Tough viewing. But view it you must.
Short: A romance story draped over the utterly horrific real life events around May 11th 1980 in Gwangju. This is not the Korea you know and love today, they are the people you know and love, in one of Korea's many terrible times. This is not a happy story. Watch this when you want food for the soul, not when you want a lift. Google "Gwangju Uprising" to start learning more about the real events going on in this story.Detail:
May 11th 1980 was a terrible day in Gwangju, though it was just the pinnacle of the terrible days leading up to it. In this story you have two people in very different walks of life. The Male Lead is in a rich privileged family, he's well educated and successful and enjoying starting university in Seoul. The Female Lead is the opposite, a poor family whose name is disgraced by a father accused of being a traitor. Their paths cross when the female lead's friend, the daughter of a rich businessman, pleads with her to go in her place to a blind date while she goes to organise and participate in demonstrations and protests against the government. Of course the blind date is the male lead.
The story has some lovely warm moments in it, the romance the blossoms between the couple of lovely, and there's clear chemistry between them. It also has some really tough moments in it as well, so I'm going to flag this one up with a caution that you shouldn't watch this if it's a nice romance to boost your mood that you seek - while this has a lovely romance, it is not a happy story and I do not want to sugar coat that in the slightest.
I like that most of the cast are relatively unknown, they've been in other dramas but they're not "A-listers" - this drama gives a superb opportunity for these brilliantly talented actors to show their skill and they deliver in abundance.
I marked the music on this one down a bit - honestly, for no other reason than it was utterly drowned out by the intense emotions flying around throughout. I can't remember any of it, but I think that speaks more to being immersed in the story than anything wrong with the music necessarily. Let's say it was "just right", because I think anything more may well have interfered.
I strongly recommend to spend some time reading up on the real events depicted in this drama, it's horrifying to think that this is not some 1500's historical drama, it's in the 1980's, which is only 40 years ago.
I absolutely recommend this drama, but only when you're in the right frame of mind for it.
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P A I N O F M A Y Beautiful, Heartbreaking and Bittersweet
The Story is either too cliche for you or not. It depends on your taste..... Forbidden Love, Richman/Poorwoman is my cup of tea because I like how it makes me cried and this Drama have it. Didn't expect too much with this but Dammnnn it was so painful from the Start till the end. But it's not only that The Writers did an amazing job making it different from most of cliche K-dramas.This Drama is set in May 1980 when Martial Law happened in the City of Gwangju, South Korea. And the Love Story that blooms from the Youth. I really like the idea and execution. We can see that they put a lot of effort to make it realistic as possible.
Hwang Hee Tae is not your typical Male Lead but his life is too cliche for a K-drama because of his cruel Father.
Lee Do Hyun is pretty hype actor. He is not bad but not Wow also maybe I should watch him in 18 Again. He is actually good and natural actor
Kim Myung Hee is your Strong and Weak Female Lead. I just can't describe her Characteristics but I like how she knows to stand on her own foot however sometimes it felt so cruel for her Father.
Go Min Si played her role Okay. I'm impressed with her in The Smile has left your eyes but she seems off in this one maybe because it's her first time playing FL but I swear she can do better.
Lee Soo Ryeon who despite being wealthy desperately fights for social justice and feels responsible. To be honest I didn't hate her like everyone do.
Geum Sae Rok is the weakest out of all the Cast. She needs a lot of improvement and so far I can only see her playing Second Lead Role.
I have Love at first heard with the music. Starry Night by Ryeowook is so good I even downloaded it on my phone. It's my type of Music and the melody is too I also love the lyrics. I'm quite disappointed that they didn't used it in other emotional scenes.
Things to prepared if you're going to watch it.
1. WIKIPEDIA
- You might search about Gwangju Uprising while watching it.
2. COFFEE
- There's so many parts that is boring and draggy so I think you need to prepare it.
3. TISSUE
- 50 meters of tissue will do but only if you are are easy crier.
