Snowdrop: Season 1 (2021)

In the year 1987, during a politically tumultuous time in South Korea, the story begins at a women's university where Eun Young-ro, a bright and spirited student, is preparing for a school festival. She is excited and hopeful, surrounded by her friends, who are also preparing for the event. Young-ro's life takes a dramatic turn when she encounters a mysterious man, Lim Soo-ho, who is injured and on the run from the authorities. He is a North Korean spy, and unbeknownst to Young-ro, he is hiding a significant secret.

Young-ro finds Soo-ho in a secretive situation and, feeling a strong sense of compassion, decides to help him. She takes him to her dormitory, where she hides him in her room. As they spend time together, Young-ro becomes increasingly drawn to Soo-ho, who is charming yet enigmatic. Their interactions are filled with tension and chemistry, as Soo-ho struggles with his feelings for Young-ro while trying to maintain his cover.

As the story unfolds, Young-ro's friends become suspicious of her behavior. They notice her secretive actions and the late-night visits, leading to a series of misunderstandings and conflicts among the group. Young-ro's loyalty to Soo-ho is tested when her friends confront her about the risks she is taking. Despite their concerns, she remains determined to protect him, believing in his innocence and the love that is blossoming between them.

The political climate intensifies as protests against the government escalate. Soo-ho is caught in the middle of this turmoil, torn between his mission and his growing affection for Young-ro. He reveals bits of his past and the reasons behind his infiltration, which adds layers to his character and deepens Young-ro's feelings for him. However, the danger surrounding them increases as the authorities close in on Soo-ho's whereabouts.

In a pivotal moment, Soo-ho is discovered by the police during a raid on the university. Young-ro, in a desperate attempt to save him, creates a diversion, allowing him to escape. This act of bravery solidifies their bond but also puts Young-ro in grave danger. The authorities begin to investigate her involvement, leading to a series of harrowing encounters where she must navigate the consequences of her choices.

As the narrative progresses, Soo-ho's mission becomes more complicated. He is forced to make difficult decisions that pit his duty against his feelings for Young-ro. The tension escalates when Soo-ho is captured by the police, and Young-ro must confront the reality of his identity. She grapples with feelings of betrayal and confusion, struggling to reconcile the man she loves with the spy he truly is.

In a climactic sequence, Young-ro devises a plan to rescue Soo-ho from the police station. She enlists the help of her friends, who, despite their initial reservations, rally behind her cause. The rescue operation is fraught with danger, as they face obstacles and confrontations with law enforcement. Young-ro's determination shines through as she navigates the chaos, showcasing her bravery and love for Soo-ho.

The story reaches a turning point when Soo-ho is finally freed, but their reunion is bittersweet. They are forced to confront the reality of their situation, as Soo-ho must return to North Korea to complete his mission. The emotional weight of their love and the sacrifices they must make for each other becomes palpable. Young-ro is left heartbroken yet resolute, understanding the complexities of their worlds.

In the final scenes, Soo-ho departs, leaving Young-ro with a promise to return. The political landscape remains volatile, and the implications of their love story resonate deeply within the context of the era. Young-ro is left to navigate her life without him, holding onto the memories of their time together while facing the uncertain future ahead. The series concludes with a sense of longing and hope, encapsulating the enduring power of love amidst adversity.

In the ending of "Snowdrop," the story culminates in a tragic and emotional climax. Eun Young-ro and Lim Soo-ho's love faces insurmountable obstacles due to the political turmoil surrounding them. Soo-ho is ultimately captured, and Young-ro is left heartbroken, grappling with the loss of her love and the harsh realities of their world. The series concludes with a poignant reflection on love, sacrifice, and the impact of political strife on personal lives.

As the final episodes unfold, the tension escalates. The scene opens in the dimly lit dormitory where Young-ro and her friends are hiding Soo-ho. The atmosphere is thick with anxiety as they hear the sounds of the authorities searching for him. Young-ro, filled with determination and fear, clings to Soo-ho, who reassures her with a gentle smile, despite the danger looming over them. Their love is palpable, yet overshadowed by the impending threat.

In a heart-wrenching moment, Soo-ho decides to surrender himself to protect Young-ro and her friends. He knows that his capture will lead to dire consequences, but he prioritizes their safety over his own. Young-ro's eyes well with tears as she pleads with him to stay, but Soo-ho's resolve is unshakeable. He kisses her tenderly, a bittersweet farewell that encapsulates their love and the sacrifices they must make.

