Doctor Slump Cast, Watch Summary of Episodes 1 to 16, Ending Explained, Review

Doctor Slump is a Korean Drama which aired on January 27, 2024. It was written by Baek Seon-woo, and directed by Oh Hyun-jong. The drama falls within the romantic comedy genre.

Doctor Slump’s Cast Introduction

• Park Hyung-Sik portrays the role of Yeo Jeong-Woo: Yeo Jeong-Woo is the play’s male protagonist, excelling both academically and professionally. He is depicted as a dedicated and sincere individual, consistently ranking at the top of his studies. As he matures, he gains widespread acclaim as a skilled plastic surgeon.
• Park Shin-Hye portrays the role of Nam Ha-Neul: Nam Ha-Neul is the female protagonist of the play, also known as Ha-Neul in short. She’s depicted as a character who’s always been highly competitive in her studies from a young age. After transferring to Yeo Jeong-Woo’s school, she becomes his biggest academic rival. However, her professional life takes a downturn as she grapples with mental health issues that significantly impact her work.
• Yoon Park portrays the role of Bin Dae-Yeong :
• Bin Dae-Yeong is another plastic surgeon who competes with Yeo Jeong-Woo in their professional lives, as they both work in the same field.
• Kong Seong-Ha portrays the role of Lee Hong-Ran: She is a friend of Nam Ha-Neul, who works in the same hospital.
• Oh Dong-Min portrays the role of Min Kyung-Min: He is a close friend of Yeo Jeong-Woo, a doctor who works in the same hospital as Nam Ha-Neu.
• Jang Hye-Jin portrays the role of Kong Wol-Seon: Kong Wol-Seon, the mother of Nam Ha-Neul, takes immense pride in her daughter’s achievements.
• Yoon Sang-Hyeon portrays the role of Nam Ba-Da: Nam Ba-Da is the younger brother of Nam Ha-Neul
• Hyun Bong-Sik portrays the role of Kong Tae-Seon: Kong Tae-Seon is the loving uncle of Nam Ha-Neul.

Doctor Slump Full English Summary from Episode 1 to 16

Summary of Episode 1

The first episode opens with Nam Ha-Neul experiencing intense pain, ultimately collapsing as she crosses the road. Meanwhile, Yeo Jeong-Woo faces immense pressure during a failed surgery, resulting in the death of his patient due to excessive bleeding. 

We’re given a glimpse into Nam Ha-Neul’s organized high school life, where she prioritizes efficiency to maximize study time, supported by her caring mother, Kong Wol-Seon, who even transfers to her school. 

It’s here that Nam Ha-Neul encounters Yeo Jeong-Woo, sparking a competitive academic rivalry between them. Fast forward to the present, we witness Bin Dae-Yeong and Yeo Jeong-Woo clashing once more at a social gathering, maintaining their rivalry. Despite initially thriving in their respective careers, both Nam Ha-Neul and Yeo Jeong-Woo face setbacks that lead to their downfall.

Yeo Jeong-Woo’s failed surgery results in a court hearing and traumatizes him, causing rifts in his friendships. Meanwhile, Nam Ha-Neul, despite being surrounded by people, leads a lonely life and seeks therapy for her mental health struggles, eventually being diagnosed with depression, which she finds difficult to accept. Their paths intersect when Nam Ha-Neul encounters Yeo Jeong-Woo on the rooftop of their building.

Summary of Episode 2

This episode begins with Nam Ha-Neul facing a tough time at work, receiving a scolding from her superior. Meanwhile, Yeo Jeong-Woo moves to a new building and encounters Nam Ha-Neul on the rooftop, prompting him to call his friend, Min Kyung-Min, to share the news. The scene then flashes back to Nam Ha-Neul’s past, showcasing her odd behaviors and sacrifices, such as consuming instant coffee to save time and prioritizing studying over her health.

Returning to the present, Nam Ha-Neul and Yeo Jeong-Woo engage in conversation, revealing his staggering 3.7 billion won debt and discussing his downfall as a plastic surgeon.

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Yeo Jeong-Woo is haunted by nightmares of his last surgery, which has become a traumatic experience for him. The following day, he meets Nam Ha-Neul at the hospital, unintentionally aggravating her with his success.

The workplace stress overwhelms Nam Ha-Neul, leading her to resign from the hospital, a decision her mother overhears. Later, Yeo Jeong-Woo and Nam Ha-Neul share a meal at a restaurant, where they encounter his colleagues, sparking a heated argument. As the episode concludes, They both drink beer and walk back home, and in doing so both Yeo Jeong-Woo and Nam Ha-Neul find solace in each other’s company, shedding tears and sharing their hardships.

