Spare Me Your Mercy – Series Review & Ending Explained

Episode 1

Executioner

The opening scene of Spare Me Your Mercy is meaningful. Tew drives along a road and comes across a slaughtered goat, writhing in pain as it dies. He approaches the animal, raises his gun, and points it at the suffering creature. While the scene cuts away before we see him fire, it presents a striking moral dilemma: would you end the animal's misery or let it suffer? This moment is a poignant parallel to the series' central theme of euthanasia. It mirrors the ethical questions surrounding terminally ill patients and the act of mercy.

The episode's closing scene is also thought-provoking. Tew meets Grandpa Som, a man who has lost his mental clarity and slaughters animals for spiritual rituals. He lives in an unsettling environment, filled with caged creatures and scattered carcasses. According to Som, animals must be sacrificed to appease a higher power. While the story doesn't ask viewers to agree with his reasoning, it raises the question: is it ever ethical to take a life, even with a justification? This scene counters the opening moment, presenting another perspective. Does anyone truly have the right to act as an executioner?

Guilt

"It's a shame you didn't make it in time to say goodbye." Someone makes a massive social faux pas to Tew at his mother's funeral, followed by the most painfully awkward silence imaginable. The series emphasizes Tew's regret over not saying goodbye to his mother, who died earlier than expected. "I never told her I loved her. I should've said it, but now it's too late." The lack of closure will haunt him for the rest of his life. This unresolved grief festers into bitterness, fuelling his determination to seek justice when he suspects foul play in her death.

Besides missing the chance to say goodbye, Tew carries the emotional burden of neglecting his mother. He moved away to work in the city and delayed returning to his hometown because of his career. Tew is consumed by guilt, feeling like he prioritized his job over his family. Even Kan, an outsider, seems more familiar with his family home's kitchen than he is. "Did she complain about me?" Tew asks Kan, a question that reflects his insecurity. In reality, his mother spoke about Tew often, always sharing stories full of pride and love. Yet, Tew torments himself, convinced he was a son who failed his parent.

Episode 1 Review

At this point, the story hasn't officially confirmed the killer's identity, but all the evidence points to Kan. Three cancer patients dying mysteriously under his care is a red flag. The timing makes it even more suspicious. If the deaths had been spread out over an extended period, the police might not have connected the dots. Instead, Kan moves urgently, going on a euthanasia spree. Doc, I know you don't want your patients to suffer any longer, but your methods are too obvious!

Even if Kan isn't the culprit, his actions only make him appear more suspicious. In the final scene, he follows the police and interrupts a witness interrogation. OMFG. That has to be the most self-incriminating thing he could possibly do. Kan looks ridiculously guilty, as if he's trying to cover for himself, and the police observe the entire exchange. Kan, you're practically handing them a reason to make you the top suspect. What are you even doing, dude!?

Som freaks out and tries to flee when he sees the police entering his property. Tew's partner, Kawin, chases after him and shouts, "I'll shoot!" Excuse me!? At this point, Som is only a person of interest. They don't have proof he committed the crime, yet this fucking cop is threatening to shoot the guy. OMFG, calm down! During the interrogation, there's an interesting imagery. The series juxtaposes a shot of Som's blood-stained hands with another shot of his hands locked in handcuffs. The story hints at the punishment that awaits those who executes others.

Episode 2

Secret

After making himself look so guilty, Kan scrambles to do damage control. He invites Tew to dinner, hoping to charm and flirt with him. By showing romantic interest in the captain, Kan creates an excuse for why he's prying on police activities. He also tries to earn Tew's trust, so Tew sees him as a person rather than just a suspect. The debate around euthanasia pits the law against an emotional argument. Similarly, Kan wants Tew to approach the investigation less logically and more with his feelings.

Tew's sexuality is a sensitive subject. He isn't out to his coworkers, who tease him about finding a wife. Kan learns from Tew's mother that her son is gay and uses this secret to bond with him, but it backfires. Tew is typically calm, yet he loses his composure and storms out of the restaurant. Even when Kan reassures him that he's also gay, Tew remains defensive. "I'm not denying anything. I just don't want to talk about it." While Tew has a right to privacy, his evasiveness masks a deeper insecurity. He may have internalized a 'don't ask, don't tell' mentality. Tew seems guarded and unwilling to express himself.

Solitude

In the next scene, we see Tew in his bachelor's pad. The camera focuses on his uniform in the dresser, a subtle reminder he's out of work mode and showing a glimpse of his personal side. Late at night, Kan apologizes via text and orders takeout for him. Tew cracks a smile, adds Kan as a friend on Line, and eats the food. These gestures indicate that he starts to accept Kan's companionship. Despite the disastrous end to their restaurant date, Tew is softening toward Kan. The doctor's efforts to schmooze him are actually working.

