Watch Reply 1997
- 2012
- 1 Season
-
7.9 (2,549)
Reply 1997 is a television drama series that aired on tvN from 2012 to 2013. The show follows a group of high school friends in the year 1997 as they navigate the ups and downs of adolescence, first love, and the rapidly changing landscape of South Korea in the late 90s.
The show stars Eun-ji Jung as Sung Shi-won, a spunky and headstrong teenager who is the undisputed queen of her high school. Seo In-Guk plays Yoon Yoon-jae, Shi-won's childhood friend and secret crush who is the only one who can keep up with her quick wit and sharp tongue. Hoya rounds out the trio as Kang Joon-hee, a sweet and sensitive boy who is struggling to come to terms with his own identity and feelings.
As the show progresses, we see the characters grow and change as they face tough choices and heartbreaks. We watch as Shi-won and Yoon-jae's relationship evolves from friendship to something more, while Joon-hee grapples with the fact that he might be gay in a society that doesn't fully accept homosexuality. Along the way, they are supported by a cast of lovable friends and family members who provide both comic relief and emotional support.
One of the things that sets Reply 1997 apart from other dramas is its incredible attention to detail. The show is set in a specific time and place and does an excellent job of capturing the atmosphere and culture of South Korea in the late 90s. From the music to the fashion to the slang, everything feels authentic and true to life.
In addition to the setting, the show also explores a number of important social and cultural issues. It deals with everything from the school system and dating norms to the rise of the internet and the Korean Wave (a term used to describe the global popularity of Korean pop culture). Through the characters' experiences, we get a glimpse into what life was like for young people in South Korea during this time period.
Of course, at its heart, Reply 1997 is a love story. Shi-won, Yoon-jae, and Joon-hee's intertwined relationships are the driving force of the show, and viewers will find themselves rooting for their favorite couples throughout the series. But what makes the show so compelling is that it doesn't shy away from the messy, complicated realities of love. There are plenty of ups and downs, misunderstandings and miscommunications, and moments of heartbreak and joy.
Overall, Reply 1997 is a well-written, well-acted drama that captures the essence of a very specific time and place in South Korean history. It's a must-watch for fans of romantic comedies, coming-of-age stories, and anyone who wants a glimpse into what life was like in the late 90s. Highly recommended!