SOUTH KOREA (ANN/THE KOREAN HERALD) – Director Lee Jae-gyu, best known for his work on “All of Us Are Dead,” makes a triumphant return with his latest creation, “Daily Dose of Sunshine,” a Netflix original series that unfolds within the walls of a psychiatric ward.
In this heartwarming comedy series, Park Bo-young takes the lead as a compassionate nurse dedicated to her work in the psychiatric ward. She navigates the complexities of her patients and colleagues while striving to bring a little sunshine into their lives.
The cast includes Lee Jung-eun, renowned for her roles in “Parasite” and “Our Blues,” portraying a head nurse who supports Da-eun. Yeon Woo-jin stars as Dr. Go-yoon, overseeing proctologic surgery, and Jang Dong-yoon takes on the role of Yoo-chan, a close friend of Da-eun who leaves his job due to personal challenges.
Based on the novel by Lee Ra-ha, a former psychiatric nurse, this series tackles contemporary issues surrounding mental health, which has long been on Director Lee’s list.
Lee shared his vision for the series, stating, “I wanted to convey the warmth of humanity through the story and capture the purity of the author’s novel. In today’s world, where many face mental health challenges, we often struggle to discuss these issues openly. I aimed to create a drama that offers comfort to viewers.”
After his experience directing a zombie-themed drama in “All of Us Are Dead,” Lee found “Daily Dose of Sunshine” to be a therapeutic endeavor. He described it as a process of self-healing, where each episode helped mend his heart.
To ensure authenticity in portraying life in a psychiatric ward, the actors visited the Catholic University of Korea Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, where they observed the daily routines of doctors and nurses. They even received guidance from medical professionals on set.
Lee Jung-eun believes that “Daily Dose of Sunshine” can help reduce the stigma surrounding mental illnesses in society. She encouraged people to seek help when facing difficulties, emphasizing the freedom that comes from sharing one’s struggles.
Jang Dong-yoon stressed the importance of the drama, especially during these times, as a source of courage for those battling mental health issues alone in the darkness.
Yeon Woo-jin reflected on the personal impact of the series, noting that it helped him become a better person who appreciates life and embraces his true self.
Described by the director as a heartwarming tale for modern-day adults, “Daily Dose of Sunshine” will be available for streaming on Netflix starting November 3. The series promises to be a delightful experience, much like a box of chocolates that can be savored at one’s own pace, designed with warm and inviting set designs in colors like orange and pink.
