As South Korea’s healthcare system continues to wrestle with an ongoing medical strike, tvN is launching its latest drama, “Resident Playbook,” into a complicated spotlight. A spin-off of the beloved “Hospital Playlist” franchise, the series aims to introduce a new generation of doctors, but whether it can win over a divided public remains to be seen.
A New Chapter in the Hospital Playlist Universe
Premiering April 12, “Resident Playbook” brings viewers back to Yulje Hospital, this time focusing on the OB-GYN department. With a story spanning from birth to death, the show promises to explore both obstetrics and gynecology, areas rarely fully addressed in Korean medical dramas.
Leading the cast is Go Youn-jung, known for “Sweet Home,” “Alchemy of Souls,” and “Moving,” alongside rising star Shin Si-ah, who made headlines after beating 1,400 contenders for her debut lead role in “The Witch Part 2.” Also joining the cast is Kang You-seok, fresh off his role as IU’s younger brother in “When Life Gives You Tangerines.”
While series creators Shin Won-ho and Lee Woo-jung return as executive producers, the main writing and directing duties fall to Kim Song-hee and Lee Min-soo, offering a fresh perspective while maintaining the heart of the original.
A Delayed Premiere in a Politically Charged Climate
Originally scheduled to air in May 2023, as the follow-up to “Queen of Tears”, “Resident Playbook” was shelved for nearly a year due to the nationwide medical strike opposing government reforms. Amid these protests, dramas centered on healthcare professionals became sensitive territory.
Director Shin Won-ho acknowledged the timing concerns, “Midway through filming, the medical crisis erupted. I worried the story of these young doctors might come off the wrong way, so we postponed the release.”
“As the director, I’ve done my job. But speaking as someone who feels like a ‘dad’ to these young actors, I’m begging you, please give them a chance.” His emotional appeal highlighted the stakes, not just for the network, but for a new generation of actors hoping to make their mark.
tvN’s Drama Slump – Can Resident Playbook Turn the Tide?
tvN is banking on “Resident Playbook” to revive its struggling weekend lineup. Following the success of “Jeongnyeon: The Star Is Born,” the network has faced a string of underwhelming ratings: “When the Stars Gossip” flopped despite a 50 billion KRW (approx 34.8 million USD) budget, and “The Potato Lab” closed with just 1.8%.
Now, all eyes are on “Resident Playbook” to deliver both emotionally resonant storytelling and a much-needed viewership boost.
Despite the political undercurrents, similar medical dramas like Netflix’s “Trauma Code: Heroes on Call” and Disney+’s “Hyper Knife” have thrived purely on their narrative strength. With the legacy of “Hospital Playlist” behind it, and a talented cast leading the charge, “Resident Playbook” may just prove that good storytelling can transcend controversy.
Whether it becomes a breakthrough success or a missed opportunity, “Resident Playbook” is poised to be one of 2025’s most talked-about premieres.
The post “Resident Playbook” Faces High Stakes Premiere Amid Medical Strike and Public Division appeared first on KBIZoom. KBIZoom – Breaking news about K-pop, K-drama, Anime/Manga and worldwide entertainment KBIZoom – Breaking news about K-pop, K-drama, Anime/Manga and worldwide entertainment
