It is such a weird creature, this drama. I'd say, a chameleon. It nearly falls apart for not having a clear distinct theme. It doesn't try to catch attention by any means but develops the story steadily. It could be rather a good point if the drama wasn't so ephemeral.

🔸️The story starts off with a premise of a detective, continues with attempts to get Hwan and Jae Yi together, concludes with restoring historical justice for the kingdom's falsely accused people. It could be a story about a female detective in Joseon who dresses up in man clothes and helps poor people, and we would know what we're watching. And, correct me if I'm wrong, but the motive for the murder of Min family was never revealed? We know who did it, but why?

🔸️Yet the supporting characters in the drama are great, from the ministers to Lee Hwan's closest friend Han Seong On. The couple of Myeong Jin and Ga Ram is genuinely funny and sincere. The actors did a great job. It also put on my radar the young actor Heo Won Seo (Tae Gang role), and I will watch where his career will go.

Overall, Our Blooming Youth feels like a good cupcake without any cream or sprinkles. It might taste well, but people won't eat it if there are more appetizing foods around. The poster and the title are so bland and tell nothing. Even the OST for the drama is almost nonexistent. The finishing music sounds crispy, but there is not a single song, only instrumentals. Having Park Hyeong Shik in the cast is not enough to get high ratings. I have an impression we saw just the first draft of the drama.