Start-Up, a K-drama that initially had me hooked with its promising premise and engaging characters, ended up leaving me with mixed emotions as the story unfolded. While the show started strong, it took a drastic turn that left many fans, myself included, feeling disappointed and unsatisfied.
The beginning of Start-Up was captivating, introducing us to the world of start-ups and the dreams of young entrepreneurs. The characters, particularly Seo Dal-mi (played by Bae Suzy), Nam Do-san (played by Nam Joo-hyuk), and Han Ji-pyeong (played by Kim Seon-ho), were well-developed and brought a sense of relatability to the narrative.
However, the major flaw in the storyline emerged when Ji-pyeong, a character who had a profound impact on both the plot and the viewers, was done a disservice by the writers. His character, who had a more genuine and mature connection with Seo Dal-mi, was overshadowed and sidelined in favor of another romantic interest. This decision left many viewers frustrated, feeling like the potential for a deeper and more meaningful connection between Ji-pyeong and Seo Dal-mi was squandered.
Kim Seon-ho's portrayal of Ji-pyeong brought a depth and authenticity to the character that resonated with the audience. His emotional journey and growth were some of the highlights of the series, making it even more disheartening to see his character arc take an unexpected and unsatisfying turn.
Despite this significant flaw, Start-Up does have its merits. The drama beautifully captures the essence of the start-up culture, the challenges faced by young entrepreneurs, and the pursuit of dreams. The supporting characters, such as Choi Won-deok (played by Kim Hae-sook) and Han Ji-pyeong's character, contributed to the emotional depth of the story.
In conclusion, Start-Up started as a promising drama with a unique premise and well-developed characters. However, the decision to sideline Ji-pyeong and neglect the potential for a more meaningful connection with Seo Dal-mi left a bitter aftertaste. While the drama had its moments and strengths, it failed to deliver a satisfying resolution for a character who deserved better treatment.