A recent review of 'The One and Only' ('Only One Person' is the literal translation) by a Korean critic called the drama "the birth of a masterpiece that many people need to see" and I have to completely agree. All of the responses I've seen have praised the drama as well-made and especially applauded the excellent work of all the actors involved. The drama was put into a very late at night (going past midnight) on weekdays airing slot in Korea, but it truly is a hidden gem that I think will end up standing the test of time and become beloved as people discover it through streaming platforms. Indeed, upon its release on Netflix Korea it reached #3 on the list of most-watched TV shows and films on the platform.
'The One and Only' deals with a lot of important and serious topics, with death of course being a central theme, but it also cuts through any heaviness with laughter at the right moments, making it a lot funnier than first expected. The drama showcases stable and nuanced acting from the cast, and from the behind the scenes clips it's clear how much genuine fun they had working together. The ever evolving dynamic between the three terminally ill women really does make you understand how even on the verge of death, people can still connect, love, and grow. It is a necessary message to share in these uncertain times, and ironically it is this honesty and exploration about death that actually makes 'The One and Only' life affirming.
