12 Years Promise

12 Years Promise, also known as Wild Chives and Soy Bean Soup, is a South Korean television drama series that first aired in 2014 on jTBC. Revolving around the complexities of love, family ties, and the long-lasting impacts of decisions, the drama unfolds an engrossing tale seeping with passion, betrayal, and heart-melting moments. The series spans over two seasons with a total of 26 episodes that are destined to keep the viewers engaged.

The central characters of 12 Years Promise include Yoo Joon-soo, the heartthrob young man from a well-off family and his love interest, Jang Gook, a bold and charming girl hailing from a poverty-stricken background. Despite their differences in social status, they find solace and common ground in their shared passion for culinary arts and dream of making it big in the culinary world one day. Their connection is marked with innocent affection and deep friendship born out of high school camaraderie.

However, the conventional storyline takes a twist when an unexpected incident brings their lives onto a challenging path. Their socio-economic differences become more prominent than ever as their families react differently to the circumstances. The series further explores the consequences of one’s decisions, societal pressures, and the strength of love and friendships amidst adversities.

As the story advances, viewers witness the characters come to terms with reality and life's tribulations. There are several essential themes woven into the plot, such as friendship and love, family bonding, the trauma of separation, societal issues, and battle against predestined fate. One intriguing aspect of the show is its underlying commentary on the class division prevalent in society and its effects on individual lives. It adeptly combines Korean societal norms with universal human emotions, thus striking a chord with the audience worldwide.

The passage of time plays a pivotal role in the series. The events of 12 Years Promise unfold over two significant time periods, first when the characters are 17, and later when they are 29. This shift in the timeline contributes significantly to the story's development and heightens the suspense attached to their separate lives as they reconnect after 12 years. It affords the viewers an interesting view into how the characters evolve and mature over the years, dealing with dramatic changes along the way.

The series also portrays other parallel and supportive characters which add depth and contribute to the story's progression. These include Yoo Joon-soo's traditional and rigid family, Jang Gook's loving yet worrisome mother, and their supportive friends who helps them navigate their troubles. Each character has a distinct personality which makes the entire cast diverse and versatile and keeps the narrative fresh and engaging.

The robust storyline is complemented by excellent performances by the versatile cast, especially the lead actors. In addition, the drama is visually engaging with the use of beautiful landscapes and backdrops that aptly depict the passing of time. The plot is further enriched by a well-crafted script, carefully chosen music score that complements various emotional turns of the storyline.

12 Years Promise isn't just a show about young love and teenage heartbreak, but it's a story about life, growth, facing adversities and triumphs. It fervently captures the essence of youth and the inevitable adulting that follows. The show's meaningful narrative dares to go beyond the superficial to challenge societal norms and project reality.

In a nutshell, 12 Years Promise offers a unique blend of coming-of-age story and familial drama. A bittersweet tale that oscillates between teenage romance, family dynamics, and the power of decision, it particularly appeals to viewers looking for substance and depth in K-drama. The show is a testament to the power of love, friendships, dreams and lifts up the engagement quotient with its impactful narrative and thought-provoking themes. It is a heart-tugging journey of love, longing and acceptance guaranteed to leave the audiences captivated.