Begins Youth Review: BTS-inspired K-drama is genuine ode to their universe

Global K-pop band BTS' fans, also known as ARMY, are well acquainted with their fictional universe, the Bangtan Universe. The universe has now extended into a series titled Begins Youth. Centred around seven boys, the show captures their individual journeys and hardships before they find each other and form an inexplicable bond. Each of the member's journey has been inspired by Bangtan boys -- Jin, Suga, RM, J-hope, Jimin, V and Jungkook. With the source material already available for fans, the series has quite a tall order to follow.

To articulate and capture the thorn-and-rose-like journey of BTS isn’t easy. However, with Hybe as co-producers, the writers have managed to give life to the universe in the most authentic way. We meet Kim Hwan [loosely inspired by Jin] first as he returns to Songju-si. The return isn’t met with much excitement as he encounters awkward meetings with six boys at high school. Often misunderstood for being an outsider, Hwan eventually finds acceptance and together the seven become invincible, almost.

The show extends the journey of the characters, in line with Save Me webtoon, often seen in BTS music videos. What’s interesting is how their journey is not sugar-coated into some utopian setting. Instead, you see the initial awkwardness, suspicion, and cynicism they all face. You see them gradually adapting to each other and finding a safe space within. What’s interesting is how they are seen adjusting to the differences and celebrating the commonalities. Their individual arcs are not forgotten amid this budding friendship. You see each character struggling with their inner self, and the outside world, like BTS in real life.

The actors are one of the major reasons why the show is likeable instantly. Actors Seo Ji-hoon, Noh Jong-hyun, Ahn Ji-ho, Seo Young-joo, Kim Yoon-woo, Jung Woo-jin, and Jeon Jin-seo, all newcomers, manage to hit it out of the park with no baggage of previous roles played. They add a fresh flavour to the characters we are all familiar with already. It helps that they have managed to pick up nuances and body language of each member like a pro. They add so much value to the drama.

For a show that is inspired by BTS, the background score of the show is slightly underwhelming. The fact that it has 12 episodes and is paced decently, helps. For fans, it is a complete treat. But for those not familiar with the Bangtan universe, the show still has a lot to offer. You don’t need to be familiar with the webtoon to enjoy this series.

The major drawback for Begins Youth is that it is not available on any major global streaming platform, which limits access to most countries. Given how popular BTS is globally, this truly is disappointing. Nonetheless, the drama doesn’t disappoint and pays a genuine ode to the global pop-group.

This review is based on the first 8 episodes. There are four more episodes to go.

'Begins Youth' is available on Xclusive.