Tew's tiny apartment looks a little sad. His bed has only one pillow, while his fridge has just water bottles. When his sister visits, she jokes that he lives like a single guy, surviving with the bare necessities. The story emphasizes his solitude. Tew's emotional guardedness has left him alone, and he struggles to get close to others. During their chat, Tew asks his sister about Kan, showing curiosity about the doctor beyond just the facts of the case. He wants to know Kan as a person. Notably, the bed now has two pillows, a subtle hint of growing companionship in his life.

Privacy

Unfortunately, there's too much incriminating evidence against Kan. Tew must put aside his personal feelings and treat Kan as a murder suspect again. Tew makes a surprise visit to Kan's home, catching him off guard. They sit face to face at the table, much like their restaurant date, but the roles are reversed. Tew pries into Kan's life, even suggesting his coworkers may have a motive to kill. This chat feels like an invasion of privacy, similar to what Kan did to Tew earlier. The doctor gets a bitter taste of his own medicine.

The story takes us inside Kan's luxurious house, deliberately highlighting the differences between the two leads. Their homes are extensions of their psyches and offer insight into their personalities. Tew lives in a tiny, cramped apartment, while Kan has a spacious home with plenty of room to move around. The comparison continues with their fridges. Kan prepares many healthy foods in containers, whereas Tew only stocks water bottles. Kan's fancy surroundings suggest someone who embraces options. In contrast, Tew's small, minimalist personal space mirrors his simplicity, restraint, and rigid way of living.

Episode 2 Review

OMG, Kan is gonna get caught! I'm startled by how much evidence the police have against him. The potassium chloride is the most damning since it can be easily traced back to the hospital. "The perpetrator also knows how to administer the injection." Oh, it's over for you, Dr. Kan. You're screwed. I can't see a way out for him! Kan is also awful at protecting his secrets. If I were him, I'd guard that fridge like a fortress. I'd also never let the police detective enter that washroom. Access denied! Go pee outside!

During one scene, Kan waits outside the examination room for the autopsy results. He's greeted by a group of four: the hospital director, the coroner, and the two cops. As they stride forward confidently, their dramatic entrance reminds me of a superhero movie lol. THE AVENGERS HAVE ASSEMBLED. These four characters are Kan's worst enemies, all working together to expose him. The killer's identity isn't even in question anymore. Everyone suspects Kan, but they just need more incriminating proof. Kan is in so much danger! Is this drama going to be over in the next episode because he gets arrested?

Pay attention to the clothing colours. When someone wears a white top, it symbolizes purity and goodness. Conversely, black clothing signifies ambiguity or darker intentions. In one scene, the cops wear white t-shirts instead of their usual uniforms as they empathize with the victim. Yet, Tew is dressed in black as he questions the family's motives. Both Tew and Kan wear black during the restaurant date, symbolizing their hidden agendas. The series constantly denotes the characters' moral alignment through their black or white attire.

Episode 3

Peace

This episode portrays euthanasia in its purest form. The terminally ill patient, Zapa, is ready to end his life. He gives his consent for the injection, while his loved ones support the decision. Zapa has made peace with dying. For him and the villagers, death isn't the end. Instead, they treat it more like a natural transition to the next phase. "You'll set off on a journey and find a new world." The series challenges common fears by showing that death can be a serene experience, free from anguish, suffering, or dread.

After Zapa's death, the villagers hold a funeral, lighting incense to pay their respects. Later in the episode, Kan celebrates his birthday with the nurses, who set candles on his cake. Do you see the parallels between the two occasions? Cleverly, the story pairs a funeral and a birthday in the same episode, highlighting their similarities. Both events mark significant moments in your existence. A birthday pays homage to the beginning of life, but a funeral can also be a tribute to the end of a fulfilling life. As long as your mindset is accepting, death feels like a natural and meaningful transition.

Pain

While some people face death gracefully, it can be a painful experience for others. Families and friends often struggle with the loss, especially when the death is unexpected. In countries where euthanasia is legal, it allows time to prepare, say goodbyes, and find closure. Elsewhere, the unpredictable nature of death leaves loved ones grappling with shock and sudden tragedy. Even though time has passed since his mom died, Zapa's passing reopens Tew's trauma. His pain is far from healed.

Despite Kan's reassurances that she departed peacefully, Tew regrets not being there in his mother's final moments. He yearns for a chance to apologize and thank her, but that opportunity was stolen from him. His pain isn't just about losing a parent. It's also tied to everything Tew wishes he had done differently while she was alive. His emotional guardedness kept him from expressing his love when it mattered most. Tew's grief is made heavier by the guilt that he let his mother down. He believes she died alone and in agony, which leaves him feeling unworthy of inner peace. Tew can't forgive himself.

