Youth of May (2021)
A heartbreaking period romance set against the Gwangju Uprising of May 1980, where love blooms in the shadow of history.
Youth of May - Series Information
- Original Title: 오월의 청춘
- First Air Year: 2021
- Last Air Year: 2021
- Created by: Lee Kang, Song Min-yeop
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Drama
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode (60 minutes)
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 12
- Status: Ended
- Original Language: Korean
- Spoken Languages: Korean
- First Air Date: May 3, 2021 (South Korea - 15)
- Networks: wavve, KBS2
- Alternative Titles: Youth in May (US), 五月的青春 (TW)
- Production Companies: Arc Media
- Production Countries: South Korea
Youth of May - Plot
A budding love story between a medical student and a nurse takes place in May 1980, during a time of civil unrest and military oppression in Gwangju.
Youth of May - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and see the world of 1980s Gwangju come to life:
I don't want this May to pass by without you.
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Youth of May - Cast & Crew
Creator(s)
- Lee Kang
- Song Min-yeop
Main Cast
- Lee Do-hyun
- Go Min-si
- Lee Sang-yi
- Keum Sae-rok
- Oh Man-seok
- Kim Won-hae
- Uhm Hyo-seop
- Hwang Young-hee
- Shim Yi Young
- Park Cheol-min
Writers
- Lee Kang
Youth of May - FAQs
Is Youth of May based on a true story?
Youth of May is a fictional romance, but it unfolds against the very real backdrop of the Gwangju Uprising of May 1980 — a pivotal and tragic chapter in South Korean history when pro-democracy protesters clashed with military forces, resulting in hundreds of casualties. The historical setting lends the story profound emotional weight.
What is Youth of May about?
Set in Gwangju during the spring of 1980, Youth of May follows medical student Hwang Hee-tae and nurse Kim Myeong-hee as they fall in love against the turbulent backdrop of military oppression and civil uprising. Their tender romance is tested by forces far beyond their control, making for a deeply bittersweet melodrama.
Where can you stream Youth of May?
Youth of May is available to stream on OnDemandKorea, Kocowa, and the Kocowa Amazon Channel, all offering the series as part of their subscription plans. Availability may vary by region, so checking your local streaming services for the latest options is always a good idea.
Who are the lead actors in Youth of May?
The series stars Lee Do-hyun as medical student Hwang Hee-tae and Go Min-si as nurse Kim Myeong-hee. Their on-screen chemistry anchors the drama's emotional core. The supporting cast includes Lee Sang-yi, Keum Sae-rok, Oh Man-seok, and Kim Won-hae, among others.
How was Youth of May received by critics?
Youth of May earned warm praise for its atmospheric period setting, restrained yet emotionally powerful storytelling, and the chemistry between its two leads. Critics highlighted its sensitive portrayal of the Gwangju Uprising and its ability to weave personal romance into a harrowing historical moment without diminishing either element.
What makes the Gwangju Uprising significant in the drama?
The Gwangju Uprising of May 18–27, 1980, was a pro-democracy movement brutally suppressed by South Korean military forces under Chun Doo-hwan. In Youth of May, this historical trauma is not mere backdrop — it directly shapes the fates of the characters, giving the romance a sense of urgency and heartbreak that is impossible to ignore.
Is Youth of May worth watching for non-Korean drama fans?
Absolutely. Even viewers unfamiliar with Korean historical dramas will find Youth of May deeply moving. Its universal themes of love, sacrifice, and political injustice transcend cultural boundaries. The performances by Lee Do-hyun and Go Min-si are particularly compelling, and the lush 1980s period production design adds immersive authenticity.
What are similar shows to Youth of May?
Fans of Youth of May will likely enjoy Mr. Sunshine (2018), another sweeping Korean period romance set against political upheaval, and Bridal Mask (2012), which similarly blends historical resistance with personal drama. Sungkyunkwan Scandal (2010) offers a lighter but equally charming period romance for those seeking something a little less intense.
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