After a captivating 32-episode run, the Chinese romantic drama The First Frost (难哄, Nan Hong) concluded today, March 10, 2025, leaving fans with a mix of tears, joy, and a profound sense of closure. Starring Bai Jingting as the brooding yet tender Sang Yan and Zhang Ruonan as the resilient Wen Yifan, the drama, adapted from Zhu Yi’s web novel First Frost, delivered a poignant tale of love, healing, and second chances. The finale, which aired at 12:00 PM CST on Youku and Netflix, tied together the emotional threads of the story, offering a satisfying and heartfelt conclusion to Wen and Sang Yan’s journey.
Overview of The First Frost
Set against the backdrop of a slow-burn romance, The First Frost follows Wen Yifan, a reporter grappling with PTSD from a traumatic assault, and Sang Yan, her high school crush turned bar manager. After six years apart, they reunite and accidentally become housemates, rekindling a connection that had been left unresolved. The drama explores themes of healing, regret, and the power of love to overcome past wounds, all while weaving in moments of warmth and humor.
A spin-off of the popular drama Hidden Love, The First Frost focuses on Sang Yan, the brother of Hidden Love’s protagonist Sang Zhi, but stands firmly on its own as a deeply emotional and character-driven story. Airing from February 18 to March 10, 2025, the drama garnered widespread acclaim for its nuanced performances, heartfelt storytelling, and stunning visuals.
Context Leading to the Ending
To fully appreciate the finale, let’s revisit the key moments that set the stage for the emotional climax:
- Episodes 1-28: The drama begins with Wen and Sang Yan navigating their awkward cohabitation, initially pretending not to know each other. Wen’s sleepwalking, a manifestation of her PTSD, leads to tender and often humorous moments, while Sang Yan’s quiet support gradually reveals his lingering love for her. By Episode 28, Sang Yan learns about Wen’s traumatic past and vows to protect her, marking a turning point in their relationship.
- Episodes 29-31: The tension escalates as Sang Yan confronts Wen’s abusive relatives, shielding her from further harm. Wen’s investigative reporting also brings to light workplace harassment tied to her past, further intertwining their personal and professional lives. Episode 31 ends with Sang Yan’s poignant declaration: “I’ve finally caught the shadow that haunted you. From now on, your world will only have light,” hinting at a resolution to Wen’s deepest trauma.
Episode 32: The Ending
The finale, which aired earlier today, delivered a deeply emotional and cathartic conclusion to Wen and Sang Yan’s story. Drawing from fan reactions on X (formerly Twitter), novel insights, and drama trends, here’s a detailed breakdown of the ending:
Resolution of Trauma
True to Sang Yan’s promise in Episode 31, the finale sees him helping Wen confront and overcome her past. In a powerful scene reminiscent of the novel, Sang Yan ensures that Wen’s abusive uncle faces justice, leading to his arrest for past crimes. This act of bravery and love frees Wen from the fear that has haunted her for years. A fan on X shared Wen’s final line: “Treat yourself well, and the world will hold more love for you,” symbolizing her journey toward self-acceptance and healing.
Romantic Climax
The emotional core of the finale lies in the reunion of Wen and Sang Yan at a symbolic location—likely their high school or the bar Overtime, where their story began. In a heartfelt scene, Sang Yan proposes to Wen, shedding his usual cool demeanor to reveal his vulnerability. According to X user, Sang Yan even cries during the proposal, a rare display of emotion that underscores the depth of his love. Wen, moved by his sincerity, accepts, sealing their love and marking a new chapter in their lives.
Epilogue
The finale concludes with a series of flashbacks, blending key moments from their high school days—such as their iconic umbrella walk—with scenes of their present happiness. This dual-POV structure, which has been a hallmark of the drama, culminates in Sang Yan’s perspective, offering viewers a glimpse into his years of longing and the fulfillment of his love for Wen. The epilogue leaves no doubt about their future together, as they move forward with hope and a renewed sense of purpose.
Happy or Sad Ending?
Fans of the novel will be pleased to know that the drama stays true to Zhu Yi’s original vision, delivering a happy yet open-ended conclusion. While challenges remain—Wen’s emotional scars and the complexities of their relationship—the finale emphasizes the triumph of love and resilience. X users have described the ending as “wholesome and beautiful,” with many praising the emotional depth and catharsis it provides.
Reception and Impact
The finale has been met with overwhelming praise from fans and critics alike. X posts are filled with heartfelt reactions, with users applauding the performances of Bai Jingting and Zhang Ruonan, as well as the drama’s ability to balance emotional depth with moments of levity. The First Frost has also made a significant impact on the global stage, ranking #6 on Netflix and earning accolades for its compelling storytelling and stunning visuals.
Where to Watch
- Youku: Episode 32 is available now, with subtitles expected soon.
- Netflix: The finale is streaming globally, with subtitles likely available by today.
Final Thoughts
The First Frost concludes with a powerful message of hope and healing, as Wen Yifan and Sang Yan overcome their past traumas to embrace a future filled with love and possibility. The finale, with its heartfelt proposal, emotional catharsis, and poignant flashbacks, serves as a fitting end to a drama that has touched the hearts of millions. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the novel or a newcomer to the series, the ending of The First Frost is sure to leave a lasting impression.
For those who have watched the finale, what were your favorite moments? And for those yet to see it, what are you most looking forward to? Share your thoughts and reactions in the comments below!