Overall, Youth of May is really great and underrated but can't say it's a Masterpiece. I hate it and I love it but remember Love can overpower hate so Yeah, I love this Drama afterall. The Drama is good in many ways however it felt so repetitive
I like You
Let's Date
I don't like you anymore
I love you
I want to spend time with you
I don't love you anymore
I still love
I'm scared of you
Let's break
You are Back
After those scene it's like nothing happened. They're like strong couple lmao
English is my Third Language so Sorry if it's bad but I will try my Best to improve it.
Thank You for reading my Review^^ I hope you enjoyed the Drama. I'm very sad it ended :( It's the first K-drama I finished while airing.
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Your blood will boil, Your heart will flutter
YOUTH OF MAY is a love story that happens to be taking place in the premise of Gwangju Uprising that had happened in May, 1980 but keep this in mind that the central story is not directly related to the democratic movement though it eventually leads to the major climax of Gwangju massacre. FYI, this uprising, that started from university student demonstration to save the democracy and it's essence, established the foundation of the rebellion against the dictatorship rule of the ones in power during the entire 80s in South Korea.Making fiction in the premises of real historical events are a great deal If you see how sentimental South Koreans are about both the nation's history and the honor of democracy, which is reasonable and everyone should be like that. There is always a thin line between what the incident is and what one writes about it. And I think the writer of YoM has done a pretty job on every level.
The story is really nice; the male lead and female lead's developing relationship not being the only thing going on, it also throws light on the events of the uprising and additional side stories of the familes of the leads. The main leads happen to be working in the medical field but it's not a medical drama, rather the healthcare premise is a shade of their work life; though a major part of last 4 episodes takes place in the hospital.
It might feel like a slow-paced story because the chemistry development between the leads are slow but there are so many other things happening so you won't be bored at all. The plot development is good and twists have been placed at right times. The director has done a good job too.
Acting? Superb! Lee Do Hyun is undoubtedly one of the most potential emerging Korean actors right now and I can see him growing to be a future superstar. His unique style of acting uff; been a fan since 18 Again. Also, the annoying Lee Do Hyun is so adorable, I just love him. So happy that his character in YoM has an annoying side too. Literally one of the few poster boys of warm pure romance Kdramas. Go Min Si, this lady has waited long enough to get a lead role and I am happy she did amazing in it. In fact, among all the actresses who have played 80s characts till now, I think she did it accurately. I really hope this will be a breakthrough in her career. Lee Sang Yi, my love, did really well even though his screen-timing was lesser than I had expected but not complaining since the dramas got only 12 episodes and his character, even though a major role, had not much to do around. Keum Sae Rok, truly won hearts playing the role of a rebellious girl of a rich household, she acted very well, ngl.
One thing to note in Lee Do Hyun's character as Hwang Hee Tae that it's different from the usual male lead character where they're all macho fighting around, protecting the female lead, etc and showing typical toxic masculinity by wrist-grabbing, non- consensual kissing and blah blah. It's sort of unique I would say for his heart is a fragile one, afraid of not being able to save someone as a doctor or to protect as a dear one. He doesn't forces things on his partner and maintains a healthy relationship and let others grow under his own shade. So respectful down-to-earth and one with a progressive mind he continues to do everything smoothly.
The set-up and management is pretty commendable given it's a period drama. The work of cinematography is not that evident but that's fine because the editing compensated for it. The OSTs are indeed beautiful and heart-wrenching and glad to have been recommended some real good 80s English and Korean tracks from the drama. .
Another important thing is that this drama taught a lots of things. Though the lives were messy and like under the cart, they taught us about life and the way of becoming stronger and braver by the days. The Gwangju uprising and the state-staged progrom to suppress the dissent by the oppressed will boil your blood for sure so make sure to learn from that too.
I won't lie that I absolutely loved it. And it would be definitely be on my good drama collections. The central story focuses on the art of loving & living and the essence of holding your life back even when you're on the verge of death. I, like everyone else, wished more than 12 episodes but anyways, the story has been well written with a good direction.
