On March 22, 2025, singer and actress IU made a notable contribution to the original soundtrack (OST) of the new Netflix series titled "You Have Done Well." This OST was officially released at 12:00 PM on all global music platforms, coinciding with the release of a new episode of the show on March 21, 2025.
The soundtrack features two songs: IU’s "Night Stroll" and Hong Isaac’s "My Love, By My Side." "Night Stroll" showcases IU’s transformation into Ae-sun, a character that embodies clever rebellion. The song was previously previewed through "You Have Done Well OST from the Netflix Series - Chapter 1" by singer-songwriter d.ear and is characterized by its gentle melody blended with IU's warm voice, guiding listeners through their fond memories.
In contrast, "My Love, By My Side" is a heartfelt reinterpretation of a well-known song originally by Kim Hyun-sik, released in 1991. Hong Isaac’s calm voice captures the song's emotion, bringing a simple but warm sentiment that resonates deeply. This arrangement is designed to evoke feelings of nostalgia and longing, employing a delicate acoustic sound that enhances the song's emotional depth.
The series "You Have Done Well" narrates the life adventures of Ae-sun, who was born on Jeju Island in the 1950s, illustrating her story across the four seasons. Since its release, the show has been praised for its universal themes that transcend generations and for its warm storytelling, earning accolades as one of the best dramas of the year.
With a plot that reflects resilience and the blooming of love over the years, the series aims to deliver a message of hope to the current and the next generations.
The music for "You Have Done Well" was composed by Park Sung-il, known for his past collaborations with director Kim Won-suk on works such as "Signal" and "Misaeng." One of the highlights includes a detailed depiction of varied historical settings stretching from 1960s Jeju to modern-day Seoul, crafting a captivating narrative through its soundscapes.
In a remarkable feat, the series has recorded 6 million views just two weeks post-launch, securing the second spot in the global top series for non-English content. Additionally, it has ranked among the top 10 lists in 41 countries, including Brazil, Chile, Mexico, Turkey, the Philippines, and Vietnam, reflecting its growing popularity both domestically and internationally.
This exciting collaboration between IU and Hong Isaac not only enhances the show's emotional landscape but also showcases the talents behind the scenes, proving that music plays a pivotal role in storytelling. With its rich narrative, captivating performances, and heartfelt melodies, "You Have Done Well" is indeed a series that resonates on multiple levels, leaving a lasting impression on its audience.
