What's Wrong with Secretary Kim? A Review of the K-Drama Romance
The K-Drama "What's Wrong with Secretary Kim" is a frothy, flawed rom-com that stars Park Seo-joon and Park Min-Young. It follows an arrogant CEO who is suddenly confronted with the reality of his secretary's departure after a decade of her unwavering dedication. While the premise is intriguing, the execution leaves something to be desired.
The show's central conflict revolves around the CEO's realization of his feelings for his secretary, Kim Mi-so. However, the twist is not that her departure has made him realize his love for her, but rather that he has always loved her from afar due to a shared painful childhood memory. This childhood trauma and a hint of kidnapping add a layer of complexity to the relationship, but it feels like a superficial element that doesn't quite resonate.
One of the most compelling aspects of the show is the exploration of guilt and its impact on personality. The character of Lee Sung-heon, Kim Mi-so's brother, struggles with guilt over his brother's kidnapping, leading him to rewrite his memories and assume his brother's identity. This subplot delves into the idea that guilt can split one's personality and fracture relationships, offering a deeper and more thought-provoking narrative thread.
However, the show's overall tone remains light and fluffy, with a focus on the romantic relationship between the leads. The storyline becomes a bit predictable, with the introduction of stock cliches like chatty friends, concerned mothers, and a shady male friend. The office romance trope feels familiar and lacks the depth that would make it truly memorable.
One of the most disappointing aspects of the show is the resolution of Kim Mi-so's character arc. Instead of pursuing her own dreams, she decides to stay on as the secretary, 'always by his side.' This decision feels jarring, as it diminishes her character's growth and potential. The show had previously established her capabilities and intelligence, making it frustrating to see her settle for a role that feels limiting.
The character of the CEO, Young-joon, undergoes a sudden transformation in the final episodes, becoming a selfless and noble figure. This redemption arc feels forced and contrived, as if the writers are desperate to emphasize his goodness. The show's attempt to balance the romance with a deeper exploration of the characters' traumas and relationships falls flat.
In conclusion, "What's Wrong with Secretary Kim" is a watchable K-Drama with a few compelling elements, but it ultimately falls short in terms of substance and character development. It is a breezy romance that may appeal to those seeking a light and entertaining watch, but it lacks the depth and complexity that make truly memorable romantic dramas.