If you're confused whether to go for it or not thinking it's a period drama and that too set up in the premise of a tragic incident like Gwangju uprising, I am not gonna spoil it but I guarantee you, it's worth it.
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A little of CLOY and Les Miserables. SO SO GOOD!!!
This is a definite gem, not to be missed!Firstly, the acting and entire cast did a great job. First time I’ve rated a 10 for acting. Kudos to Lee Do Hyun- he is an amazing talented young actor. I loved him in 18 Again, and this one did not disappoint at all. There’s something about him that seems so natural and real, he draws you into his character. Go Min Si was fantastic as well- loved how she portrayed her character. Evil father is the same actor as the evil general in Crash Landing On You, so you can expect some vicious manipulation and heartless behaviour. His story was left open ended though, we don’t know if he faced any justice for his crimes. The two kids did a great job as well!
The storyline was superb- first time I’ve rated a 10. it was tragic and sad, and made the audience feel angry at the injustice and abuse of power. Many times I was shouting at my screen ;).
(Spoiler ahead) If only they didn’t lie , if only he didn’t get engaged, if only they left Gwangju earlier! Why didn’t they????!!!! Etc etc etc.... (End spoiler )
The writers managed to blend all the plots including the romance and some humour altogether really well. The last few episodes focuses more on the uprising, how the students and innocent people were being beaten and eventually killed.
The love story between Hwang Hee Tae and Kim Myeong Hee was so beautiful, so deep and so real. To be honest, I felt they never really stood a chance from the beginning. Although they knew each other for a short time, their love endured throughout so many years.
(Spoiler- I literally cried and cried when myeong soo told Hee tae that they found her - and when he read her prayer note :(:(:(:(:( End spoiler)
Hmmm, the music and songs didn’t really leave an impression on me, not like the OST from CLOY which I still listen to! I wouldn’t be able to rewatch it also- I won’t be able to handle the aching in my heart.
This is not a romance- this is a tragic love story. It has the feels of CLOY and Les Miserables. Be prepared- the best Kdrama I’ve seen this year. All the others are boring... lol.
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Youth isn't always joyful
I usually barely write reviews, but this drama moved me so much I just had to express my thoughts here. This drama had a light typical romance in the beginning, and as the 1980 tragic events started occurring the drama became too sad. I cried so much and this drama showed a message that the tragic events of the Uprising must have scarred others just as painfully as Myeong Hee, and Hee Tae. The couple went through a lot together as the drama started getting into plot, and there were many traumatic events for what happened to the male lead, but a thing I liked about the male lead was that he was strong and was always there for others. His love for the female lead was undeniable, just as the female lead's love for his. So yes, the drama doesn't have the joyful satisfactory ending, but it was realistic and would be as what was expected in the Uprising in 1980. I cried a lot during this drama, and my mondays and tuesdays will feel empty now. So if you are considering a drama about hardships, youth, and love this may be one you should start considering.Vond je deze recentie nuttig?
That Once in a Lifetime Type of Love
First off I would like to say how proud I am of Go Min Si for doing such a phenomenal job on her first lead role. In my opinion you could never tell that this was her first time leading in a drama. She is a natural - from her crying scenes to her scenes of joy, she absolutely killed it. Lee do Hyun also killed it of course (we know he is a fantastic actor already because of 18 again).A C T U A L R E V I E W :
If you are looking to watch a BEAUTIFUL yet MELODRAMATIC TEARJEARKER ROMANCE then THIS ONE IS FOR YOU !!!!! This was one of the most sincere romance kdramas I have watched in a while. Although it was frustrating and bellowing at times it still held me captive in the best way possible. Not only did the drama give me some insight into the Gwanju Uprising that {in real life} occurred in Korea during the 80s, it also made me feel so nostalgic for some reason. Watching two characters genuinely fall in love with each other whilst understanding each others flaws with the possibility of a sad ending will always have my heart, even though they know it could end in turmoil the fact that their "love" or "like" for each other is strong enough to keep them present is so beautiful to me.
