When Life Gives You Tangerines OST Review A Soundtrack That Echoes Through
Time
Netflix’s When Life Gives You Tangerines (폭싹 속았수다) concluded its 16-episode journey in Korea on March 28, 2025. This drama was more than just a story—it was an emotional experience. Set against the breathtaking landscapes of Jeju Island, it followed the lives of Aesoon (played by IU) and Gwansik (played by Park Bo-gum) across six decades. The drama’s strength lay not only in its storytelling but also in its remarkable soundtrack, which captured the essence of each era.
As the final credits rolled, I found myself reflecting on the music that shaped the drama’s most memorable moments. You can listen to the full OST playlist here: Spotify Playlist.
A Drama That Spans Generations
The series unfolds between the 1960s and 2025, telling the story of Aesoon and Gwansik’s enduring love. Aesoon, born in 1951, grows up as a rebellious soul determined to break free from societal norms. Her older self, Geum-myung (also played by IU), reflects on a lifetime of choices, regrets, and resilience.
IU’s dual performance is one of the most striking aspects of the drama. The way she shifts between youthful defiance and mature introspection is nothing short of mesmerizing. Park Bo-gum’s portrayal of Gwansik complements this perfectly—his steady, unwavering love serves as Aesoon’s emotional anchor.
The setting plays a crucial role as well. Jeju Island, with its golden tangerine groves and rugged coastlines, mirrors the characters’ emotional landscapes. As their lives unfold, the music seamlessly integrates into the storytelling, enhancing every moment of joy, sorrow, and nostalgia.
IU: A Storyteller Beyond Music
For years, IU has been celebrated as a singer-songwriter. But in When Life Gives You Tangerines, she proves that she is just as much a storyteller on screen as she is in music. Her portrayal of Aesoon and Geum-myung feels deeply personal, as if she’s lived every moment herself.
Her most powerful scenes are those without dialogue—when a single glance, a sigh, or a quiet tear says everything. The final episode, where she silently processes decades of love and loss, is one of the most heart-wrenching moments I’ve ever seen in a drama.
The OST: A Soundtrack That Transcends Time
A drama spanning multiple decades needs a soundtrack that evolves with it. When Life Gives You Tangerines delivers exactly that. The OST, composed by Park Sung-il, seamlessly blends retro and contemporary styles, reflecting the shifting times and emotions of the characters.
Here are some standout tracks from the series:
"Midnight Walk (밤 산책)" – d.ear
This delicate piano-driven ballad plays during Aesoon’s quiet moments of reflection. It evokes the feeling of walking alone under the night sky, lost in thought.
"Ode to the Green Spring (청춘가)" – Kwak Jin-eon
An uplifting yet melancholic song that encapsulates the energy of youth. It plays during Aesoon and Gwansik’s early days, capturing the fleeting nature of young love.
"Hwal Hwal (활활)" – Hwang Soyoon
A fiery and intense track that underscores moments of passion and conflict. The song’s raw energy makes it a standout piece in the soundtrack.
"My Love By My Side (내 사랑 내 곁에)" – Hong Isaac
A heartbreaking ballad that plays during a pivotal farewell scene. The lyrics speak of longing and unfulfilled love, making it one of the most emotionally charged songs in the OST.
The OST isn’t just background music—it’s an integral part of the storytelling. Each song perfectly aligns with the time period and the emotional depth of the characters, making the drama’s journey even more immersive.
Why This Drama and Its Music Matter
When Life Gives You Tangerines isn’t just a historical romance—it’s a meditation on love, time, and the choices we make. Every episode carries a sense of nostalgia, reminding us of moments we wish we could relive. The OST amplifies this feeling, turning simple scenes into deeply personal experiences.
For me, this drama was a reminder of how music can preserve emotions. Even long after the final episode, these songs will bring back memories of Aesoon’s laughter, Gwansik’s unwavering devotion, and the bittersweet passage of time.
If you haven’t yet watched When Life Gives You Tangerines, I highly recommend it—but be prepared for an emotional ride.
Listen to the full OST here: Spotify Playlist