Before anything else, I sincerely ask you to put aside any preconception created by any other kdrama viewers/webtoon readers (myself included) and please kindly give this drama a try; two 60-minute episodes to be safe. As your own opinion is the only thing that matters to you.

Though sometimes it has unrealistic scenes, purely for comedic purposes, its ability to depict the aspects of our daily life is flawless. "Backstreet Rookie" will bring you through an emotional rollercoaster without the cliche elements of which you always see sci-fi dramas. The Flow of the story is GOOD albeit can be better, same for Character Development. This unfortunately is the case for almost all dramas due to the time restriction. Acting/Casts are EXCELLENT as no role is dispensable. Chemistry between lead roles is EXCELLENT. The experienced Ji Chang Wook in addition to the talented Kim Yoo Jung created a KILLER combination. Music Choice is EXCELLENT and they go very well with their specified scenes. I must have listened to the OSTs a hundred times. Overall: 10/10; I wish there will be more dramas like this or a Season 2.
I am willing to fund the original author of "Backstreet Rookie" $10,000 to create more pieces like this and have them made into dramas.

Like many Kdrama fans, I am a picky person when it comes to deciding which drama is worth my time and health(binge-watching). However, I can confidently say that "Backstreet Rookie" is one of my favorite if not my favorite K-drama. I have already watched it 3 times and it always brings the same emotions every single time; excitement, sadness, optimism and motivation in life. Whenever I feel like I am incompetent and unmotivated, I always come back to this drama to find myself and my own value as a human being.

Thank you for reading
TDopa