Daily Dose of Sunshine (2023– ) User Reviews

We all cross between day and night throughout our whole lives. All of us are standing on the border between normal and abnormal.

[hanalisss · 9/10 · 4 November 2023]

Deep dive into one of korea's biggest weaknesses, as a society.

It is actually very scary and sad how much of a taboo it is even the mention of mental health status of anyone and the rates of suicide in their society it's amongst the highest in the world as a result.

And what an emotional rollercoaster this was.

From a very unique perspective you will discover on each episode a bit more about the condition of each character.

The script is well written, with deep, emotional heartbreaking yet very hopeful stories.

They are brilliantly executed and in order to get the viewer inside the world of the patient, they use a lot of extraordinary effects. This is as impactful as it is powerful and reminded me to Extraordinary Attorney Woo and her Whales...

The cast was awesome and had good chemistry overall.

The amazing veteran Lee Jung Eun as the Head Nurse Song had an amazing role and nailed it. She usually brights with these types of characters, where she is like a wounded lioness defending her family, and I just enjoy watching her acting like that, so fierce.

Park Bo Young as the female lead (Nurse Jung Da Eun) is really amazing here too, she has a wide range while acting and she is great changing from a lighthearted romance scene to a heavy dramatic one. She has the capacity of melting your heart with a smile or breaking your heart from the sadness of her crying of pain. Great acting.

Her chemistry with the two male leads was good and the comedy with them ( love triangle) added entertainment and a lot of balance to the heaviness of the series.

Great side stories as well, nothing about the show was dragging. And the OST was great as well. I recommend it 100% although I am not sure I would be able to rewatch it again just because of the dark theme of the show .

Thought provoking and therapeutic

[paulyew-45125 · 9/10 · 15 November 2023]

I was on the fence on whether to watch this show or not. I've seen enough hospital dramas and figured this show would be filled with similar cliches that we've all seen dozens of times. I gave it a go and I'm glad I did. It is a medical drama set in a psychiatric ward and the main storyline focuses on the nurses (and doctors to a lesser degree) who work in that ward. There are 12 episodes in total and I did not, actually could not, binge all of them at once. The main reason for not binging was some episodes made me stop and think about what I'd just seen. The show compelled me to review and rethink about mental health.

The show is filled with cliches. Some of the scenes, I can anticipate exactly what would happen and what would be said by which character. There are scenes where conversation between the characters is highly unnatural and is there simply to provide background information. There are some plot holes as well. Despite these factors, the show was entertaining and interesting enough to make me want more and more. Some random acts of kindness that pop out of nowhere, words that seem meaningless that leave a lasting impression.

I surprisingly found the show to be quite immersive, and I also found that immersive experience was almost therapeutic, as I laughed and cried together with the characters. I would highly recommend this show.

Love Hate Love Hate Love

[robstjohn-20536 · 9/10 · 18 December 2023]

I have such a tremendous range of emotions watching this series. Honestly, there was times that it caused me so much personal disquietude that I thought about stopping the self inflicted torture. However, at the same time I recognized the issues being raised in this series are very important and very much a part of so many lives. There was times I was happy, times I was so sad, and times I cried. Regarding the panic attacks, I could identify to a much less severe extent. When my Korean immigrant wife was dying with dementia I too experienced for the first time those emotions as I struggled with how I was going to care for my wife knowing that there is no happy ending and what I could only imagine lay ahead for both of us. Honestly, what was my way through that period was our relationship with Jesus. We also learned that God has it all under control in His way and time. Nonetheless, this series brought up feelings and a past that I really didn't want to remember. But life isn't all rose petals and happy endings. Truly it is how we get through it all. Kudos to all the wonderful actresses and actors and all who make it happen behind the scene. Since I'm a guy I wanted to especially note three actresses. First, and the compelling reason for writing this review is Park Bo-young once again stellar role, but most importantly I am absolutely captivated by her lovely "half-moon" beautiful eyes. Her cheery character carried me through the tough episodes. Secondly, I fell in love with. Lee E Dam...gawd now she is "my type" as is commonly noted in Kseries. And lastly a hats off to Lee Jung eun who role both as the head nurse and dealing with her sisters issues did an outstanding job.

