Although fast-paced watches are better suited to the current era of streaming and binge-watching, a series like Misaeng: Incomplete Life is a reminder of the more contemplative and insightful brand of K-dramas that leave a long-lasting impression. It aired in 2015 but even today, Misaeng’s universal charm and poignant story resonate with its viewers. It is a slow watch but one worth making.
Plot Pot
Misaeng follows Jang Geu-rae (Im Si-wan), a former Baduk (traditional Korean board game) prodigy who had been on track to becoming a national champion but due to various reasons, including financial, had to leave the life behind. When he fails to become a professional, he is left to doing odd jobs till he lands an internship at One International. Armed with only his high-school diploma among a sea of competitive individuals with university degrees and language skills, Geu-rae is ill at ease and bad at his work. He is envied by the other interns because they think he got in through connections and at the same time, he is mocked at and sabotaged.
He finds an ally in Ahn Young-yi (Kang So-ra), the only female intern trying to prove herself while trying to escape the men and their discrimination against her. He also starts to get mentored by Oh Sang-shik, his team leader and Dong-shik. He also shares an interesting relationship with Jang Baek-gi (Kang Ha-neul), another intern who is competitive but also, strangely interested in Geu-rae. The plot further delves into Geu-rae’s struggles, triumphs, and personal growth as he adapts to the corporate culture, learns about teamwork, and faces office politics.
Throughout the series, Misaeng effectively portrays the harsh realities and emotional complexities of the working world, highlighting the importance of perseverance, dedication, and integrity. Through Geu-rae’s struggles, Misaeng also shows encouragement to pursue one’s dreams, even if the path takes unexpected turns. It reinforces the idea that failure is a stepping stone to success. Despite all of that, it is not merely idealistic. It is realistic as well as nuanced, portraying the personal lives, aspirations, and vulnerabilities of its characters and how it affects them in their daily lives.
Geu-rae’s journey is not just about personal growth but also about building relationships and understanding the value of collaboration. Jang Baek-gi plays out an interesting conflict that comes from anxiety to succeed and a willingness to help. Im Si-wan delivers a standout portrayal as Jang Geu-rae, perfectly capturing the character’s vulnerability, determination, and transformation. His genuine portrayal allows the audience to connect with Geu-rae, sympathising with his struggles and rooting for his success. Misaeng’s starkly realistic portrayal makes it a must-watch and one that is worth remembering.