Summary of Episode 3

We revisit the competitive high school days of two individuals, reflecting on how their rivalry shaped their past. The arrival of Nam Ha-Neul at a new school stings the pride of Yeo Jeong-Woo. In the present, Nam Ha-Neul’s family learns about her depression and extends support, though her discomfort lingers despite their efforts to console her – meanwhile, a mysterious figure clad in black attempts to breach Yeo Jeong-Woo’s apartment.

Sympathetic, Nam Ha-Neul’s family offers him refuge in their spare room. Jeong-Woo and Nam Ha-Neul spend the evening together, discussing hobbies; Jeong-Woo attempts to broaden Nam Ha-Neul’s idea of fun but discovers her preference for reading dissertation books. Determined to show her a good time, Jeong-Woo takes Nam Ha-Neul out for a night filled with various games.

Meanwhile, Nam Ha-Neul delves into Yeo Jeong-Woo’s case through the news. The following day, after Yeo Jeong-Woo’s trial, Nam Ha-Neul tries to lift his spirits and they decide to watch the sunrise together as part of their plans.

Summary of Episode 4

This episode begins by delving into Nam Ha-Neul’s childhood, highlighting her studious nature, which unfortunately led to her being friendless due to her lack of fun. Jumping to the present, we find Nam Ha-Neul and Yeo Jeong-Woo enjoying the beach while awaiting the sunrise, engaging in playful activities.

Afterwards, they visit a small restaurant where they briefly doze off. However, Nam Ha-Neul’s family grows anxious upon realizing she hasn’t returned from a night out in Sokcho, particularly because she struggled with depression, sparking various worrisome scenarios in their minds. Amidst the panic, Nam Ha-Neul returns with Yeo Jeong-Woo, raising suspicion. During their conversation, the topic of Yeo Jeong-Woo being Nam Ha-Neul’s first love arises, bringing joy to Yeo Jeong-Woo.

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Meanwhile, Nam Ha-Neul’s date with Bin Dae-Yeong doesn’t go smoothly. Upon returning home, they encounter Nam Ha-Neul’s aunts, leading to an awkward interaction due to their honesty. Later that night, they share drinks on their rooftop, with Nam Ha-Neul falling asleep on Yeo Jeong-Woo’s shoulder. Despite her efforts to secure a job in a new area, her history of hitting a senior and a negative career review hinder her prospects, leaving her feeling disheartened. Nonetheless, Yeo Jeong-Woo provides encouragement and support, cheering her on through her challenges.

Summary of Episode 5

Yeo Jeong-Woo and Nam Ha-Neul go on a bike ride and decide to have a friendly competition. They enjoy exploring the area and snapping photos along the way. However, as they’re about to head home, they come across an old man in distress, struggling to breathe and losing consciousness. Without hesitation, Yeo Jeong-Woo and Nam Ha-Neul, along with a doctor they find nearby, rush to his aid. During the rescue, Yeo Jeong-Woo freezes, haunted by the trauma of the situation.

Fortunately, they manage to save the old man, but it’s too late for Yeo Jeong-Woo and Nam Ha-Neul to return home, so they book a room for the night. Despite the tense situation, their competitive nature kicks in, and they pass the time playing card games. Later, Lee Hong-Ran and her son are seen trying to catch a flying insect. The following night, Yeo Jeong-Woo and Nam Ha-Neul revisit their old school, reminiscing about fond memories.

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The next day, Yeo Jeong-Woo receives a hidden camera pen from Min Kyung-Min, who hands it to him discreetly. When Nam Ha-Neul confronts Yeo Jeong-Woo about her feelings for him, he denies any romantic interest, which deeply hurts her. To make matters worse, her mother, brother, and uncle overhear the conversation, intensifying her embarrassment.

Consequently, Nam Ha-Neul’s family becomes distant from Yeo Jeong-Woo. However, when they meet again, Nam Ha-Neul admits her misunderstanding, leading her to seek guidance from her therapist. Through therapy, she learns more about Yeo Jeong-Woo’s condition and becomes incredibly sympathetic towards him.

Summary of Episode 6

After learning about his condition, he tries to help her just as much by washing their blanket together and teaching her to dry it in the sun for better sleep quality. Later, at work, Bin Dae-Yeong meets Lee Hong-ran and they are introduced. That night, Yeo Jeong-Woo meets Nam Ha-Neul and asks her to accompany him to the doctor the next day.