Transparency

Beverages are a subtle motif in the story, especially during this episode. In the first scene, Boss gulps down water after giving a false explanation for stealing the potassium chloride. In the second scene, Tew offers water to Kan, who insists he'd never inject a lethal drug into his patients. And in the third scene, Somsak pours water for Boss while discussing the police questioning. Each instance involves a moment where honesty is at stake. Water symbolizes the need for transparency from the morally conflicted characters.

Fittingly, water is Tew's beverage of choice. Its pure, transparent nature mirrors how he views the world without ambiguity. His moral code is clear. If you kill anyone, you break the law and deserve persecution. In contrast, Kan drinks gourmet coffee, a beverage rich in flavour and complexity, much like his enigmatic personality. The coffee's murky colour reflects Kan's unclear moral alignment. Meanwhile, Boss greets his lover, Somsak, with alcohol, a more mature and indulent drink with the potential to cloud judgment. This choice subtly describes the couple's relationship dynamic.

Note: Rin also drinks a yogurt beverage, but that's probably just product placement with no deeper meaning lol.

Ambiguity

During a bonding scene, Kan encourages Tew to try gourmet coffee. Although hesitant about the exotic drink, Tew seems to enjoy it. Unlike water's clear, simple nature, coffee is a complex beverage. Its murky appearance symbolizes how Kan introduces ambiguity to Tew's life. Kan tells him, "There are better things than coffee." This line is significant because it suggests diversifying Tew's perspective. If Tew is open-minded, he'll understand life offers more than just water or coffee.

The coffee scene ties closely to Tew and Kan's argument over euthanasia. Tew holds a clear, simple belief that taking a life is wrong, no matter what. In contrast, Kan urges him to consider the emotional and ethical complexities. Helping terminally ill patients die can be a compassionate choice to free them from pain. By encouraging Tew to try coffee, Kan challenges him to step out of his rigid mindset and embrace nuance. Understand that life isn't always as transparent as water. Our circumstances can be unclear, requiring different approaches instead of one absolute solution.

Episode 3 Review

I like how Kan is so direct in expressing his romantic interest. He seems confident, sincere, and straightforward in pursing Tew. It's also great to see Tew let his guard down, flirting back and asking Kan on a date. He becomes less emotionally reserved and shows vulnerability during the tent scene, a breakthrough for his character. Under different circumstances, this couple could have easily hit it off, but the murder investigation creates a tricky obstacle in their relationship.

In the last episode, it seems certain the police will catch Kan, but he outsmarts Tew by using his profession as a shield. I'm a doctor! How dare you accuse me of hurting my patients! He exploits Tew's lack of medical knowledge to make him doubt the evidence. Ironically, Kan ended Zapa's life through euthanasia, breaking the very law Tew holds sacred. Tew is feet away from an alleged murder but remains unaware. The nurse drives off with the proof, yet Tew has no idea. His emotions likely clouded his judgment, as Zapa's death triggered Tew's trauma and dulled his detective instincts.

OMG, I didn't expect to see the hospital director and pharmacist secretly hooking up! I laugh at how over-the-top their raunchy scenes are, especially when they hook up so intensely that the chair lifts off the ground. Iconic. It's also touching how Somsak paid for his lover's education and supported him in becoming a pharmacist. Sadly, they hide their relationship due to stigma. As a same-sex couple with an age gap and class differences, they'd face judgment from their community. Others may focus on their unconventional dynamic rather than on their love.

Episode 4

Confession

Somsak, the hospital director, is staunchly pro-life. "As a doctor, I must do everything I can to keep a person alive. When life hangs by the thinnest thread between life and death, I'm the hand that holds the thread." While Dr. Kan and Nurse On support euthanasia, Somsak opposes this practice. Even healthcare professionals have differing views on this controversial issue. Somsak wants to expose Kan's alleged crime. He confronts the doctor with a gun, giving him an ultimatum: either confess to the police or I'll shoot!

Beyond his medical integrity, Somsak's actions are driven by personal emotions. Eight years ago, he had an affair with Dr. Pirot, who died by Kan's euthanasia. Pirot was married with a family. The couple hid their relationship, presenting themselves as close friends to others. This delicate arrangement meant Somsak couldn't openly grieve or even say goodbye to his lover, leaving him with unresolved bitterness against Kan. Even now, his sexuality remains a secret. Rather than reporting Kan to the police, Somsak confronts him privately about Pirot's death. His integrity clashes with his need for discretion.

