Into the Ring is built on the solid foundation of its excellent writing, and it endears itself to the viewer with each and every episode. Although it is missing the typical ingredients for commercial success (e.g. top-tier actors, veteran staff), Into the Ring continuously challenges us for our attention and respect, much like the Female Lead. There is just enough romance, comedy, and drama for a well-balanced drama viewing experience just shy of perfection.

Story:
The award winning merit of the newcomer Moon Hyun Kyung’s screenplay is undeniable. The diverse characters and dynamic relationships are a highlight. Consider these two side characters - a manchild who earns his elected position with his daddy’s money and a working mother who refuses to “sacrifice” either her personal or professional life. The relationship between them and the main leads is hilarious (like when the FL turns the manchild into a whimpering puppy with her assertiveness).

Even the political setting delivers laughs as we witness the ridiculousness of each politician’s pettiness. ITR transitions from this comedy to heartwarming romance to drama seamlessly. Scenes are often layered with all three, which keeps the pace refreshing and the story engaging. The drama’s journey is consistently pleasant from beginning to end, and the careful and deliberate screenwriting is what makes it all possible.

Acting:
My mixed feelings about the main cast changed quickly with Into the Ring. For instance, I know Nana for her kpop career with After School rather than her filmography, and the general attitude towards idol-turned-actor is lukewarm. However, Nana exceeds expectations not just with her comedic timing and romantic chemistry but with her nuanced portrayal of empathy towards others. Park Sung Hoon actually appears with Nana in Justice, which I did not watch. I did watch Psychopath Diary where I found his acting uncannily funny. To see PSH in a completely different character is eye-opening and impressive.

Yoo Da In’s character is surprisingly nuanced for what some may consider a “side” character, but YDI’s acting ability is clearly at the level of “main role” actors. I remember Han Joon Woo from his great but small role in Be Melodramatic. Unfortunately, it is a similar case in ITR where he plays an interesting character which does not receive much screen time for a “main role”. Veteran actor Ahn Nae Sang adds another quality appearance to his long filmography.

Music:
Compared to the strengths of the story and cast, the music is not as critically noteworthy for Into the Ring. The subdued backing tracks are a safe choice, a mix of kpop and ballads. The music is actually a good parallel to the overall drama, which is excellent in its strengths but not quite a masterpiece in its entirety. (One last comment - I am a sucker for OSTs sung by main leads though)

Rewatch Value:
As I happily followed along with the weekly episodes of Into the Ring, I did not envision such a high overall rating because of a lack of some jaw dropping scene or enthralling plot line. Instead, ITR makes its appeal piece by piece, and its beauty is fully appreciated when considering the entirety of the drama. After 32 episodes, I can confidently recommend Into the Ring as a solid romcom in a relatively dry 2020.