Healing dramas are slow-moving and can sometimes seem boring. After watching a number of this type of drama, I have really come to appreciate the leisurely pace and find them relaxing, and well…healing. It is a nice change after watching intense dramas with numerous plot twists or stressful situations that keep me on edge. Having said that, this one has a bit of both. This may be the first time I have seen a romantic healing/slice of life drama that tries to be a thriller too. I really enjoyed both aspects, though there were some definite flaws caused by this ambition in the latter half of the drama.

"You Are My Spring" brings its A-game in the first few episodes. They really grabbed my attention, left me intrigued, and I was on tenterhooks waiting for the next episodes. Healing dramas can be hard to get into if I am not in the right mood, so I appreciated the exciting beginning that had me immersed in the drama immediately. For the first half of the drama, the thriller aspect was pretty well balanced with the melodrama, slice of life, and budding romance. Somehow in the last half, it became more and more unbalanced, less thrilling, and a bit messy. The transitions between genres were awkward, and eventually, it fizzled out and died. It’s a shame because one of the most interesting characters was also the focus of this thriller plot.

That leads me to the best thing about this drama- its characters. This drama has some of the best-supporting characters. Ian, the vet friend, the ex-wife, Da Jung’s lovably quirky colleague (this girl is sooo funny), and one of the best drama moms I have seen. It was touching to see how all the friends take care of each other. They are so loyal. Some people have said they didn’t feel the chemistry between the main couple, but I disagree. While it’s not a passionate romance, it is more of a deep connection and understanding. I was truly moved by Da Jung and Young Do’s beautiful (and healthy) relationship, and how much respect they had for one another. The characters were well-written, and their motivations were clear. The actors did a great job portraying their characters.

There were a few cliches, but I thought they made sense within this story and because of who the characters are as people. There was one trope that did make me roll my eyes, as I am just so sick of it, but it didn’t affect the story that much. The dialogue was deep and meaningful, and sometimes hilarious. There were so many precious moments that made me feel for the characters, and amidst all the drama and heartache there was a lot of joy and unexpected humor. I think that is what makes this drama extra special to me.

Throughout the course of the show, I grew very attached to these wonderful characters and their lovely story. I am happy to have spent these moments on their journey with them and I am a bit sad to bid them goodbye. I will keep them in my memory and wish them well, and maybe take a long vacation with them again someday.

“If people did not love one another, I really don't see what use there would be in having any spring.”
― Victor Hugo, Les Misérables