stepanusedi

My Girlfriend is The Man introduces itself with a bold concept-a university student whose girlfriend mysteriously transforms into a man. At first glance, it seems to explore themes of love beyond gender and identity transformation. However, what could've been an emotionally rich and progressive story is instead delivered with a lack of clarity and courage.

The drama stumbles heavily in tone and genre. It is marketed like a fantasy romance, but the plot strongly leans into BL-coded dynamics without embracing them fully. The confusion isn't just among viewers-even the original webtoon has been interpreted by many as containing Boys' Love elements, which the producers seem to awkwardly avoid addressing.

In an interview with Allkpop, producer Yoo stated:

> "We plan to include many scenes featuring Kim Ji Eun through flashbacks and imagination. I don't think people will consider it a BL drama."

This kind of statement highlights the problem: instead of owning the narrative or committing to one clear direction, the production opts for dodging responsibility. As a result, the story lacks authenticity, and the characters' emotions feel forced rather than earned.

Visually, the drama is fine, and the cast-composed of idol actors-does their best. But no amount of charm can save a story that refuses to be honest with itself. The ending (and the journey itself) feels hollow, confusing, and emotionally flat.

Ultimately, this is a drama that tries to be "everything" and ends up being nothing at all. If you're looking for genuine romance, compelling storytelling, or proper BL or fantasy - you'd be better off looking elsewhere.

"Business As Usual" is not just another BL drama. It is a meditation on wounds, trust, and the process of healing oneself-slowly, honestly, and very humanly.

For me personally, this drama felt like reopening an old wound that had not yet healed. Min Joon-with his deep trust issues, the way he withdraws, closes doors, and keeps everything to himself-is so close to what I feel in real life. His fear of attachment, his worry about repeating trauma, and his desire to be trusted but not knowing how... it's all heartbreaking.

In contrast, Ji Hwan comes across as someone who not only loves, but also understands and respects wounds. He's not perfect, but he's there. He doesn't force, but he persists. He loves Min Joon not because he wants to "fix" him, but because he sees value in the healing process itself. Their relationship develops slowly-not instantly, not explosively, but quietly and real, and that's why it's so touching.

Their chemistry is incredibly natural. There's depth in every look, silences that speak louder than words, and acting that feels so honest. The drama avoids overused tropes and chooses to tell the story of two fragile people-and that's its greatest strength.

As someone who still struggles with fear, guilt, and old trauma, Business As Usual gives me hope: that safe love exists. That healing is possible, even when it's slow. And that we deserve to be loved, even when we're not perfect.

My personal score: 10/10 Not because it's a perfect drama, but because it's honest. And sometimes, honesty is the most healing form of love.