<![CDATA[This study examines Indonesian viewers’ reception of mental health representation in the Korean drama Can This Love Be Translated? (2026). The drama portrays Cha Mu-hee’s childhood trauma manifested as a protective delusion named Do Ra-mi (Dorami) and her self-acceptance process through supportive interpersonal communication with Joo Ho-jin. This research is significant due to the strong influence of the Korean Wave in Indonesia, while mental health issues still face stigma and low literacy in society. This qualitative study employed Stuart Hall’s reception analysis. Data were collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews with six respondents aged 18–25 years who had watched the drama completely. Thematic analysis was conducted by categorizing viewers’ reception positions. The findings indicate that most respondents are in the negotiated reading position. They perceived the mental health representation as clear, unique, and relatable, especially through Do Ra-mi as a defense mechanism and the important role of interpersonal communication in the self-acceptance process. However, respondents negotiated the overly rapid healing process and the lack of clear mental health diagnosis. Viewers’ interpretations were strongly influenced by personal experiences, professional backgrounds, and long-term K-drama watching habits. This study concludes that Korean dramas have great potential as an effective medium for mental health education among Indonesian youth, although more realistic and culturally sensitive representations are needed to reduce mental health stigma in society.]]>
