New Drama 'Someday Wise Intern Life' Captivates Viewers

On April 19, 2025, tvN aired the much-anticipated drama 'Someday Wise Intern Life,' featuring Kang Yoo-seok as Eom Jae-il, a resident in the obstetrics and gynecology department. The episode focused on Eom's efforts to win the admiration of his fellow interns, Pyo Nam-kyung (played by Shin Si-ah) and Kim Sa-bi (Han Ye-ji). The show is a spin-off of the popular series 'Wise Doctor Life,' which has garnered a loyal fanbase since its inception.

During the episode, Goo Do-won, a senior resident, humorously remarked to Eom Jae-il in front of their peers, "A senior sanmoba said that Eom Jae-il is too greedy." This teasing sparked a competitive atmosphere among the residents as they discussed the possibility of Eom becoming the first-year resident to win the title in the department for 'I want to praise you.' Goo Do-won noted, "If Eom Jae-il becomes the main character of 'I want to praise you,' it won't be the first time in the obstetrics and gynecology department in 1 year. I've never tried it either," highlighting the significance of the title in their profession.

Kim Sa-bi, who concealed her jealousy, cautiously responded to Goo Do-won's praise, saying, "It's not decided yet. I'll congratulate you when it's decided." This moment showcased the underlying rivalry among the interns, each vying for recognition in their challenging field. Goo Do-won further emphasized the implications of receiving such accolades, stating, "If you come to 'I want to praise you,' it's not good for evaluating your medical life." Eom Jae-il, however, countered with a heartfelt perspective, asserting, "That's not important. The core is that the patient is comforted by my words." This statement encapsulated the essence of their work: to provide care and comfort to patients.

In a pivotal moment during the episode, Eom Jae-il delivered a friendly lecture to his peers, advising them on the importance of sincerity when interacting with patients. "When you deal with sanmobas, be sincere. Even if you do one thing, you have to do it faithfully," he instructed. However, his words were met with indifference from Pyo Nam-kyung and Oh I-young, while Kim Sa-bi expressed interest, questioning, "Do you want me to do it faithfully? Maybe I can be the main character of 'I want to praise you.'" This exchange highlighted the varying motivations and attitudes among the interns.

Another compelling scene unfolded when a patient expressed frustration at Pyo Nam-kyung's inability to answer her questions adequately, saying, "You know more than the patient." Eom Jae-il intervened with his characteristic humor and charm, attempting to lighten the mood. He playfully reassured the patient, saying, "Oh, my God, you're too weak. You need to eat a lot and exercise a lot because physical strength is important." This interaction not only showcased Eom Jae-il's ability to connect with patients but also provided a stark contrast to the pressures faced by the interns.

As the episode progressed, Eom Jae-il shared his secret for coping with the demanding environment of the hospital: "No one spends 1 year as an intern in this hospital. Eat well and exercise a lot. If you don't know well, just say this." His candid advice resonated with his fellow interns, offering them a glimpse into the realities of their roles.

In addition to the competitive dynamics within the intern group, the show also explored the personal growth of the characters. Han Ye-ji's character, Kim Sa-bi, learned how to comfort a young sanmoba, showcasing her development and the warmth she brings to her interactions. This moment of growth was significant, as it reflected the journey of the interns from being overwhelmed by their responsibilities to becoming more compassionate caregivers.

'Someday Wise Intern Life' recorded a viewership rating in the 4% range for its first week of broadcast, a respectable number for a new series. It also ranked 10th in the Netflix Global Non-English TV category, indicating its appeal beyond South Korea. The series is a continuation of the themes explored in 'Wise Doctor Life,' focusing on the challenges and triumphs faced by medical interns.

The show's portrayal of the struggles of young doctors resonates with many viewers, particularly in the current climate where medical professionals face immense pressure. Unlike its predecessor, which romanticized the lives of elite doctors, 'Someday Wise Intern Life' presents a more relatable narrative, highlighting the challenges faced by interns at the beginning of their careers.

Professor Seo Jung-min, portrayed by Lee Bong-ryun, offers insights into the interns' experiences, stating, "Why don't you want to do something so good?" This question encapsulates the internal conflict faced by many medical professionals as they navigate their demanding roles.

Despite the show's engaging storyline and character development, it does not shy away from addressing the harsh realities of the medical field. The ongoing issues within the healthcare system, including the government's recent decision to cancel medical school expansions, loom large over the narrative. This context adds depth to the characters' struggles, making their journey more poignant.

As the series progresses, viewers can expect to see the interns continue to evolve, finding their footing in a demanding profession while also learning valuable lessons about empathy and resilience. The blend of humor and heartfelt moments creates a unique viewing experience, making 'Someday Wise Intern Life' a compelling addition to the medical drama genre.

In conclusion, 'Someday Wise Intern Life' captures the essence of being a medical intern, balancing the weight of responsibility with moments of humor and humanity. It offers a fresh perspective on the challenges faced by young doctors, making it a relatable and engaging watch for audiences.