Since its release three years ago, the K-drama Nevertheless, starring Song Kang and Han So-hee, has left a lasting impact on fans. For those who have yet to experience the romantic tension and dynamic storytelling it offers, a new adaptation titled Nevertheless: The Shapes of Love is now available on Netflix. Directed by Kim Ga-ram and inspired by the webtoon by Jung Seo, this Japanese remake explores the complicated love story of Yoo Na-bi and Park Jae-eon, highlighting their struggles with commitment and skepticism about romance.
Despite the success and popularity of Nevertheless, viewers may be disappointed to learn that a second season did not materialize. Instead, we received a creative reinterpretation of the original narrative through the Japanese series, which stays true to the core themes of love and emotional conflict experienced by the main characters.
Nevertheless: The Shapes of Love Reinforces the Need to Revisit the 2021 K-Drama
Meet the Stars of Nevertheless: The Shapes of Love
The debut of Nevertheless: The Shapes of Love serves as a perfect excuse to revisit the original K-drama. The series adeptly navigates the emotional landscape of Jae-eon and Na-bi’s relationship, showcasing Jae-eon’s complex nature, which includes moments of toxic behavior. Na-bi, fresh from a turbulent breakup, finds herself irresistibly drawn to him, despite her better judgment.
While the J-drama remains faithful to the original’s storyline, it offers a condensed experience with only eight episodes compared to the K-drama’s ten episodes, each running over an hour. This shorter format embraces the elements that captivated audiences in Song Kang and Han So-hee’s version while introducing a distinct tone and visual style. The performances of Ryusei Yokohama and Sara Minami parallel the chemistry displayed by the original leads, adding a fresh perspective to the characters.
Nevertheless: The Shapes of Love Offers Value, But Don’t Miss the Original
Jae-eon and Na-bi’s Unconventional Love Story
Although Nevertheless: The Shapes of Love brings its own charm, enthusiasts of K-dramas should still watch the original series. The depth of Song Kang and Han So-hee’s performances arguably elevates the K-drama, providing a unique insight into the growth of their characters. While both shows share similar narratives, the original is particularly lauded for its authentic portrayal of a budding romance that shuns typical romantic clichés.
Unlike many K-dramas, Nevertheless veers away from conventional tropes such as enemies-to-lovers or class disparities. The drama focuses on Jae-eon’s reluctance to commit and portrays a more realistic view of modern relationships. This refreshing approach is what sets the K-drama apart, attracting viewers who seek more than just a fleeting fairytale narrative.
A Standout in Song Kang and Han So-hee’s Repertoire
An Impressive Filmography from Rising Stars
Song Kang and Han So-hee have earned their reputation as two of the most talented actors in Korea through their outstanding performances in numerous films and television series. Song Kang’s versatility shines in shows like My Demon, Sweet Home, and Forecasting Love and Weather. Meanwhile, Han So-hee dazzles with roles in Gyeongseong Creature, 100 Days My Prince, The World of the Married, and My Name. Among their accomplishments, Nevertheless stands out as a defining moment in their careers.
The undeniable chemistry between Song Kang and Han So-hee contributes significantly to the series’ success. Their ability to portray complex emotions creates an engaging narrative, especially as Jae-eon evolves from an initially off-putting character to someone worthy of sympathy. Na-bi’s choices may seem questionable at times, but this complexity adds depth to her character, making her relatable. Both leads have proven their capabilities as remarkable actors, but Nevertheless showcases their talents in a distinct and memorable way.