Netflix's Hit Series 'When Life Gives You Tangerines': About Writer Lim Sang-choon and Director Kim Won-seok

 

According to a reporter who met her, Lim Sang-choon has a delicate and ethereal aura, reminiscent of the character Seol-hee from "Fight For My Way."

Lim Sang-choon: The Enigmatic Screenwriter

Lim Sang-choon is a renowned South Korean screenwriter who creates heartwarming and relatable dramas. Their most popular works include When the Camellia Blooms, Becky’s Back, and Fight for My Way. Now, after six years, they have returned with the Netflix drama When Life Gives You Tangerines (폭싹 속았수다), starring IU and Park Bo-gum, once again captivating audiences with a blend of heartfelt emotions and humor.

Unique Traits

Lim Sang-choon is a pen name, crafted from the Korean characters meaning "thought" (想) and "abundant spring" (春). To maintain her anonymity, she has stated that she plans to use different pen names if her identity is ever revealed. This dedication to privacy has led her to decline invitations to various award ceremonies. Even finding media interviews is difficult. According to a reporter who met her, Lim Sang-choon has a delicate and ethereal aura, reminiscent of the character Seol-hee from "Fight For My Way."

Reportedly born in 1985, Lim Sang-choon works without a sub-writer, collaborating closely with her husband on her projects. She once expressed her desire to "write words that encourage people, like constantly pumping air into a bicycle until the end." With "When the Camellia Blooms" and also "What the Pixin Told Me", she has certainly fulfilled that wish, offering comfort and strength to those going through difficult times.

Notable Works

• Becky’s Back (백희가 돌아왔다)
• Fight for My Way (쌈, 마이웨이)
• When the Camellia Blooms (동백꽃 필 무렵)
• When Life Gives You Tangerines (폭싹 속았수다)

Awards & Recognition

• 2013 SBS Plus Award at the 5th Korea Creative Content Agency Script Contest (Samchun-gi)
• 2019 KBS Drama Awards: Best Screenwriter (When the Camellia Blooms)
• 2020 Baeksang Arts Awards: Best TV Screenplay (When the Camellia Blooms)
• 2020 Korean Broadcasting Awards: Best Writer (When the Camellia Blooms)
• 2020 Seoul International Drama Awards: Best Writer (When the Camellia Blooms)
• 2020 Korean Popular Culture & Arts Awards: Minister of Culture, Sports, and Tourism Commendation

Lim’s writing is deeply emotional and inspiring, much like their quote: "I want to keep writing words that encourage people, like continuously pumping air into a bicycle tire until the very end."

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Kim Won-Seok

Kim Won-seok: A Master of Emotionally Resonant Storytelling

Kim Won-seok is a celebrated South Korean director known for his meticulous storytelling and deep emotional narratives. His works not only entertain but also reflect the complexities of life, earning widespread acclaim.

Signature Traits

• Warm Perspective: Kim’s works are grounded in a deep understanding and love for humanity, delivering stories full of warmth and emotion.
• Detailed Directing: His ability to portray characters’ psychological depth through subtle performances and stunning cinematography sets him apart.
• Reflection of Society: Many of his dramas incorporate social commentary, making them both engaging and thought-provoking.
• Use of VFX: As seen in When Life Gives You Tangerines, he employs visual effects when needed to enhance realism.

Major Works

• Sungkyunkwan Scandal 성균관 스캔들 (2010): A historical youth drama that captivated audiences with its fresh approach and stellar performances.
• Misaeng 미생 (2014): A realistic portrayal of corporate life that resonated deeply with working professionals.
• Signal 시그널 (2016): A thrilling crime drama where detectives from different periods communicate via a mysterious radio.
• My Mister 나의 아저씨 (2018): A poignant drama about resilience and human connection, starring IU.
• When Life Gives You Tangerines 폭싹 속았수다 (2025): A beautifully crafted tale of Ae-soon (IU) and Gwan-sik (Park Bo-gum) as they navigate life’s trials and joys across the changing seasons.

Kim Won-seok’s dramas are more than just television series; they are works of art that leave a lasting impact on viewers. His storytelling has a way of resonating deeply, making his projects beloved by many.

With When Life Gives You Tangerines, both Lim Sang-choon and Kim Won-seok continue to touch audiences, offering comfort and inspiration through their heartfelt storytelling.