a must watch for everyone

[archisha-08094 · 10/10 · 4 November 2023]

I cried throughout the show. Each and every little story was put out beautifully, each cast member did an exceptional job in expressing their character. The drama showed different patients going through various mental illnesses, this can be quite a sensitive topic to talk about but i think the show did a good job in potraying reality and not packaging anything. Every episode had a little lesson in it !!. Yes, it was a very heavy show! But i'd still say it was very healing and is definitely a must watch for everyone !!!! I wish it never ended haha. My eyes are all swollen but my heart feels calm. I can see myself searching for this drama when i'm having a bad day !!

Wowie!

[elin93 · 10/10 · 8 November 2023]

First "Tomorrow" and now this? The korean writers are showering us with shows about important topics. Daily dose of sunshine is all about something that is soooo damn stigmatized everywhere in the world, but yet so many people suffer with it... I'm talking about mental illness. So many people are suffering in silence, in fear of being judged, and shunned from society.

I don't have anything bad to say about this show... The story line is brilliant, the actors are amazing, the chemistry between the couples is good.

We really, really need more shows with the purpose of normalizing and accepting mental illness as real illnesses! Sadly there is still to this day sooo much misinformation and prejudices about mental illness. For me, who struggles with life myself, this show was very comforting. Now that I've watched all the episodes, I want more.. they can easily make a few more seasons of this show without destroying it.

Best series of the year!

[sofiakausar · 10/10 · 5 November 2023]

Excellent series! Understood mental health illnesses and behaviours really well. These were depicted throughout the different episodes in a manner that was entertaining and believable.

It was realistic, endearing, heart warming and heart wrenching. Wonderful show, one of the best I've watched regarding mental health, writers should be proud of what they have created, well done.

Also what they did best was not to make it a sweetly, sickly and sappy show where everyone gets better and they all live happily ever after!

Highs and lows of the patients AND staff were shown throughout. Take away is mental illness can affect anyone, professionals, children and the common man but also asking for help is the way forward.

One of the best shows of this year 🙌

[soffe_89 · 10/10 · 8 November 2023]

I my self suffer from anxiety depression and know that it's something you live with you entire life. This show was so well written and accurate on the mental health system. Such good acting to, good choice on actors/actresses. I highly recommend watching this show, but to also be prepared for some hard to watch content and a lot of emotion. I cried though the whole second and third part of this series, both sad and happy tears. This will go on my list as one of the best shows this year. I hope it will be getting some prises because it deserves it. So we'll made and though through. It has an beginning and an end that is satisfying in every way.

An Important and Memorable show!

[bng-63758 · 10/10 · 18 November 2023]

Once again, South Korea hits it out of the park, and does what they do better than any other film maker I can think of. This is a story of a Psychological nurse (Park Bo-Young), her nursing team mates, and doctors who serve the population of folks with Mental Health Issues, ranging from Depression to OCD, Panic Disorders, Delusions, Anxiety and the like. These illnesses are not glossed over but portrayed realistically. In Korea, there is a lot of pressure to perform and serious competition for "First Place", which can wind up being soul sapping and even downright dangerous to one's mental health. No one is immune. Park Bo-Young plays a gentle, nurturing, warm hearted, shining example of a caregiver in difficult circumstances. The loss of a special patient to suicide on her day off creates a crisis point for her, and she must navigate her way back from Depression very carefully with the help of those who care for her. I teared up from emotion several times during this show. There is a little bit of romance, but not enough to steal the plot away. She has two men interested in her. One is a friend from childhood, and one is a Colo-rectal surgeon from the same Hospital. Both of these have issues of their own. The subject of unwarranted fear of people with Mental Health issues is also explored. In many ways, this was an "educational" show, without being heavy handed or "preachy". Everyone who watches will learn more about the subject, as was intended. There are humorous and light moments as well, which keep the story line from becoming ponderous. Park Bo - Young delivered an outstanding and realistic performance. The realism extended to other parts of the story as well. To my eyes, at appeared that the cast did not wear any makeup, which would be a "First" for K- Drama! There is a lot to learn, appreciate, and love in this show, and I urge you to watch it!

i bursted into tear

[quangdungn · 10/10 · 6 November 2023]

People around me said that I care about others too much and they mean in a negative way, and i even read a post said that if you live with and care too much to a depressed person then you will be affect by them, about your mental and your physical health too. But just like Da-eun, she's a kind of person who caring, asking, do all the things thst she can do for you, a good person of course. She went through a lot but she didn't even regret it, me too, i will still choose to do the same thing even it affected me. Each episode, each disease, eaxh way to cry. I'm a person who cries easily, so that i cry like almost every episodes.

