Mr. Plankton's writer shares what she wanted to convey through the K-drama
It's not every day that we see a drama ranking on the list of "Most Buzzworthy Dramas of the Week" two weeks prior to its premiere. And when the same drama premiers with a double-digit rating, the level of excitement is imaginable.
Dr. Romantic Season 3 has been long-awaited by fans. It is one of those K-dramas deemed an absolute must-watch, and here are some of the reasons why the medical series is loved by both domestic and international audiences.
1. Medical Accuracy
The viewers of the drama may not have medical degrees, but they certainly know what suction and a scalpel are, all thanks to the medical accuracy of Dr. Romantic.
The attention-to-detail approach of the drama - in terms of the portrayal of medical procedures, doctor-patient interactions, hospital dynamics, and challenges and crises faced during surgical procedures - is what sets it apart.
The K-drama's commitment to accuracy has set a standard for other medical dramas to follow, and it is this fact that makes it a fun watch not only for general viewers but also for medical professionals.
2. Multiple Genres Seamlessly Weaved Together
Had Dr. Romantic only been a run-of-the-mill medical K-drama, it probably wouldn't have garnered as much fame as it did. A tinge of romance paired with melodrama and topped with comedy gives the series a multi-faceted aspect.
Moreover, every character - each with his/her aspirations, conflicts, and challenges - has a personal story that adds depth and complexity to the drama.
Be it colleague rivalry or long-standing camaraderie, the Doldam squad, and the relationship dynamics they share, give life to the drama creating a rich tapestry of memorable moments.
3. Kim Sa Bu (played by Han Seok Kyu)
No offense to Ahn Hyo Seop and Lee Sung Kyung's fans, but Han Seok Kyu takes the credit for the substantial proportion of the drama's huge fan base.
In the series, the veteran actor plays the lead role of charismatic Dr. Boo Yong Joo, a.k.a Kim Sa Bu - the nation's only triple board-certified surgeon.
Be it a criminal or a minister, Kim Sa Bu doesn't turn away anyone from the hospital doors. He has a knack for saving his patients, even if they are holding onto the rope of life by a thread, and his intricate surgical skills leave even the most experienced doctors stunned.
But, despite his impressive credentials, Kim Sa Bu is far from arrogant and pretentious. When asked if he is an ER specialist or a GS, instead of boasting about his triple-board certification, he says, "I'm a doctor the patient needs". More often than not, we find the character's quirky ways and wisdom offering valuable life lessons to the viewers.
Kim Sa Bu is also the pillar of support for the entire Doldam staff and a mentor who turns young talent into real doctors. He is gentle with his patients but demanding with his staff. A lack of sense of duty isn't something the surgeon tolerates, and he insists that doctors always prioritize the patient's well-being above all else.
All in all, Han Seok Kyu's portrayal of Kim Sa Bu is an indispensable part of what makes Dr. Romantic Season 3 (and its previous installments) such a popular show with audiences. The actor brings depth and emotion to his role, adding a sense of gravitas that grounds the show in reality, despite some of the more melodramatic elements.
4. Passionate Performances
Though we may not be familiar with the medical jargon and intricacies of medical procedures or even fathom the seriousness of surgical situations, the excellent performances of the actors and complimentary background music help us empathize with the characters, creating an immersive experience, making us feel as if we are in the doctors' shoes.
Especially, when the characters face surgical crises - such as complex and risky surgeries - the tension is palpable. This is where Dr. Romantic truly shines, upholding its reputation for stirring viewers' emotions with its emotionally-charged scenes.
The passion for duty of the Doldam staff is contagious, so much so to make us wish we were doctors ourselves. Moreover, the perfect synergy between the cast creates a seamless flow to the drama.
For this reason alone, the entire Doldam squad deserves a standing ovation, as they bring the compelling series to life.
5. Valuable Takeaways
Dr. Romantic is a drama brimming with workplace and ethical conflicts. And it is during these conflicts that the question of what it takes to be a 'real' doctor surfaces.
The medical series explores this question in depth, inviting the audience to reflect on the responsibilities that come with wearing the white coat, the nature of the medical profession, and the values that underpin it.
What do you like most about the Dr. Romantic series?