Deception

Kan survives and escapes from Somsak's captivity, but the police have surveillance footage of him driving away from the house. Later that night, Tew visits Kan's home under the guise of a birthday date. He asks about Kan's movements that night, almost like an interrogation with a touch of seduction. Tew isn't honest about his intentions, but Kan seems equally evasive. He gives a vague version of events, leaving out the most crucial details of his attack. Both partners are keeping secrets from each other.

We know Tew considers Kan as a suspect, and this date is part of his undercover work to gather intel. Yet, the camera lingers on Tew's expression as Kan flirts with him, prompting viewers to question his true feelings. There's uncertainty and conflict to the detective's motives. His character is less transparent than before. Likewise, the series leaves the events between Kan and Somsak intentionally vague, raising doubts about Kan's guilt in Somsak's death. Both leads are steeped in moral ambiguity. The series blurs the line between truth and deception in their emotions. How much of their relationship is genuine?

Honesty

During the official police interrogation, there's an awkward moment when Kan uses his date with Tew as an alibi. Two single men alone in a house late at night naturally sparks curiosity. Kawin, who has teased his colleague about a girlfriend, is shocked by the implications. While Tew confirms spending the night with Kan, he appears self-conscious. Tew isn't out at work and has compartmentalized his personal life. Forced to be candid about his sexuality, he suddenly feels very exposed.

From his wounded expression to his sharp responses, Tew is upset after the interrogation. Kan apologizes for touching on a sensitive subject. Tew states, "I've never been angry at you for speaking the truth." Despite understanding that Kan's alibi is necessary, Tew's frustration comes from his own insecurities. Honesty can feel like a double-edged sword. While he values truth in others, being honest about himself requires a vulnerability Tew finds difficult. He's emotionally reserved and struggles with opening up or expressing his feelings.

Episode 4 Review

Somsak's suicide looks obviously staged. Anyone could have murdered him and forged the confession letter. Logically, the police should examinate further, but it's realistic to think they want to close the case. These small-town cops don't have experience with murder investigations. The victim, Nipon, was an ordinary civilian, while the alleged killer, Somsak, had a respected reputation. There isn't an incentive to dig deeper into the truth. The police took the quickest explanation and moved on to avoid unnecessary complications.

How convenient for Kan to lose consciousness right before the real killer shows up. Classic timing lol. His story sounds so far-fetched that I don't blame Tew for arresting him. Can you believe the couple's first time holding hands is when Tew slaps handcuffs on Kan? Iconic. That said, I don't actually think Kan killed Somsak. He'd be a sociopath to murder someone and still flirt with Tew on the same night. The story leans more into moral ambiguity, so it wouldn't portray the protagonist as this blatantly evil. The real killer must be one of the supporting characters instead.

I understand that Tew wants to keep investigating the case due to the inconsistencies, but why is Kan getting involved? Nurse On even warns him to keep a low profile. "You're in the clear now! Why act suspicious?" Yet, Kan still sneaks into Somsak's house in the middle of the night and immediately gets caught. Hasn't he heard that the killer always returns to the scene of the crime? Once again, Kan inserts himself into the worst place possible and makes himself look guilty for no reason. Why is he such a dumbass???

Episode 5

Murder

This episode highlights the difference between assisted dying and murder, albeit in an exaggerated way. It forces viewers to compare the actions of Kan, a doctor who respects his patients' consent, and Boss, a killer who takes victims' lives based on his own misguided sense of justice. The key distinction lies in permission, which Kan always seeks before proceeding. He doesn't treat euthanasia casually. If he were in a country where this process is legal, Kan would follow proper channels to ensure informed decision-making.

The story shows that good intentions aren't enough. You can't just kill people because you think it'll help them. Boss believes he's relieving his victims from pain, but his actions are fundamentally wrong. Unlike Kan, Boss never gets consent. For example, he ended Urai's life before her wedding day, devastating her fiancée, Cream. Boss also has inconsistent morals, eliminating Somsak simply because he's a threat. In contrast, Kan only helps terminally ill patients who ask for euthanasia. This distinction is crucial in understanding the boundaries between assisted dying and murder.

Consent

The story subtly highlights the theme of consent through Tew and Kan's romance. The couple has another successful date in this episode. Kan continues to flirt, make assertive advances, and even drops hints about wanting a serious relationship. However, Tew seems reserved. "Doctor, give me a little more time." He's not ready for physical or emotional intimacy yet. While Tew's response may be a mood killer, Kan respects his partner's wishes. True to his character, he won't proceed further until Tew feels comfortable.

Previously, Tew hesitated to pursue a romance due to the investigation. He now trusts Kan and no longer sees him as a suspect. Yet, Tew remains cautious about entering a relationship. Since Tew is emotionally guarded, he isn't used to connecting with others. Despite being a competent cop who's confident at work, he's surprisingly shy in his personal life. We're used to seeing guys pounce on each other quickly in BL dramas, but Tew is different. He needs time to overcome his insecurities before opening up to his partner.

