Early this year, Korean-American therapist and my dear virtual friend Jeanie Chang messaged me with an exciting idea—“Hi!!!! I’m considering going to Manila for a book talk! I have sooo many folks who want me to.”
Apparently, there is a clamor from Filipino fans and followers to have her book launch here. Meeting up after so long was also part of the plan.
Fast forward to April 2025, and that dream became a reality. Jeanie, who is known on social media as Noona’s Noonchi, finally made it to Manila to launch her book, How K-Dramas Can Transform Your Life at Fully Booked, followed by a meaningful series of events in both Manila and Cebu.
I arrived at the Saturday launch at Fully Booked BGC filled with excitement. After three years of virtual conversations and collaborations, I was finally meeting Jeanie in the flesh. It felt personal—not just for me, but for the entire room. I found myself surrounded by fellow “Titas” of Manila (and some from neighboring cities!) who had quietly nurtured their love for K-dramas since the early 2000s. That shared enthusiasm set the tone for a comforting afternoon that was also very informative.
The gathering was intimate but packed, filled with K-drama fans who were also curious about the deeper benefits of the genre. Jeanie’s talk offered insight into how K-dramas can be a tool for reflection and emotional growth. One of the highlights was her explanation of jeong, a unique Korean concept that goes beyond love or friendship.
“Jeong is that sense of belonging,” she explained during the launch—and it truly captured the feeling in the room that day. Strangers were drawn to each other by a shared passion.
What struck me was how quickly the crowd connected. I met Fatima (or Fats), Lou, and Katrina—fellow fans who became instant friends. In just a few minutes, we were talking about our favorite K-dramas, unpacking how certain scenes made us cry or laugh, and gushing over the oppas we love. We watched a few clips from shows like Reply 1988, Love Next Door, and Extraordinary Attorney Woo, which sparked deep conversations throughout the session.
Jeanie gave us a preview of what to expect from the book, which explores how K-dramas can be a bridge to self-awareness, healing, and connection. Her use of K-dramas in therapy is grounded in clinical practice—incorporating scenes only when appropriate.
“I will bring it in when it makes sense,” she previously told me during an interview. “Some people did not know that they were grieving or sad until they saw something.” That power to mirror emotions is what makes K-dramas more than entertainment for many viewers.
It all started with her own journey. “I was a high school senior when I saw my first modern K-drama. It’s called Jealousy in English. I remember that so well because that was my first time watching a K-drama and I loved it!” Jeanie shared with a smile during one of our past interviews.
Though she took a break from watching during her early adult years, she rekindled her love for it in 2015 through My Love from the Star.
Today, Jeanie reaches audiences worldwide through her online persona, creating short-form content that blends K-drama analysis with mental health insights. While she emphasizes the emotional power of K-dramas, she always reminds her audience: therapy is still essential. “I use it [K-drama] as a tool. It should not be a replacement if you need therapy,” she clarified.
Seeking a mental health professional or expert is still the key, but doing things we love like watching K-drama can give our well-being a boost. She reminded, “The only drama you should have in your life is K-drama.”
As of last Sunday, How K-Dramas Can Transform Your Life was ranked number eight on Fully Booked’s bestseller list. And with how warmly Jeanie’s launch was received, I wouldn’t be surprised if that number continues to rise.
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