Written by Mary Angela Aquino
Netflix, one of the lead producing companies, swept the mass by releasing Start Up: a wholesome Korean drama that premiered last year on October 17 and ended on December 6. It is a distinct series focused on family, career, and self-related events, a perfect depiction of self-love growing to selfless love.
With 16 episodes, the series revolved around the lives of the four main characters: Seo Dal Mi, a CEO in the making; Won In Jae, Dal Mi’s sister turned rival because of family issues; Han Ji Pyeong, Dal Mi’s first love; and Nam Do San, an engineer whom Dal Mi met in an extraordinary way.
Just like typical dramas, the series presents parts such as love triangle between characters and rivalry between siblings. Although seemingly cliché, it managed to tackle different issues an individual might be facing in a modern and innovative world, making it relatable for everyone.
The actors and actresses were also able to give life to the characters with their outstanding portrayal. They were able to complement each other which made them fitting for their roles.
On top of all these is the love triangle of the three main characters which surely captured the hearts of many. Both leading men created a chemistry with the main lead and even divided the viewers into teams (Are you #TeamGoodBoy or #TeamDoSan?).
Furthermore, it is a mixture of flashback and present narration; unveiling the main characters’ development thoroughly. Each of them experienced different failures and breakthroughs which mirrors everyone’s lives wherein we also go through obstacles just to reach our dreams.
It is simple and well-written for viewers to understand the message of the series. The wholesomeness of the series is impressive and will truly strike you and make you reflect on things. Its strengths overpowered its weaknesses that will leave you nothing but lessons and kilig.
On another note, Nam Do San would be the ideal role model for us, future engineers. His success did not happen in a blink of an eye. A lot of times, he was discouraged to go on because of his struggles: sleepless nights, trial and errors, insecurities, fears, family pressure, rejections, and criticisms. The world was seemingly telling him to just stop because his dreams weren’t for him, but he didn’t quit.
As engineering students, we also delve ourselves in a pool of negativity whenever we fail. It makes us belittle our capabilities and even ask, “Is this really for me?”. This roots from fear of failure because we want to prove our skills by being perfect. There are certain incidents in our college life where we get a failing grade while others seem to cope up so well. We then confine our abilities and limit ourselves from trying new opportunities because we’re doubting that we could not do it.
Although it is okay to feel these negativities, we must not live with it all throughout our lives because we’ll be letting a lot of opportunities slip away. Nam Do San, even with a lot of setbacks, conquered his fears and took risks. He continued to dedicate his life in developing innovations and contributing for the progress of the world which is a perfect embodiment of how a future engineer must be.
As aspiring engineers, this K-Drama will surely touch our souls. The illustration of the journey to success is a fitting example for us, not only as future engineers but as students in general. It is relevant for professionals as well who feel stagnant ー it is never too late to chase your dreams again.
Keep in mind that failure is the foundation of success. No one becomes the best overnight; it is learned and gained through time. Hard as it may seem, we must continue to look at the brighter side and take some life lessons from this series. It reminds us to always keep on aiming the best for ourselves. Afterall, with hard work and perseverance, time will slowly put everything in place.
The evolution of the characters from dreaming to failing, and finally succeeding portrays a significant message for all of us. As Dal-Mi’s halmeoni said, “You're a cosmos flower. And it's still spring. Wait until fall, and you'll bloom beautifully. Be patient.”
Annyeong, check the trailer below:
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