When looking at our society these days, it feels like the affection and bond between people is gradually disappearing. There are many cases where we do not know who lives upstairs, downstairs, or next door. When they bump into each other on the street, they do not say hello. Furthermore, it is hard to even imagine inviting neighbors to your home or having a meal together like the common atmosphere of the past. Rather, people worry about potential dangers that can occur in the neighborhood. But in the 90s, most people shared their homemade side dishes with neighbors, played with friends who lived next door, or looked at groceries together. Especially residents living in Ssangmun-dong in drama,‘Reply 1988’ embody human connection and warm-heartedness. They always come together when a family is having financial difficulties or someone in the family is in danger. Growing up in these circumstances, 6 friends know how to care for others, how to love their families, and find their own paths.

Episode 1: Neighbor, Someone you can always trust

Sunwoo’s mother, Sunyoung, lost her husband and brought up Sunwoo and Jinzoo alone. Her husband's mother interferes with Sunyoung's economic reasons and parenting style for a long time. One day, when Sunyoung is breaking her back from a lack of money, her mother visits the house suddenly. Not wanting to reveal her poverty, she asks Miran to lend briquettes, cosmetics, rice, and more. Miran’s family lends them without hesitation. It is possible because they trust her.

Episode 2: Nursing neighbor like a real family

Taek's father lost his wife and lives alone with his son, Taek, who is the “top Go” player in Korea. One day, while Taek stays in China to play the game of Go, Taek’s father suddenly collapses in his store. It is a dangerous situation because he is left alone, but their neighbor Deok-seon's father, Dongil, happens to find him by chance and rushes him to the hospital. Thanks to Dongil, he miraculously escapes death. The other residents prepare side dishes and help him rehabilitate. Even though he has no immediate family to care for him, he recovers smoothly.

Episode 3 : A friendship united by side dishes

Dongryong, Sunwoo, Jeonghwan are in the same class, the best friends in Ssangmun-dong. Lunch time when each student should take their own lunch box, Sunwoo and Jeonghwan bring their abundant lunch made by their mother. But as Dongryong’s mother is a busy insurance seller, he always brings the same menu and envies other friends. For the disappointed Dongryong, Sunwoo, Jeonghwan share their lunch box without hesitation. It is natural for them to share their own things with their friends. If you feel empty while living in a rapidly changing society, I recommend watching this drama, ‘Reply 1988’. I’m sure you will think again about the importance of community and neighborly relationships.