Today marks the Netflix premiere of “Resident Playbook,” a spin-off of “Hospital Playlist.” While “Hospital Playlist” chronicled the lives of seasoned medical professors, “Resident Playbook” dives into the vibrant and often challenging world of first-year Obstetrics and Gynecology residents at the Jongno branch of the esteemed Yulje Medical Center.
The first season is set to have twelve episodes, with only the first currently available. The series airs in South Korea on the tvN channel and is available internationally on Netflix, with new episodes dropping on Saturdays and Sundays.
The Premise
“Resident Playbook” follows the daily lives and evolving friendships of these first-year OB/GYN residents as they embark on the demanding journey to become fully qualified medical professionals.
The show is set within the Yulje Medical Center universe, specifically at its Jongno branch. The drama focuses on the Obstetrics and Gynecology department, a medical field facing its own unique set of circumstances, particularly in South Korea, where a declining birth rate presents both professional and societal challenges.
The Creators
The team behind “Resident Playbook” has a proven track record of success. The series is created by the renowned duo of Shin Won-ho and Lee Woo-jung. Their previous collaborations on the “Reply” series, “Prison Playbook,” and, most notably, “Hospital Playlist,” have solidified their reputation for delivering high-quality, deeply resonant dramas, setting high expectations for this new venture. Kim Song-hee, who brings a familiar touch to the series, having previously served as an assistant writer on both “Hospital Playlist” and “Reply 1988,” is penning the script.
Lee Min-soo, known for his work on “Heartbeat,” is at the helm of directing. While Shin Won-ho directed “Hospital Playlist,” his continued involvement as creator of “Resident Playbook” implies a guiding vision, especially in maintaining the thematic essence of the “Wise Life” series.
The creators have expressed their goal to weave together comedic moments with deeply felt emotional narratives, building upon the foundation established by “Hospital Playlist.” A key aspect of their vision is the deliberate focus on the early growth and development of the residents, contrasting with the established expertise and wisdom of the professors who were the central figures in the original series. This shift allows the spin-off to explore different facets of the medical profession, highlighting the learning curves and personal evolution that define the early stages of a doctor’s career.
The Cast
Go Youn-jung stars as Oh Yi-young, a first-year OB/GYN resident who, despite an initially cold and stoic demeanor, possesses a deeply passionate and dedicated nature once she commits to something, whether it be work or personal relationships.
Shin Si-ah plays Pyo Nam-kyung, another first-year resident who shares a high school connection with Oh Yi-young and is characterized by her polished appearance and seemingly relaxed demeanor.
Kang You-seok takes on the role of Um Jae-il, a first-year resident with a unique past as a former idol, who brings an energetic and humorous approach to his new profession.
Han Ye-ji portrays Kim Sa-bi, a character known for her intelligence and academic achievements, who soon discovers that the practical world of residency extends far beyond textbook knowledge.
Finally, Jung Joon-won plays Koo Do-won, an OB/GYN resident whose connection with Oh Yi-young extends beyond the hospital walls, as they share a surprising political relationship.
About the Series
“Resident Playbook” takes the classic medical drama and infuses it with a strong sense of humor. The series is filled with jokes and gags, very much in the style of the Korean series that Netflix has been offering on Saturdays: lots of humor and a heightened sense of the absurd, this time applied to a medical narrative.
It’s a blend of humor and drama, with a significant touch of sentimentality.
“Resident Playbook” aims to surprise with its mix of somewhat absurd humor and the stark reality of a medical center, always with dramatic undertones.
If you’re a fan of medical dramas, you can catch the first two episodes of “Resident Playbook” this weekend.
Enjoy the show!
Where to Watch “Resident Playbook”
