Historical Melodrama

Youth of May: Go Min-si and Lee Do-hyun in the Most Heartbreaking Romance Set in Historical Tragedy

📅 August 27, 2026
9.5
½
Exceptional
Youth of May Korean drama Go Min-si Lee Do-hyun Gwangju Uprising historical romance KBS
📸 Youth of May Korean drama Go Min-si Lee Do-hyun Gwangju Uprising historical romance KBS
9.5

out of 10

⭐ Our Verdict

"A devastating, beautiful romance set against real historical tragedy. Go Min-si and Lee Do-hyun deliver performances that will break your heart."

In May 1980, South Korea was on the brink of a democratic revolution. In the city of Gwangju, student protests against the military government would soon erupt into a tragic uprising that changed the nation forever. Amidst this historical backdrop, Hwang Hee-tae — a medical student who has spent his life running from his painful past — meets Kim Myung-hee, a fierce, independent nurse who fights for workers rights. What begins as an arranged meeting for Hee-tae friend quickly becomes a deep, genuine love that neither of them expected. But their love story unfolds against the backdrop of one of the darkest chapters in Korean history, and the tragedy that follows will leave viewers devastated.

Love Blossoming Amidst Tragedy

In May 1980, South Korea was on the brink of a democratic revolution. In the city of Gwangju, student protests against the military government would soon erupt into a tragic uprising that changed the nation forever. Amidst this historical backdrop, Hwang Hee-tae — a medical student who has spent his life running from his painful past — meets Kim Myung-hee, a fierce, independent nurse who fights for workers rights. What begins as an arranged meeting for Hee-tae friend quickly becomes a deep, genuine love that neither of them expected. But their love story unfolds against the backdrop of one of the darkest chapters in Korean history, and the tragedy that follows will leave viewers devastated.

Youth of May is not an easy watch. It is beautiful, tender, and absolutely heartbreaking. Go Min-si and Lee Do-hyun deliver performances of extraordinary depth, making you fall in love with their characters while knowing — dreading — what history has in store for them. The drama is a love letter to the victims of the Gwangju Uprising, ensuring that a new generation remembers the sacrifice of those who fought for democracy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Youth of May based on a true story?

The characters are fictional, but the drama is set against the backdrop of the real Gwangju Uprising of May 1980, a pivotal moment in South Korea democratic movement. The historical events depicted are real.

Where can I watch Youth of May?

Youth of May is available on Viki and KOCOWA worldwide with subtitles in multiple languages.

🏷️ Tags

#Award Winning #Slow Burn
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