Watch Incomplete Life
- 2014
- 1 Season
-
8.5 (2,758)
Incomplete Life, also known as Misaeng, is a critically acclaimed South Korean television series that premiered on tvN in October 2014. The show is based on a popular webtoon of the same name by Yoon Tae-ho and has been praised for its realistic portrayal of office culture and the struggles of young people entering the workforce in South Korea.
The series follows the journey of Jang Geu-rae, a former baduk player who is struggling to find his place in the world after failing to turn pro. With no other options, Geu-rae takes a job as an intern at One International, one of the top trading companies in the country. Despite having no prior experience in the corporate world, Geu-rae is determined to succeed and make a name for himself.
As he navigates through the politics and hierarchies of the company, Geu-rae begins to realize that success isn't just about talent or hard work. He learns that relationships and networking are key components to achieving success in the corporate world. With the help of his mentor, Oh Sang-shik, and his fellow interns, Geu-rae slowly adapts to the cutthroat nature of the business world and learns to become a valuable asset to his company.
The show also delves into the personal lives of the characters, exploring their relationships and family dynamics. Si-wan Im plays Jang Baek-ki, Geu-rae's best friend and former baduk rival who is also struggling to find his place in the world. Yo-han Byun plays Han Suk-ryool, a senior employee at One International who takes Geu-rae under his wing and teaches him the ropes of the business world. Meanwhile, Ha-neul Kang plays Ahn Young-yi, a fellow intern who is navigating her way through the corporate world while dealing with personal issues at home.
The series has been praised for its realistic portrayal of office politics and the day-to-day struggles of young people entering the workforce. In particular, the show has been commended for its exploration of the concept of "kkondae", a term used to describe older, more experienced employees who assert their authority and belittle their younger counterparts. Through the character of Kim Dong-sik, a kkondae who constantly bullies and berates Geu-rae, the show sheds light on the toxic culture of workplace harassment and abuse in South Korea.
Despite its serious subject matter, Incomplete Life also has its fair share of heartwarming moments and comedic relief. The show's use of flashbacks and dream sequences adds depth and complexity to the characters, and the performances of the cast, particularly Sung-min Lee as Oh Sang-shik, have been widely praised.
Overall, Incomplete Life is a masterful exploration of the struggles faced by young people in the corporate world. Through its realistic portrayal of office culture and its nuanced characters, the show has resonated with audiences not just in Korea, but around the world. If you're looking for a thoughtful and engaging drama that tackles issues of class, gender, and identity, Incomplete Life is definitely worth a watch.