Episode 5 Review

Wow, Boss is cold-blooded for killing Somsak. Even if you didn't love the guy, he still paid for your tuition and gave you a job. Where's the gratitude? However, the messy part of me is cackling at this over-the-top drama. I'm sorry, but getting betrayed by your secret gay lover is such a hilariously evil plot twist. I also don't want Kan to be arrested, so I'm OK with sacrificing Somsak for the plot. Somsak's final moments involve being gagged, tied up, and threatened, like the ultimate bondage experience. At least he died doing what he loved. 🥲

The Boss storyline feels far too outrageous. Killing Somsak and getting away with it is already hard to believe. Then, Boss turns into a full-blown serial killer and takes Urai's life, pushing the plot completely over the top. The ridiculous murders make the story's intelligent messages about assisted dying less relatable. Instead of these unnecessary twists, the series should've focused on developing the romance or exploring the characters' backstories through flashbacks. That would've added depth without overdoing it on the senseless deaths.

I respect that Tew needs time to open up emotionally, which makes sense due to his personality. Plus, it ties into the episode's theme about consent. Yet, I'm frustrated with the slow-paced romance. A love story needs to maintain momentum and know when to offer BL content to keep viewers interested. Now would have been a good time for the couple to kiss or show affection. Giving your partner a pen is nice, but giving him your penis seems even better. Since Tew suspects Kan of murder at the end of the episode, their relationship faces another setback. Noooo!

Episode 6

Trust

Nurse On is Kan's most loyal supporter. After he helped her husband through euthanasia, she realized they shared the same principles and became a firm believer in his cause. When Kan's pen is found at the crime scene, On immediately defends him. Despite not knowing the truth, she insists the evidence is planted and pleads with the police to trust him. Her devotion runs so deep that On would always protect Kan, even if she knew he was guilty. That's how much she believes in him.

Unlike On, Tew struggles to trust Kan. They don't share the same history, and his doubts resurface after finding the pen at the crime scene. Although Tew agrees to move in with Kan, it's an excuse to keep a close eye on a suspect and snoop around his house. Even when the couple watches a movie, Tew's body language seems defensive. He avoids Kan's hand, a sign of his guardedness. There's a good chance On has the correct theory, and the real killer planted the pen to frame Kan. Yet, Tew's instinct is to be skeptical of his partner because he finds it difficult to trust others.

Caution

In this episode, Tew admits to never sharing a bed with anyone. His awkwardness around Kan isn't just because of suspicion. It also comes from his total lack of romantic experience. Tew had no long-term relationships before meeting Kan. Growing up gay in a small town gave Tew few chances to explore his feelings openly, and his job in a macho profession also discourages vulnerability. Combined with his naturally shy personality, it explains why Tew seems self-conscious about physical intimacy.

Tew snoops around Kan's closet, searching for clues. What a likely place for him to be. The closet, a symbol associated with repressed gay men, is one reason for Tew's caution in relationships. Trust issues arise when you're selective about sharing your sexuality only with certain people. The need to conceal parts of himself explains why Tew is emotionally guarded. His curiosity about others stems from his desire to understand what they may also be hiding. However, Tew seems too inquisitive for his own good. Why not be like On and believe your partner is good without always having doubts?

Openness

Despite Tew's shyness, Kan is patient and reassures him. "Someone told me everything has a first time. And after that, it gets easier." This comment is actually what Kan's mentor told him about euthanasia, but it can apply to Tew's relationship inexperience. To Kan's credit, he doesn't get frustrated. Other guys (and many BL fans lol) would be turned off by the lack of intimacy at this point, yet Kan never pressures his partner or makes him feel bad for feeling nervous. Kan creates a safe, supportive environment where Tew can open up at his own pace.

The bedroom scene marks a breakthrough for the couple. Observe Tew's body language. At first, he has his arms crossed, mirroring the same posture while watching the movie earlier. This position reflects his guardedness. However, Kan eases the tension with light flirtation, casually touching Tew's arm to test his reaction. Slowly but surely, Tew starts to respond. As his demeanour relaxes, he uncrosses his arms, scoots closer, and finally embraces Kan. Through Kan's patience and gentle encouragement, Tew overcomes his caution. He feels comfortable enough to open up emotionally and physically.

Episode 6 Review

Dr. Kan and Nurse On are such an iconic duo! On is so loyal to her beloved doctor, like the true definition of ride-or-die. Besides being his faithful accomplice in every euthanasia, she'll do whatever it takes to protect him from getting caught. Breaking into Boss's house is dangerous, yet she insists on clearing Kan's name with the police. If you asked On to take a bullet for him, she'd sacrifice herself without question. Hands down, Nurse On is the best sidekick ever!

