The first episode of “What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim” showcases the highly stylized, comedic premise that propelled the series to international fame. However, a closer examination reveals a reliance on exaggerated stereotypes and potentially problematic power dynamics that, while serving the initial comedic effect, ultimately contribute to some underlying issues with character development and narrative depth.
Initial Impressions: Humor and the Harmful?
While undeniably entertaining, the episode’s primary flaw lies in its heavy dependence on caricature. Lee Young-joon, the narcissistic vice chairman played by Park Seo-joon, is presented as so relentlessly self-absorbed and oblivious to the needs of those around him that he verges on being unbelievable, even within the confines of romantic comedy. His complete lack of empathy, while initially played for laughs, feels increasingly unsettling when juxtaposed with Kim Mi-so’s (Park Min-young) quiet competence and unwavering professionalism. The episode thus sets a precedent of unbalanced power, where Mi-so exists primarily to manage Young-joon’s ego, which is concerning.
The humor often stems from Mi-so’s exasperation and internal monologues, which are undoubtedly relatable to anyone who has worked under a demanding or entitled boss. However, this reliance on her frustration becomes repetitive and risks reducing her character to merely a long-suffering employee. It’s a trope that, while familiar, does little to offer a fresh perspective on workplace relationships. The episode lays the foundation for a romantic relationship built on unequal footing, a concept that deserves careful consideration.
Deep Dive: Unpacking the Underlying Issues
Beyond the humor, “What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim” episode 1 grapples with several underlying issues that warrant further scrutiny.
The Objectification of Kim Mi-so
The episode’s opening sequence, focusing on Mi-so’s impeccable appearance and her seemingly flawless performance as a secretary, borders on objectification. While her competence is undeniable, the camera lingers on her physical attributes, reinforcing the idea that her value is tied to her attractiveness and efficiency in catering to Young-joon’s needs. This creates a concerning dynamic where Mi-so’s worth is primarily determined by her ability to satisfy her boss.
The Toxicity of Perfection
Both Young-joon and Mi-so are presented as flawlessly perfect in their respective roles. Young-joon is brilliant, handsome, and successful, while Mi-so is competent, beautiful, and tirelessly devoted. This unrealistic portrayal of professional life can be detrimental, as it sets unattainable expectations for viewers and reinforces the idea that success is only achievable through relentless self-optimization. The pressure to conform to these ideals can be immensely damaging, leading to feelings of inadequacy and burnout.
The Absence of Authenticity
The relationships depicted in the first episode feel somewhat artificial and superficial. The interactions between Young-joon and his employees lack genuine warmth and connection. Even Mi-so’s friendships with her colleagues feel transactional, primarily focused on workplace gossip and complaints. This lack of authenticity creates a disconnect between the characters and the audience, making it difficult to fully invest in their relationships and struggles.
Addressing the Concerns: Is it Just a Rom-Com?
It’s tempting to dismiss these concerns as overanalyzing a lighthearted romantic comedy. However, the popularity and influence of K-dramas demand a critical examination of the messages they convey. While “What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim” offers escapism and entertainment, it also inadvertently reinforces problematic power dynamics and unrealistic expectations. The subsequent episodes do explore some of these dynamics, but the initial setup in episode 1 is undeniably flawed.
While the show does evolve, particularly in exploring the characters’ past and developing their relationship with more nuance, the initial power imbalance presented in the first episode casts a long shadow. The humor, though often effective, is often at the expense of deeper character development and a more nuanced exploration of the characters’ motivations.
FAQs: Exploring the Nuances of “What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim” Episode 1
Here are 12 frequently asked questions that delve deeper into the specific aspects of the first episode and the series as a whole:
FAQ 1: Why is Lee Young-joon so narcissistic in the first episode?
Lee Young-joon’s narcissism is presented as a key comedic element, highlighting his obliviousness and self-importance. However, it also serves as a plot device to justify Mi-so’s decision to resign and the ensuing chaos that follows. The exaggeration is intentional to create dramatic tension and humorous situations.
FAQ 2: Is Kim Mi-so’s resignation solely about feeling overworked?
While being overworked is a contributing factor, Mi-so’s resignation stems from a deeper desire for personal fulfillment and a life beyond her demanding job. She has dedicated her entire adult life to serving Young-joon, and she feels a yearning to explore her own interests and relationships.
FAQ 3: Does the series ever address the power imbalance between Young-joon and Mi-so?
Yes, the series does address the power imbalance as the characters’ relationship develops. Young-joon starts to recognize his own flaws and makes efforts to be more considerate of Mi-so’s feelings. However, the initial dynamic established in the first episode remains a foundational aspect of their relationship.
FAQ 4: How does the show handle the depiction of office culture?
The office culture in “What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim” is a highly stylized and exaggerated portrayal of corporate life. While it incorporates elements of workplace politics and camaraderie, it often prioritizes comedic effect over realism.
FAQ 5: What is the significance of Mi-so’s past trauma in the context of the first episode?
Mi-so’s past trauma, hinted at in the first episode, is a crucial plot point that is gradually revealed throughout the series. It explains her dedication to her work and her initial reluctance to pursue romantic relationships.
FAQ 6: Is the show primarily targeted towards a female audience?
While “What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim” is primarily targeted towards a female audience due to its romantic comedy genre, it has also garnered a significant male viewership thanks to its humor and engaging storyline.
FAQ 7: What are some of the common tropes used in the first episode?
Common tropes include the arrogant CEO, the competent and dedicated secretary, the love-hate relationship, and the clumsy attempts at courtship. These tropes are often employed for comedic effect and to establish the initial conflict between the characters.
FAQ 8: How does the show utilize humor in the first episode?
The humor in the first episode primarily relies on slapstick comedy, witty dialogue, and situational irony. The contrast between Young-joon’s narcissistic behavior and Mi-so’s exasperated reactions is a recurring source of humor.
FAQ 9: Does the first episode adequately introduce the supporting characters?
The first episode introduces the supporting characters, but their roles are largely limited to providing comedic relief and supporting the main storyline. Their individual stories and development are explored in later episodes.
FAQ 10: How does “What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim” compare to other K-dramas in terms of its portrayal of workplace dynamics?
Compared to other K-dramas, “What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim” offers a more lighthearted and comedic portrayal of workplace dynamics. While it touches upon issues of power and ambition, it primarily focuses on the romantic relationship between the main characters.
FAQ 11: What makes this K-drama so popular?
The popularity of “What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim” stems from its charming leads, engaging storyline, and lighthearted humor. The show also benefits from its visually appealing aesthetics and catchy soundtrack. The escapism it offers appeals to a wide audience.
FAQ 12: Would you recommend watching “What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim” based solely on the first episode?
While the first episode sets the stage for the series, potential viewers should be aware of the potential issues with power dynamics and character stereotypes. Enjoying the show depends on an individual’s tolerance for exaggerated humor and tropes. While the show does develop beyond the initial setup, the first episode is crucial for understanding the initial dynamic.