by When Life Gives You Tangerines is a heartfelt Netflix Korean drama that captures the quiet beauty of love, resilience, and dreams in the face of hardship.
Set against the stunning backdrop of Jeju Island in the 1950s, this story weaves a tender tale of two souls growing together like tangerine trees—steadfast, patient, and full of life.
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Profile of When Life Gives You Tangerines
- Title: When Life Gives You Tangerines (English title) / Thank You for Your Hard Work (literal title)
- Director: Kim Won-Suk
- Writer: Im Sang-Choon
- Network: Netflix
- Episodes: 16
- Release Date: March 7 – 28, 2025 (4 episodes per week)
- Genre: Historical, Romance, Slice-of-Life
Plot: When Life Gives You Tangerines
In 1950s Jeju, Ae-Sun (IU) dreams of becoming a poet, despite growing up in poverty and being unable to attend school. With a rebellious spirit and an unshakable love for books, she refuses to let her circumstances define her future. Beside her stands Gwan-Sik (Park Bo-Gum), a quiet yet deeply devoted young man. He doesn’t express much in words, but his actions speak volumes—especially when it comes to his unwavering love for Ae-Sun.
As they navigate the hardships of life, their love story unfolds like the changing seasons of Jeju, with moments of warmth, loss, and quiet perseverance. Through the simplicity of everyday life, When Life Gives You Tangerines tells a deeply human story of love, dreams, and the bittersweet passage of time.
Main Cast: When Life Gives You Tangerines
- IU as Ae-Sun – A headstrong young woman with dreams of poetry, despite the constraints of her upbringing.
- Park Bo-Gum as Gwan-Sik – A man of few words but immense devotion, whose love for Ae-Sun is as steady as the tides.
Who Should Watch When Life Gives You Tangerines?
- Fans of nostalgic, slow-burning romance set in historical settings.
- Viewers who appreciate heartfelt, character-driven storytelling.
- Anyone who enjoys poetic narratives filled with emotional depth and scenic cinematography.
Why You Should Watch When Life Gives You Tangerines
- A beautifully crafted love story: Ae-Sun and Gwan-Sik’s relationship is built on quiet gestures, unspoken words, and a love that stands the test of time.
- Rich historical setting: The drama vividly brings 1950s Jeju to life, showcasing the culture, struggles, and everyday joys of the era.
- Emotionally resonant storytelling: With themes of perseverance, love, and chasing dreams despite adversity, this drama tugs at the heartstrings.
- Stunning cinematography: The lush tangerine groves, rolling waves, and rustic Jeju landscapes add a poetic visual charm to the story.
Where to Watch “When Life Gives You Tangerines”
The show is available on Netflix
Final Verdict
When Life Gives You Tangerines is a tender and nostalgic journey that reminds us that love, much like tangerines, ripens with patience and care.
With IU and Park Bo-Gum’s heartfelt performances, breathtaking visuals, and a story as warm as the Jeju sun, this drama is a must-watch for those who appreciate simple yet deeply moving tales.
So sit back, savor the sweetness, and let When Life Gives You Tangerines take you on an unforgettable journey through love and time.
