Youth of May

"Youth of May" is a poignant 2021 K-drama that beautifully intertwines romance with historical events. Set against the backdrop of the Gwangju Uprising in May 1980, this series captures the turbulent times through the lens of young love and social upheaval. Starring Lee Do Hyun as Hwang Hee Tae, a top medical student with a rebellious streak, and Go Min Si as Kim Myung Hee, a determined nurse who dreams of escaping her challenging life, the drama tells a story of hope, love, and sacrifice.

Hee Tae and Myung Hee’s paths cross in Gwangju, where they are drawn together by fate and a shared sense of justice. Despite the increasing political unrest and danger surrounding them, their love blossoms, offering moments of tenderness amidst the chaos. Lee Sang Yi plays Lee Soo Chan, Hee Tae's supportive friend, and Geum Sae Rok portrays Lee Soo Ryun, a passionate activist and Soo Chan’s sister. Their interactions further enrich the narrative, highlighting the complexities of friendship and loyalty in difficult times.

Directed by Song Min Yeop and written by Lee Kang, "Youth of May" does an excellent job of depicting the struggles of ordinary people during extraordinary times. The series explores themes of courage, resilience, and the pursuit of a better future. The strong performances by the cast, particularly the chemistry between Lee Do Hyun and Go Min Si, add depth and authenticity to the story, making it a compelling watch.

With its powerful storytelling and emotional depth, "Youth of May" not only serves as a touching love story but also as a tribute to the resilience and bravery of the people of Gwangju. The drama has been praised for its historical accuracy, moving performances, and beautiful cinematography, making it a must-watch for fans of both romance and historical dramas.

Details

🙂 Native Title: 오월의 청춘 (Oworui Cheongchun)
🌎 Also Known As: May Youth
🎭 Genres: Drama, Romance, Historical, Melodrama
🏷 Tags: Gwangju Uprising, Political Unrest, Forbidden Love, Historical Events, Youth Romance
✍ Screenwriters: Lee Kang
🎬 Directors: Song Min Yeop, Lee Dae Kyung
🇰🇷 Country: South Korea
🎬 Episodes: 12
🗓️ Aired: May 3, 2021 – June 8, 2021
📅 Airing Days: Monday & Tuesday
📺 Original Network: KBS2
⏰ Duration: 60 minutes per episode
🔞 Content Rating: 15+ (Teens 15 or older)

Best Scenes

First Meeting: The touching and symbolic first encounter between Hwang Hee Tae (Lee Do Hyun) and Kim Myung Hee (Go Min Si) at the bus stop sets the stage for their romance against the backdrop of political unrest.
Hospital Scene: The intense moment when Hee Tae, a medical student, bravely confronts the challenges in the hospital during the uprising, showcasing his determination and dedication.
Confession of Love: The heartfelt scene where Hee Tae confesses his love to Myung Hee amidst the chaos, highlighting their deep emotional connection and the stakes of their relationship.
Protests: The powerful and emotional scenes depicting the Gwangju Uprising, capturing the fear, bravery, and turmoil experienced by the characters and the citizens.
Final Goodbye: The tragic and poignant farewell between Hee Tae and Myung Hee, emphasizing the sacrifices made during tumultuous times.

Filming Locations

Gwangju: The drama was filmed in and around Gwangju to authentically capture the historical events and setting of the Gwangju Uprising.
Jeonju Hanok Village: Used for various scenes to add a traditional and historical element to the narrative.
Naju: Several key scenes were shot in Naju, providing a rural backdrop that contrasts with the intense urban unrest.
Seoul: Certain modern scenes were filmed in Seoul, highlighting the contrast between different periods and places in Korea.
Hospitals and Clinics: Real hospitals and clinics were used to depict the medical profession and the challenges faced by Hee Tae and Myung Hee.

Visual Design and Costumes

Historical Accuracy: The costumes reflect the fashion of the 1980s, with attention to detail in the clothing and hairstyles of the characters.
Color Palette: Warm and nostalgic colors are used to evoke the era, while darker tones highlight the tension and danger of the uprising.
Set Design: Authentic set designs, including traditional Korean houses and urban settings, enhance the historical context of the drama.
Props: Period-appropriate props, such as old telephones, medical equipment, and vehicles, add to the authenticity of the setting.
Makeup: Subtle makeup techniques are used to reflect the physical and emotional toll on the characters, particularly during intense scenes.

Themes and Messages

Love Amidst Chaos: The drama explores how love can flourish even in the most challenging and dangerous times, highlighting the resilience of the human spirit.
Courage and Sacrifice: The characters’ bravery and willingness to sacrifice for their loved ones and their beliefs are central themes.
Historical Reflection: “Youth of May” serves as a poignant reminder of the Gwangju Uprising and its impact on South Korean history.
Family and Friendship: The series emphasizes the importance of family ties and friendships, showing how these relationships provide support and strength.
Social Justice: The fight for justice and human rights is a key message, reflecting the broader struggles of the era.

Interesting Facts

Historical Context: The drama is set during the Gwangju Uprising, a significant event in South Korean history that occurred in May 1980, adding depth and realism to the story.
Cast Chemistry: Lee Do Hyun and Go Min Si’s chemistry was widely praised, contributing to the emotional impact of the series.
Real Locations: Many scenes were filmed on location in Gwangju to authentically depict the historical events.
Director’s Vision: Director Song Min Yeop aimed to create a blend of historical accuracy and emotional storytelling, which resonated well with the audience.
Cultural Impact: The drama has been praised for its portrayal of a crucial period in Korean history, bringing attention to the sacrifices made during the Gwangju Uprising.

Awards

2021 KBS Drama Awards:
- Top Excellence Award for Actor: Lee Do Hyun for his role as Hwang Hee Tae.
- Top Excellence Award for Actress: Go Min Si for her role as Kim Myung Hee.
- Best Supporting Actress: Geum Sae Rok for her role as Lee Soo Ryun.
- Best Couple Award: Lee Do Hyun and Go Min Si for their chemistry as Hwang Hee Tae and Kim Myung Hee.
2021 Asia Contents Awards:
- Best Newcomer Actress: Go Min Si for her outstanding performance in “Youth of May”.

These accolades highlight the series’ exceptional storytelling, compelling performances, and its impactful portrayal of historical events, solidifying its status as a noteworthy K-drama

Real-Life Loves on Set

While there have been no confirmed reports of real-life romances among the cast members of “Youth of May,” the strong on-screen chemistry, particularly between Lee Do Hyun and Go Min Si, has led to speculation among fans. The actors’ close bond and professional respect for each other contributed to their compelling performances, making their characters’ love story all the more believable and touching.

These insights provide a comprehensive look into “Youth of May,” highlighting why the drama has resonated with audiences and critics alike for its historical depth, emotional storytelling, and powerful performances.