My Lovely Journey: Episodes 1–2 — A Healing Slice-of-Life Begins with Self-Discovery and Quiet Strength

 Channel A’s My Lovely Journey opens with a gentle blend of heartbreak, growth, and cinematic serenity. Based on Mahiro Harada’s Japanese novel Welcome Back, Traveler, the series introduces Kang Yeo-reum, a former idol turned travel reporter, whose journey toward finding meaning and self-worth gets off to a heartfelt start. 

Episode 1: Cracks Beneath the Smile

The premiere leans into a familiar K-drama trope—glamour on the surface, struggle underneath. Yeo-reum endures exhausting travel shoots (think mud, rock-climbing, zip-lining), only to suffer an allergic reaction on camera—her swollen tongue turning her words into garbled disaster. Despite the severity, her arrogant PD pressures her to finish filming. The resulting on-screen mishap leads to her termination when a disgruntled sponsor pulls their backing. 

This low point triggers Yeo-reum's emotional unravel—a former background idol yearning for the spotlight, painfully reminded that she never quite made it. The former center girl, now happily paired with Yeo-reum’s ex, adds salt to the wound, underscoring just how far she feels she’s fallen. 

Enter Lee Yeon-seok, the unflappable editor. Stoic yet caring, he quietly defends her to the higher-ups, hinting at deeper feelings beneath the surface. 

Episode 2: A Transformative Journey Begins

In Episode 2, the tone shifts. Yeo-reum hesitates at Seoul Station—unsure whether to head to Mokpo or Buyeo. A brief, meaningful encounter with a woman about the charm of prayer beads sways her to choose Buyeo, a decision that marks the start of real healing. 

In Buyeo, a sudden downpour leaves her stranded—but a hospitable grandmother takes Yeo-reum under her wing, offering a warm meal and simple wisdom: “Even if things seem the same, nothing is truly identical…” These small acts of kindness begin to mend her worn spirit. 

As she films among the lush paths of Muryangsa Temple, surrounded by nature’s grace, Yeo-reum experiences a quiet revelation:

> "It was just one day, but I feel like a different person." 

The gentle healing continues as news of Yeo-reum’s disappearance reaches Seoul. Concerned, Oh Sang-sik, her manager and CEO, and Yeon-seok rush to Buyeo. Their reunion—emotional, tender, and emotionally charged—underscores that their bond is deeper than just work. Sang-sik’s words ring true: “Even if you feel shattered and exhausted, it's just a game. You can always start the next game.” 

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Early Impressions & Potential

Gradual yet compelling setup

While the opening is slow and tinged with cliché, by Episode 2 the emotional resonance of Yeo-reum’s challenges—and her quiet strength—draws us in completely. 

Healing through everyday human connection

The drama embraces a slice-of-life warmth: from travel adventures to simple gestures that soothe a weary soul.

Elegant visuals & character warmth

With lush settings and landscapes, beautifully captured—and a trio of central figures already showing depth and subtle chemistry—the show promises a deeply immersive, emotionally rich viewing experience. 

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Final Take

Episodes 1–2 of My Lovely Journey plant the seeds of introspection, healing, and connection. Though the beginning hits some thick, melodramatic beats, by the end we’re invested in Yeo-reum’s path toward self-discovery. The promise of beautiful travel, gentle friendships, and love born of necessity and empathy makes this a rewarding story just starting to unfold.