Premiering on the 14th of last month and concluding its 12-episode run on May 20, 'Dear.M' failed to win over viewers despite its exploration of realistic issues faced by young adults. The campus romance drama, set at Seoyeon University, focused on an anonymous confession post "M" shared on the school’s online platform, depicting themes of love, friendship, and personal growth.

Originally scheduled to be broadcast on KBS2 in 2021, the show faced delays due to lead actress Park Hye Soo's involvement in school bullying allegations. While eventually becoming available on platforms like Japan’s U-NEXT and VIKI, domestic airing in Korea was met with continuous postponements due to unresolved controversies and negative public reception. Even after airing on cable channel KBS Joy, the absence of a primary channel slot limited its reach.

Although 'Dear.M' expanded on the popular web series 'Love Playlist,' featuring beloved characters like the "Magnet Couple," it struggled to attract a wider audience despite showcasing emotional depth and relatable youth experiences. The performances of the cast, particularly Park Hye Soo, NCT's Jaehyun, Roh Jeong Eui, Bae Hyun Sung, Lee Jin Hyuk, Woo Da Bi, and Kwon Eun Bin, were noted for their realism and emotional portrayal.

The drama's direction and cinematography emphasized the emotional essence of youth dramas, using visually appealing scenes and emotive music to enhance the atmosphere. Notably, actor Cha Tae Hyun made a surprise appearance in the finale, but it was insufficient to boost viewership ratings significantly.

The storyline aimed to engage viewers in reflecting on their own memories and emotions, focusing on the themes of love, concerns, and aspirations among the younger generation. However, the controversy surrounding Park Hye Soo overshadowed the drama's reception, contributing to its low final viewership rating of 0.1%. 'Dear.M' faced challenges such as a prolonged delay, limited airing platforms, and public scrutiny, culminating in a quiet exit. Despite being a nostalgic portrayal of youth for some, it will likely be remembered as a production caught between controversy and anticipation.