I laugh at how Tew's romantic dates with Kan keep coming up during police interrogations. These scenes seem less about questioning Kan and more about exposing Tew's love life. Removing Tew from the investigation seems sensible due to his connection to Tew. However, he's still working on the case behind his superiors' backs. He also lets Nurse On break into Boss's house to find evidence. Since Tew isn't always such a stickler for the rules, it gives me hope that he'll change his stance on Kan's euthanasia. I have my fingers crossed for a happy ending!

Boss has completely lost his marbles, killing or abducting people left and right. I also don't get why he planted the pen at the crime scene to frame Kan. Wasn't his goal to protect the doctor? Or did he accidentally drop the pen as he did with the syringe? At this point, I don't know what the hell Boss is trying to achieve. He's such a ridiculous serial killer lol. To be fair, the police aren't much better. Kawin leaves food wrappers outside Boss's apartment, basically announcing their presence. Both sides want to outdo each other in a stupidity contest!

Episode 7

Suffering

Kan, On, and Boss share a common history of watching their loved ones suffer through prolonged illnesses. Kan witnessed his mother endure agonizing pain and lose bodily functions as she withered away. This experience motivated him to become a doctor and a staunch believer in euthanasia. He delivers a meaningful quote: "Everyone deserves to die with dignity and honour. A good death is a matter of humanity and a fundamental right everyone should have."

For the terminally ill, their condition strips them of control over their bodies. They may experience distress, humiliation, and a loss of self-worth. Assisted dying gives them one last power over how they leave the world, allowing them to depart on their own terms rather than suffer to the end. Kan challenges the traditional view of death as something that must be endured. Instead, it can be an empowering transition. Kan's words before administering the euthanasia shot are, "Think positive thoughts." He wants to ensure each patient's final moments are filled with peace rather than pain.

Suicide

"If I'm a murderer, then who are you?" The series constantly draws comparisons between Boss and Kan, challenging us to think about their differences. Boss is a senseless killer, while Kan is a doctor performing euthanasia, a lawful practice in some countries. However, the story pushes boundaries by presenting ethical dilemmas with moral gray areas. What happens when the patients aren't terminally ill? Boss, now paralyzed from the neck down, asks for assistance to end his life. In this scenario, would it be acceptable to help him die?

Should assisted dying only be reserved for the terminally ill? What about patients with other conditions that aren't life-threatening but still cause immense suffering? Here's another thought: what if someone is physically or mentally unable to care for themselves? Is it justifiable to help them die? Assisted dying raises countless morally gray areas. At what point does it transition from medical assistance to suicide? Even Kan crosses his own ethical boundaries by ending Boss's life. The series explores the ambiguity between mercy and murder, leaving us to question where the line should be drawn.

Episode 7 Review

Nurse On is so badass. I got chills watching the scene where she emotionally manipulated the serial killer into taking all the blame for Dr. Kan. "I have a proposal for you…" Damn, she's hardcore! I love how strategic she is, forming an alliance with Boss and using his situation to her advantage. Well, since the police already think you're a serial killer, let's offload a few of Dr. Kan's deaths onto you! Nurse On wastes her talents working in the wrong profession. She should be a criminal attorney, brokering high-power deals with shady clients.

Another character I secretly love is Dr. Rin. While the police are still running around cluelessly, this intelligent coroner has figured out the entire case since the start. In every episode, she drops an incredibly sharp observation that causes the police to suspect Kan as guilty. "Hmm, isn't it interesting he shot Boss in the head and not the legs?" Rin never has to use violence. She's the brilliant mastermind working quietly in the background, dismantling Kan with nothing but her logical deductions. That's what makes her so awesome!

When the police interrogate Kan at the hospital, notice the difference between the two cops. Joe keeps things professional, while Tew focuses on Kan's comfort. Tew even makes a flirty remark in front of his coworker. Unlike before, he seems comfortable expressing his feelings in public. While Tew is still too shy to kiss Kan, he acts less like a detective and more like a boyfriend. I'm happy for the couple, but I'm also conflicted about their doomed romance. The secret about Tew's mother feels like a ticking time bomb, capable of destroying their relationship.

Episode 8

Intimacy

Tew and Kan officially become a couple. Tew tries for a kiss in the bedroom, but he gets too nervous midway and wants to escape the awkward moment. Kan catches him and completes their first kiss. While both want to be affectionate, Tew's shyness and inexperience hold him back. Kan gently takes the lead, guiding Tew and helping him feel comfortable. Through his actions, Kan reassures Tew that it's okay to express himself physically and emotionally. Let your guard down and open up to me.

