Boyhood – Im Si-Wan’s Foray into 80s South Korea

Unlocking the Tale: Boyhood – Im Si-Wan’s Foray into 80s South Korea

Im Si-Wan’s latest venture, “Boyhood” (also known as “Once Upon a Boyhood”), is generating immense anticipation as South Korean drama enthusiasts eagerly await this comedy K-drama set against the vibrant backdrop of the 80s. The narrative weaves through themes of friendship and school camaraderie, promising a nostalgic journey into a bygone era.

In this upcoming series, Si-Wan steps into the shoes of Jang Byeong-Tae, a high school student navigating the challenges of adolescence in Onyang, South Chungcheong Province. Having experienced bullying in his previous school, Byeong-Tae anticipates a familiar struggle as he embarks on a fresh start in a new neighborhood and high school. Little does he know that this relocation will set the stage for a whirlwind of unexpected events.

The core plot revolves around Byeong-Tae’s inadvertent assumption of the persona of White Tiger, the reputed fighter of the province. A victim of mistaken identity, Byeong-Tae grapples with the challenges of upholding a reputation that doesn’t belong to him. The storyline unfolds as he finds himself entangled in a web of friendships, misunderstandings, and the whimsical rumor mill that surrounds the enigmatic White Tiger.

In “Boyhood,” Byeong-Tae’s journey unfolds against the broader backdrop of the 80s, delving into the lives of farmers and introducing a suspenseful storyline that adds layers to the overall narrative. The primary cast includes Im Si-Wan as Jang Byeong-Tae, Lee Sun-Bin as Park Ji-Young, Lee Si-Woo as Jung Kyeong-Tae, and Kang Hye-Won as Kang Sun-Hwa.

The drama skillfully explores Byeong-Tae’s initial reluctance to correct the misconception about his identity, leading to the formation of an eclectic group of friends, each with their unique quirks. Park Ji-Young, known as the black spider, Jung Kyeong-Tae, a skilled fighter, and Kang Sun-Hwa, a popular female student, join Byeong-Tae in navigating the complexities of high school life and the intriguing dynamics spurred by the White Tiger rumor.

Release Date and Viewing Details

Directed by Lee Myung-Woo, “Boyhood” is scheduled to premiere on Friday, November 24, 2023, at 8:00 p.m. KST on Coupang Play. Fans can also anticipate its availability on Viki. The series comprises 10 episodes, with a new episode airing every Friday.

The official synopsis, as per My DramaList, sets the stage: “Set in the backdrop of the mid-to-late 1980s, the drama tells the story of students at an agricultural high school in Chungcheong Province.” It hints at the protagonist’s transformative journey as he navigates unexpected incidents at Buyeo Agricultural High School.

As the premiere date approaches, “Boyhood” promises viewers a captivating blend of humor, suspense, and a nostalgic trip down memory lane. Im Si-Wan, known for his versatile roles, adds the portrayal of a high school student to his impressive drama list, which includes notable titles like “Run On,” “Summer Strike,” “Unlocked,” “Hell is Other People,” and “Emergency Declaration.”

For an engaging and comedic exploration of 80s South Korea, tune in to Coupang Play every Friday to embark on the rollercoaster ride that is “Boyhood.”