- Status: Returning Series
- Genre: Drama, Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Mystery
- Release: 2024
- Description: Forget the saccharine sweetness of typical coming-of-age dramas; BEGINS ≠ YOUTH punches you in the gut with its unflinching portrayal of adolescence. Seven boys, bound together by shared trauma – family obligations, poverty, even violence – find solace and unexpected friendship in the seemingly idyllic town of Songju-si. Kim Hwan, an outsider burdened by his father's legacy, initially clashes with his new companions, their mistrust fueled by suspicion and misunderstanding. Yet, through shared experiences, laughter, and tearful confessions, a powerful bond emerges. The series masterfully avoids simplistic narratives, exploring the complexities of male friendships and the enduring power of finding kinship in adversity. BEGINS ≠ YOUTH isn't just a story about growing up; it's a poignant exploration of healing, acceptance, and the enduring strength of the human spirit. This is must-see television for anyone who appreciates raw emotion and authentic storytelling.