“The Good Doctor” is a Korean drama that caught my attention while I was looking for another series starring Joo Won, an actor I appreciate despite my mixed feelings about some of his previous works. Having enjoyed “Yong Pal” but disliked “Tomorrow’s Cantabile,” I was curious to understand Joo Won’s widespread popularity. “The Good Doctor” presented an intriguing premise: a brilliant autistic savant navigating the challenging world of pediatric surgery. The storyline centers around Park Shi On, a young doctor with autism and savant syndrome, who becomes a pediatric surgery resident. His exceptional medical knowledge is undeniable, yet he faces prejudice and skepticism from colleagues who struggle to accept his unique way of interacting with the world. While he may appear socially awkward to adults, Dr. Park demonstrates a remarkable ability to connect with children, his patients. As the series progresses, those around him gradually recognize his invaluable contributions and the hospital benefits from his extraordinary talents.
The official summaries I encountered online initially sparked my skepticism, particularly one that questioned, “Can a man with the mental capacity of a 10-year-old carry out his work as a brilliant pediatric surgeon?” This description felt misleading. It seemed to misrepresent the reality of autism and savant abilities. It’s more accurate to consider whether someone who initially presents with different social communication styles can thrive as a surgeon, despite preconceived notions. His medical expertise is clearly beyond that of a child, demonstrated by his successful completion of medical school and board exams.
Another summary described Dr. Park as struggling “in a competitive ‘adult’ world where everyone is at least emotionally and mentally 20 years older than he is.” This also felt inaccurate. Individuals with autism process information and emotions differently, often prioritizing logic and reason. Emotional maturity isn’t solely defined by outward displays or conformity to social norms. In fact, the drama itself showcases numerous characters, particularly within the hospital setting, who exhibit far less emotional maturity than Dr. Park in their decision-making and interactions.
Drawing from personal experience, having navigated the world of autism for over two decades with my own son, I approached “The Good Doctor” with a critical yet hopeful perspective. My son, diagnosed with autism at 15 but showing signs from infancy, has taught me a great deal about neurodiversity. Autism is not a deficit but a different way of experiencing and processing the world. Communication styles may vary, and directness is often key, but the potential for growth and achievement is immense. My son, defying low expectations set by school counselors, currently balances a near full-time job with college coursework. This mirrors the low expectations often faced by individuals with autism, as depicted in “The Good Doctor,” where societal biases can overshadow individual capabilities.
Joo Won delivers a compelling performance as Park Shi On in “The Good Doctor,” capturing the nuances of autism with sensitivity.
“The Good Doctor” portrays a childhood for Park Shi On marked by parental misunderstanding and lack of support, a sadly common experience for many families navigating autism diagnoses. His parents struggle to comprehend and support his needs, highlighting the historical lack of resources and understanding within the medical community. While fictional, this resonates with the real challenges families faced and sometimes still encounter. The drama poignantly depicts the father’s frustration manifesting as violence and abandonment, a harsh reality for some families under similar pressures, further compounded by societal stigmas and lack of support systems. His mother’s eventual departure leaves Park Shi On orphaned alongside his brother, whose tragic accident adds another layer of trauma to his early life. Fortunately, a compassionate doctor recognizes Park Shi On’s remarkable talent for medical illustration and memory, taking him under his wing and setting him on the path to medical school.
Even after overcoming significant hurdles to graduate medical school and pass his boards, Park Shi On faces further discrimination. The prevailing biases against individuals with disabilities within the system create obstacles to licensure, forcing him to prove his competence through a residency at a hospital.
The hospital environment proves to be another battleground. Kim Do Han, the head pediatric surgeon, embodies prejudice and bullying. His relentless mistreatment of Park Shi On, driven by his own past trauma related to a younger sibling with a disability, creates significant conflict. Kim Do Han’s character, while frustrating, serves to highlight the deep-seated biases and misunderstandings that individuals with autism often encounter in professional settings. He assigns Park Shi On menial tasks, publicly criticizes him, and generally attempts to undermine his confidence and career.
However, not all colleagues are hostile. Han Ji Wook, another resident, offers a contrasting perspective, demonstrating openness and support towards Park Shi On. His positive attitude and willingness to understand Dr. Park’s strengths offer a refreshing counterpoint to the negativity. This character provides a hopeful glimpse into the possibility of acceptance and inclusion. His subplot involving a relationship with a woman working as a hostess adds another layer of human connection and understanding to the narrative.
