Like Flowers in Sand 2023 K Drama Episode 1

Dec 20, 2023

Like Flowers in Sand Episode 1 titled “Ssireum prodigy, Kim Baek-du”, premiered on December 20, 2023, on Netflix. Like Flowers in Sand ( 모래에도 꽃이 핀다) is a South Korean drama series directed by Kim Jin-woo and written by Won Yoo-jung. Developed by KT Studio Genie and produced by Astory, the series stars Jang Dong-yoon and Lee Ju-myoung in the lead roles alongside Yoon Jong-seok, Kim Bo-ra, Lee Jae-joon, Lee Joo-seung and others.

The narrative of the show revolves around a group of young individuals striving to flourish in their lives amid the vibrant setting of Geosan’s ssireum city. In June 2023, AStory production company revealed the signing of a licensing agreement with Netflix for the global broadcasting rights of the series. The show now occupies the ENA’s Wednesday and Thursday 21:00 time slot, formerly held by Moon In The Day.

Scheduled for a total of 12 episodes, each has an approximate runtime of 60 minutes. The show is originally shot in Korean, however, it is also available with English subtitles.

The episode starts in an indoor stadium where a group of students are practising ssireum for their upcoming competition. Kim Baek-Du, the main character, is introduced, and he is also seen practising in the same room. However, the manager of the team calls him to appear in a photo op alongside Lim Dong-seok. However, Baek-du gets irritated by the photographer’s actions as he is only capturing Dong-seok’s good side.

Later, the manager and the reporter discuss whether Dong-seok will win the ssireum championship again. Just then, the reporter realises that he has seen Naek-du somewhere and the manager reveals that he appeared on TV during his childhood as ssireum prodigy. However, he has lost his touch and is no longer as good in the sport as he used to be.

Like Flowers in Sand Episode 1

Baek-du is seen running a hotel for a friend the next day, when a mysterious man arrives and pays him, but he does not come back for the change. He suspects that the man might be Du-sik, whose name has been cut from the accounts book. The group goes out for drinks at the restaurant, where Baek-du accidentally gets extremely drunk. When he walks home, he drops unconscious in the middle of the road. However, he finds himself waking up in his home, where his mother scolds him for drinking too much.

A couple of police officers appear who arrive at a crime scene where a car is being pulled out of the river. They conclude that the driver is dead, who might be somehow significant to the story. Later, Baek-du’s friend meets him and reminds him of all the things that he said to the coach while he was drunk. He says that if he does not win the ssireum championship, then he will retire from the sport.

On the selection of opposition players, the coach hopes that Baek-du is matched with a weaker player. But his wishes did not come true and he has to face Dong-seok in the first match. While training, Baek-du reveals a trade secret to Dong-seok, which he later regrets after finding out that he has to face Dong-seok in the first match of the competition.

Like Flowers in Sand Episode 1 Recap and Review: Kim Baek-du's Turbulent Journey in the Competitive World of Ssireum

The day of the competition arrives, and both the players are ready to face each other. Dong-seok is easily able to win the first round, which rattles Baek-du’s confidence. However, in the next round, Baek-du is able to overthrow Dong-seok with his sheer power. But in the third round, Baek-du’s elbow touches the ground first, and hence, he loses the game.

Defeated, Baek-du leaves the arena and contemplates about his future. Meanwhile, his friends also discuss his situation and wonder about his relationship with his family. Baek-du is again seen on the road lying down when a girl appears and offers him help. Baek-du then suddenly asks her if her name is Du-sik and the episodes ends on that note.

Like Flowers in Sand Episode 1 Review: Final Thoughts

This episode effectively introduces viewers to the series without overwhelming them with numerous characters. The narrative unfolds at a deliberate pace, providing a comprehensive glimpse into Baek-du’s life. Viewers witness his dreams, fears, and vulnerabilities, fostering a deeper connection with the character. The incorporation of the sport adds a layer of authenticity, allowing the audience to immerse themselves in the rich culture of Korea and enhancing the overall narrative quality. In summary, the episode strikes a balance, delivering an engaging experience with entertaining elements.

Like Flowers in Sand Episode 1 Recap and Review: Kim Baek-du's Turbulent Journey in the Competitive World of Ssireum

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