In the landscape of romantic K-dramas, What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim remains one of the most beloved and iconic series of recent years. Released in 2018, the drama won over both audiences and critics thanks to its perfect blend of romance, comedy, and the irresistible chemistry between its leads, becoming a benchmark for the Korean rom-com genre.
The story revolves around Lee Young-joon, the vice chairman of a large company, played by Park Seo-joon. Narcissistic, brilliant, and seemingly perfect, his world is suddenly shaken when his flawless secretary, Kim Mi-so—portrayed by Park Min-young—decides to resign after nine years of service. From this point, a romantic dynamic unfolds, filled with misunderstandings, personal growth, and revelations from the past.
What makes the drama so engaging is its ability to balance lightness with depth. On one hand, it offers humorous moments and situations typical of romantic comedies; on the other, it also explores more intense themes such as childhood trauma and the formation of personal identity. The relationship between the two protagonists evolves episode by episode, transitioning from a professional connection to an increasingly genuine emotional bond.
The series achieved immediate and global success. In South Korea, it recorded strong ratings, while internationally it went viral on streaming platforms, contributing to the spread of the Korean wave. The chemistry between Park Seo-joon and Park Min-young was one of the most appreciated elements, generating a strong fan following and numerous online discussions.
Another strength of the drama lies in its aesthetics: elegant settings, carefully styled outfits, and a refined visual style that has even influenced the worlds of fashion and beauty. Kim Mi-so, in particular, became an icon of office-chic style, while Lee Young-joon represents the archetype of the perfect CEO, combining charisma and vulnerability.
From a narrative standpoint, the drama is based on the web novel of the same name, later adapted into a webtoon, once again demonstrating the strong connection between digital storytelling and the Korean television industry. This origin contributes to the series’ dynamic pacing and engaging structure.
Years after its release, What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim continues to be one of the most recommended titles for those approaching K-dramas. Not only for its romantic storyline, but also for its ability to create memorable characters and iconic moments that leave a lasting impression.
Ultimately, it is much more than a simple love story: it is a journey through emotions, personal growth, and authentic connections—a drama that has captured the hearts of a global audience and still represents the essence of the Korean rom-com today.
