Introduction

When Life Gives You Tangerines is one of the most highly anticipated K-dramas of 2025. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Jeju Island, this romantic period drama tells the heartfelt love story of Ae-sun and Gwan-sik.

A couple whose relationship weaves through the changing seasons of life. With a star-studded cast, stunning cinematography, and a deeply emotional storyline, this series has captured the hearts of viewers worldwide.

If you’re looking for a detailed breakdown of the cast, episode guide, and everything else you need to know about When Life Gives You Tangerines, you’re in the right place!

Cast and Characters

Main Leads

• Lee Ji-eun (IU) as Ae-sun (Young Era)

• – A spirited and rebellious girl whose dreams take her beyond the island.

• Park Bo-gum as Gwan-sik (Young Era)

• – A hardworking and kind-hearted young man who remains devoted to Ae-sun.

• Moon So-ri as Ae-sun (Older Era) – Now a wise and reflective woman, she looks back on her past choices.

• Park Hae-joon as Gwan-sik (Older Era) – The older version of Gwan-sik, carrying the weight of love, loss, and unspoken words.

Supporting Cast

• Kim Yong-rim as Mak-cheon – A significant elder figure who influences the couple’s journey.

• Na Moon-hee as Chun-ok – Adds depth to the generational storytelling.

• Yeom Hye-ran and Oh Min-ae – Play the mothers of Ae-sun and Gwan-sik, respectively.

• Choi Dae-hoon and Chang Hyae-jin – As Sang-gil and Yeong-ran, important figures in the story.

• Cheong Hae-kyun, Oh Jung-se, and Uhm Ji-won – Other notable actors enriching the drama’s narrative

Episode Guide: A Journey Through Love and Time

Episode 1-4 (March 7, 2025) – Spring: First Love Blooms

The drama opens with young Ae-sun and Gwan-sik in their teenage years. While Ae-sun dreams of leaving Jeju, Gwan-sik finds contentment in the simple beauty of their home. Their first love is sweet and innocent, but cracks begin to show when outside opportunities threaten to pull them apart.

Episode 5-8 (March 14, 2025) – Summer: Trials and Separation

As Ae-sun pursues her dreams beyond the island, Gwan-sik stays behind, leading to emotional turmoil. The warmth of summer contrasts with their growing distance. New characters, including friends and rivals, complicate their journey 

Episode 9-12 (March 21, 2025) – Autumn: Choices and Consequences

Years later, fate brings Ae-sun and Gwan-sik together again, but they are no longer the same people. Past misunderstandings, unspoken emotions, and the weight of their decisions come to light.

Episode 13-16 (March 28, 2025) – Winter: Reflection and Resolution

In their older years, Ae-sun and Gwan-sik look back on their journey. The drama’s emotional climax explores whether love, despite the years of separation, can still be rekindled

Why You Should Watch When Life Gives You Tangerines

1. A Unique Storytelling Approach

Unlike typical K-dramas, When Life Gives You Tangerines splits its narrative between two time periods—youthful passion and mature reflection. This gives viewers a rare opportunity to see how love evolves over a lifetime.

2. Stunning Cinematography

Set on Jeju Island, every scene is a visual masterpiece. From the golden tangerine orchards in summer to the cold, lonely beaches in winter, the cinematography beautifully mirrors the emotions of the characters.

3. A Heartfelt Soundtrack

Featuring original songs from IU and Park Bo-gum, the OST is a perfect blend of nostalgia and emotion, enhancing the storytelling

4. Powerful Performances

IU and Park Bo-gum’s chemistry in the younger era is electric, while Moon So-ri and Park Hae-joon deliver heartbreaking yet tender performances as the older versions of their characters.

Where to Watch When Life Gives You Tangerines

The drama is available for streaming exclusively on Netflix, with new episodes released every Friday in batches of four

A Drama That Stays With You

When Life Gives You Tangerines is more than just a love story—it’s a reflection on time, regret, and the choices that shape our lives. Whether you’re a fan of slow-burning romance or heart-wrenching storytelling, this drama is a must-watch.

Will Ae-sun and Gwan-sik find their way back to each other? Or will life’s circumstances prove that love sometimes isn’t enough? Tune in to find out!

Are you watching When Life Gives You Tangerines? Share your thoughts below!