I'm surprised that I love Are You Human Too way more than expected. Despite many wtf moments in terms of logic, this drama is emotionally truthful and thematically consistent. There are several themes to tease out, but I particularly enjoy how questions about identity occur in the setting of a conglomerate family, a dehumanizing environment where what matters is one's 'usefulness' to the authority figures they serve. The concept of a 'stand-in' or a 'replacement' is central to Nam Shin 3's early journey but also mirrored through Seo Jong Gil and Ji Young Hoon. Alternatively, the pain of having no agency over their actions is central to Nam Shin 3 at the end and human Shin. I like that we could peek at how human Shin has been treated through the way he treats Nam Shin 3, and it's unsettling to hear him say Nam Shin 3 has no right to disappear considering the flashback of him escaping home and what Chairman did after he fell into a coma. Despite the parallelism in their circumstances, each of these character finds or reclaims their identities in different ways that suit the characterization.

Watching this drama is almost like self-indulgence. The writer discussed topics I'm interested in, built character arcs the way I wish she would and wrapped up their journeys nicely to convey messages that exceed my expectations. Maybe I like it so much because it feels so personal? When So Bong told Nam Shin 3 that she will protect him no matter what despite being weaker and not nearly as smart as he is, I thought that's one of humans' most admirable trait and wished that this line is more than just cute banter. It's nice to see the journey of a vulnerable yet resolute protector plays out through Nam Shin 3 (at the end), So Bong, Mom, Young Hoon and even human Shin (at least to his hyung).

Overall this drama makes me think long and hard about some meaningful, emotionally resonating themes. For that, I'm more than willing to look over its flaws, and actually feel guilty of writing a review that is all over the place. Then again, I'll excuse my laziness by saying that the review is somewhat similar to what I think of the drama. Kinda messy but never devoid of sincerity!