The only flaw I would have about the drama is that I wish that the second main leads had more of a conclusive ending in the last few episodes as I am a big fan of the character that played Lee So Ryoens older brother {Lee Soo Chan}.
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Melancholy of May
I really love how they put up the suspense and worry in each and upcoming episode. The story starts with sadness and ends with aloft feeling of being gloomy each cast develops really nice which i love about it. But I am just worried about the upcoming watchers of this drama hope they see an urge to watch this even if the page itself just cry out with sadness. But overall the drama was nice had a very good atmosphere, nice cinematography, good OST it will give you the anxs and the feels in each step of the drama where in your have to second guess if you can still have the strength to watch the next episode but in the end the drama just talks about love is never-ending and love is timeless with the right person. EnjoyVond je deze recentie nuttig?
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MAY the tissues be ever in your favor...
Korea's May uprising was a violent and conflicted historic time that is hard to tackle down for both it's importance within history, but also for the losses and misfortunes it caused as well.The fact that here they included a romantic plot right in the middle of such events makes it even more sorrowful and bittersweet. It's not surprising that we were expecting to suffer all through the drama based on such real life events that followed, and specially if they were going to make us feel empathetic towards the characters.
HeeTae was hard not to love from the start, hardworking and pacifist to a certain point but brave and through to his own believes, ready to sacrifice himself for those he loved and cherished. A broken and lost boy who grew up to be a man facing numerous responsibilities and hardships. A college student who dreamed of performing on stage with his mom's guitar, a guy who returned to his hometown to fulfill a promise and that ended up falling in love at first sight in that fatidic month of May.
A month of revolution. A month of misunderstandings, of youth and pain.
How can we not fall in love with his lovable and selfless character? How can we not suffer with him through his personal journey here? His devotion and passion, and his rightful persona was bright like a light in the darkness ahead and a beacon of hope for most there. Without realizing he indeed helped change the lives of many in there, being for the better or the worse.
MyungHee the strong and stubborn young woman that by helping her best friend out, met her soulmate in a small café. The girl who seemed like a pushover but who had big dreams to study abroad when accepted in college with a scholarship. Hardworking and fearless for her convictions, with a strong sense of justice and duty for her work as a nurse. A big sister, a lost daughter, a girl who just wanted to be useful. Devoted to those whom she carried in her heart. It was almost poetic the way she led her path to the unfortunate circumstances it took in the end, tainted in crimson and white. Nevertheless, she made her choice of what she already feared it would happen. That fear that reigned through those uncertain days in the month of May.
Their choices led to their fate.
Albeit not the one many would like to see, it was predictable in a way.
This story wouldn't have the typical happy ending most always yearn for.
Despite the sadness, it's realistic. Given what happened back then, this worked.
Because they represent the departed and those left behind.
The losses people suffered, and the sorrow they carry in their hearts.
It's symbolic too in that sense, mainly the final speech at the end.
Those left behind and brokenhearted, were left living a half life.
Empty shells mourning for the souls of their loved ones who died in May.
I also really liked the character of SooChan, he was a kindhearted man who loved MyungHee earnestly and although not reciprocated, he never forced his love. Rather he cared for her and his own sister, he was a family oriented man, but also a kind soul who wasn't afraid to jump to the frontline to stop injustices. Although he considered himself to be a coward, at some point given his status and affiliations that helped him out when his world crashed down in those bloody days. He showed his willpower, and strength by giving and helping the survivors alongside his sister and with the help of their father. Although a struggling family in the story because of the predicaments that tangled them with HeeTae's family, the 3 of them united at the end only proved how the rich can in fact give back to the poor in times of need. It could almost be seen as a criticism nowadays.
Because one single act of kindness, creates an endless ripple.
