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The drama 'Because This Is My First Life,' starring Lee Min-ki and Jung So-min, a 16-episode romance series that aired on tvN in 2017, is currently gaining renewed attention. This work sensitively addresses the realistic challenges faced by young adults, such as rising housing prices, loans, and unstable employment, alongside various perspectives on marriage, earning significant empathy from many viewers. It particularly questions the essence of love and marriage through the unconventional premise of a contractual marriage.
The drama tells the story of Yoon Ji-ho (Jung So-min), an assistant writer desperately in need of a home, and Nam Se-hee (Lee Min-ki), a developer burdened by mortgage repayments, who enter into a contractual marriage and cohabitation out of economic necessity. Their relationship, initially based on financial needs rather than romantic attraction, gradually develops into genuine love as they share their daily lives, understanding and respecting each other's vulnerabilities. The series also examines marriage from multiple realistic angles through the stories of three couples, using practical themes like housing insecurity and loans, combined with profound dialogue, to resonate with young audiences.
Bloggers comment that the drama remains highly relatable even years after its initial broadcast, often being referred to as a 'life romance drama.' They find its message, which emphasizes the essence of relationships based on mutual respect rather than traditional customs, particularly moving. The drama's charming portrayal of contemporary housing issues and marital concerns with a humorous touch is also highlighted as a key appeal.
