When Life Gives You Tangerines: Plot, Cast, Fun Facts, and the Secrets Behind It!

Released on March 7, 2025, When Life Gives You Tangerines (also officially known as I Was Fooled and Thank You for Your Hard Work) quickly became one of Netflix’s biggest hits of the year. With its emotional storytelling, captivating performances, and nostalgic period romance, the drama won over audiences and soared in popularity both in Brazil and internationally.

On IMDb, the show currently ranks 75th overall and is among the top three highest-rated Asian productions on the platform - an impressive achievement.

Set on Jeju Island, the story begins in the 1950s and 1960s and continues into present day. It follows Ae-sun, a bold and spirited young woman with dreams of becoming a poet, and Gwan-sik, a quiet, steadfast man who would do anything to make her smile.

While Ae-sun faces the world with an open heart, Gwan-sik embodies silent, unwavering love. Through four chapters - each inspired by a different season - we witness the characters’ transformations and the enduring power of a love that transcends time.

Young Ae-sun and Gwan-sik are portrayed by IU (Hotel Del Luna) and Park Bo-gum (Reply 1988), two of the most beloved stars in Korean entertainment. Their older versions are played by Moon So-ri (Three Sisters) and Park Hae-joon (The World of the Married).

The supporting cast is just as stellar, featuring:

- Yeom Hye-ran (The Glory)

- Oh Min Ae (The Cover)

- Choi Dae Hoon (Kingdom of Conquest)

- Kang Yoo Seok (Black Knight)

- Kim Sun Ho (Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha)

A Soundtrack with a Brazilian Touch

One of the show’s most surprising and heartwarming moments was the appearance of Brazilian singer Alcione. She performed one of her classic songs in Korean specifically for the drama’s soundtrack - a true cultural crossover that moved fans around the world.

The success of When Life Gives You Tangerines can be attributed to a powerful mix of elements. The emotionally rich storytelling - blending romance, hardship, and poetry - resonated deeply with viewers. The presence of pop culture icons IU and Park Bo-gum brought immediate attention to the project.

Additionally, the careful direction by Kim Won-seok, known for his aesthetic sensitivity, and the beautifully composed soundtrack helped deliver an immersive experience. The nostalgic vibe and Jeju’s natural scenery further enhanced the series’ visual appeal.

And of course, the universal themes - love, dreams, loss, and hope - made the show relatable across cultures and borders.

Since its release, When Life Gives You Tangerines has received glowing reviews across various platforms, including:

- 9.4 rating on IMDb

- 8.6 on My Drama List

- 98% audience approval on Rotten Tomatoes

The series also received major nominations and awards in Asia and abroad, including:

- Best Director at the 2025 Baeksang Arts Awards

- Best Actress (IU) at the Seoul Drama Awards

- Best Original Soundtrack at the Korea Drama Festival

- International Emmy nomination for Best Drama Series

These accolades highlight both the show’s exceptional quality and the strong emotional connection it established with its audience.

Despite its nostalgic and dramatic tone, When Life Gives You Tangerines includes a few clever nods and symbolic moments for eagle-eyed viewers:

- Hotel Del Luna Reference: In one scene where Ae-sun writes a poem by hand, the name of the hotel can be seen scribbled in the corner - a subtle tribute to IU’s 2019 drama.

- Tangerine Cameo Pendant: In Episode 6, Ae-sun receives a cameo-shaped pendant with a carved tangerine. It reappears subtly in future scenes, symbolizing lasting memory and affection.

- Fictional Poetry Book: Later in the series, Ae-sun publishes a book titled the same as one featured in When the Camellia Blooms, written by the same screenwriter Lim Sang-chun - hinting the stories may share a universe.

- “Poetry” (2010) Movie Poster: In older Gwan-sik’s room, a poster of the Korean film Poetry hangs - an homage to its theme of finding poetry in pain, echoing Ae-sun’s journey.

- Seasonal Color Palette: The characters' wardrobes reflect the four seasons (spring, summer, autumn, winter), marking each chapter of the story and symbolizing love’s cyclical nature.

The title When Life Gives You Tangerines holds deep metaphorical weight. Tangerines, native to Jeju Island, symbolize simplicity, sweetness, nostalgia, and resilience.

Throughout the drama, they appear as emblems of joyful memories and the emotional bonds between characters - especially Ae-sun and Gwan-sik. Much like the phrase “when life gives you lemons,” the show suggests we can turn hardship into poetry, pain into love, and simplicity into art.

With its heartfelt narrative, exceptional performances, and rich cultural tapestry, this drama stands out as one of 2025’s most unforgettable releases.

If you're a fan of emotional romantic K-dramas, be sure to check out our list of hyperlink(21 Must-Watch Romance Dramas!