Content warnings for this drama: suicide and depression

Of all the dramas I have watched, My Golden Life portrayed the most realistic depiction of how someone succumbs to depression through Jian's and her father's characters. Which leads me to say: Hats off to Shin Hyesun's acting! It was her acting alone that made me finish this drama. Chun Hojin, the actor playing Jian's father, also created a remarkable character with his subtle acting.

As for the main pairing, I strongly disliked the romance between Jian and Dogyeong, and I actually liked their open-ended ending. I can see why Dogyeong fell in love with Jian, but I can not see how Jian fell in love with him. Throughout the show, Dogyeong was selfish; he prioritized his feelings for Jian before listening to what Jian really wants. She continuously voiced her dislike to Dogyeong's advances because of his family yet he never respected her wishes for him to leave her alone. Until the end (though one could argue it was because of Jian's father's wishes), he bulldozed his way into Jian's everyday life.

The only pairing I liked was Jiho and Seohyun's friendship, which sadly didn't develop into romance. Their friendship grew naturally without any interference from their families.

This drama offers a cliché plot line, incomprehensive subplots, forgettable characters, so-so romances, and repetitive feuds between families. I picked up this one for Shin Hyesun, and I can confidently say that she carried this whole drama by herself. She definitely deserved that Daesang.

Unless you want to become a fan of Shin Hyesun or you already are, I would NOT recommend watching this drama. There are lots of family dramas out there that are much more deserving of your time.

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