As someone who was completely emotionally wrecked by the ending of Twenty-Five Twenty-One, I can confidently say this K-drama is a masterclass in tugging at your heartstrings and making you question the meaning of life itself. From the first episode to the last, it had me hooked, and the emotional rollercoaster it took me on was nothing short of breathtaking
In 1998, Na Hee-do (Kim Tae-ri), a talented fencer at Seonjung Girls’ High School, faces the disbandment of her school’s fencing team due to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) crisis. As a result, she transfers to Taeyang High School to continue pursuing fencing. Her resilience and determination in the Face of this adversity ultimately lead to her joining the National Fencing Team.
On the other hand, Baek Yi-jin’s (Nam Joo-hyuk) family does not fare so well in the financial downfall. The crisis ultimately leads to his parent’s divorce and father’s estrangement from the family. Yi-jin’s journey reflects the hardships of economic crises as he takes on multiple part-time job., Eventually, he transforms into a successful sports reporter, showcasing his adaptability and resilience.
In the present day, Kim Min-chae (Choi Myung-bin), Hee-do’s daughter, abandons her ballet competition to stay with her grandmother. Her discovery of her mother’s diary while there connects the past and present, revealing Hee-do’s youthful struggles and dreams and adding depth and emotion to the narrative.
Kim Tae-ri’s portrayal of Na Hee-do was nothing short of brilliant. She effortlessly captured the essence of a young woman trying to navigate the complexities of life while maintaining a perfect balance between humor and maturity. Hee-do was a well-written character who felt like a close friend, making her journey all the more relatable.
The story itself was a work of art. Twenty-Five Twenty-One took a unique approach by focusing more on the characters and their personal growth rather than relying on clichéd meet-cutes and over-the-top romance. It delved into the aspirations and conundrums that young people often face as they try to figure out their identities and life goals. There is a universal pressure to conform to societal expectations and have your entire life mapped out at a young age. This was portrayed beautifully in a way that will resonate deeply with anyone trying to find their way in the world.
What truly sets this drama apart is its skillful handling of multiple elements. It seamlessly weaves together romance, drama, comedy, and, above all, a coming-of-age story. The backdrop of the IMF crisis in 1998 adds an additional layer to the characters’ struggles, making their journeys even more poignant. Hee-do’s determination to pursue her passion for fencing despite the odds and Yi-jin’s resilience in the face of financial adversity are both inspiring and heart-wrenching.
Twenty-Five Twenty-One is a show that will make you feel like you’re living or dying by its ending. It’s a beautifully crafted K-drama that explores the complexities of youth, the pursuit of dreams, and the enduring power of love and resilience. While the ending may leave you emotionally wrecked, it’s a testament to the show’s ability to make you care deeply about its characters and their journeys. If you’re looking for a drama that will take you on an unforgettable emotional ride, this is it. Just be prepared to have your heart broken and put back together by the time the credits roll.
