The first kiss in What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim is not inherently wrong, but its placement within the narrative rhythm of episode 9 creates a jarring disconnect. It feels premature, a dramatic crescendo orchestrated before the audience has fully experienced the organic build-up of genuine intimacy, thus diluting its emotional impact.
Understanding the Narrative Mismatch
The success of a romantic comedy hinge greatly on pacing and emotional investment. What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim, for the most part, masterfully utilizes these elements. The playful banter, the slow unveiling of shared trauma, and the gradual realization of affection are hallmarks of its charm. However, the placement of the first kiss in episode 9 disrupts this careful construction.
While the episode builds tension and introduces elements of vulnerability, it lacks the culminating moment of shared understanding or profound emotional connection that typically justifies such a significant event. The kiss, therefore, feels driven more by narrative obligation than genuine emotional urgency.
The series excels at slow-burn romance. The comedic misunderstandings and subtle gestures of affection are what make the relationship between Kim Mi-so and Lee Young-joon so captivating. Rushing into a physical manifestation of their feelings, without fully laying the emotional groundwork, undercuts the carefully crafted foundation of their burgeoning relationship.
Deeper Dive: The Episode 9 Imperfections
The “wrongness” of the kiss in episode 9 isn’t about the act itself, but rather the context surrounding it. Several factors contribute to this feeling of narrative dissonance:
- Lack of Emotional Resonance: While attraction is evident, the episode doesn’t adequately showcase a shared vulnerability or a mutual understanding that transcends their professional relationship. A kiss at this stage feels more like the fulfillment of a romantic trope than a genuine expression of deep affection.
- Pacing Issues: The series initially established a deliberate pace, allowing the characters’ feelings to develop organically. The sudden acceleration towards a physical intimacy feels rushed and unnatural, particularly given the history and baggage both characters carry.
- Missed Opportunities: The episode could have benefitted from more quiet, intimate moments where Mi-so and Young-joon connect on a deeper level, outside of their usual dynamic. These missed opportunities contribute to the feeling that the kiss is premature.
- Dependence on Trope Over Character: The kiss feels like a forced culmination of rom-com tropes, rather than a natural progression of the characters’ individual journeys and shared connection.
The FAQs: Unpacking the Controversy
Here are 12 Frequently Asked Questions that further explore the complex issues surrounding the first kiss in What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim:
H3 FAQ 1: Was the Kiss Itself Badly Executed?
No, the actual kiss scene is well-acted and visually appealing. Park Seo-joon and Park Min-young have excellent chemistry. The problem lies in the timing and build-up, not the performance itself.
H3 FAQ 2: Did the Source Material (Webtoon/Novel) Handle the First Kiss Differently?
Yes, the webtoon and novel provide a more gradual build-up to physical intimacy. The adaptation prioritized pacing for television, potentially sacrificing some of the nuanced emotional development present in the original material.
H3 FAQ 3: How Did the Audience React to the Kiss at the Time of Airing?
Audience reactions were mixed. While some viewers were thrilled by the romantic development, others felt it was rushed and didn’t align with the established tone of the series.
H3 FAQ 4: Would a Later Kiss Have Been More Impactful?
Absolutely. Waiting a few more episodes, allowing for greater emotional vulnerability and a deeper understanding between the characters, would have made the kiss feel more earned and impactful. A later kiss could have served as a powerful culmination of their shared journey.
H3 FAQ 5: Does This Affect the Overall Quality of the Drama?
While the placement of the first kiss is a noticeable flaw, it doesn’t fundamentally ruin the drama. What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim still offers plenty of charm, humor, and compelling characters. However, it diminishes the impact of what should have been a pivotal moment.
H3 FAQ 6: Could the Kiss Have Been More Contextualized?
Yes. Adding a scene revealing Mi-so’s internal conflict and growing feelings, or showcasing a moment where Young-joon genuinely understands her anxieties, could have provided the necessary context and justification for the kiss.
H3 FAQ 7: What Alternatives Could the Writers Have Explored?
Instead of a full kiss, the writers could have explored a more subtle expression of affection. A meaningful hug, a shared vulnerable moment, or a deep conversation could have served as a powerful bridge to a more significant physical intimacy later on.
H3 FAQ 8: Does the “Office Romance” Genre Typically Follow This Pattern?
Not necessarily. While office romances often involve a power dynamic and subtle flirtation, the best examples prioritize character development and emotional authenticity over adhering strictly to genre tropes.
H3 FAQ 9: How Does This Kiss Compare to Other K-Drama First Kisses?
Compared to other K-Drama first kisses, the one in episode 9 of What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim feels less earned. Many iconic K-Drama kisses are preceded by moments of significant emotional breakthrough or shared vulnerability, making them feel more satisfying and impactful.
H3 FAQ 10: Did the Ratings of Subsequent Episodes Change?
The ratings remained relatively consistent, suggesting that while some viewers were critical, the overall appeal of the drama wasn’t significantly affected by the placement of the first kiss.
H3 FAQ 11: Can Viewers Still Enjoy the Drama Despite This Issue?
Absolutely! What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim offers plenty of entertainment value, thanks to its charming characters, witty dialogue, and engaging storyline. This minor flaw shouldn’t deter viewers from enjoying the overall experience.
H3 FAQ 12: What Can Other K-Dramas Learn from This?
Other K-Dramas can learn the importance of prioritizing emotional authenticity over adhering strictly to romantic tropes. Rushing into physical intimacy without establishing a solid emotional foundation can weaken the overall impact of the romance and ultimately diminish the viewer’s investment in the relationship. Focus on building genuine connections and allowing the characters’ feelings to develop organically.
The Final Verdict: A Missed Opportunity
While What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim remains a beloved romantic comedy, the first kiss in episode 9 represents a missed opportunity. By rushing into physical intimacy without fully laying the emotional groundwork, the series diminishes the impact of what should have been a pivotal moment in the relationship between Mi-so and Young-joon. While the kiss itself is well-executed, its premature placement disrupts the narrative rhythm and ultimately undermines the carefully crafted foundation of their burgeoning romance. The lesson learned is that emotional authenticity should always take precedence over fulfilling genre expectations, ensuring a more satisfying and impactful viewing experience.