Our Blooming Youth

Incredible drama. I've found myself wanting a new and current drama, but they never seem to hit the same as the old ones. This one was the perfect combination of what's good about the new ones, but with the throwback quality of a classic. Absolutely loved it! Loved the lead actors, loved the entire cast of characters, loved their performances. I would be ecstatic for a spin-off because I love the mystery concept and characters so much!

To reiterate for needed review length, great concept that was well delivered, great cast of characters, the story had me hooked because I actually cared about what happened to them.

One of the best historical Korean dramas of 2023, with a funny story which sometimes gives viewer the sad feeling so that you want to cry mixed with a mysterious and enigmatic genre, that attracted me so much

It's only flaw was that, despite the fact that it was said in the introduction that the series was romantic, its love aspect was very weak, and only in the last minutes of the last episode we see a little emotional and love scene so in my opinion, as a result , chemistry between first leads was not convenient enough I give this series a score of 9 out of 10 and I recommend you watch and enjoy it.

A nobleman's daughter played by Jeon So-nee is framed for murdering her entire family and she escapes with her handmaiden played by Pyo Ye-jin. They end up in the capital where they disguise themselves as men and So-nee ends up in the palace as a eunuch serving the Crown Prince played by Park Hyun-Sik and Ye-Jin work serves a nobleman who spends his time investigating crimes using a scientific approach. There is of course the usual palace intrigue with various factions competing to get the upper hand to appoint their candidate as the Crown Prince. The storyline has been done before but the cast do a great job and it is still entertaining and the relationship between the leads is a believable romance.

The story, especially the mystery aspect and how the protagonists figure it out and set things right, is compelling. The acting is remarkable, particularly those of the lead characters, Park Hyung Sik as the crown prince and Jeon So Nee as Min Jae Yi / Go Soon Dol.

Though it features gender-switching, a trope I'm not too crazy about, I don't mind it that much here as the characters who matter know about the subterfuge early on. And when you're wrongfully accused of murder, what could be a better way to hide while you try to find the real culprit?

The dedication of the crown prince to do what is right for his people is awe-inspiring. That scene where he is struggling between duty and love, between marrying the chosen crown princess or following his heart is so powerful I cried, though it is depicted so subtly with no tears shed, just his face showing his heartbreak. I also love how he chooses peace and forgiveness at the end instead of going all out shedding more blood to avenge every single wrong committed by the enemies.

The ending is lovely. I wish all dramas have endings as heartwarming as this.

Everything about this drama, from the intricate storyline to the eye-catching and beautiful aesthetics and incredibly talented cast, everything about this drama was impeccable!

I had been waiting for this drama for over a year now and I can say with full confidence that every second of the wait was worth it. I rushed here to write this review after finishing the last episode because this drama truly deserves it. This drama really managed to tug my heartstrings haha.

I was also really glad to see how the ending allowed the characters to have their deserved closure. If you're thinking about giving this a watch, please don't waste another thought and watch it right away, you won't regret it!!