The trailer for the highly anticipated K-Drama Record of Youth promises a tantalizing blend of captivating storytelling, dreams that soar, unbreakable friendships, and the fear of missed opportunities. It seems to represent a world where aspirations collide with reality and where the pursuit of success intertwines with the fragile threads of human connection. But can this series truly live up to the sky-high expectations it has set? Our honest and comprehensive review seeks to peel back the layers, revealing what Record of Youth is truly focused on and deciphering for whom it might be the ideal drama!

In the world of modeling and acting, Sa Hyejun (portrayed by the talented Park Bogum) finds himself at a crossroads in his career. While he has achieved success as a model, his acting endeavors have been met with a lukewarm reception, and the opportunities are dwindling. To make ends meet, Hyejun takes on odd jobs such as working as a security guard and making sandwiches at a popular Subway restaurant, all while grappling with the pressures of not getting any younger and postponing his military service.

His best friend, Kim Jinwoo (Kwon Soohyun), comes from a wealthy family and has had more success in the industry, but there's a sense that privilege may have played a part in his journey. Their lives intertwine with the complex dynamics of their families, including Hyejun's father, Youngnam (Park Sooyoung), who is burdened with debts, and Jinwoo's mother, Han Aesook (Ha Heera), who works for a former professor named Lee Kyungmi (Park Sungyeon).

Amid this backdrop, we are introduced to Ahn Jeongha (Park Sodam), a makeup artist who left a corporate job to pursue her passion. She impresses Professor Kim and catches the attention of Hyejun as well. Jeongha's practicality and dreams make her a compelling character, and her presence may hold the key to making Hyejun and Jinwoo's lives more interesting.

However, as the story unfolds, we find ourselves feeling somewhat detached from the main characters. The exploration of two models navigating their future paths may not be particularly captivating, and it is the supporting characters, such as Jinwoo's strong single mother and Jeongha, who bring more depth to the narrative. The lack of strong romantic elements and the storytelling format of jumping back and forth in time also hinder the series from fully engaging the audience.

Despite its promising ingredients, Record of Youth falls short of being exceptional. Released in 2020, in a year marked by stellar Korean dramas, it lands somewhere in the realm of mediocrity. The show's family-centric approach and the attempt to challenge stereotypes with the character of the wealthy and kind-hearted Jinwoo are commendable, but the overall execution leaves much to be desired. The romance, at times, feels more like a friendship, and the narrative structure struggles to maintain coherence.

While the series has its merits, it fails to deliver a truly memorable and enthralling viewing experience. With no standout performances or steamy love scenes, it caters to a family-friendly audience but misses the mark in creating a lasting impact. Regrettably, Record of Youth is unlikely to become a record-breaking success.

Record of Youth presents a story of aspirations, friendships, and unfulfilled potential. While it showcases some promising elements, the overall execution falls short of creating a truly captivating and memorable viewing experience. However, it is worth noting that the series may still resonate with viewers who enjoy exploring personal and professional dynamics. Despite occasional instances of a dragging script and the use of cliches and tropes, the series manages to portray intriguing relationships among its characters. It particularly resonates with young viewers and newcomers to Korean dramas, offering an inside look into the fashion industry and the complexities of pursuing shared dreams. The exploration of friendship dynamics, as two individuals navigate their paths to success with varying outcomes, adds an intriguing layer to the narrative. It deviates from the typical love triangle narrative, providing a fresh perspective on interpersonal connections.

Edited by Deshalia Murray