One of Netflix’s most highly anticipated K-dramas of the year, When Life Gives You Tangerines, is finally arriving! With a staggering production cost of 60 billion won, this breathtaking drama takes viewers on a nostalgic journey through Jeju Island from the 1960s to the 2000s, capturing the beauty of life’s seasons.

At the drama’s press conference on March 5 in Seoul, director Kim Won Suk opened up about the ambitious scale of the production. “From constructing open sets to recreating different eras, a significant portion of the budget was spent on art direction,” he shared. He also teased the use of realistic VFX to enhance the visual storytelling, urging viewers to immerse themselves in the experience rather than analyzing technical details.

A Story That Spans Generations

The drama follows the spirited and rebellious Ae Soon and the steadfast, hardworking Gwan Sik as they navigate life’s ups and downs together. IU and Park Bo Gum portray the younger versions of the characters, while Moon So Ri and Park Hae Joon take over as their older counterparts.

Since early this year, When Life Gives You Tangerines has generated major buzz as one of Netflix’s most-awaited dramas. Insiders who got an early glimpse of the series couldn’t stop raving about it, with some calling it an “unforgettable drama.”

Park Bo Gum confidently stated, “I believe When Life Gives You Tangerines is a drama that everyone can relate to.”

IU, who reunites with director Kim Won Suk after My Mister, revealed her excitement: “After reading the script, I wanted to do this so badly—I couldn’t resist! It took me just one day to say yes.”

Meanwhile, Moon So Ri shared that the story deeply moved her: “I cried so much while reading the script. It made me think a lot about my parents. Since my debut, this is the first time I’ve ever cried this much over a script.”

A Unique Viewing Experience

Unlike most Netflix series, which drop all episodes at once, When Life Gives You Tangerines will be released in a special format. The 16-episode drama is divided into four parts, with four episodes airing each week—symbolizing the seasons of spring, summer, autumn, and winter.

Director Kim explained the reason behind this approach: “I felt 16 episodes were too long for binge-watching. These days, people often watch at 1.5x speed, but doing so would make it hard to fully experience the emotions of this drama. The more carefully you watch, the greater the enjoyment.”

He also hinted at hidden gems within the series, saying, “There’s a special gift from the writer in the end credits. I hope viewers take their time and watch all the way through.”

A Drama That Warms the Soul

Park Bo Gum beautifully summed up the essence of the drama: “In life, there are moments when we smile even after shedding tears. I hope this series brings a warm spring to everyone’s heart.”

IU also reflected on the long-awaited premiere, saying, “We’ve kept details about this drama under wraps for a long time, and many people have been curious. But in just two days, it will finally be released. I believe it will be a series that sparks deep conversations.”

She further shared a thoughtful message inspired by the title: “The English title suggests, ‘When life gives you tangerines, make a drink and have a warm cup of tangerine tea.’ I hope viewers can take a moment to enjoy this story, just like sipping on a warm cup of tea and reflecting on life.”

With a star-studded cast, a moving storyline, and a fresh approach to storytelling, When Life Gives You Tangerines is set to be a drama like no other. The wait is almost over—are you ready to experience this beautiful journey? 🍊