The following day, they are seen sitting on a bench, with Yeo Jeong-Woo joking about how no one would have expected the two former top students of Korea to be taking mental health medicine a decade later. They go to a karaoke place where he sings passionately, leading to a playful argument. Another character joins them and mentions that Yeo Weong-Woo and she were interested in each other in high school, which causes a misunderstanding.

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Nam Ha-Neul becomes jealous and annoyed by this revelation. The next morning, there is a small mess at her family’s restaurant because the size of the cucumbers differed from what they had given to an influencer, causing customer complaints. Bin Dae-Yeong goes on a date with Lee Hong-ran.

Later that evening, Min Kyung-Min meets his friend Yeo Jeong-Woo, encountering Nam Ha-Neul at the same time. Nam Ha-Neul leaves abruptly, making Yeo Jeong-Woo suspicious. Towards the end of the episode, as Yeo Jeong-Woo heads home, he senses he is being followed and ultimately confronts his stalker in a fight.

Summary of Episode 7

Yeo Jeong-Woo remembers his tough high school days when his mother pressured him to do well in school. Then, we see him confronting a stalker, but suddenly a driverless car appears, causing the stalker to flee. They report the incident to the police. Meanwhile, Nam Ha-Neul’s mother accuses her younger brother of eating all the side dishes, unaware that she had given them to Yeo Jeong-Woo.

Yeo Jeong-Woo’s innocence is proven in court with evidence from a video, leading to another hearing. Nam Ha-Neul and her family have dinner with Yeo Jeong-Woo on the rooftop, and later, Nam Ha-Neul and Yeo Jeong-Woo take a walk together. Yeo Jeong-Woo apologizes for not calling for days, and they enjoy a drink, play games, and eventually end up sitting on a bench, holding hands.

Summary of Episode 8

The episode starts by explaining how Nam Ha-Neul and Nam Ba-Da got their names and how they lived up to them. One was named after the sky and the other after the sea, and their grades reflected that too. Nam Ha-Neul’s grades were high like the sky, while Nam Ba-Da’s were low like the sea. Nam Ba-Da cleverly steals Ha-Neul’s wallet while sweet-talking her. Ha-Neul discusses her love life and her confusion with her mother.

After an incident where they hold hands, Ha-Neul becomes hesitant to talk to Yeo Jeong-Woo. Ha-Neul’s younger brother visits Yeo Jeong-Woo’s apartment and asks him to take care of her, mentioning her temper. Yeo Jeong-Woo becomes confused. He gives Ha-Neul a bouquet, making her very happy. Ha-Neul’s family gets close to Yeo Jeong-Woo. Ha-Neul’s drunk mother scolds Bin Dae-Yeong on Yeo Jeong-Woo’s phone.

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The next day, Bin Dae-Yeong and Yeo Jeong-Woo have a meal together, becoming closer friends. Later that evening, Yeo Jeong-Woo has a panic attack when Lee Hong-Ran’s wedding is mentioned. The next day, Yeo Jeong-Woo declines Bin Dae-Yeong’s proposal to work together. Later, Yeo Jeong-Woo finds a photo of them together, indicating their past closeness. The relationship starts to strain when Min Kyung-Min omits Ha-Neul’s name from a dissertation, claiming it as his own. Eventually, Ha-Neul and Yeo Jeong-Woo drift apart.

Summary of Episode 9

In this episode, we follow her journey as she lands a job at the hospital and earns Min Kyung-Min’s trust. She supports Min Kyung-Min during her early days at the hospital but feels betrayed, deciding never to trust again. Later, she meets Yeo Jeong-Woo, who moves out to work with Bin Dae-Yeong, feeling unsatisfied despite starting his career.

The family learns of Yeo Jeong-Woo’s breakup. Nam Ha-Neul faces emotional turmoil, misunderstanding her mother’s intentions and hurting her with words, despite her uncle’s attempts to help. Later, her younger brother arranges a meeting, mending their relationship. Yeo Jeong-Woo feels annoyed seeing Nam Ha-Neul’s family update.

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Despite their thoughts being consumed by each other, Nam Ha-Neul’s overthinking leads to a risky text, prompting a meeting the next morning. Yeo Jeong-Woo undergoes his first surgery post-trauma, but it fails, with the news delivered by Lee Hong-Ran to Nam Ha-Neul.

Summary of Episode 10

Yeo Jeong-Woo and Nam Ha-Neul went out drinking again, but they were told not to drink too much. The next evening, Nam Ha-Neul met with Bin Dae-Yeong and they talked about Yeo Jeong-Woo having a panic attack during surgery. Yeo Jeong-Woo also started to open up more to Nam Ha-Neul about his feelings.

