I may be reaching for some but for me, this is one of those rare dramas that lingers in your mind long after the credits roll. It’s not just a story about seven teenagers navigating their troubled lives—it’s a raw and heartfelt reflection of society’s flaws. Tackling themes like mental health, generational trauma, poverty, and discrimination, the drama doesn’t shy away from showing how the choices of one generation can echo through the lives of the next.

What truly stands out is the depth of the storytelling. The writing is sharp, with lines that cut straight to the heart. One that stayed with me was Hwan's quiet confession: *"If I could go back and take the pain from all of you, I would. Even if it meant losing myself."* It’s these moments of vulnerability that make the characters feel real and their struggles relatable.

The actors deserve so much praise. Each of them brought an intensity to their roles that made you believe in their pain, their hope, and their resilience. Hwan, as the eldest, carried the weight of the story with his quiet strength, while the younger cast members brought layers of complexity to their characters. Their chemistry made the group dynamic feel natural and heartfelt, especially in the lighter moments that offered a break from the heavier themes.

Visually, the production is stunning. The cinematography perfectly captures the mood, with muted tones reflecting the characters’ bleak realities and brighter shots symbolizing fleeting moments of hope. The use of music is subtle yet effective, with melancholic tracks that amplify the emotional weight of pivotal scenes.

The narrative structure is another highlight. As a prequel to the BU universe, it masterfully builds the backstories of the protagonists while setting the stage for future events. The introduction of time travel in the final moments is both unexpected and intriguing, adding a layer of fantasy that feels earned rather than forced.

But what hit hardest for me was the message. *Begins Youth* doesn’t just tell a story—it holds up a mirror to our world. It shows how societal pressures, inequality, and the failings of adults can crush the dreams of the young. Yet, amidst all the pain, there’s a glimmer of hope—a belief that change is possible, even if it comes at great sacrifice.

The open ending left me aching for more. Watching Hwan sacrifice himself to save his friends, only to be trapped in a loop of time, was heartbreaking. It’s a bold choice that leaves the audience yearning for answers—and for a second season.

This is more than a drama. It’s a beautifully crafted, deeply emotional journey that reminds us of the weight of our choices and the strength it takes to break free from cycles of pain. If you’re looking for a show that will make you think, cry, and hope all at once, this is it.