Release Date: April 3, 2025
Where to Watch: TVING (South Korea) – International streaming TBA
Genre: Fantasy, Romance, Melodrama
Episodes: 6
Starring: Kim Min-Ha (Pachinko) & Gong Myung (Extreme Job)
Plot Summary: A Grim Reaper Helps His First Love Fulfill Her Bucket List
“Way Back Love” (also known as “A Week Before I Die”) tells the emotional story of Jung Hee-Wan (Kim Min-Ha), a 24-year-old woman who has lost all hope in life. Her world changes when her childhood friend and first love, Kim Ram-Woo (Gong Myung), suddenly reappears—but there’s a catch:
- He died six years ago and now works as a grim reaper.
- He reveals that Hee-Wan has only one week left to live.
- Together, they embark on a journey to complete her bucket list, reliving old memories and confronting unresolved feelings.
This fantasy-romance K-drama is based on the novel “Naega Jookki Iljooil Jeon” by Seo Eun-Chae and is directed by Choi Ha-Na.
Why You Should Watch “Way Back Love”
1. Stellar Lead Chemistry
- Kim Min-Ha (Pachinko) delivers a moving performance as a woman rediscovering life’s meaning.
- Gong Myung (Extreme Job) plays a gentle yet haunting grim reaper, torn between duty and love.
- Early reviews praise their heartbreaking yet beautiful on-screen dynamic.
2. Unique & Emotional Storyline
- A mix of fantasy, romance, and melancholy, similar to Goblin and Hotel del Luna.
- The bucket list concept adds depth, blending nostalgia with urgency.
- Themes of second chances, lost love, and redemption will tug at your heartstrings.
3. Early Buzz: A Potential Classic
- Premiered at the 2024 Busan International Film Festival to critical acclaim.
- Described as an “instant classic” (South China Morning Post).
- Praised for its direction, cinematography, and emotional weight.
Potential Drawbacks
⚠️ Only 6 episodes – Some fans may wish for a longer story.
⚠️ International availability unconfirmed – May require VPN for TVING access.
⚠️ Heavy emotional themes – Not ideal for viewers seeking lighthearted romance.
Where to Watch & Release Schedule
- Premiere Date: April 3, 2025 (TVING, South Korea)
- Expected Episode Length: ~45 minutes each
- Global Streaming: Netflix or Viki may pick it up (not confirmed yet).
Final Verdict: Will This Be a Must-Watch K-Drama?
✅ Yes, if you love:
- Fantasy-romance with deep emotional storytelling
- Strong chemistry between leads
- Short, bingeable series (only 6 episodes)
❌ Skip if you prefer:
- Lighthearted, fluffy romances
- Longer, more developed story arcs
Stay tuned for updates on international streaming!
Will you be watching “Way Back Love”? Let us know in the comments! 💔✨
