The "In Need Of Romance(I Need Romance)" series succeeded in Korea at a time when seasonal dramas were uncommon, focusing on realistic and straightforward love without elaborate worldbuilding. It was particularly popular with women in their 20s and 30s, with Season 1 being a breakthrough, and its popularity truly gained momentum starting with Season 2. Beyond a simple romance story, this series is considered to have opened a new chapter in Korean drama history. Throughout Seasons 1, 2, and 3, it candidly portrayed the diverse facets of real-life relationships, boldly breaking the mold of the typical romance drama. This article will compare the popularity of each season, analyze the changes brought about by the series, and analyze why this series stands out in Korean drama history.
Review
I didn't really watch Season 1, but I enjoyed Seasons 2 and 3. Season 2 starred Jung Yu-mi, a romantic comedy icon, as the female lead, and Lee Jin-wook and Kim Ji-seok as the male leads. It showed how ugly and raw a breakup can be, and the story of a new relationship, followed by misunderstandings, and a twisted return to the former lover. While it might seem like a typical love story, it also showed how a simple, realistic story can be compelling, even without the cliche. I preferred Kim Ji-seok, who played the good guy, to Lee Jin-wook, who played the bad guy. However, the human heart isn't always rational, and ultimately, the protagonist chooses to return to Lee Jin-wook, who, despite being perceived as a bad guy, actually loved the female lead more than anyone else. I enjoyed Season 2 so much that I also watched Season 3, but the plot was comparatively more engaging. The story of the main characters, who are seniors and juniors at the same workplace, created a variety of dramas within the workplace, which was intriguing, and the introduction of a younger man further boosted viewers' dopamine levels. Kim So-yeon, Nam Goong Min, and Sung Joon's performances were impeccable, and the music, sophisticated fashion, and sensuous directing made this drama a delight in every way. While Season 2 was a drama brimming with the scent of summer, Season 3 was filled with a cozy winter atmosphere. That's why I find myself binge-watching these dramas every season. Another special aspect was the detailed narration that recounted the characters' emotions and psychology during their relationship. The female protagonist's calm, detailed narration, coupled with sophisticated editing at key moments, allowed me to understand the subtle differences and emotions between men and women. It's hard to believe that Season 3 is over a decade old, but I can't just binge-watch it all over again. I really hope there's a Season 4 someday.
In Need Of Romance(I Need Romance) : Seasonal Popularity Trends
First aired in 2011, "In Need Of Romance(I Need Romance) 1" garnered attention for its distinctive "real romance" narrative, setting it apart from other Korean dramas. Rather than the typical chaebol/Cinderella story, it resonated deeply with viewers by portraying the love lives, friendships, and daily lives of women in their 30s without any editing. It was also significant as the first romantic comedy series produced by tvN. While serialized series like the "Reply" series are now commonplace, "In Need Of Romance(I Need Romance)" began its season format a year before "Reply 1994." Season 2, which aired in 2012, featured a different cast but maintained the same format, earning positive reviews. Season 2, in particular, further enhanced viewer engagement by portraying the complexities of relationships and the realistic process of breakups. Season 3, released in 2014, expanded the drama's fan base with a new cast, including Namgoong Min, Kim So-yeon, and Sung Joon, and showcased even more refined directing and storytelling. Personally, I enjoyed watching Season 3 not only because it showed not only the love story but also the various conflicts, growth, and friendships that office workers experience. This season explored the themes of "romantic fatigue" and "mature love," meticulously depicting the changing nature of love as people age. Each season achieved high viewership ratings and online buzz, with word-of-mouth through social media and online communities playing a significant role in its popularity.
The Meaning of "In Need Of Romance(I Need Romance)" in Korean Dramas
"In Need Of Romance(I Need Romance)" is one of the first Korean dramas to emphasize "realism" beyond simple romance. While previous Korean dramas had primarily focused on fantasy love or plots that emphasized class differences, this series marked a significant shift by placing "realistic romance" at the center of its story. The series' focus on real-life romance naturally led to the protagonists being relatable figures, portraying realistic Korean workplace culture, friendship, and other issues as if they were stories about friends. Furthermore, the series' focus on the female protagonist's self-reflection and growth garnered explosive support from female viewers. This bold approach to the somewhat weighty yet realistic themes of "mature love" and "growth after a breakup" provided a refreshing shock to the drama landscape at the time. Furthermore, the series was also the first to demonstrate the potential of "seasonal dramas" in Korean broadcasting. The approach of introducing new stories and characters each season, like American dramas, influenced other dramas and contributed to the development of the Korean seasonal drama format.
Why "In Need Of Romance(I Need Romance)" Is Special
"In Need Of Romance(I Need Romance)" holds a unique position in the Korean drama world. First, it realistically addressed the complexities and imperfections of real-life relationships. The main characters weren't always happy or perfect, were sometimes selfish, and sometimes made mistakes and grew through them. This allowed viewers to project their own experiences and emotions, clearly differentiating it from existing romance dramas. Second, its emphasis on character-centered storytelling made each character three-dimensional and human. Subplots were also well-developed, enhancing the immersion of the story. Third, the soundtrack and cinematography were also highly polished. The emotional music and delicate visual direction enhanced the drama's atmosphere, captivating both the ears and the eyes of fans. Crucially, "In Need Of Romance(I Need Romance)" went beyond mere romantic fantasy, posing questions about what love and relationships are. Thanks to this, the series continues to be talked about among fans long after its conclusion, and remains a prime example of broadening the horizons of the Korean drama genre.
The "In Need Of Romance(I Need Romance)" series is a monumental work that ushered in a new era in Korean drama. Its realistic and delicate love story still resonates deeply with many, and it significantly influenced the production of seasonal dramas and the proliferation of female-centered stories. If you haven't yet seen this series, I highly recommend checking it out to discover the diverse facets of love.
