One of the best Korean dramas in years, but with one big problem.
The show tries to address issues facing the new generation in the workplace. Sometimes it is critical of Korean office culture, but at the same time, the writing is very supportive of the idea that employees should dedicate their lives to the company.
The directing, acting, and cinematography in this show are probably the best I've seen in a Korean drama. The acting was realistic, and the writers also avoided silly cliches. All of the main characters had some depth. I think the writers did an excellent job with handling character development so that we see the senior employees from the perspective of the new hires. As the new hires' opinions of their seniors change, so do the viewer's.
That said, there were moments where the show was hard to watch. The main concept of the show supports the idea of an entire life based around work being a positive thing, and that employees should put the company they work for before themselves or their families.
There are two women characters whose storylines attempt to deal with sexism in the office, but it is hypocritical at times. There are several women who are visible members of the main characters' teams, but never have any speaking lines in the entire show. They are only extras who are shown sitting at their cubicle, and never talk with the other team members.
There is also a glorification of management, and there a few moments where the show portrays workers as helpless people who can do nothing without taking orders from the office.
On the whole, this is a great show. I highly recommend this to anyone looking for a more realistic Korean drama. I think everyone will be able to relate to being a clueless and nervous new hire, eventually learning and building relationships with coworkers.
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