It’s Okay to Not Be Okay (2020)
A healing journey through love, trauma, and resilience. Discover this extraordinary K-drama.
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Trailer
Synopsis
Desperate to escape from his emotional baggage and the heavy responsibility he’s had all his life, a psychiatric ward worker begins to heal with help from the unexpected – a woman who writes fairy tales but doesn’t believe in them.
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Editor's Review
A Remarkable Tale of Healing and Love
“It’s Okay to Not Be Okay” is a captivating K-drama that transcends the typical romantic fare. With its unique blend of dark fairy tale elements and poignant character development, this series stands out as a gem in the world of Korean television.
Synopsis
The drama revolves around three central characters: Moon Gang-tae (played by Kim Soo Hyun), a caretaker at a psychiatric hospital; Ko Moon-young (portrayed by Seo Ye Ji), a children’s book author with an enigmatic past; and Moon Sang-tae (Oh Jung Se), Gang-tae’s older brother with autism. As their lives intersect, they embark on a journey of healing, self-discovery, and love.
Themes
“It’s Okay to Not Be Okay” fearlessly tackles mental health issues. It doesn’t shy away from portraying the complexities of trauma, anxiety, and emotional struggles. The drama emphasizes that it’s okay to have flaws, to be broken, and to seek help. Through its characters, it delivers a powerful message: being “not okay” is part of our shared humanity.
Characterization
The character development in this drama is nothing short of brilliant. Each protagonist undergoes gradual transformation, avoiding the clichéd 360-degree change often seen in other shows. Moon Gang-tae’s stoicism gradually gives way to vulnerability, while Ko Moon-young’s icy exterior conceals hidden wounds. And then there’s Moon Sang-tae, whose portrayal by Oh Jung Se elevates a supporting character to a lead role. His performance is nothing short of brilliant.
Visuals and Production
The production design of “It’s Okay to Not Be Okay” is a visual feast. The whimsical storybook motif, complete with animated sequences, adds a layer of enchantment. The dark fairy tale atmosphere permeates every frame, creating a hauntingly beautiful backdrop for the characters’ emotional journeys.
Music and Playlist
The drama’s playlist is more than just good—it’s exceptional. The haunting melodies and soul-stirring tracks enhance the emotional impact of each scene. From the opening notes, viewers are drawn into a world where pain and healing coexist.
Conclusion
“It’s Okay to Not Be Okay” isn’t your typical K-drama. It’s a symphony of emotions, a canvas of brokenness and resilience. Whether you’re a seasoned K-drama enthusiast or a newcomer, this series is a must-watch. It reminds us that healing is a messy, nonlinear process, and sometimes, being “not okay” is perfectly acceptable.
In summary, “It’s Okay to Not Be Okay” is more than okay—it’s extraordinary.