tvN's new Wednesday-Thursday drama 'I'll Give You the Universe' premiered on the 4th to enthusiastic responses. The intense first meeting of Seon Tae-hyung (played by Bae In-hyuk) and Woo Hyun-jin (played by Noh Jung-eui), who become entangled as 'in-laws,' and their sudden responsibility for their 20-month-old nephew Woo-joo (played by Park Yoo-ho) have set the stage for an exciting story ahead. The first episode featured a special appearance by Park Ji-hyun, who shares the screen with Noh Jung-eui, drawing attention, although the nationwide viewership rating was a modest 1.894%.
After a chaotic price negotiation, Woo Hyun-jin never expected to meet Seon Tae-hyung again, but fate had other plans. At her sister's engagement party, she is shocked to see Seon Tae-hyung introduced as the brother of her future brother-in-law, Seon Woo-jun (played by Ha Jun). The revelation of Seon Tae-hyung's childhood adds a layer of poignancy. Abandoned at an orphanage by Seon Woo-jun, who promised to return after the rain, Seon Tae-hyung's past is unveiled. Despite telling Seon Woo-jun, whom he meets by chance after 16 years, "This time, I'm leaving you. Let's never meet again," Seon Tae-hyung's actions of sorting through items filled with memories hint at his lingering emotions.
Three years later, Seon Tae-hyung and Woo Hyun-jin's unintended reunion continues. A phone call shatters their ordinary lives, delivering the tragic news of Seon Woo-jun and Woo Hyun-joo's deaths in a car accident. At the funeral, they face another unexpected challenge: the appearance of their nephew Woo-joo, the sole survivor of the accident. Woo-joo takes a liking to Seon Tae-hyung, who quietly fulfills the role of chief mourner in Woo Hyun-jin's absence, earning her gratitude.
'I'll Give You the Universe' delivered a mix of humor and excitement from the first episode. The bickering first encounter between Seon Tae-hyung and Woo Hyun-jin, along with the heartwarming appearance of 'Woo-joo,' added a unique charm. The actors' performances, bringing realistic characters to life with wit, enhanced the show's quality. Bae In-hyuk's portrayal of the prickly yet secretly wounded 'Seon Tae-hyung' captivated viewers with his dynamic range, while Noh Jung-eui's detailed performance as the passionate job seeker 'Woo Hyun-jin' received praise. The special appearances by Ha Jun and Park Ji-hyun, as Seon Tae-hyung and Woo Hyun-jin's siblings and Woo-joo's parents, also contributed to the drama's immersive experience.
Lee So-jung, TenAsia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr