‘One Day Off’ is a gentle, soul-soothing K-drama that takes viewers on a journey of self-discovery and quiet reflection. Starring Lee Na-Young as Park Ha-Kyung, a high school Korean literature teacher, the series explores the therapeutic power of taking time away from the hustle of everyday life. With only eight episodes and a 24 minute runtime each, this 2023 series, delivers a simple yet profound narrative that’s perfect for those who need a moment to pause and reflect.
The premise is wonderfully straightforward: Park Ha-Kyung, overwhelmed by her routine, decides to take a personal “day off” every Saturday to go on one-day trips. Each episode presents a new destination where she can unwind, eat new foods, meet intriguing strangers, and connect with the world around her. Through these small, everyday encounters, Ha-Kyung experiences comfort and empathy, finding solace in the unexpected moments of connection that come her way.
What makes ‘One Day Off’ so special is its introspective nature. Every episode feels like a meditative pause, as if you, too, are taking a breather alongside Ha-Kyung, one episode is even set in an actual temple.
The show is beautifully shot, with each location capturing a sense of tranquility, making it visually as much a getaway as it is emotionally. The episodes don’t have a grand narrative arc or intense drama but rather focus on the little things, like conversations with strangers, the taste of a new dish, or a quiet walk in nature.
Directed by Lee Jong-Pil and written by Son Mi, ‘One Day Off’ stands as a unique antidote to the high-energy, emotionally-charged dramas. It’s the perfect series to watch when you need a break between heavier, more intense shows. There are some huge names attached to this project. Singer-songwriter Sunwoo Jung A, jazz artist Kim Oki, Koo Kyo-Hwan, and Shim Eun-kyung just to name a few. Their stories are often small-scale but rich with meaning. It’s an easy watch that allows you to breathe and ponder life’s quieter moments.
In a world that constantly demands more from us, ‘One Day Off’ is a reminder that sometimes, taking a step back and savoring the present is all we need to recharge.
You can find the entire series on BiliBili here.
