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.