IT A GOOD SERIES GUYS 😭

Tackle the subjects beautifully

[ladyliliroche · 7/10 · 6 November 2023]

I did not have much expectation for this drama. Reading the summary did not interest me enough to watch it on the day it was released.

In the end, I did binged the whole thing. Albeit with some fast forwarding due to some romance I really dont care about.

Alright let's discuss that one first. Honestly, I don't know what they were thinking about adding that romance. Is there a checklist for korean drama all the time? There must be a second romance to accompany the main couple's romance, because oh boy, their stories dragggggggg. I love that doctor's face but I just couldn't stand the romance at all.

But then again, I am also disappointed with the main couple in the end. It was just... oh boring... I preferred the second male lead the best. Their chemistry was just more fun and I like rooting for the underdogs (and again, I think it'll just be more fun and better to have another kind of couple, especially since the theme is mental health. So we can put a rest on that discussion that kind of love is not a mental health issue. And omg itll just get rid of the stupid nurse x doctor romance all together).

Anyway... im getting ahead of myself...

The theme / main setting is beautifully presented. I would love to have more cases on display, rather than focussing on that stupid romance.

I think from reading on other comments, they did the procedure and the hospital scenes perfect. Some episodes really brought tears into my eyes.

I would love more of that, rather than a focus on romance please. Please..........

What can be better in today's world that some good psychiatric k-drama

[kocherhanka · 10/10 · 9 November 2023]

Oh, what a wonderful and relevant theme for a series! In times of constant instability in the world and in individual lives, this is exactly what is needed. Mental disorders, suicidal thoughts or actions, intrusive thoughts, and other manifestations of unhealthy behavior are present in more people than we realize. Ordinary people we meet and don't pay attention to may actually be struggling with their inner 'demons' alone and craving for help.

The drama subtly showcases various illnesses, portraying both the healthy and the afflicted, and also highlights how delicate the line between the two can be. Labeling, self-awareness, acceptance and non-acceptance: everything I saw touched me to the depths of my soul. There were moments when tears flowed uncontrollably for me. It was a unique experience, as it wasn't typical crying, but rather profound human feelings of empathy and understanding.

At the same time, the drama has a 'feel-good' mood. There is no dark, consuming vibe that leaves you restless after watching - quite the opposite! There are many moments that evoke good feelings and a smile. Romance is also an obligatory element. The main couple has a very pleasant chemistry, and watching them could be eternal! The supporting characters are also very well developed, it was interesting to observe the dynamics between them and how their stories unfolded.

I'll conclude by wholeheartedly recommending this drama. It's best not to have unrealistic expectations, and then you're more likely to enjoy it. In my case, the viewing experience could also be described as quite therapeutic, as it led to various personal reflections and experiences. It's definitely a 10/10, and I'm already looking forward to rewatching this series confidently at some point, knowing that this time spent will not be in vain, because it's filled with a higher meaning and purpose, which is very important and valuable in today's world.

Strong start but could have been better

[namishaverma-79707 · 7/10 · 9 November 2023]

The show had a great start , i really enjoyed the initial episodes but around the 8th episode it starts getting a little slow. I feel like the story could have been more versatile and compelling. Nevertheless the supporting cast was great and i really enjoyed watching thier stories. The episodes contained mainly psychiatric stigma topics and it was refreshing to watch new untouched topics. However , i did not understand why every member of the cast had some or other psychiatric diagnosis, like normal people exist too. I wish the show was a little more true to our real society. Anyway its a good watch.