SooRyeon often infuriated me and other times annoyed me, but over all there was a character development in her. A newfound strength that she only gained by learning from her own mistakes, and to what they caused to all of those around her. She was passionate for justice and the rights of the people, and she fought for her own beliefs. Even thought coming from a wealthy family, she joined the crowd to rise the voice of people to be heard. Her carelessness created havoc among the plot and a handful of characters that were affected by her impulsive decisions. However, she had a fire in her that wouldn't be put down.
HeeTae's father was the face of the many monsters in there, although not the one entirely behind all of those operations. We can say he represents blind evil, greed and hypocrisy well enough. Controlling his older son like a puppet, or having him on a short leash like a dog while ignoring the younger was the view of a cold parent working for a side he considered to be right. Evoking rights, even if it meant using torture and killing people. Quite hypocrite of him to be aiding to the killing spree of countless people, ordering executions in a light way as if it were nothing but pawns in his chess game, but when it came to see one of his sons hurt by one of his reckless decisions suddenly it mattered. The only flaw here is that his ending isn't satisfying enough. More than being abandoned by his "family", he deserved to know the lenght of suffering he caused to many people.
It's a ride filled with angst, but also an awakening of what happened back then.
Every country has it's own history of revolutions here and there, some even more violent, it's always different.
And yet the feelings are the same. In the end, when there's conflicts, there is losses. There is blood. There is pain.
This was no different, it only had a few moments of romance so we could root for their happy ending or fleeting moments.
The acting was on point. DoHyun always amazes me with his grace when it comes to express emotions in his roles.
I enjoyed seeing everyone in their roles, and I am happy to see SangYi for the first time on a main role, Hope to see more of him.
The OST is sad and warm. Ideal to listen with a cup of tea, on those lonely days.
My favorite song is definitely Starry Night by RyeoWook. His soothing voice appeases whoever listens.
Do not expect a light romance history within these 12 episodes. It's love in the middle of an uprising.
Also it has personal conflicts in between and a couple of misunderstandings, and it's all in the month of May.
It's an ephemeral love story between two young souls who tried their best to make it work despite the course of events.
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Bittersweet drama which will deliver tears
Let's keep it short, shall we? In a nutshell, this drama exceeded my expectations and here's why...CAST:
The whole cast was brilliant and very skilled! I'm a huge fan of Lee Do Hyun and I've also seen several dramas from Go Min Si so I knew that they wouldn't let me down and I was right! Their performance individually and together is beyond amazing. We can see and feel the chemistry they've together. I hope we can see this pair together in their future projects ^__^
STORY: It was beautiful but heartbreaking story of two soulmates. This drama attracted my attention from the first episode (bc I knew it was gonna be a sad story lol) and it kept me on the edge through the whole drama. I did have some moments when I was a bit bored but then something interesting happened and I was on again. The characters were enjoyable and the plot was pretty well made. I also think the ending fits perfectly for this drama.
For me this drama isn't perfect but it made me feel emotional which is all I am looking from a drama
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Bittersweet , Heart flustering and Painful
The show opened with great premise the setting set around the show indicated what the show mainly focused about ,the uprising, from the beginning you’re pulled to get deeply involved with the characters and their stories, the main lead’s embodiment of great virtue with good morals which is hard to find in a show his representation from the very start amazed me and had me falling, our female lead is a strong character facing hardships from a young age not like your stereotypical female who needs all her problems solved by the ML and needs sympathy A BIG NO!!? she might be struggling and in a difficult situation but doesn't need viewers to piety her character, she is embodied with bravery and courage, the side characters started initially as annoying but later on you will come to understand their stance their situation and how realistic the selfish portrayal is of them and the way they acted are justified .The romance drew me in and hit me hard the beginning of falling for the one who you’re not supposed to happens to be going against the odds for love which in between is showcased is hard as how both leads struggles to found their footings and stray away for a while to test their love for each other and how beautifully and realistically they realize they can't live without each other their love without even saying a word can be demonstrated by the way they glare at each other how intimate and vulnerable they are to each other and how understanding they are of each other which displayed reality of love in life that love is not easy it has it's ups and downs but they are the things what makes it worth it.
