, sells cosmetics to support them. Despite his efforts, Song Ki Baek feels disconnected from his family, often feeling unappreciated.
2. Constant Pressure from Superiors
Song Ki Baek (Go Kyung Pyo) in the drama Frankly Speaking (instagram.com/jtbcdrama)Song Ki Baek is a people-pleaser who finds it hard to refuse requests from colleagues and bosses, often taking on tasks beyond his role as an anchor. He feels suffocated by the expectations placed on him and resents being seen as flawless by his peers just because he doesn’t complain. Even simple actions like smoking outdoors are restricted because he’s seen as a role model for not smoking.
3. Honesty Leads to Unexpected Consequences
Song Ki Baek (Go Kyung Pyo) in the drama Frankly Speaking (instagram.com/jtbcdrama)During a competition with a popular idol, Song Ki Baek’s disregard for standing out leads to an accident where he’s electrocuted, resulting in a brain injury. This injury causes him to lose control over his speech, leading to unintended honesty in his interactions. Despite not being life-threatening, this condition affects his personality and emotional regulation.
These conflicts will continue to unfold in subsequent episodes, with a focus on Song Ki Baek’s adaptation to his illness. For those interested, Frankly Speaking is available on Netflix.
