Frankly Speaking (2025)
Starring: Go Kyung-pyo, Kang Han-na
Platform: JTBC / Netflix
Douban Rating: 8.2
Plot Summary:
Song Ki-baek (Go Kyung-pyo) is a rising star in the broadcast world—handsome, polite, and impeccably filtered. But after a freak accident involving electricity, he suddenly finds himself unable to lie. Every thought that crosses his mind comes out of his mouth, unfiltered and brutally honest.
Enter On Woo-joo (Kang Han-na), a struggling variety show writer desperate for a breakout concept. Seeing Ki-baek’s condition as the ultimate unscripted gimmick, she casts him in a new reality segment where his accidental truth-telling turns into unexpected comedy gold.
But what starts as a TV stunt turns into something deeper as Woo-joo and Ki-baek’s relationship grows—forcing them both to confront the lies they tell themselves and each other.
Highlights:
- Go Kyung-pyo delivers a perfectly timed comedic performance layered with subtle vulnerability.
- Kang Han-na is energetic, quirky, and deeply relatable as a woman trying to save her career while finding her voice.
- Clever writing balances satire of media fakery with emotional truths about self-worth and love.
- Light, colorful cinematography and a bouncy soundtrack keep the tone uplifting without losing emotional weight.
What Could Be Better:
- The premise leans into farce at times, which may not appeal to viewers looking for grounded realism.
- Some supporting characters remain caricatures without full development.
Verdict:
Frankly Speaking is an endearing and clever rom-com that asks a timeless question: what if honesty really was the best policy? With great chemistry between the leads, a strong emotional arc, and a fun twist on media culture, it’s one of 2025’s most watchable feel-good dramas.
Highly recommended for fans of Because This Is My First Life, Her Private Life, or anyone looking for laughs wrapped around truth bombs and romantic sparks.