Dae-Yeong offered to help take care of Lee Hong-Ran’s son. Later, Yeo Jeong-Woo confronted Min Kyung-Min about his past actions towards Nam Ha-Neul. Feeling sorry for her, he went to the rooftop where they last met and hugged each other.

They then went to a nightclub together. Afterward, Yeo Jeong-Woo worked hard at his job, and with Nam Ha-Neul by his side, he successfully performed another surgery. The episode ended with Nam Ha-Neul officially accepting that she has a boyfriend.

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Summary of Episode 11

This episode marks the official beginning of Yeo Jeong-Woo and Ha-Neul’s relationship. Ha-Neul is overjoyed and feels rejuvenated, a stark contrast to her previously subdued demeanor that her family finds curious. She sneaks over to his apartment and shares a meal of ramyeon with Yeo Jeong-Woo.

Despite Ha-Neul’s mother’s ongoing anger toward Yeo Jeong-Woo, we witness the budding connection between Bin Dae-Yeong and Lee Hong-Ran. Lee Hong-Ran’s son sends a thoughtful gift in the form of a sketch, delivered through his mother to Bin Dae-Yeong. Ha-Neul’s mother expresses happiness for the couple, hoping for their harmony.

The families come together at a restaurant, celebrating the union and declaring Yeo Jeong-Woo as part of the family, even waiving rent as a gesture of welcome. The episode concludes with a romantic date between Ha-Neul and Yeo Jeong-Woo.

Summary of Episode 12

Yeo Jeong-Woo wanted to treat Bin Dae-Yeong to a drink using his paycheck, but he was turned down. Later, he bumped into Ha-Neul’s uncle and brother. The uncle asked Yeo Jeong-Woo a few questions, and they ended up having three drinks together. When Yeo Jeong-Woo woke up, he found Ha-Neul’s uncle in front of him, and Ha-Neul’s mother suspected them of bullying him.

Meanwhile, Bin Dae-Yeong helped Lee Hong-Ran set up a small mini-park for kids, assembling it for her son. Yeo Jeong-Woo and Ha-Neul planned a trip, revealing that Yeo Jeong-Woo had improved his mental health and no longer relied on sleeping pills.

During their outing, they unexpectedly met Bin Dae-Yeong and Lee Hong-Ran, and the four spent time together, getting to know each other and sharing conversations. Later, the girls went for a walk while the two guys stayed back, discussing their misunderstandings and resolving their strained relationship. However, tragedy struck when Ha-Neul met with Min Kyung-Min and got into a terrible accident.

Summary of Episode 13

In this episode, we witness the deep bond between Min Kyung-Min and Yeo Jeong-Woo from the past. Transitioning to the present, we find Ha-Neul’s family in distress as she undergoes surgery following an accident. The fear grips everyone as they await Ha-Neul’s awakening. Despite her fears, Yeo Jeong-Woo remains strong for Ha-Neul’s family.

Thankfully, Ha-Neul wakes up, bringing relief to everyone. However, Min Kyung-Min’s life is now in danger. Yeo Jeong-Woo discovers that Min Kyung-Min endangered herself for his sake, leading to his fury. As they discuss the situation, Min Kyung-Min shares a memory from the accident involving them.

Towards the end of the episode, we witness Min Kyung-Min and Yeo Jeong-Woo’s conversation in the ICU, where Min Kyung-Min struggles to speak but manages to do so. Yeo Jeong-Woo emerges from the ICU and breaks down in tears, finding solace on Ha-Neul’s shoulder.

Summary of Episode 14

In this episode, Ha-Neul pays a visit to her former workplace where she receives an apology from the head for not being informed about a past affair. She’s also offered a chance to return, which could enhance both her and the hospital’s reputation. Meanwhile, Yeo Jeong-Woo has a tense conversation with his mother regarding Min Kyung-Min’s recently deceased father, revealing his mother’s indifference to Min Kyung-Min’s struggles and focusing solely on academic success.

Ha-Neul’s family, joined by Yeo Jong-Woo, embarks on a trip, during which there’s a heartfelt exchange between Yeo Jeong-Woo and Ha-Neul’s mother, leading to Yeo Jeong-Woo opening up about his problems.

Back home, Yeo Jong-Woo works tirelessly with Ha-Neul’s uncle, while Ha-Neul faces challenges upon returning to her hospital duties. The episode concludes with Yeo Jong-Woo holding a ring box, hinting at a significant development.

