Review: When the Weather Is Fine (날씨가 좋으면 찾아가겠어요)

"When the Weather Is Fine (Korean: 날씨가 좋으면 찾아가겠어요)" is a 2020 South Korean drama based on the novel of the same name by Lee Do-woo. Starring Park Min-young (What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim) and Seo Kang-joon (Are You Human Too?), this melodrama blends healing romance, small-town charm, and emotional depth in a slow-burning narrative.

Quick Overview

Genre: Slice-of-life, Romance, Melodrama

Episodes: 16
Director: Han Ji-seung (Tune in for Love)
Writer: Lee Jae-eun (adaptation)
Where to Watch: Viki, Viu, Amazon Prime

Plot Summary

The story follows Mok Hae-won (Park Min-young), a cellist who returns to her quiet hometown, Bookhyun Village, after facing hardships in Seoul. There, she reunites with Im Eun-seob (Seo Kang-joon), a former classmate who now runs a small bookstore. As winter blankets the village, their rekindled friendship slowly turns into love, while both confront past traumas and family secrets.

Strengths

1. Healing & Atmospheric Storytelling

The drama embraces a slow, contemplative pace, focusing on emotional healing rather than fast-paced plot twists.

The winter countryside setting (filmed in Pyeongchang) adds cozy, melancholic vibes, making it perfect for viewers who enjoy introspective dramas.

The bookstore and literary themes create a warm, nostalgic mood—similar to Romance Is a Bonus Book but with deeper emotional layers.

2. Strong Performances

Park Min-young delivers a nuanced performance as Hae-won, portraying vulnerability and resilience.

Seo Kang-joon shines as the quiet, introverted Eun-seob, whose subtle expressions convey deep emotions.

The supporting cast, including Lee Jae-wook (Alchemy of Souls) as a troubled teen, adds depth.

3. Realistic & Mature Romance

The love story is gentle, patient, and deeply emotional—no clichéd tropes or forced conflicts.

The leads’ chemistry feels natural, growing from shared pain and quiet understanding.

4. Beautiful Cinematography & Music

The visuals are stunning, with soft lighting and winter aesthetics enhancing the mood.

The OST is soothing, featuring tracks like Breath by Sam Kim, which complements the melancholic tone.

Weaknesses

1. Slow Pacing (May Not Suit Everyone)

If you prefer fast-paced romances or dramatic conflicts, this might feel too slow.

Some viewers may find the melancholic tone overwhelming.

2. Heavy Emotional Themes

The drama deals with family abuse, trauma, and grief, which can be emotionally taxing.

Some side stories (like Hae-won’s aunt’s past) feel underdeveloped.

3. Ending Feels Slightly Rushed

While most arcs resolve well, the final episodes speed up compared to the deliberate earlier pacing.

Who Will Love This Drama?

✔ Fans of healing, slow-burn romances (A Piece of Your Mind, Summer Strike).

✔ Viewers who enjoy atmospheric, literary-themed storytelling.

✔ Those who appreciate character-driven dramas with deep emotional layers.

❌ Not ideal for those who dislike slow pacing or prefer lighthearted rom-coms.

Final Verdict: 8.5/10

When the Weather Is Fine is a beautifully crafted, emotionally rich drama that excels in character depth and mood. While its slow pace and heavy themes may not suit everyone, it’s a perfect watch for quiet winter nights, offering warmth, healing, and a touching love story.