On March 19, 2025, Netflix K-Content released a captivating behind-the-scenes video of the eagerly awaited series When Life Gives You Tangerines. Fans were treated to an intimate look at the dedication and chemistry between the lead actors, IU and Park Bo-gum.
One particular scene that generated buzz was from episode 5, where IU’s character, who is pregnant with their second child, joyfully celebrates her husband Park Bo-gum’s character buying a new boat. The moment takes an urgent turn when her water breaks, leading to a dramatic cart scene where Gwan-sik, portrayed by Park Bo-gum, takes charge by pulling IU to the hospital.
The behind-the-scenes footage showcased the effort involved in filming this pivotal moment. Viewers were impressed to learn that Park Bo-gum executed the cart pull without a stunt double, highlighting his commitment and physical prowess. Cameramen also navigated the filming environment with heavy equipment to capture the action, adding to the scene’s authenticity.
Fans appreciated the actors’ focus, noting that multiple takes were required to achieve the perfect shot, leaving both IU and Park Bo-gum visibly exhausted and soaked in sweat.
On social media, ardent fans lauded the performances delivered in When Life Gives You Tangerines, applauding the authentic chemistry that permeates their on-screen relationship. One viewer shared their thoughts on X:
“The sweat pouring down the actors’ backs and faces shows their hard work and dedication. Thank you for your hard work, all the actors and the entire filming and production team for making such a wonderful film.”
Fans also highlighted Park Bo-gum’s impressive strength, noting how he pulled the cart uphill multiple times with IU in it. Another fan commented:
“They really put her on that cart. Bo-gum worked hard pulling it,”a fan wrote.
Further praise was directed towards Park Bo-gum regarding his unwavering composure during the demanding shoot, with one fan stating:
“We see what IU said by no matter how hard it is, Bo-gum never shows that he’s having a hard time. He’s still smiling and all after doing such a draining scene,”another fan noted.
Some viewers expressed their astonishment over the technology used in filming the train scene from episode 8. Many were shocked to discover that it was created in front of a blue CGI screen rather than on an actual train or platform:
“It was tough on the body, but we gave it our all and created something meaningful.”There is so much to learn from Bo-gum and his way of thinking,”a fan remarked.
“CGI is amazing because wdym they filmed the farewell train scene with no train???!!”another fan wrote.
“Actors are so amazing cause how do you even get in the mood looking at this ugly blue thing,”another fan added.
Exploring the Story: When Life Gives You Tangerines Starring IU, Park Bo-gum, and Lee Jun-young
When Life Gives You Tangerines is a poignant South Korean romantic slice-of-life series that made its Netflix debut on March 7, 2025. The narrative unfolds around the life of Oh Ae-sun (played by IU), set against the picturesque backdrop of Jeju Island during the 1950s.
Ae-sun is characterized as an imaginative and rebellious young woman with aspirations of becoming a poet, despite her humble origins. Her life intertwines with Yang Gwan-sik (Park Bo-gum), a rational and diligent young man who harbors deep feelings for her. The series delves into the slow, tender evolution of their love story against a tapestry of societal challenges and personal ambitions.
Over the years, When Life Gives You Tangerines spans several decades, chronicling the growth and challenges faced by Ae-sun and Gwan-sik. While IU and Park Bo-gum portray the younger versions of the characters, the older incarnations are skillfully depicted by Moon So-ri and Park Hae-joon.
Additionally, Lee Jun-young, renowned for his role in Melo Movie, plays Yeong-bum, the college crush of Ae-sun’s daughter Geum-myeong, who is also portrayed by IU, showcasing a striking resemblance to her mother.
Fans can anticipate episodes 9 to 12, which are set to premiere on March 21, 2025, promised to further unravel this intriguing narrative.