Summary of Episode 15

Yeo Jeong-Woo plans to give a ring to someone special, but when she steps out of the room, he takes the opportunity to practice presenting it. However, in his attempt, he accidentally drops the ring under the sofa and begins searching for it. Ha-Neul enters the scene and joins in the search, unaware of what they’re looking for.

A moment of chaos arises when an insect appears as Ha-Neul tries to reach under the sofa with a broomstick. The next day, Yeo Jeong-Woo discusses the situation with his friend, Bin Dae-Yeong, who suggests it might be too early for a ring and a bracelet would be more fitting. Yeo Jeong-Woo rushes to a jewelry store to exchange the ring for a necklace, feeling extremely nervous about how to give the gift to Ha-Neul.

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Meanwhile, Bin Dae-Yeong finds himself in a predicament when another girl accidentally kisses him on the cheek, much to the annoyance of Lee Hong-Ran, who vents her frustration to Ha-Neul and Yeo Jeong-Woo as they share drinks. As the evening progresses, Yeo Jeong-Woo remains relatively sober while the two women indulge. Both Yeo Jeong-Woo and Bin Dae-Yeong attempt to help sober them up.

Eventually, Yeo Jeong-Woo accompanies Ha-Neul at home, while Bin Dae-Yeong and Lee Hong-Ran have a heart-to-heart on a street bench. The professional lives of both Ha-Neul and Yeo Jeong-Woo seem to be going well, with glimpses of their successes. Yeo Jeong-Woo encounters two old friends who own a small food truck, and they share emotional moments, reminiscing and catching up on their lives. Ha-Neul joins them later, and Yeo Jeong-Woo introduces their relationship to his friends, leaving them surprised. They then share fond memories from their school days.

The focus shifts to Bin Dae-Yeong and his teenage daughter, who helps him choose gifts for his girlfriend, offering a glimpse into their relationship. The episode concludes with a tender moment as Ha-Neul and Yeo Jeong-Woo share a kiss, hinting at the blossoming of their romance.

Summary of Episode 16

In this episode, we witness Nam Ba-Da’s newfound passion for cooking, which fills his family with immense pride, alongside his persistence in pursuing this interest. He also receives his first paycheck, marking a significant achievement for him. Later, Yeo Jeong-Woo and Ha-Neul enjoy a date at a restaurant, discussing her response to his proposal and her upcoming opportunity to go abroad for six months. This news brings mixed emotions for Yeo Jeong-Woo, who appears more emotionally affected than Ha-Neul.

However, their emotional exchange leads to a heartfelt moment where they embrace and cry together in the street. The episode continues with a joyous rooftop celebration with Ha-Neul’s family, reflecting her newfound happiness. As they prepare for her departure to the US, they cherish their remaining days together with various activities.

Ha-Neul also visits her therapist, who assures her she no longer needs therapy. Meanwhile, Nam Ba-Da takes his mother shopping but decides against buying a handbag due to its high price. Additionally, there’s a heartwarming date between Bin Dae-Yeong and Lee Hong-Ran at a picnic spot, followed by Nam Ba-Da and his mother sharing a meal at a restaurant.

Despite life’s challenges, everyone finds themselves in a better place, handling their problems more effectively with support from loved ones. The episode concludes with Yeo Jeong-Woo seeking an answer to his proposal from Ha-Neul, despite their upcoming wedding photoshoot plans. Ultimately, they find peace and solace in each other’s company, emphasizing the importance of having someone by your side during life’s ups and downs.

Doctor Slump Ending Explained

The conclusion of this drama brings viewers a sense of peace and happiness as each character finds their path in life. Everyone is content, and ultimately, that’s what truly matters. As our two main actors resume their work lives, they glean valuable lessons from past experiences and embark on a fresh chapter in their careers. Ha-Neul accepts a proposal, Nam Ba-da discovers his passion, and Bin Dae-Yeong and Lee Hong-Ran form a bond, bringing their families together as one.

Doctor Slump Review

Cinematography:  The cinematography of this play is warm, although the transition from one scene to another seems to shift pretty quickly. Despite the back and forth between the past and the present, it blends in perfectly

Acting: The actors’ performances were very realistic, especially the main actress, who played her role perfectly and blended well with the character portrayed. The depiction of the awkwardness of new love is also very realistic, although there are many cringeworthy scenes. The film also effectively addresses current trends in mental health, hard work, and corruption. The supporting characters’ acting skillfully showcases family love and support. Ha-Neul’s family provides a good blend of comedic and serious moments.