My Youth

“My Youth” (Korean: “마이 유스”) is a 2025 South Korean romance melodrama that premiered on JTBC on September 5, airing weekends in the coveted 20:50 slot. Directed by Lee Sang-yeop and written by Park Si-hyun, the 10-episode series was co-produced by SLL and High-Zium Studio. It also streamed globally via various platforms including Viki, Coupang Play, and Rakuten Viki.

Plot Synopsis

“My Youth” follows Sun Woo-hae (Song Joong-ki), a former child actor whose promising career was derailed by exploitation in the entertainment industry. Choosing a quieter life, he becomes a novelist and florist, seeking peace and anonymity. His world shifts when he encounters his first love, Sung Je-yeon (Chun Woo-hee), now a determined team leader at an entertainment company. Once solace to each other in their youth, their reunion after over a decade forces them to confront past wounds and present aspirations as they rediscover love amid life's second chances.

Cast & Characters

Main Cast

• Song Joong-ki as Sun Woo-hae: A former child star turned novelist and florist, seeking healing in simple joys.
• Chun Woo-hee as Sung Je-yeon: Once from a privileged background, now working hard as a team leader; her encounter with Woo-hae reignites buried emotions.

Supporting Cast

• Lee Joo-myung as Mo Tae-rin: Adds complexity to the narrative through her unique connection to the leads.
• Seo Ji-hoon as Kim Seok-ju: Influences the story’s emotional or relational arc in meaningful ways.
• Additional cast includes Jin Kyung, Jo Han-cheol, Yoon Byeong-hee, and Lee Bong-ryun, enriching the ensemble’s emotional tapestry.
• Child actors, including Nam Da-reum, appear in flashbacks portraying younger Sun Woo-hae, deepening the backstory’s emotional resonance.

Reception

“My Youth” quickly became one of 2025’s most talked-about K-dramas.

Domestic buzz

The reunion of Song Joong-ki and Chun Woo-hee, along with nostalgic themes, enerated strong anticipation prior to release.

Critical response

General acclaim centered on its moving performances and delicate depiction of reconnection and personal growth. While formal ratings details remain modest, the emotional depth struck a chord with viewers globally.

Fun Facts

Second Chance Romance

The storyline taps into universal longing for second chances, paired with the allure of first love revisited.

Award-Worthy Team

With writer Park Si-hyeon and director Lee Sang-yeop at the helm, the drama carries pedigree and storytelling finesse.

Youthful Flashbacks

Inclusion of Nam Da-reum, a well-known child actor, brings authenticity to the portrayal of Woo-hae’s younger self.

Final Thoughts

“My Youth” is a delicate, emotionally rich romance about reunited souls, healing past wounds, and embracing life's quiet joys. Anchored by powerful performances from Song Joong-ki and Chun Woo-hee, and crafted by top-tier creators, it stands out as one of the most touching K-dramas of 2025 – perfect for anyone who believes in the enduring power of first love revisited.

Where to Watch

Broadcast Schedule

Aired on JTBC.

Streaming Access

• South Korea: TVING, Coupang Play.
• Japan: FOD.
• Taiwan: friDay Video.
• Globally: Viu, Viki.

Gallery