As they undress, Tew grows nervous again. He avoids eye contact and focuses on Kan's injury. Sensing his hesitation, Kan offers gentle encouragement. This reassurance helps Tew overcome his shyness, meet his partner's gaze, and feel at ease. For the first time, Tew initiates the kiss. It's a momentous breakthrough for him. This closeted cop once ran away from discussions about his sexuality, yet he's now secure enough to express his desires for another man. Tew, who has always been so reserved with his emotions, frees himself from his insecurities. He's finally opening up to intimacy.

Closure

Tew still doesn't know the truth about his mother's death, a secret that threatens to disrupt the couple's bliss. The water motif from Episode 3 returns in the finale, carrying symbolic weight. During the hospital scene, a pitcher of water is displayed as Tew talks about his mother. Later, water is seen again in the vase with the blue hydrangeas. The subtle visual cues emphasize Kan's lack of transparency with his partner. He hasn't been honest about his involvement in euthanasia.

Tew is shown drinking from a coffee cup throughout the finale. Unlike the purity of water, coffee symbolizes complexity. The story uses this imagery to suggest that Tew needs a more nuanced perspective about his mother's death. Kan reinforces this idea, "You feel guilty for not being there for your mom's final moments. You need to move on, or you won't be happy." Despite Kan's advice, the trauma continues to weigh on Tew. He's trying to move on, but without closure, the pain lingers.

Understanding

Rin's circumstances are strikingly similar to Tew's. She also lost a terminally ill parent to Kan's euthanasia. Her father, Dr. Pirot, died eight years ago, yet the lack of closure has haunted her ever since. A sharp cookie, Rin suspects Kan's involvement and plays mind games to challenge him. Rin sends empty letters, creating a sense of unease and uncertainty that mirrors her emotional torment. During a tense confrontation, Rin learns the truth about how her father passed away.

Although tearful and conflicted about her father's decision to end his life, Rin responds with surprising grace. "I respect his wishes." She shows understanding instead of blaming Kan. Time may have eased her pain, allowing her to forgive. Her coroner job has also familiarized her with death, so she's comfortable with the concept. Or maybe it's just her personality. Rin is a thoughtful woman who can grasp the complexity of euthanasia. The story uses Rin to illustrate emotional maturity. While loss feels painful, some loved ones would support the right to die when they understand it was for the best.

Law

Unlike Rin, Tew condemns Kan's actions, calling him a murderer who has no legal right to assist in anyone's death. Kan responds indignantly, "Or is the law wrong!?" Kan argues the current laws are poorly designed without considering complex situations, like terminal illnesses. The euthanasia ban is cruel since it ignores the pain endured by patients and their families. "The law never understands the inequalities, the lack of resources, the suffering. The law has no feelings! It has no heart!"

Tew is like the anti-euthanasia laws in human form. His beliefs are inflexible, his thinking lacks nuance, and his emotions remain repressed. There was an illusion that Tew had become more open-minded in his ideas and feelings. He drinks coffee now! He can kiss a guy! Yet, these changes aren't enough to alter him fundamentally. Likewise, Thai society seems more progressive than before, but the laws on assisted dying are still restricted. Despite Kan's sound arguments and emotional pleas, he fails to change Tew's mind. Tew sticks to his rigid ideas that killing anyone goes against the law.

Grief

The grief of losing his mother consumes Tew, amplified by the guilt that he failed her as a son. Tew regrets being absent throughout her illness. He's also bitter about never having the chance to say goodbye. Besides feeling confused over why his mother wanted to die, Tew is heartbroken that he couldn't change her mind. All these intense emotions channel into his vengeance, directed at the man who robbed him of his mother's love. Tew's pain is inconsolable, and it keeps him from moving on.

The police assumed Boss was the killer, clearing Kan from suspicion. However, Tew refuses to let the matter rest. He treats this case personally, not just as a detective, but as a son mourning his parent. For Tew, it's no longer strictly about the law. He wants to punish Kan for taking his mother's life. Kan once suggested that Tew can't move on because of guilt. Tew's coping mechanism is to blame someone else for her death, and Kan becomes the perfect target. This rationale doesn't seem logical, but grief rarely is. It clouds judgment and drives people to seek closure in any way possible.

Dignity

In Tew's mind, he pictured a tragic vision of his mother's death. He imagined her in pain, scared, alone without loved ones by her side. Yet, a flashback reveals that her final moments were calm and peaceful. She was sound of mind, gave consent, and accepted her fate with quiet strength. Her exchanges with Tew were filled with tenderness. He brushed her hair while she caressed his face. Contrary to Tew's belief, his mother ended her life with dignity and grace, not fear or suffering.

