Resident Playbook episode 12 of tvN aired on the 18th. It wrapped up the characters’ first year with heartfelt moments, new beginnings, and some fun surprises. One of the most memorable scenes was when Yang Seok-hyung (played by Kim Dae-myung) congratulated his wife Chu Min-ha (played by Ahn Eun-jin) on becoming a professor in obstetrics and gynecology.
The moment was simple but touching. During Professor Im Dong-joo’s retirement ceremony, Yang Seok-hyung spoke to Seo Jeong-min (Lee Bong-ryeon) about her talent for teaching. He told her, “You’re really good at teaching children. That’s why I’m asking you to handle it again.” Then, Chu Min-ha walked into the professor’s office for the first time in her new role.
Friends and colleagues didn’t miss the chance to celebrate with her. Gong Gi-seon (Son Ji-yoon), Myeong Eun-won (Kim Hye-in), and Gu Do-won (Jung Joon-won) dropped by to say congratulations. Gu Do-won even smiled and said, “Congratulations, professor,” showing how respected and well-liked Chu Min-ha is.
But the most charming moment came from her husband, Yang Seok-hyung. Thinking she was alone, he surprised her with a bouquet. He knelt and said, “Congratulations, Professor Chu. I asked for flowers prettier than you, but none exist.” Then he walked out quickly, looking shy and embarrassed.
Chu Min-ha laughed and told others, “He’s my husband. He probably thought no one was there. He does these cute things often.” She also shared that she plans to work hard and take her new role seriously.
Warm Goodbyes and Hopeful New Beginnings
The final episode didn’t just focus on one couple. It highlighted how each character grew during the year. It showed how far they’ve come and hinted at what might come next.
The romance between Oh Yi-young (Go Yoon-jung) and Gu Do-won became official. Oh Yi-young told her friends about their relationship, but asked them to keep it quiet at the hospital. However, the news had already spread. During a date, Gu Do-won gave her a ring and shared that he had opened a savings account with marriage in mind. Their relationship felt realistic, sweet, and grounded.
There was also a powerful moment with Pyo Nam-gyeong (Cynthia). She had to pronounce the death of her first patient, Yeom Mi-so. It was an emotional scene, and she cried. But soon after, she assisted in a birth with Yang Seok-hyung. The contrast between life and death hit hard. It showed how doctors face both joy and sadness, sometimes on the same day.
Eom Jae-il (Kang Yoo-seok) also had a moment of growth. He got recognition from the tough Professor Jo Jun-mo, who gave him a thesis opportunity. That was a big step for Jae-il, who’s been working hard all season.
Kim Sa-bi (Han Ye-ji) opened up more emotionally. She struggled with showing how she felt, but slowly got better. Her growth was quiet but clear.
Then there was a twist with Oh Yi-young. She announced that she would quit her residency because she had won the lottery. But she came back after missing the deadline to claim the prize. Her return felt fitting. It showed that even when life seems to offer a way out, some paths feel more meaningful.
The story also included light-hearted moments. Oh Yi-young and Gu Do-won were caught by her older sister, Oh Joo-young (Jung Woon-sun), and brother-in-law, Koo Seung-won (Jung Soon-won), while sharing a private moment. The older couple joked, “Are you going to fight now?” adding some humor to the episode.
Fans of Hospital Playlist had something extra to enjoy. Chu Min-ha and Yang Seok-hyung, both originally from that series, made a short but memorable appearance together. Their relationship continued naturally, and fans appreciated that connection between the two dramas.
The final scene hinted at more to come. Each character walked a different path, but they all seemed stronger and more confident than when they started.
The follow-up drama Our Unwritten Seoul, starring Park Bo-young and Park Jin-young, will take over the same time slot and air its first episode on the 24th. For fans who enjoyed Resident Playbook, there’s hope for a season two. While no official announcement has been made, the ending left space for future stories. Whether it was love, growth, or just learning to keep going, the characters in this story showed what it means to keep growing, one step at a time.
Kavita Mishra is a dynamic writer and passionate Korean entertainment enthusiast, combining her love for K-pop and K-drama with a flair for storytelling. With a keen eye for the latest trends, Kavita crafts articles that capture the pulse of K-pop idols, chart-topping hits, and the most buzz-worthy dramas taking over screens worldwide.