The Old Bait & Switch Poster

[sareed1971 · 3/10 · 6 November 2023]

Daily Dose of Sunshine is one of those shows with a brightly colored poster featuring smiling faces and fresh hospital scrubs reminiscent of Hospital Playlist. Sunshine is streaming in through the window and everyone is ready to cure your mental illness with happiness, humor and just the right amount of caring compassion. That's the poster. It's not the show. I never was tempted to crack a smile or shed a tear. There's nothing memorable or moving in this 12 episode drama.

The show centers on a young female nurse who talks like a baby to her patients and instantly beguiles two male staff physicians. There's more mental instability in the extended hospital staff than there is in any of the inpatients or outpatients. The running bit among the staff is a doctor who uncontrollably and obsessively cracks his knuckles when he's stressed out. And, of course, he's always stressed out. Tempers are short, everyone is overworked, blah, blah, blah. There's no logic or reasoning as to why the barely competent FL so easily captivates the male staff and her patients. She's not particularly appealing in any of the usual aspects and her own set of mental quirks aren't cute or compelling.

There's the requisite suicide when a patient is questionably released too early from inpatient care. It features a bizarre Game of Thrones theme with some low budget CGI. Each patient blends into the next in subsequent episodes with no single story being anything special.

Right about episode 8, I had to mute the TV because the sound of those constantly cracking knuckles got to be too much for me. They went overboard with that bit. (I can't call it a gag because it was never funny and it was always annoying.)

Sadly, there's no standout cast member and the storyline from each episode is nothing remarkable. Daily Dose of Sunshine is an entirely forgettable hospital drama that tries to use its poster to fool you into thinking there's genuine warmth and humor behind it. There's not.

Must Watch!!!!!!!!!!!!

[rockygoni-42851 · 10/10 · 7 November 2023]

I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt appreciation for your latest TV show, Daily Dose Of Sunshine, which focuses on mental health issues.

Your show is not only captivating but also incredibly impactful. It tackles the often-stigmatized topic of mental health with sensitivity and authenticity, shedding light on the challenges individuals face. The storytelling, the performances, and the overall production are commendable.

It's essential that such content is being created to raise awareness and promote understanding of mental health issues in society. Your efforts in addressing this critical subject matter are praiseworthy and are making a positive difference in people's lives.

Thank you for your dedication to creating meaningful content that contributes to the ongoing conversation about mental health. I look forward to seeing more thought-provoking shows from your team in the future.

Warm regards, Unknown.

the best drama of psychology!!!!!

[aiyuu-46795 · 10/10 · 5 November 2023]

This is the first time I've watched a drama about psychology. When the teaser was uploaded, I thought the drama was boring. BUT when I watched eps 1, I was addicted to watching the next eps. Even I finished this drama in one day! There are many drama scenes that relate to my life. This drama also succeeded in making me cry. Especially during scenes where people with a history of mental illness are hated. The acting of the actresses and actors is really cool! Even though Bo Young and Woo Jin don't have a kiss scene, they are really adorable. This drama is really a must watch and won an award! Love.

Mental health with a touch of romance

[Sarah7971989 · 10/10 · 12 November 2023]

This show tackles mental health in a very graceful way. My understanding about mental health increased by watching this show. It's a stigma and taboo in most countries in the world to admit suffering a depression, panic attacks or to be borderline or manic. This show teaches us that if you give yourself some space and if the society creates some space and understanding that no matter what your condition is that you can still live your life. Either outside or inside the mental institution and either with full recovery or with an ongoing recovery with relapses. Life is complicated and diverse and there is enough space for everyone to be and to exist.

The writers did an OUTSTANDING job with the script. As did the directors giving the series a nice positive shape. I bow for the entire team, creators, writers, directors, actors and everyone that made it possible to create such a master piece. Much respect for you all.

There is great chemistry between all the actors and there is also romantic chemistry. All the actors are so GREAT!!

I would highly recommend everyone to watch this show.

Great Public Service Drama. Share it with everyone you know.

