The Netflix series When Life Gives You Tangerines has taken the world by storm, and actor Lee Jun Young’s heartfelt performance as Park Yeong Bum has won over audiences. In a recent interview, he opened up about his character’s choices, the drama’s emotional impact on his family, and his growing success in the industry.
Tangerines: A Global Hit
When Life Gives You Tangerines is a South Korean romance and slice-of-life drama that premiered on Netflix from March 7 to March 28, 2025. Written by Lim Sang Choon and directed by Kim Won Seok, the series follows the lives of Oh Ae Sun (IU) and Yang Gwan Sik (Park Bo Gum), two people from Jeju Island whose love story spans decades. The drama has earned praise for its nostalgic storytelling, strong performances, and deep dive into Korean history and Jeju culture. It ranked in the Top 10 in 39 countries, becoming a global sensation.
Lee Jun Young plays Park Yeong Bum, the first love of Yang Geum Myeong (IU), the daughter of Ae Sun and Gwan Sik. His character is a devoted boyfriend whose pure love for Geum Myeong faces challenges due to his mother’s disapproval. The series, set against the backdrop of Jeju’s vibrant landscapes, explores themes of family, sacrifice, and resilience, drawing comparisons to the beloved drama Reply 1988.
Lee Jun Young’s Frustration with Park Yeong Bum
In an interview with Harper’s Bazaar Korea on April 29, 2025, Lee Jun Young spoke openly about a scene that has sparked much discussion among fans. During a parents’ meeting, Park Yeong Bum fails to serve Geum Myeong scorched rice soup, a moment that puzzled viewers.
“Exactly, why didn’t he scoop the scorched rice soup? Everyone keeps asking me these days, and honestly, I was frustrated too,” Lee Jun Young said with a laugh.
He explained that he shared fans’ confusion over his character’s actions, showing his deep connection to the role. Park Yeong Bum’s earnest yet flawed nature, especially his inability to stand up to his mother, added emotional depth to the story. Lee’s portrayal brought warmth and sincerity, making the character both relatable and heartbreaking.
A Personal Connection to the Drama
Lee Jun Young revealed that the drama resonated deeply with his own family. His mother watched the series multiple times, moved by its portrayal of family bonds across generations.
“My mom has already rewatched the drama four or five times. She says she cries every time. Our family has never really talked in depth about any of my projects before, but since When Life Gives You Tangerines deals with family love that resonates across generations, I think that made it possible,” he shared.
This emotional connection highlights the drama’s ability to touch audiences on a personal level. Lee expressed gratitude for being part of a project that sparked meaningful conversations with his loved ones.
Park Yeong Bum’s Heartbreaking Journey
Park Yeong Bum enters the story in episodes 5 to 8, released on March 14, 2025. A student at Seoul National University, he falls deeply in love with Geum Myeong and dates her for seven years. Their relationship is filled with tender moments, like Yeong Bum boldly greeting Geum Myeong’s father during a military vacation, only to be met with a sarcastic reply.
“Hello, Father,” Yeong Bum says.
“Why would I be your father?” comes the response.
Despite his devotion, Yeong Bum struggles with his mother’s harsh treatment of Geum Myeong, who she deems unworthy due to her working-class background. This conflict leads Geum Myeong to end their engagement, a decision that devastates both. Lee Jun Young’s performance captures Yeong Bum’s innocence and pain, earning praise for its emotional honesty.
Later, Yeong Bum marries someone else with his mother’s approval, but his life remains marked by regret. Fans on platforms like AsianWiki expressed sympathy for his character, with one user, seokjinie, noting:
“I pity Lee Jun Young’s character and him always crying in his roles! This drama is on another level, when you thought you’ve cried enough, but no, every episode is worth watching, laughing, and crying over… a masterpiece.”
A Star on the Rise
Lee Jun Young, born January 22, 1997, began his career as a member of the K-pop group U-KISS in 2014. He transitioned to acting in 2017 with Avengers Social Club and has since built a versatile portfolio. His roles in Melo Movie and Weak Hero Class 2, both released in 2025, have solidified his reputation as a skilled actor. In Weak Hero Class 2, released on April 25, he played Geum Seong Je, a character he described as a reflection of his own personality.
“Director Han Jun Hee told me, ‘This character is just you, Jun Young.’ That’s why I took on the role,” Lee said.
He is also set to star in 24-Hour Health Club, a KBS2 drama that premiered on April 30, 2025, alongside Jung Eun Ji. His ability to shift between romantic, villainous, and complex roles has earned him titles like “Romance Master” and “OTT Prince.”
Playful Banter with Co-Stars
On April 25, 2025, Lee Jun Young appeared on Park Bo Gum’s music show, The Seasons – Park Bo Gum’s Cantabile, with Jung Eun Ji. The trio shared lighthearted moments, reflecting on their K-pop roots. Park Bo Gum, who plays Yang Gwan Sik, teased Lee about an unanswered text message from their time working on My Name Is Gabriel.
“I sent a message saying, ‘It was nice meeting you,’ but never got a reply. I was a little hurt,” Park Bo Gum said with a grin.
“I have 999 messages on my messenger app, so I miss a lot,” Lee Jun Young replied, laughing.
Jung Eun Ji joined in, noting that Lee often leaves her messages unread too. The playful exchange showcased their camaraderie, delighting fans.
The Drama’s Broader Impact
When Life Gives You Tangerines weaves Korean history into its narrative, from the 1960 presidential election fraud to the recognition of Jeju’s Haenyeo divers as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. The series’ focus on strong female characters, like Ae Sun and her mother, has been praised by experts like Namhee Lee, a professor at UCLA.
“Haenyeo is usually an embodiment of Jeju women being independent,” Namhee Lee told TIME. “It’s fitting that this drama is focused on women and is taking place in Jeju.”
The drama’s emotional finale, released on March 28, 2025, left viewers in tears. Geum Myeong finds love again with Park Chung Seob (Kim Seon Ho), while Ae Sun and Gwan Sik face loss and redemption. Fans on AsianWiki called it a “cry fest” and a “masterpiece,” with user Bibi stating:
“Honestly, I’ve been watching Korean drama for like 20+ years now and I have to say it is one of if not the best one from episode 1 to 16.”
As of April 30, 2025, Lee Jun Young continues to shine in the spotlight. His role in 24-Hour Health Club has just premiered, and fans are eager to see his chemistry with Jung Eun Ji. The success of When Life Gives You Tangerines has boosted his global recognition, with audiences praising his ability to bring depth to every character. The drama remains a top pick on Netflix, celebrated for its heartfelt storytelling and stellar cast.
CREDITS: www.wikitree.co.kr
