When XO, Kitty arrived on Netflix, it wasn’t just a spin-off—it was a successful experiment in cultural fusion, modern romance, and global storytelling. Born as an extension of the universe of To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before, the series finally puts Kitty Song Covey at the center, played by Anna Cathcart, transforming her from a witty side character into an emotional lead.
The first season takes us straight to Seoul, the beating heart of contemporary South Korea, where Kitty enrolls at the prestigious KISS (Korean Independent School of Seoul) with one romantic goal: to reunite with her boyfriend Dae. But like any proper teen story, expectations quickly clash with reality. Between secrets, love triangles, and identity struggles, Kitty discovers that love is far more complex than she imagined—especially when new emotions and unexpected connections come into play.
One of the most compelling aspects of the series is its strong connection to South Korea. It’s not just about the setting: the production chose to film directly in Seoul, collaborating with local crews and highlighting elements of Korean culture, from the school system to social dynamics, as well as references to K-pop and K-dramas. This makes XO, Kitty a hybrid series, blending Western teen drama with Asian narrative sensibilities, capable of speaking to a global audience.
The success was immediate. The series quickly entered Netflix’s global top 10, winning over Gen Z audiences thanks to its inclusive representation, identity-driven themes, and fresh storytelling. Unlike many romantic series, XO, Kitty explores personal discovery, fluid sexuality, and cultural belonging—elements that make it stand out in the teen drama landscape.
Alongside Anna Cathcart, the cast includes international talents such as Choi Min-young as Dae, Gia Kim as the sophisticated Yuri, and Sang Heon Lee, who plays Min Ho, one of the most beloved characters among fans. Their performances help create a believable and engaging dynamic, enriched by cultural and linguistic differences.
From a literary perspective, XO, Kitty is rooted in the novels by Jenny Han, particularly the trilogy that began with To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before. However, the series does not strictly follow a specific book; instead, it presents an original story that expands the narrative universe, giving greater depth to a character who was secondary in the novels.
Today, the series already has two seasons available, and all eyes are on the third season, set to premiere next Thursday. Following the events of the second season, which further complicated relationships and Kitty’s emotional journey, the new episodes promise even more intense developments. Her path of self-discovery will remain central, with new challenges, difficult choices, and evolving relationships.
Viewers can also expect a deeper exploration of family dynamics and Kitty’s mother’s past, along with an even stronger expansion of the Korean element: more culture, more Seoul, and more blending between East and West. XO, Kitty has proven that audiences are ready for global stories where identities and emotions intertwine beyond borders.
Ultimately, XO, Kitty is not just a romantic series, but a contemporary story about growth, self-discovery, and belonging. And with the third season on the horizon, its success seems set to grow even further.
