REVIEW: It’s Okay to Not Be Okay

“It’s Okay to Not Be Okay,” also known as “Psycho But It’s Okay” in its literal translation, is a 2020 South Korean television series that explores romance, mental health, and emotional healing. Here’s a breakdown of the series:

Plot:

• The story centers around Ko Moon-young, a talented but antisocial children’s book writer, and Moon Gang-tae, a compassionate caretaker at a psychiatric hospital who prioritizes caring for his older brother with autism.
• Their paths cross when Moon-young moves to Gang-tae’s hometown. Despite their contrasting personalities, an unexpected romance blossoms between them.

Theme:

• Mental Health: The series tackles mental health issues openly and sensitively. It portrays characters struggling with autism, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and childhood trauma.
• Emotional Healing: Both Moon-young and Gang-tae have their own emotional baggage. Through their relationship, they learn to confront their past and find healing.
• Fairytale Metaphors: The series incorporates imaginative fairytale elements within the children’s books Moon-young writes, which often reflect the characters’ inner struggles and growth.  

Overall:

“It’s Okay to Not Be Okay” is a well-acted drama with a strong message about healing and acceptance. If you’re looking for something light and fluffy, this might not be it. But if you appreciate emotional depth, unique storytelling, and a nuanced look at mental health, it’s definitely worth checking out.

Reception and Availability:

• • • “It’s Okay to Not Be Okay” was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its strong performances, unique storyline, and sensitive portrayal of mental health.
    • The series is available for streaming on Netflix in selected regions.