Laibeu

It’s rare that I put my money on a series that doesn't star anyone I particularly care about. Something that at first seemed like a Korean version of Police Academy gradually (I don't even know when it happened) develops into a deep, sensitive, and immensely likeable series that tackles cases I think are most topical in Korean society. I don't think I've ever seen a more poignant film or series set in a police environment. I feel like I cried practically the entire time. Whether it was a marital crisis, the feelings of an aging man about to retire, a neglected father-daughter relationship, dealing with illness, the past, or one's own mistakes, beautiful confessions, or just honest dialogue about life or work, I never ceased to be captivated. And the fact that it wasn't just about romantic relationships is the best part of it all. If you had an aversion to Korean cops because of all the comedies where they're portrayed as inept bumblers, you'll probably get over it here. For me, watching the transformation of naive rookies into responsible police officers was an absolutely unique experience. I rate the characters as some of the most realistic I've seen from a Korean production. Not unequivocally bad or good, no pandering, just real. I'd love to start name-dropping one actor after another here again, but I won't. This one is as plain as day. 5 stars. (2021.07.07)