Even before the worldwide pandemic, the field of medicine isn’t anymore the straightforward profession it used to be. It’s still a respected position, that’s attached with a certain status, but the demands have risen for those with the title. Doctors don’t only have to be good at their jobs– there’s a certain push for doctors to be also good at publication, lectures, in-office politics, the business, and for some, social media influencing and politics– it’s no wonder that medical workers today are burned out. Doctor Slump explores these themes with the usual K-drama flair, but in doing so, becomes a refreshing and cathartic romance to watch.

The show’s humor. With the show depending on two timelines, the heaviness of the present day feels lighter when the show depicts the silly ways they maintained their rivalry when they were younger. It doesn’t deny how hard things can get, but it does make it feel possible for them to get through… if only they just resolve their feelings. It’s a fun side to the rivals to lovers trope we all know and love.