I noticed quite a few negative reviews on this drama after the final episodes aired, so I wanted to put forward an alternative perspective.

I think the reason why people are reacting so strongly to the ending is because they had expected a certain outcome, or had formed some theories in their minds surrounding Hee Do's daughter (MinChae). But for me, it was quite clear from the beginning that MinChae's role is merely a storytelling device - she is the means through which the audience discovers Na Hee Do and Baek Yi Jin's love story. Her mother's story is what also helps MinChae rekindle her passion for ballet.

The writers definitely wanted to portray Hee Do and Yi Jin's love story as an idyllic romance from a distant past, which so many of us have experienced and left behind. It was always clear that Kim MinChae is not Yi Jin's daughter, and that Hee Do and Yi Jin are not together in the present day.

There are many such beautiful love stories in the world that end before they even begin. Love stories between people who have been friends for years - whose lives repeatedly cross paths, collide and intertwine - but ultimately unravel and fall apart very quickly as soon as a difficulty arises. This is a story about two young people who only knew how to be happy around each other, enjoy each other's company and to unconditionally support and encourage one another towards their goals. But when it came to prioritising their relationship alone, it failed. It is much easier to be a supportive and loving friend, but not that easy to be fully present as a romantic partner.

I do not blame Yi Jin for anything. He came from a family who had it all but lost everything. As the elder son, he felt the responsibility to succeed so that his family can once again live together and be financially secure. This was the reality of his life. He loved Hee Do immensely. He was affected by her infectious positivity when he was with her, but when he went to New York, the deep unhappiness he was harbouring came to the surface. Words unspoken and life circumstances is what drove them apart - they were sadly victims of "the times".

Ofcourse - I do not think the drama is perfect and there could have been some things done differently. I do agree that the last few episodes were rushed and more time could have been spent on building up the conflict in their relationship. I also didn't like the way Go Yu Rim's character did a 180 degree flip midway through the series. The way she intentionally belittled and hurt Hee Do in the first half of the series did not match with the fiercely loyal and affectionate friend she ended up being. I did really enjoy her romance arc with Moon JiUng, they were super cute. The actor Choi Hyun Wook did a phenomenal job and was refreshing and loveable to watch. All of the main cast members were great, in my opinion.

Overall I think the drama was one of the better ones I've watched so far - it was charming and engaging, even without being heavily plot driven which is an achievement in itself. I just wanted to offer my alternate perspective on the Hee Do and Yi Jin's story, to make sense of it in my mind and hopefully help others rationalise it too!