[emw-08192 · 10/10 · 10 November 2023]

Finally the incredible medium of tv/internet goes the full distance for addressing the serious issue of Mental Health that impacts everyone on the planet. Kudos to everyone involved in producing this series for the benefit of everyone. It effectively informs and educates about mental illness. If you break a bone you get help. If your mind 'hurts' you need help too. Not surprised that this show came out of South Korea which has a very high suicide rae--and a lot of mental illness due to intense work and school pressures. Please watch and share this drama with everyone you know. It could save a life.

Groundbreaking Series Redefines Television with its Authentic Portrayal of Mental Health

[satyakumari-48918 · 10/10 · 25 November 2023]

An exceptional series that delicately navigates the complexities of mental health with unparalleled sensitivity and authenticity. The characters are masterfully crafted, their struggles portrayed with raw honesty. Each episode becomes a profound exploration of the human psyche, fostering empathy and understanding. This series not only entertains but serves as a powerful catalyst for meaningful conversations about mental health. A must-watch for its impactful storytelling and the courage to tackle such an important societal issue.

What sets this series apart is its commitment to accuracy and empathy. It doesn't shy away from uncomfortable truths but confronts them head-on, fostering a connection between the audience and the characters that transcends the screen. The storytelling is a delicate balance of heart-wrenching moments and glimmers of hope, creating a nuanced portrayal of mental health struggles.

Moreover, the cinematography and soundtrack elevate the viewing experience, immersing the audience in the characters' emotional landscapes. The creators have managed to strike a rare equilibrium between entertainment and education, ensuring that the series is not only a compelling drama but also a catalyst for important conversations surrounding mental health.

In an era where mental health awareness is crucial, this series stands as a beacon of empathy and understanding. It doesn't just tell a story; it champions a cause. The impact of this series extends far beyond its runtime, leaving viewers with a profound sense of compassion and a newfound appreciation for the resilience of the human spirit.

In conclusion, this series is not merely a masterpiece of entertainment; it's a cultural touchstone. A bold and necessary step in normalizing discussions around mental health, it deserves acclaim for its storytelling prowess, nuanced character development, and its unflinching dedication to breaking down barriers. In a landscape saturated with content, this series stands tall, a testament to the transformative power of storytelling when it tackles the most pressing issues of our time.

MUST WATCH

[mkjdsyzd · 10/10 · 1 December 2023]

10/10

We Follow The Life Of A Nurse In A Physiatrics Hospital

WOW just wow I am speechless. I absolutely loved this show the way they talk about the mental illnesses are very informative and the way they illustrate to us how the people loving with these illnesses live like is also another major plus.

I was also really amazed at how they showed the main character slowly being affected by the patients as well. That is why i think when even of a job pays well the mental load of actually working it can be too much sometimes n your job is never better than looking out for your own mental health.

GO WATCH IMMEDIATELY!!!

Often felt like a PSA. Luckily, there's much more to it.

[OlgaGorelik · 7/10 · 24 December 2023]

Daily Dose of Sunshine is a Korean series about a young nurse at a psychiatric hospital. A lot of it felt like a PSA. Especially early on, when it looked like the show was poised to follow a neat pattern where each episode was dedicated to a particular mental health condition. There would be a patient or two with the diagnosis, and while the creators did a great job showing what the patient was actually feeling (ex. Panic attack as being stuck in the bathroom, rapidly filling up with water all the way to the ceiling), the causes and solutions seemed awfully simplistic and neat. But then it got messy. And that was a good thing because it got a lot more realistic. A seemingly successful treatment backfires tragically. Doing everything right doesn't always work. And sometimes medications can wreak havoc on the body, while still failing to help the mind.

There are some cute if clunky attempts at romance. And a lot of social commentary. People driving themselves mad trying to get ahead or just survive. Overworked AND stigmatized working mothers, stressing out about their kids, as young as 3rd grade, falling a little behind at school, because the consequences for their future can be catastrophic. Kids that study so much, they develop hemorrhoids by the time they are in college. Stress everywhere. Trying to get a job, on the job. Stress causing everything from panic disorder to full blown delusions. And on top of that - cruel stigmatization of mental illness. Maybe that 12 hour long PSA is indeed necessary. Luckily, it is also quite watchable.