The show focused upon how people who lost their loved once in the uprising were left alone unable to process without their loved once throughout their lives and how one month affected their whole life how scattered they became how nerve wrecking they felt the constant urge to not live anymore but have to continue to struggle and pull yourself for the loved once who would want them to live how hard it is to survive and have constant insecurity of loss how vulnerable certain circumstances make you.
The director and production did a great job the whole 80's setting was exceptionally executed and without a doubt should receive their reward for such great work from the beginning I just loved the scenes the tone and how emotionally it was showcased just astoundingly.
I watched it while it was airing from episode 1 and still can't get over this masterpiece give it a try if you're looking for great chemistry and storyline but buckle up for emotional scenes and how realistic the execution is and from episode 8 onwards has major violence so bear that in mind but also from episode 1 till 6 had great character development and romance scenes from 7 to 8 it gets heavy and last episodes are bittersweet and but worth it.
HAVE GOOD LUCK WATCHING AND LUCKY YOU THAT YOU DON'T HAVE TO WAIT A WHOLE WEEK FOR EPISODES!!
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There was an attempt, I guess...
It seems the drama excuses itself way too much and too often under the umbrella of "real life events" which denotes for a lazy writing. Moreover, the antagonist in the drama is portrayed as an omnipotent being who possesses an uncanny awareness, insight, and control over everything and everyone. Practically a god! It undermines the believability of the story and weakens the conflict by eliminating any sense of balance or potential for meaningful character growth and development. This kind of characterization is only passable for makjang shenanigans, mindless action or goofy adventure flicks. Instead of crafting a compelling tragedy, it turned into an extensive series of self-inflicted misery, unreasonable maneuvers and forceful entanglements. This is not how to make a tragedy!The brothers playing the big turning point for the climax were only brought to attention in the last 2-3 episodes. How do you expect the viewers to care? While some of the support characters may receive attention initially (or eventually like the brothers) but they ended up being underdeveloped and lacking depth. Their presence feels inconsequential and fails to contribute meaningfully to the overall story. Either give them a proper investment or don't waste unnecessary scenes. The 12 episodes run already feels too long! Despite dealing with potentially emotional and poignant themes, the drama fails to delve deeply into the emotional lives of its characters. Instead, we got a superficial, quick and dry cuts that were barely sufficient to progress the story.
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Unrealistic, with a love story carrot to keep you watching
Just when I think I’ve seen it all, something like this shows up. I’m not sure how I feel after watching this. It must have been a terrible time in Korean history. A brutal father that doesn’t respect his family. The ML and FL were making terrible decisions one after the other. A troublesome brother who tries to control other people’s lives but eventually learns a difficult lesson. Two younger brothers to assist in the unrealistic decision-making.I watched love blossom in the most difficult of gardens. It was poignant and moving to watch. Two souls were clinging to each other in desperation and never giving up even though destiny wasn’t on their side. I saw in sad detail what happens when you take the wrong road in life. He tried to hold her hand forever but failed.
That was my impression of this sad story. I wished I never watched it. If you want a story that will make you feel good, stay away from this one. There were other ways to end this without total destruction. They used the love story as a carrot to keep you watching. When a story pulls you into the lives of two people, I don’t want to see this ending. I get the point. The May events were sad, maybe even total chaos. A time to never be forgotten. But wouldn’t it have been nice to see two people survive through it all? Somebody wrote this show intending to leave a lasting impression of how bad the May events were. Your documentary of destruction succeeded, but it wasn’t well written.
After reading other people’s reviews, I wonder if they watch the same show. The storyline was weak, with dozens of holes in the logic and flow. The decisions made by adults and children alike were just stupid. Was it intended to be longer with a different ending? It just didn’t come together for me.
On the plus side, Go Min Si’s portrayal of Kim Myung Hee was brilliant. The other actors were also good. The on-screen chemistry was great between the two leads.
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