South Korea · Drama · 2022
If You Wish Upon Me
Synopsis
Yoon Gyeo-ree is a young ex-convict sent to complete his community service at a hospice hospital. He is assigned to Team Genie, a small volunteer unit run by the compassionate Kang Tae-shik, whose job is to listen to terminally ill patients and, where they can, grant one final wish before the patient dies. Gyeo-ree starts out resentful and detached, but the people he meets at the hospice slowly pull him out of his own bitterness.
Each stretch of episodes follows a different patient and the wish Team Genie tries to fulfil for them, from small personal reconciliations to larger, more public requests. Alongside this, Gyeo-ree grows close to hospice nurse Seo Yeon-joo, and their relationship becomes one of the show's emotional anchors as both of them confront loss on a daily basis.
The series draws on the real work of the Ambulance Wish Foundation in the Netherlands, which sends dying patients on one last outing before they pass. That premise gives the drama its episodic, wish-of-the-week structure while it builds a longer arc about Gyeo-ree's own redemption and his growing sense of purpose.
"If You Wish Upon Me" aired on KBS2 from August 10 to September 29, 2022, across 16 episodes, and stars Ji Chang-wook, Sung Dong-il and Choi Soo-young (Sooyoung of Girls' Generation) in the lead roles.
If You Wish Upon Me cast
Best scenes
Gyeo-ree's Transformation: Witnessing Yoon Gyeo-ree's journey from a troubled past to finding purpose at the hospice is both heartwarming and inspiring.
Team Genie's Wish Fulfillments: Each episode showcases Team Genie granting patients' final wishes, delivering emotional and memorable moments.
Gyeo-ree and Yeon-joo's Bond: The evolving relationship between Gyeo-ree and Nurse Seo Yeon-joo adds depth and warmth to the narrative.
Tae-shik's Leadership: Kang Tae-shik's compassionate guidance of Team Genie highlights themes of empathy and community.
Sonny's Farewell: Gyeo-ree's heartfelt goodbye to his beloved dog, Sonny, underscores the show's exploration of love and loss.
Filming locations
Hospice Facility: The primary setting, a serene hospice, provides a tranquil backdrop that enhances the show's contemplative mood.
Seoul's Urban Landscape: Various scenes capture the bustling city life of Seoul, contrasting with the hospice's calm environment.
Han River: Pivotal moments unfold along the Han River, symbolizing reflection and change.
Traditional Markets: Scenes set in local markets add authenticity and cultural richness to the narrative.
Countryside Retreats: Episodes featuring rural settings offer a peaceful contrast to urban scenes, emphasizing themes of healing.
Visual design and costumes
Hospice Aesthetics: The warm and inviting design of the hospice reflects the show's themes of comfort and care.
Character Wardrobes: Costumes are thoughtfully selected to mirror each character's personality and development.
Color Symbolism: The use of soft, muted colors throughout the series enhances its calming and introspective atmosphere.
Set Details: Attention to detail in set design, such as personal items in patients' rooms, adds depth to storytelling.
Lighting Techniques: Strategic lighting is employed to evoke emotions and highlight key narrative moments.
Themes and messages
Redemption: The series explores the possibility of personal growth and redemption, regardless of one's past.
Compassion: Emphasizing the importance of empathy, the show portrays how small acts of kindness can profoundly impact others.
Community Support: It highlights the strength found in community and the significance of supporting one another.
Facing Mortality: The narrative encourages open discussions about death, promoting acceptance and understanding.
Healing: Central to the story is the journey toward emotional healing and finding peace.
Interesting facts
Inspired by Real Events: The storyline draws inspiration from the Make-a-Wish Foundation in the Netherlands, adding authenticity to the narrative.
Ji Chang-wook's Role: Known for action-packed roles, Ji Chang-wook showcases his versatility by portraying a more subdued character.
Soo-young's Performance: Choi Soo-young, a member of Girls' Generation, delivers a compelling performance as Nurse Seo Yeon-joo.
Sung Dong-il's Portrayal: Veteran actor Sung Dong-il brings depth to the character of Kang Tae-shik, the compassionate leader of Team Genie.
Emotional Depth: The series is praised for its realistic depiction of hospice care and the emotional journeys of its characters.
Real-life loves on set
There is no verified information or credible reports suggesting that any real-life romantic relationships developed among the cast members of "If You Wish Upon Me." The actors, including Ji Chang-wook, Choi Soo-young, and Sung Dong-il, maintained professional relationships throughout the filming process. Speculations about personal relationships should be approached with caution unless confirmed by the individuals involved.
Episodes
| Ep | Title | Air date | Status | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Team Genie | 2022-08-10 | Aired | |
| 2 | The Awful Driver | 2022-08-11 | Aired | |
| 3 | Unbearable Pain | 2022-08-17 | Aired | |
| 4 | Se-hee's Last Wish | 2022-08-18 | Aired | |
| 5 | The Suspicion | 2022-08-24 | Aired | |
| 6 | Seo-jin's Revenge | 2022-08-25 | Aired | |
| 7 | Yeon-joo and Gyeo-re | 2022-08-31 | Aired | |
| 8 | Farewell Sonny | 2022-09-01 | Aired | |
| 9 | Brother And Sister | 2022-09-07 | Aired | |
| 10 | Back Home | 2022-09-08 | Aired | |
| 11 | Tae-shik's Cancer | 2022-09-14 | Aired | |
| 12 | The Children Left Behind | 2022-09-15 | Aired | |
| 13 | Father And Son | 2022-09-21 | Aired | |
| 14 | Ill-Fated Relationship | 2022-09-22 | Aired | |
| 15 | A Real Family | 2022-09-28 | Aired | |
| 16 | The Little Captain | 2022-09-29 | Aired |
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