‘Doona ‘ is a poignant and beautifully subtle romance Korean drama series that explores the woody nightshade nature of first love, healing, companionship, and self-discovery amidst difficult circumstances.

Directed by Lee Jung-hyo and based on the popular The Girl Downstairs, the series stars Bae Suzy in the lead role as Lee Doona, a former K-pop idol. She is seeking asylum from the spotlight, and Yang Se-jong as Lee Won-Jun, a reserved college student whose ordinary life takes a dramatic turn when he becomes her roommate.

Directed by: Lee Jung -hyos

Genres: Korean online comic, Romance, youth drama.

Starring:

• Bae Suzy (Lee Doo -na)
• Yang Se –jong( Lee Won -joon)
•  Harrison Xu (In -wook)
•  Steven Lim (Yun- Taek)
•  Kim Do-wan (Goo Jeong -hoon)
•  Shin Ha –young (Kim Jin-joo)
•  Park Se-wan (choi-l-ra)
•  Lee Chan-Hyeong (Ji Se-hoon)

Episodes: 9

Release date: 20 October 2023

Doona: All is not as it appears!!!

Plot and storyline

As the storyline progresses, Doona seems to follow the familiar cliche of a picturesque celebrity crossing paths with a commoner, but it unfolds into something deeper. The series precisely reveals phases of a lifetime of trauma, identity, and emotional susceptibility. Doona (Bae Suzy) was once the front icon and the Centre of attention of an idol group, and has faced many challenges and pressures, and finally decided to drop out after a breakdown. 

Then, burdened by the wounds of celebrity, manipulation, and exhaustion, she moves into a modest rental complex with college students as her other tenants. She lives there in a state of semi-isolation.

Temperamentally, Doona is an insecure soul driven by impulse, self-destructive, and a seeker. Her life was turned upside down when Lee Won–joon (Yang Se-jong) also shifted to the same house.

Their lives become intertwined, leading to an unexpected friendship. Suzy’s portrayal is an acknowledgement—her performance is emotionally textured, balancing Doona’s headstrong exterior with heartbreaking vulnerability. Perhaps this is her most subdued and mature part to date.

Doona: Performance and chemistry

Yang Se-jong’s Lee Won-jun delivers a grounded counterbalance. His character is shy, hardworking, but at the same time insecure and hesitant about how to navigate the complexities of Doona’s world. His growth through the series—from being deluge and cautious to becoming someone who truly sees and supports Doona—is fastidiously but convincingly portrayed. The chemistry between the leads is undeniable.

Their dynamic swing back and forth between awkward, tender, and charged with quiet intensity. The direction leans into the quiet and serene moments, the silent walks, and the unsaid words. This downplayed approach works well in capturing the emotional nuances of a relationship blossoming in unexpected circumstances.

Doona: Cinematography and direction

Visually, Doona is impressive with its cinematography using soft lighting and muted color palettes to mirror the murky tone of the story. The university town setting feels intimate and almost dreamlike, underpinning the sense that this relationship exists in a feathery bubble that could burst at any moment.

Doona: Rudimentary theme and critics

Doona does remarkably well in reflecting the vulnerability of young adulthood, of trying to figure out who you are while combating love, loss, and the fear of being truly seen. It captures the feeling of an ephemeral connection that leaves a lasting impact, something many viewers will find relatable.

However, critics pointed out its pacing to be very slow, and the plot is more character-driven than plot-heavy. Those expecting dramatic twists and turns or a more traditional K-drama tempo may find it too gloomy.

Additionally, the ending is emotionally vibrant with an open ending, which might leave some viewers craving more closure.

So.. ‘Doona’ is a quietly powerful drama that stays in your mind long after it ends. With its sheltered, hypnotic performances and a reflective tone, it is a must-watch for fans of contemplative romance. It’s not just about love; it’s about healing, identity, and the spaces we create to protect and rediscover ourselves…….

FAQ

Where can I watch K-drama Doona?

Doona is now streaming on Netflix.