As someone who enjoys intense, action-packed dramas, I would say It's Okay to Not Be Okay (IOTNBO) conveyed a completely different message and feel - in a good way. However, it's definitely not for everyone and I wouldn't recommend it to a K-drama newbie as there are many nuances that can make the drama seem "too slow" or "boring." There are also common K-drama themes embedded throughout the drama, so it's not something completely new - but the genre and storyline are what separate this piece from the others.

This drama shows what trauma (and healing) is like through the perspective of three characters - Moon Gang Tae, Moon Sang Tae, and Ko Mun Yeong. All three characters struggled with their own inner demons throughout the show and eventually conquered it through their relationships with each other. It's a raw and emotional perspective of trauma, and displays the truths of how difficult it can be to really overcome your past pains and struggles. I truly enjoyed watching every character develop and grow into who they were meant to be, alongside one another. I did have questions I wanted answers to - specifically about Ko Mun Yeong's mother - but they ultimately didn't affect the closing of the drama. The story came to a good end, with no strings left untied.

The acting was superb, especially Oh Jung-Se who played as Moon Sang-Tae. There were many scenes he played that made me emotional beyond belief - it was so hard to detach from his character, even after the drama ended. Seo Ye-Ji and Kim Soo Hyun are obviously masters at their art as well; their chemistry was off the charts and they definitely lived up to the hype!

Music was a 10/10. But I AM a Heize fan, so I might be biased there. ;^)

All in all, I'd say this drama was a refreshing piece. It's heavy, but not TOO heavy - so you can definitely enjoy it and even rewatch it if you wish. There were definitely great takeaways, and it has a soft spot in my heart.