Tew's mother didn't involve him in her decision, likely to protect her son or because she knew he'd oppose it. Without understanding her perspective, Tew projects his own pain onto her death. He assumes she died helplessly because that's how he feels about losing her. In reality, his mother made a conscious choice. She had the time, clarity, and courage to see death as a natural part of life. Euthanasia could stop her prolonged suffering. However, Tew is overwhelmed by grief and guilt, making it hard to separate his emotions from her experiences.

Compassion

Like Tew, some family members of terminally ill patients oppose euthanasia. They don't want to acknowledge the harsh reality that death may bring peace. Assisted dying represents a finality that is hard to accept, as it means losing somebody forever. It also highlights their powerlessness for not being able to save their loved ones. While staying alive causes pain for the patient, choosing death brings pain to the family. This conflict creates a difficult dilemma for everyone involved.

As a doctor, Kan understands the suffering of terminally ill patients. Besides witnessing their pain firsthand, he experienced it himself when his own loved one endured the same agony. Driven by empathy, Kan wants to help others avoid such torment. He could've refused to get involved, allowing Tew to say goodbye while watching his mother struggle for many months. However, Kan chose compassion over the law. He didn't want Tew's mother to endure every moment in anguish. The doctor honoured his patient's wishes and ended her life, sparing her from a prolonged living hell.

Love

Tew could have moved on, like Rin, and respected his parent's decision to die. He had the chance to build a happy future with Kan. If his mother were alive, she'd be proud to see her son with a respectable doctor, fulfilling her dying wish exactly. Even if Tew felt conflicted about the relationship, he didn't have to report Kan, who was altruistic and a pillar of the community. Yet, Tew chose to arrest him. Tew sabotages his own happiness and ruins the life of the man he loves, all because he can't let go of his grief.

"I love you, Doctor." In the last scene, Tew shows vulnerability, breaking free from his lifelong guardedness. However, just like with his mother, the words come too late. Tew never expressed his love before she died. Now, he confesses to Kan after destroying their future together. Once again, Tew yearns for unattainable love. His struggles are self-inflicted, either due to repressed feelings or rigid thinking. If Tew had the emotional intelligence to open up to his mother earlier or empathize with his boyfriend's perspective, he might have found happiness. Instead, his "I love you" will forever carry bittersweet regret.

Mercy

The tragedy in Tew's character is his lack of understanding. He doesn't realize the depth of his mother's pain or why death may feel more peaceful than living. She never wanted to burden her son, yet he misinterprets her intentions. By agonizing over the past, he goes against her dying wishes. Tew also fails to grasp the nuances of euthanasia. He sees Kan as a villain who took his mother away, ignoring the compassion that motivated the doctor's actions. Tew refuses to acknowledge that Kan stopped her suffering, just as she requested.

In the final scene, a poignant shot shows Kan's hands in handcuffs, holding a wilted flower. Before administering euthanasia to Tew's mother, Kan had combed her hair and placed a blue hydrangea to give her a dignified appearance. This flower alerted Tew to Kan's involvement and led to his arrest. Ironically, Kan put the flower there as a loving gesture, yet Tew interpreted it as an incriminating clue. By juxtaposing the flower and the handcuffs, the story wants to show how compassion is criminalized. It delivers a critique of current euthanasia laws, where an act of mercy is tragically twisted into a murder.

Ending Review

BAWLING MY EYES OUT!!! What the hell, that was so sad! I thought the series would end happily with Tew forgiving Kan, and the last scene is the couple kissing in a garden of blue hydrangeas. Instead, Tew gets Kan arrested??? WTF NO. 😭 DON'T DO THIS TEW. 😭 YOU LOVE HIM. 😭 With that said, their final confrontation was an incredible scene. Kan's actor (Tor) performs phenomenally, delivering each line with raw intensity. Kan's arguments were so compelling that I almost thought he could change Tew's mind.

Kan lied by claiming Tew's mother had no lingering concerns before she died. In the flashback, she expressed her worry for Tew's happiness, a detail Kan withholds. Presumably, he wants to spare Tew from additional pain. Throughout the series, I thought Kan should've stayed away from Tew. Getting romantically involved with him after you helped his mom die was a dangerous idea. Yet, her final words, "Please look after Tew for me", made me realize Kan wanted to fulfill her dying wish. Despite the risks involved, Kan kept his promise to Tew's mother and tried to connect with her son.

After the finale, I checked the online comments. The usual BL fans want a sequel or a special episode. But honestly, how would that even work? Tew sent Kan to jail! With everything that happened, I don't think the couple's romance could recover. Then, my imagination kicked in. Here's my pitch for Spare Me Your Mercy Season 2. Years later, Kan is released from prison and discovers Tew has a terminal illness. After reconnecting, Tew becomes enlightened and agrees to let Kan assist in his death. The last scene is Kan injecting euthanasia into Tew. 😭