Resident Playbook and Hospital Playlist’s Connection, Explained

The world of K-dramas is wide and unpredictable, but not when it comes to these two popular medical dramas. Resident Playbook is a spinoff of the beloved medical drama Hospital Playlist, and it’s safe to say that it builds on the legacy of its predecessor while carving out its own identity.

Though the show has its own storyline, it maintains ties to Hospital Playlist, both being part of the larger Wise Life series.

Resident Playbook and Hospital Playlist Shared One Universe

Hospital Playlist, released in 2020, was the second entry in the Wise Life series, following Prison Playbook. It chronicled the lives of five longtime friends and doctors balancing the pressures of their careers with personal struggles. With a compelling slice-of-life story and brilliant performances, the series was a critical and commercial success, leading to a second season in 2021.

Years after Hospital Playlist season 2 ended, Resident Playbook was announced as a continuation of the Wise Life universe. Though originally slated for a 2024 release on tvN, the spinoff was postponed and later premiered in 2025.

Set in the OB-GYN department at the Jongno branch of Yulje Medical Center, Resident Playbook follows four first-year residents as they navigate the challenges of their medical careers. While the drama primarily centers on their professional journeys, it offers glimpses into their personal lives as well.

While the main characters in Resident Playbook, such as Yi-young, Sa-bi, Jae-il, and Nam Kyung, work at Yulje Medical Center’s Jongno branch, the doctors in Hospital Playlist, like Lee Ik-jun, Ahn Jeong-won, Kim Jun-wan, Yang Seok-hyeong, and Chae Song-hwa, are based at the main branch.

So it means that despite being in different locations, the shared hospital network allows for natural crossovers. And it’s exactly what the fans adore most of all.

What Do Fans and Critics Think About the Two Shows?

“Three main characters from Hospital Playlist are confirmed to make cameo appearances as the same characters in Resident Playbook! Even though the new show is a spin-off, it’s gonna be way more fun if you’ve seen HP. You’ll probably catch little inside jokes or references they throw in during their cameos, and that just makes it all the more satisfying,” Redditor Misssimpleton said.

“I love it. It's one of my favorite k-dramas :) I love the 4 main 1st year residents, well, sometimes they are stubborn and it's kind of frustrating lol. But I still love every part of it. I can't wait for ep 5 and onwards! To be honest, I'm kind of surprised that a lot of people are actually not enjoying this drama, which is okay, it's just surprising,” Redditor Zarakikver said.

Where to Stream Resident Playbook and Hospital Playlist?

Both Resident Playbook and Hospital Playlist are available to stream on Netflix.