Powerful Drama

[wheatley-20230 · 9/10 · 30 January 2024]

This series starts as a likeable light romantic comedy with a quiet message for tolerance of mental illness. So far so good. Then it metamorphoses into a powerful plea for understanding and support. A drama worthy of being taken very much more seriously.

Park Bo-young embodies this transition. At first she has little to do as an actress, but as her world darkens, so her acting becomes ever more impressive. I have picked her out as she is the lead character, but every other actor performs credibly too.

The joy is in the battle the key characters fight and their success in overcoming such challenges.

Good Enough

[PennyReviews · 7/10 · 11 January 2024]

Korean Drama '' Daily Dose of Sunshine '' is a slice of life with a psychological theme.

The drama starts off quite simply, appearing to be another office-medical romance. However, halfway through, it changes tempo, giving a more in-depth view of people with mental health and their journey towards acceptance and healing.

The drama, as a whole, blends every genre nicely and smoothly. And even though the start of the drama feels blunt, the second half was quite strong and masterfully handled.

The performances were also quite enjoyable by every actor and actress in the cast.

So, overall, seven out of ten.

Don't know what to say about these Netflix original craptacular series anymore

[kmhlbeavis · 5/10 · 19 November 2023]

Park Bo Young stars in this series as a kind nurse who eventually has a nervous breakdown due to one of her patients leaving the facility early and committing suicide. This also revolves around the nurses that work in this department and their problems also with work stress and personal lives. Then you have the romance part of this which is getting old. The childhood friend and the doctor who cracks his knuckles both are after Bo Young with the doctor beating him to it. I have seen this scenario before in another K-drama. This is getting old. The second romance at least was good with the doctor encouraging the nurse to live out her dream and that he would be waiting for her. The other problem I had with this was an incomplete ending. On my very first review I had said that it was a must for a movie or a series to come to a complete conclusion with no loose ends. This was not it therefore the rating. The last thing I would have preferred the subtitles with their original voices as the voice over for Park Bo Young was an 8 year old girl. She is 33 and doesn't look like before. You can tell in her appearance that she went from a cute girl to a very attractive woman now so the voice should match the appearance. If they are going to go with a season 2 they should only have 5 episodes to wrap all of the loose ends up and that's all. Netflix needs to shut down their craptacular production machine and focus on the good ones that are not finished.

I truly appreciate, enjoy, this show a dose of sunshine,the time's we live in everyone need to be understanding, empathy, compassion,we are one big family

[boothmarsha · 10/10 · 13 November 2023]

Understanding, empathy, compassion will be the only thing,that will help us out of every situations we find ourselves in. Understanding that time and unforseen circumstances can change our plans, and lives also. When we do that for others,others will be willing to help us. Rembereming as time goes by,we are getting older,the younger ones need o know what was pass on to them. Enterwringing our needs to their, we all need the same, compassion, empathy, understanding,we can bridge the gap, knowing we all need to be love and involved in something no matter our ages,and cultures. We are made that way.

very strong acting and good story line

[barrytookas · 8/10 · 28 November 2023]

Most of the reviews I leave on IMDB are fairly scathing as I feel the need to vent after being subjected to script writing that assume the viewer is of such low intelligence as to believe story lines that make no sense, are unrealistic and have no thread of continuity to the previously presented events.

That said I felt Daily dose of sunshine, while quite depressing, was well written, really well cast and acted in a way that made the characters believable. Park Bo-young did an amazing job of portraying someone who had lost their mind and was convincing to the point where I felt a genuine empathy for her situation and how helpless she would have felt in an involuntary role reversal from nurse to patient. Not knowing first hand the Korean culture, I would hope that in reality the Koreans are more forgiving than they are made to appear in most K dramas. It was interesting how the family members of patients, refused to accept a well respected nurse who had suffered a (momentary) mental disorder and demanded her removal when she returned to duty. The first thing that came to my mind was, "Is that how you expect your family members to be treated when they try to re-integrate into society?" Fortunately, this was addressed in this light and the FL was vindicated and supported by the staff. It was a pleasant change to watch a KD that seamed to follow a planned plot line to a reasonably satisfying end. I do recommend this.