Reply 1988 10th Anniversary: Here’s Why This K-Drama Starring Hyeri, Park Bogum Remains A Beloved Classic!

Starring Lee Hye-ri, Ryu Jun-yeol, Park Bo-gum, and others, this K-drama pulled me in and made me feel everything.

Some shows dig right into your heart and leave a void when they’re gone. That’s Reply 1988 for me. This Korean drama pulled me in and made me feel everything. Starring Lee Hye-ri, Ryu Jun-yeol, Park Bo-gum, Go Kyung-pyo, Lee Dong-hwi, Sung Dong-il, Lee Il-hwa, and others, it is the 10th anniversary, and I just had to write about it. Each character feels like someone I know, and that’s why people call it one of the best K-dramas ever. If you haven’t watched it yet, here’s why it’s my all-time favourite and why you really should.

Chosen Ones

Friendships in this show hit different. You see these kids growing up in the same hood, sharing laughs and food, crying through heartbreaks, and always having each other’s backs no matter what. It’s real and reminds you of your old group who knew you before you put on a mask in front of this fast-paced world.

Warmth Of Family

Home is where the heart is and this story drags you right into that chaotic yet peaceful world. A father and his eldest daughter exchange heated words but underneath they have a soft spot for each other. The middle kid swallows the feeling of being invisible with a smile on the face.

Mom and Dad struggle to run the house but still make sure that the children don’t notice it. Brothers and sisters tease each other but become each other’s bodyguard if anyone else tries to hurt them. You remember your fights with your sibling and your parents’ struggle, and more. It proves family runs deeper than anything and you end up feeling thankful for the people around you.

Beautiful Cinematography

The visuals take you straight into the 80s. Ssangmun-dong comes alive with those tiny houses, narrow alleys, kids playing and elders chatting. From warm yellows to old lights, the colours used are the cherry on top. Even as a 2003 baby, it transported me there, like I could smell the food and hear the chatter. If a scene doesn’t vibe with the era’s grit and warmth, what’s even the point? This cinematography stuns because it feels lived-in, not like some filter. It’s like you finish an episode and crave that simplicity in this chaotic world.

Nostalgic Songs

Soundtrack? Words don’t do justice but I’ll give it a try. They included many 80s and 90s classic songs that feel like a warm hug. Songs like ‘Don’t Worry, Dear’ by Lee Juck, OH HYUK’s ‘A Little Girl’, and Kim Chang Wan’s ‘Youth’ bring back good old memories. Even after the series came to an end, I plugged in my earphones and felt like I was among them, laughing at dinner and having the time of my life.

Brilliant Performances

Acting is on another level. From hilarious one-liners that crack you up to their on-the-spot comic timing during chaotic situations, Every cast member owns their role. The actors beautifully nailed emotional scenes as well. They showed real pain. with quiet glances and voices. Lee Hye-ri’s bubbly energy, Ryu Jun-yeol’s quiet strength, and Park Bo-gum’s adorable charm, and more – all stick with you. Their chemistry is top tier and makes you believe in these people and you end up cheering and crying like they’re your family.

Storyline

It has a simple story about everyday people in 1988, but it’s written so well that it keeps you engaged from the beginning. Execution from script to screen is also mindblowing. Even today, we still quote the show’s iconic lines about life, love, and grinding through hard times. My only complaint is that ending! We needed, I mean, deserved a full group reunion for one last time. It hurts a bit, but that’s what makes it unforgettable.

Also Read: Hyeri Shares Cute Photos With Reply 1988 Co-Star Park Bo Gum, Fans Demand Another Drama!

Well, the drama shows us the ups and downs one deals with in their life, the spark of being young and the warmth of people who have your back. If you haven’t started, do it soon and if you have watched it, you understand the hype!

Also Read: From ‘Reply 1988’ To ‘Goblin’, 9 K-Dramas That Are Perfect For Beginners

First Published: November 06, 2025 6:16 PM