사내맞선
"If you come any closer, I'm not going to let you go again."
Business Proposal - Symbolism & Philosophy
Symbols & Motifs
Rain
Rain symbolizes Kang Tae-moo's past trauma and emotional vulnerability. His parents died in a car accident on a rainy day, leaving him with a deep-seated fear and aversion to rain.
Whenever it rains, Tae-moo experiences moments of anxiety. However, as his relationship with Ha-ri develops, she becomes a source of comfort for him during these times. Her presence helps him confront and gradually overcome his trauma, turning a symbol of pain into a backdrop for their deepening emotional connection.
Slippers
The slippers, particularly the one Ha-ri accidentally throws at Tae-moo's face early in the series, symbolize the chaotic, unrefined, and authentic parts of her personality that break through her polished "Shin Geum-hui" facade. They represent her true, clumsy self crashing into his orderly, perfect world.
The initial incident with the slipper in the company lobby is a pivotal, humorous moment where Ha-ri's two worlds collide. It's a recurring visual gag that reminds both the audience and Tae-moo of the real Ha-ri, even when she's trying to hide, symbolizing that her true identity cannot be fully concealed.
Food
Food symbolizes connection, comfort, and authenticity. As a food researcher, Ha-ri's passion for her work is a core part of her identity. The meals she develops and shares represent her creativity and genuine care.
Many key moments happen over meals or are related to Ha-ri's job. When Tae-moo praises a product she developed without knowing she was the creator, it validates her true self. Later, he is drawn to her simple, heartfelt cooking, which stands in contrast to the formal, impersonal fine dining of his world, symbolizing his attraction to her genuine nature.
Philosophical Questions
Can a relationship built on a foundation of lies ever be truly authentic?
The series directly engages with this question. The relationship between Tae-moo and Ha-ri begins with multiple layers of deception: she is pretending to be her friend, and they are pretending to be in a relationship. The show explores how their genuine feelings begin to emerge precisely when their true personalities slip through the cracks of their respective performances. It suggests that authenticity is not about a perfect, honest beginning, but about the willingness to eventually be vulnerable and truthful with one another, suggesting that a true connection can redeem a deceptive start.
To what extent do societal expectations and family background define our choices in love?
"Business Proposal" constantly pits the characters' personal desires against the expectations of their families and society. Tae-moo and Young-seo are both expected to marry partners from similar chaebol families for business purposes. Their rejection of these arranged pairings in favor of partners they genuinely love (who are of a lower social status) serves as the series' central conflict. The show explores how breaking free from these pressures is essential for personal happiness, arguing that true fulfillment comes from choices made from the heart, rather than from conforming to external obligations.
Core Meaning
At its core, "Business Proposal" explores the idea of finding authenticity and love in the most unexpected and artificial of circumstances. It suggests that genuine connection can blossom even from a foundation of lies and mistaken identities, as long as individuals are willing to be vulnerable and true to their feelings. The series champions the idea that love transcends social status and preconceived notions, emphasizing that one's true worth is found in their character, kindness, and sincerity, rather than wealth or family background. It's a celebration of embracing one's true self and finding happiness by breaking free from societal and familial expectations.