The scene shifts to the authorities storming the dormitory. Young-ro watches helplessly as Soo-ho is taken away, his face a mixture of resignation and love. The camera lingers on Young-ro's devastated expression, capturing the depth of her heartbreak. She is left alone, surrounded by her friends who share her sorrow, their lives forever altered by the events unfolding around them.

As the narrative progresses, we see Soo-ho in a stark interrogation room, facing the harsh realities of his situation. He is questioned about his affiliations and the political unrest, but his thoughts are consumed by Young-ro. The emotional weight of their love story contrasts sharply with the cold, oppressive environment he finds himself in. His internal struggle is evident as he grapples with the consequences of his choices.

In the final moments, Young-ro is seen visiting Soo-ho in a prison-like setting, their eyes meeting in a silent exchange filled with longing and despair. She brings him a small token, a reminder of their love, but the reality of their separation looms large. The scene is heavy with unspoken words, as both characters understand the gravity of their situation.

The series concludes with a montage of their memories together, interspersed with scenes of the ongoing political turmoil. Young-ro stands alone, looking out at the world that has changed so drastically, her heart aching for the love she lost. The final shot lingers on her face, a mixture of hope and sorrow, as she vows to remember Soo-ho and the love they shared, even amidst the chaos.

In the end, Soo-ho's fate remains uncertain, leaving viewers with a sense of unresolved tension. Young-ro, forever changed by her experiences, embodies the resilience of love in the face of adversity, even as she faces a future without the one she loves. The story closes on a poignant note, emphasizing the enduring impact of love and sacrifice against the backdrop of a tumultuous political landscape.

In "Snowdrop," there is no post-credit scene following the final episode of Season 1. The series concludes with a poignant and emotional ending that wraps up the main narrative arcs of the characters, particularly focusing on the fates of Eun Young-ro and Lim Soo-ho. The final moments are filled with a sense of resolution and reflection, leaving viewers with a lasting impression of the themes of love, sacrifice, and the impact of political turmoil on personal lives. The absence of a post-credit scene allows the emotional weight of the story to resonate fully without additional distractions.

Key events leading to the climax include the discovery of Soo-ho's true identity, the increasing pressure from the secret police, and the escalating protests against the government. These elements intertwine, culminating in a tense standoff that tests the characters' loyalties and their will to fight for love and freedom.

The flower 'Snowdrop' symbolizes hope and resilience amidst adversity. In the context of the story, it represents the characters' struggles and their desire for a brighter future despite the oppressive political climate.

Eun Young-ro, played by Kim Ji-soo, initially meets Soo-ho, portrayed by Jung Hae-in, under tense circumstances. As they navigate the dangers of the political unrest in 1987 South Korea, their relationship evolves from one of mistrust to deep emotional connection, marked by moments of vulnerability and shared secrets.

The secret police serve as a significant antagonistic force in 'Snowdrop,' representing the oppressive regime of the time. Their relentless pursuit of Soo-ho creates tension and danger, impacting the lives of Young-ro and her friends, and driving the narrative forward as they seek to protect him.

Young-ro's friends, particularly her roommate and fellow students, provide both support and conflict throughout the series. They embody the youthful spirit of resistance, often pushing Young-ro to confront her feelings for Soo-ho and the reality of their situation, which adds layers to the emotional stakes of the plot.

"Snowdrop" contains several elements that may not be suitable for children or sensitive viewers. Here are some potentially objectionable or upsetting aspects:

1. Violence and Injury: The show features scenes of violence, including physical confrontations and injuries that may be distressing.

2. Political Tension: The backdrop of political unrest and protests may be confusing or unsettling for younger viewers, as it deals with themes of oppression and resistance.

3. Romantic and Emotional Turmoil: The characters experience intense emotional struggles, including heartbreak and betrayal, which may be heavy for younger audiences to process.

4. Themes of Trauma: Characters deal with past traumas and the psychological impact of their experiences, which could be triggering for some viewers.

5. Mature Language and Situations: There are instances of strong language and mature situations that may not be appropriate for children.

These elements contribute to a narrative that is more suited for a mature audience, as it explores complex themes and emotional depth.