“Way Back Love” kicks off with a powerful, emotional premiere that mixes supernatural mystery with heart-tugging nostalgia. Episode 1 wastes no time pulling viewers into the story of Jung Hee-wan, a 24-year-old woman who’s shut herself off from the world—until a ghost from her past shows up on her doorstep.
Episode Details
Drama Title: Way Back Love (내가 죽기 일주일 전)
Episode: 1
Aired: April 3, 2025
Main Cast:
- Kim Min-ha as Jung Hee-wan
- Gong Myung as Kim Ram-woo
2025: A Life in Limbo
Set in the near-future of 2025, Hee-wan is living a shadow of a life—isolated, emotionally numb, and clearly burdened by unresolved trauma. Her apartment is dark, her routine lifeless, and her will to live seems nearly gone.
Then comes a knock that changes everything.
Standing at her door is Kim Ram-woo, her childhood best friend and first love. He looks exactly the same as he did in high school. But there’s one chilling catch: Ram-woo died in a car accident years ago.
Even more shocking? He’s now a grim reaper, and he’s come with a devastating message—Hee-wan only has seven days left to live.
Flashback to 2017: A Love That Started With a Prank
The episode seamlessly transitions to flashbacks from 2017, where a young, vibrant Hee-wan is the prank queen of her high school. On April Fools’ Day, she playfully swaps name tags with the quiet new transfer student—Ram-woo. That silly moment kicks off an endearing friendship that quickly hints at deeper feelings.
Their chemistry is magnetic: Hee-wan is loud and fearless, while Ram-woo is introverted and kind-hearted. Through shared moments of laughter, pranks, and quiet companionship, we see the beginnings of a bond that would later become the emotional anchor of the show.
Back to the Present: One Week to Change Everything
In the present day, Hee-wan is in disbelief over Ram-woo’s return—and his message. She’s torn between skepticism and shock, unsure whether to believe in this surreal encounter. Ram-woo, now bound by his supernatural duty, tries to keep his emotions in check. But small gestures—his lingering glances, his barely hidden sadness—hint that he still cares deeply.
The episode ends on a poignant cliffhanger as Hee-wan begins to confront her mortality. What will she do with the little time she has left? And what truths remain unspoken between her and Ram-woo?
First Impressions: A Strong, Soulful Start
“Way Back Love” Episode 1 delivers an emotional punch with its blend of romance, fantasy, and raw human emotion. Kim Min-ha (as Hee-wan) and Gong Myung (as Ram-woo) shine with effortless chemistry, grounding the drama’s supernatural premise with heartfelt performances.
This premiere sets the tone for a moving story about lost time, unresolved feelings, and the preciousness of second chances.