Cha Yoon Seo, a second-year resident who becomes Park Shi On’s love interest, also initially approaches him with an open mind. She gradually recognizes his immense value to the pediatric department and becomes a crucial ally and advocate. While initially perceived as potentially romantically interested in the abrasive Kim Do Han, her intelligence and empathy lead her to recognize his flaws and appreciate Park Shi On’s genuine nature. The contrasting dynamics between Cha Yoon Seo and the hospital administrator’s self-absorbed daughter further emphasize the drama’s exploration of character and values.
The subplot concerning hospital politics and a potential for-profit takeover, while present, feels somewhat less compelling than the central character arcs and themes. It serves as a backdrop to the personal and professional challenges faced by Park Shi On, but could arguably be streamlined to maintain focus on the core narrative.
The development of the relationship between Cha Yoon Seo and Park Shi On is portrayed with sensitivity and realism. The drama acknowledges the social considerations and potential anxieties both characters face as they navigate a romantic relationship. Park Shi On’s contemplation of ending the relationship, believing he might be a burden, highlights his self-awareness and consideration for Cha Yoon Seo’s well-being. The reactions of their colleagues to their relationship reveal societal prejudices and gossip, which Cha Yoon Seo confronts directly, showcasing her strength and commitment. Park Shi On’s internal struggle to address the situation reflects the communication challenges sometimes associated with autism but also his capacity for emotional depth.
Reflecting on this relationship through the lens of autism, it presents a unique and valuable perspective. A partner like Park Shi On, characterized by unwavering loyalty, honesty, and logical consistency, possesses qualities often highly valued in long-term relationships. While expressions of affection might be different, his actions and commitments speak volumes. His predictable routines, financial responsibility, and aversion to impulsive behaviors offer stability and reliability. Clear and direct communication becomes paramount, and understanding his need for personal space for emotional regulation is key. The drama subtly challenges conventional romantic ideals, suggesting that different expressions of love and commitment can be equally, if not more, profound.
The drama introduces a controversial concept: the idea of “curing” Park Shi On of his autism. This notion is problematic and misrepresents autism as a condition to be eradicated rather than a neurodevelopmental difference to be understood and accommodated. Park Shi On’s savant abilities are integral to his unique talents and contributions. The suggestion of a “cure” undermines the value of neurodiversity and implies that difference is inherently negative. The ending, where Kim Do Han declares Park Shi On “cured,” is particularly disappointing. It inverts the true transformation: Kim Do Han’s growth lies in overcoming his own prejudices and broadening his definition of “normal,” not in Park Shi On conforming to neurotypical expectations.
Park Shi On and Cha Yoon Seo’s relationship in “The Good Doctor” is a central emotional arc, portrayed with sensitivity and nuance.
Joo Won’s portrayal of Park Shi On is the undeniable strength of “The Good Doctor.” His meticulous attention to detail, capturing subtle physical mannerisms, speech patterns, and emotional expressions, creates a compelling and respectful representation of autism. His performance is the primary reason to watch the series, imbuing Park Shi On with humanity, vulnerability, and brilliance. While the drama received awards, its appeal might be niche, particularly for those interested in medical dramas and character-driven narratives exploring social issues. For viewers seeking a deeper understanding of autism and how it might be perceived within a different cultural context, “The Good Doctor” offers valuable insights. The ending, while imperfect, provides a sense of hope for Park Shi On’s future, both professionally and romantically.
Connecting this fictional narrative back to real-life experiences, the story of my son’s friend, the robotics savant, provides a powerful parallel. This young man, with his singular focus on robotics, found acceptance and encouragement within a university environment that recognized his unique talents. His story underscores the importance of supportive environments and mentorship in allowing individuals with autism to flourish. Just as Park Shi On found a mentor in the kind doctor who recognized his potential, my son’s friend thrived when given the opportunity to pursue his passion in a setting that valued his neurodiversity. His current doctoral studies in medical robotics, aimed at improving surgical techniques, echo the very field Park Shi On excels in, highlighting the real-world potential and contributions of individuals with autism when given the chance.
“The Good Doctor,” despite its flaws, raises important questions about societal perceptions of autism and the need for inclusive and supportive environments. It prompts reflection on how often individuals with autism are underestimated and left behind, working in roles far below their capabilities or facing unemployment. Hopefully, the drama has contributed to a broader dialogue in Korea, known for its structured educational system, about embracing neurodiversity and recognizing the innovative potential of “outside the box” thinking. This shift in perspective is crucial for creating a more equitable and progressive future.
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