The drama, as reviewed by Telangana Today, is a warm, slice-of-life series that reminds viewers that life goes on — as long as you keep living it.

The series is a coming-of-age tale told with a soft rhythm, portraying the seemingly mundane lives of its characters with heartfelt honesty. Set on Jeju Island, the show takes viewers through the decades-long love story of Ae-sun and Gwan-sik, brought to life with a nostalgic charm. Their journey, marked by subtle emotions and everyday struggles, beautifully explores how love, loss, and growth quietly unfold over time.

IU, in a standout dual role as both mother and daughter, impresses with her restraint and emotional depth, while Park Bo-gum gives a measured and understated performance as the dependable Gwan-sik. Their chemistry isn’t loud or dramatic but evolves gently, like the setting sun on a calm day.

Rather than leaning into heavy melodrama or convoluted twists, the show succeeds through simplicity. It’s a reminder that resilience is not always loud — sometimes, it’s just about showing up for life, again and again. The tangerine, a recurring symbol, subtly represents sweetness, endurance, and the passing seasons.

Telangana Today calls the series “a lighthearted riff” that carries a poignant message: life continues, in its own quiet way, when you decide to live it fully. In a landscape of high-concept thrillers and fast-paced dramas, When Life Gives You Tangerines offers a refreshing pause — a tender look at what it means to grow up, fall in love, and keep going.