"Way Back Love" K-Drama Review: Is This High School Romance Drama Worth the Hype?
- Disha Paul
- Apr 17
- 2 min read
Way Back Love is not your usual romantic drama. It’s emotional, heartwarming, and heartbreaking — all at the same time. After watching the first four episodes, I can honestly say this drama will stay with you for a long time.
A Story That Feels Too Real
The drama tells the story of Jung Hee Wan (Kim Min Ha, Pachinko Season 2, 2024), a 24-year-old woman who doesn’t want to live anymore. She spends her days alone, feeling lost. One day, her first love, Kim Ram Woo (Gong Myung, 20th Century Girl, 2022), shows up in front of her. The twist? He died four years ago. Now he’s a grim reaper, and he tells Hee Wan she only has one week left to live.
But instead of giving up, Hee Wan decides to spend that time with Ram Woo. They make a bucket list and start ticking things off. Every moment they share is full of memories, emotions, and what-ifs.
Why It Hurts So Much
The drama is full of tearful moments. You see their sweet high school memories, the fun they had with their friends, and then just like that, you’re brought back to the present, where Hee Wan is alone.
The director's use of different colors is amazing. Flashbacks are bright and full of life, while the present is dark and quiet.
One small detail hit me the most- their name swap. It starts as a fun little moment in high school, but later, just hearing the name “Kim Ram Woo” makes you cry. That’s how strong the emotional connection is in this drama.
A Drama That’s More Than Just Love
This show isn’t just about first love. It also shows how much we change as we grow up and how we lose touch with people who once meant everything. After episode 4, I couldn’t stop crying. There's a scene where they visit Ram Woo’s friend Hong Suk for the last time, and it broke me.
Hee Wan’s loneliness in the present is even sadder than Ram Woo’s death. She has no one around her anymore. And somehow, that hurts the most.
Final Thoughts
Way Back Love is adapted from Seo Eun Chae's novel A Week Before I Die. The drama stays true to its emotional roots. The acting, the music, and the way the story is told all come together perfectly.
If you love shows that make you cry and think about your past, this one’s for you. It reminded me of Seasons of Blossom, but even deeper.
Have you started watching Way Back Love? What part made you cry the most? Let’s talk about it in the comments!
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