The Sweetness and Sour Notes of 'What's Wrong with Secretary Kim': A Romcom That Leaves You Thinking
There’s something undeniably comforting about diving into a K-drama romcom, especially one as visually appealing as What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim. With Park Seo-joon and Park Min-Young at the helm, the show is a feast for the eyes—think sharp suits, flawless makeup, and chemistry that practically leaps off the screen. But beneath the glittering surface lies a story that, while breezy and entertaining, raises some intriguing questions about love, identity, and personal growth.
The CEO and the Secretary: A Dynamic That’s Both Familiar and Fresh
At its core, the drama follows the classic trope of the arrogant CEO and his devoted secretary. Young-joon (Park Seo-joon) is the kind of boss who’s used to having everything handed to him, thanks to Kim Mi-so (Park Min-Young), who’s been his right hand for a decade. What makes this particularly fascinating is how the show subverts the typical power dynamic. Mi-so isn’t just a sidekick; she’s the backbone of Young-joon’s life, managing everything from his schedule to his love life. When she decides to leave, it’s not just a plot device—it’s a moment of self-realization for her.
Personally, I think this is where the drama shines. Mi-so’s decision to step away from her role isn’t just about romance; it’s about reclaiming her identity. For years, she’s defined herself by her job, and her departure forces both her and Young-joon to confront who they are without the other. What many people don’t realize is that this kind of character growth is rare in romcoms, which often prioritize fluff over depth.
Childhood Trauma: The Unexpected Heart of the Story
One thing that immediately stands out is the show’s handling of childhood trauma. The kidnapping incident that binds Young-joon and Mi-so together isn’t just a plot twist—it’s a window into their psyches. But what’s even more compelling is the character of Lee Sung-heon (Lee Taehwan), Young-joon’s brother. His guilt-driven persona, where he pretends to be his brother to absolve himself of blame, is a masterclass in psychological complexity.
From my perspective, this is the most thought-provoking aspect of the show. How guilt can fracture a person’s identity and relationships is a theme that resonates far beyond the drama’s lighthearted tone. It raises a deeper question: Can we ever truly escape our past, or do we just learn to live with it? Unfortunately, the show wraps up this storyline too quickly, opting for cuteness over exploration. It’s a missed opportunity, in my opinion, to delve into something truly profound.
The Romance: Cute, But at What Cost?
Let’s be honest—the romance between Young-joon and Mi-so is undeniably cute. Their banter, the slow burn of their feelings, and the way they navigate their shared trauma make for some genuinely heartwarming moments. But here’s where I have to pause: the ending feels like a step backward for Mi-so’s character.
After spending episodes proving she’s more than just a secretary, she ultimately decides to stay in that role, choosing to ‘always be by his side.’ Personally, I think this undermines her growth. It’s as if the show is saying that her happiness is tied to his, rather than her own aspirations. What this really suggests is that even in 2023, some narratives still struggle to let female characters stand on their own.
The Redemption of Young-joon: A Little Too Neat
Young-joon’s character arc is another point of contention. The show goes to great lengths to redeem him, painting him as a selfless, noble figure who’s loved Mi-so from afar. While Park Seo-joon’s charm makes it easy to root for him, the redemption feels rushed and forced. In my opinion, the writers were so eager to make him likable that they lost sight of his flaws.
A detail that I find especially interesting is how Mi-so even calls him out on his sudden change, asking, ‘Why are you being so considerate? This isn’t like you.’ It’s a moment of self-awareness that the show doesn’t fully capitalize on. If you take a step back and think about it, the drama could have explored the complexities of his character instead of smoothing them over.
The Fluff vs. The Substance: Where Does Secretary Kim Land?
So, where does What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim stand in the grand scheme of K-dramas? It’s undeniably fun—a perfect Sunday watch if you’re looking to unwind and enjoy some eye candy. But if you’re craving depth, you might leave feeling a bit unsatisfied.
What makes this particularly fascinating is how the show balances its strengths and weaknesses. On one hand, it tackles themes like trauma and identity with surprising nuance. On the other, it falls back on clichés and rushed resolutions. In my opinion, it’s a drama that could have been great, but settles for good.
Final Thoughts: A Sweet Treat with a Bitter Aftertaste
As I reflect on What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim, I’m struck by its duality. It’s a show that wants to be more than just a romcom, but doesn’t quite commit to its ambitions. The chemistry between the leads is undeniable, and the exploration of trauma is genuinely compelling. Yet, the ending leaves a bitter aftertaste, raising questions about character growth and narrative priorities.
Personally, I think it’s a drama worth watching—not just for the romance, but for the conversations it sparks. It’s a reminder that even the fluffiest stories can carry weight, and that sometimes, the most interesting moments are the ones that leave you thinking long after the credits roll.
