Introduction
Korean dramas and films have always had a unique way of blending nostalgia with heartfelt storytelling, and Netflix’s Love Untangled continues that tradition. Directed with a soft lens on memory and emotion, the film transports viewers back to Busan in 1998, a time of seaside walks, payphones, and school uniforms. At its heart, it is a story about a shy teenager, her struggles with self-confidence, and the unexpected friendship that changes her life.
The Storyline:
Love Untangled follows Park Se-ri (Shin Eun-soo), a 19-year-old girl whose curly hair becomes both her insecurity and her identity. In a world where straight hair is considered the beauty standard, Se-ri hides away, convinced she doesn’t fit in. Her life takes a turn when she meets Yoon-seok (Gong Myung), a transfer student who seems equally out of place.
What begins as an awkward acquaintance soon blossoms into something deeper. The film explores how the two characters, both entangled in their own fears, gradually find courage in each other. Their shared journey of self-discovery against the backdrop of late 90s Busan makes for a nostalgic yet relatable watch.
What Works Well?
Authentic 1998 Busan Setting:
The film beautifully recreates the atmosphere of Busan in the late 90s. From the school corridors to the coastal scenery, the nostalgic touches feel authentic, immersing the audience in an era before smartphones and social media.
Relatable Themes of Self-Love:
Beyond romance, Love Untangled is about acceptance. Park Se-ri’s struggle with her curly hair becomes symbolic of larger battles with self-esteem that many viewers will find familiar. The message of embracing who you are resonates strongly, making the film more than just a love story.
Charming Performances:
The chemistry between Shin Eun-soo and Gong Myung is a highlight. Their gentle, awkward, and sometimes playful dynamic keeps the audience invested in their journey, even when the story follows a familiar path.
Where the Film Falters?
Predictable Plot:
While the nostalgic setting is fresh, the storyline is not. The film relies heavily on classic teen romance tropes, which makes the narrative feel safe and sometimes too predictable.
Missed Opportunities for Depth:
Some subplots, particularly Yoon-seok’s family struggles, are introduced but not explored in depth. These elements could have added more emotional weight to the film, elevating it from sweet to truly memorable.
Conclusion
Love Untangled may not reinvent the teen romance genre, but it doesn’t need to. Its strength lies in its simplicity, its nostalgic setting, and its universal themes of love and acceptance. For viewers looking for a heartfelt story set in a beautifully recreated 1998 Busan, this film offers exactly that.
It is light, warm, and relatable, making it a good choice for a weekend watch. While it may not leave a lasting emotional mark, it will certainly leave you with a smile and perhaps a reminder to embrace yourself, flaws and all.
Final Verdict: A charming yet predictable Korean teen romance. Worth watching if you enjoy nostalgic settings and gentle storytelling.
