The critically acclaimed slice-of-life and psychological drama Move to Heaven made its debut on May 14, 2021, featuring a remarkable cast that includes Lee Je-hoon, Tang Jun-sang, and Hong Seung-hee. Directed by Kim Sung-ho and written by Yoon Ji-ryeon, the series is centered around the tender yet heartbreaking themes of life and death. Below is the official synopsis, as sourced from Asianwiki:
“Geu-gu (Tang Joon-sang) is a young man diagnosed with Asperger syndrome who works for his father’s business, ‘Move To Heaven.’ Their role involves organizing the belongings of deceased individuals. When Geu-Ru’s father passes away, he finds himself alone until his uncle, Sang-gu (Lee Je-hoon), unexpectedly enters his life. Sang-gu, a man with a checkered past as a martial artist and former prisoner, becomes Geu-gu’s guardian, and together they manage ‘Move To Heaven.’
As the narrative unfolds, Move to Heaven captivates audiences with its poignant storytelling, intricate direction, and the profound performances of its actors. The series effectively explores the emotional impact of death through compelling narratives, resonating deeply with viewers.
Must-Watch K-Dramas for Fans of Move to Heaven
1) If You Wish Upon Me
Available on: Rakuten Viki, Hulu, and Wavve
Cast: Ji Chang-wook, Choi Soo-young, Sung Dong-II, Won Ji-an, Yang Hee-kyung, and Kil Hae-yeon
This intimately crafted drama follows Yoon Kyeo-re, a man grappling with a troubled past marked by abuse and incarceration. After being sentenced to community service at a hospice care facility, he crosses paths with Team Genie leader Kang Tae-shik and dedicated nurse Seo Yeon-joo, who endeavor to transform his life in profound ways. Like Move to Heaven, If You Wish Upon Me sensitively navigates themes of mortality and the fulfillment of last wishes, showcasing significant character growth.
2) Tomorrow
Available on: Netflix
Cast: Kim Hee-sun, Rowoon, Lee Soo-hyuk, Yun Ji-on, Kim Hae-sook, and Kim Nu-ri
Tomorrow tells the compelling story of Choi Joon-woong, whose life takes a dramatic turn when he bravely intervenes to save someone contemplating suicide. As he encounters grim reapers from a crisis management team, he finds himself in a coma and becomes part of their team responsible for helping lost souls. The series parallels Move to Heaven in its exploration of personal pain and the healing journeys of its characters.
3) Good Doctor
Available on: Netflix, Rakuten Viki, KBS Drama Classic, KBS World, Kocowa
Cast: Joo-won, Moon Chae-won, Joo Sang-wook, Kim Min-seo, Ha Kyu-won, and Kim Hyun-soo
Good Doctor provides a heartfelt glimpse into the life of Park Si-on, a savant with autism who perseveres through social challenges as he becomes a capable pediatrician. The show shares common ground with Move to Heaven by highlighting the societal struggles faced by individuals on the autism spectrum.
4) Extraordinary Attorney Woo
Available on: Netflix
Cast: Park Eun-bin, Kang Tae-oh, Kang Ki-young, Jeon Bae-soo, Baek Ji-won, and Jin-kyung
Extraordinary Attorney Woo revolves around a talented female lawyer with autism who excels academically but struggles socially. This series, like Move to Heaven, resonates with viewers through its authentic portrayal of personal challenges faced by intellectually gifted individuals.
5) Light Shop
Available on: Hulu and Disney+
Cast: Ju Ji-hoon, Park Bo-young, Kim Seol-hyun, Bae Sung-woo, Uhm Tae-goo, and Lee Jung-eun
Light Shop features a diverse group of individuals grappling with their haunted pasts, gathered in a hospital while hauntingly drawn to a mysterious light shop. The narrative intricately intertwines themes of trauma and love, similar to the emotional depth found in Move to Heaven.
Move to Heaven is currently available for streaming on Netflix, complete with English subtitles and dubbing, making it accessible to a wider audience eager for emotional and stimulating storytelling.