As an expert in the medium, it is essential to first clarify a small but important distinction: "What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim" (*Kimbiseoga wae geureolgga*) is technically a Manhwa (South Korean comic) and a highly successful Webtoon, rather than a Japanese Manga. Originally a novel by Jung Kyung-yoon, it was adapted into a visual format by artist Kim Myeong-mi. Since its debut, it has become a cornerstone of the "Office Romance" genre, even spawning a world-famous K-Drama.
The Premise: A Resignation That Shakes a Corporate Empire
The story revolves around two central figures: Lee Young-joon, the Vice Chairman of Yumyung Group, and his legendary secretary, Kim Mi-so.
Lee Young-joon is the quintessential "narcissist" archetype. He is brilliant, wealthy, and strikingly handsome, but his ego is so massive that he literally glows in his own eyes. He views himself as a perfect being who is too good for the world. For nine years, the only person capable of keeping up with his demanding pace, anticipating his every need, and navigating his prickly personality has been Kim Mi-so. She is the "Legend of the Secretary World," a woman who has sacrificed her personal life, sleep, and health to ensure Young-joon’s life runs flawlessly.
The conflict begins when Mi-so suddenly delivers a bombshell: she is resigning.
Having finally paid off her family’s debts, Mi-so realizes she has no identity outside of being "Secretary Kim." She wants to find herself, get married, and live a normal life. Young-joon, completely blindsided and unable to comprehend why anyone would want to leave his side, spiraling into a hilarious yet desperate quest to keep her. What starts as a series of extravagant "benefits" to entice her to stay eventually evolves into a journey of genuine self-reflection and romantic awakening.
Demographics and Genre: The Josei Spirit
In terms of demographics, *What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim* fits perfectly into the Josei category (targeted at adult women). Unlike *Shojo*, which often focuses on high school idealism, this series deals with adult themes: career burnout, the complexities of workplace hierarchies, financial responsibility, and the mature evolution of a relationship. It balances the "Rom-Com" (Romantic Comedy) aesthetic with a "Slice of Life" look at corporate culture, making it relatable to anyone who has ever felt like a cog in a corporate machine.
Main Themes: Beyond the Office Flirtation
While the surface level is filled with comedic misunderstandings and "will-they-won't-they" tension, the manhwa explores several profound themes:
1. Identity and Self-Worth: The core of Mi-so’s journey is the reclamation of her name. For a decade, she was just an extension of her boss. The story beautifully illustrates the importance of setting boundaries and finding one's purpose outside of professional achievements.
2. The Mask of Narcissism: As the plot progresses, we learn that Young-joon’s arrogance isn't just vanity; it’s a defense mechanism. The series delves into his vulnerability, showing how he uses his ego to shield himself from a deeply buried past.
3. Trauma and Healing: A significant subplot involves a shared childhood trauma—a kidnapping incident that left both protagonists with psychological scars. The mystery of the "Oppa" from Mi-so’s past adds a layer of psychological thriller to the romance, exploring how childhood events shape adult intimacy and fear.
4. Communication in Relationships: The "comedy" often stems from Young-joon’s inability to communicate like a normal human. However, the "romance" blossoms when he finally learns to listen to Mi-so’s needs instead of just providing material solutions.
Why It’s a Must-Read
*What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim* stands out because of its impeccable pacing and the chemistry between the leads. The art style is clean, elegant, and expressive, perfectly capturing Young-joon’s "aura" and Mi-so’s professional poise. It avoids the "toxic boss" trope by showing Young-joon’s genuine growth and his willingness to change for the woman he realizes he cannot live without.
For fans of sophisticated romance with a touch of mystery and a lot of heart, this series is an essential entry in the modern manhwa canon. It is a masterclass in how to take a simple "office trope" and turn it into a deep exploration of two souls finding their way back to each other.
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