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Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok-joo
A coming-of-age sports drama shimmering with youthful energy, capturing the tender ache of first love and the heavy weight of dreams like a barbell against a pastel sky.
Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok-joo
Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok-joo

역도요정 김복주

"Do you like Messi?"

16 November 2016 — 11 January 2017 South Korea 1 season 16 episode Ended 8.5 (913)

Cast: Lee Sung-kyoung, Nam Joo-hyuk, Gyeong Su-jin, Lee Jae-yoon, Cho Hye-jeong

Drama Comedy Coming-of-Age and Self-Discovery Body Image and Challenging Beauty Standards First Love and Friendship The Pressures of Athletic Life

Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok-joo — Movie Quotes

Memorable Quotes

혹시 메시 좋아하세요? (Hoksi Messi joahaseyo?)
— Kim Bok-joo

Context

This line is from Episode 2. Bok-joo nervously asks Dr. Jae-yi this question during her first consultation at his obesity clinic, which she joined under false pretenses just to be near him. The quote became a viral meme among fans, symbolizing a cute, indirect way of showing interest in someone.

Meaning

Translated as "By any chance, do you like Messi?" this is one of the most iconic andmemorable lines in modern K-drama history. It's not about the soccer player; it's a code, an awkward and endearing attempt by Bok-joo to connect with her crush, Dr. Jae-yi, after seeing a picture of Messi in his office. It perfectly encapsulates the clumsiness and charm of a first crush.

Everyone has a youth. A time that's more beautiful because it's awkward and clumsy, a time that shines brilliantly... Although I'm still uneasy and nervous, I'm perfect without needing anything else.
— Kim Bok-joo (Narration)

Context

This is part of Bok-joo's closing monologue in the final episode (Episode 16) as she reflects on her journey. She has achieved her dreams and found love, and she looks back on her struggles with a newfound sense of peace and confidence, realizing the inherent perfection in her own incomplete, vibrant youth.

Meaning

This quote, from the final episode's narration, encapsulates the drama's core message. It celebrates the imperfections of youth, reframing insecurity and awkwardness not as flaws, but as essential components of a beautiful, shining period of life. It speaks to the show's theme of self-acceptance.

Who will love you when you're that ashamed of yourself?
— Jung Joon-hyung

Context

Joon-hyung says this in Episode 8, after Bok-joo is deeply embarrassed that her crush, Jae-yi, saw her competing as a weightlifter. Joon-hyung, as a fellow athlete, is disappointed by her shame and delivers this line to make her realize the importance of being proud of her passion and identity.

Meaning

This line is a moment of tough love from Joon-hyung to Bok-joo. It's a pivotal question that forces Bok-joo to confront her insecurities about being a weightlifter. It highlights the theme of self-love, suggesting that one must first accept and be proud of themselves before they can be truly loved by others.

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