#Hyun Bin was exceptional in this role

[dangermousie]

2023 Kdramas I am excited for

We have only a bit over two months in the year left, but it looks like kdramas saved the best for last. Here is the list of kdramas I am excited for...

Boyhood/Once Upon a Boyhood (November 24) - Siwan hasn't done a bad drama and I am in the mood for a nostalgic 80s piece. I am a little amused that a 35 year old is gonna be playing a high schooler, but in a fond way.

Castaway Diva (October 28) - I am very fond of Park Eun Bin and if anyone can sell the whimsy of a tale about a woman who was a castaway and then becomes a pop star, she will. Not fond of the new trend for 12 eps but it is what it is.

Goryeo-Khitan War (November 11) - my most anticipated for the rest of the year. Every casting and crew choice, every promo makes it look like an old school politics and war heavy sageuk that does not cater in the least to youth or even fusion sageuk subgenres and I am here for it so so so MUCH!

Gyeongseong Creature (December) - not a big fan of netflix originals but I am there for the cast and the setting.

The Matchmakers (October 30) - looks like a wacky period romp with Rowoon and Cho Yi Hyun. I don't have high hopes for it because I like my period stuff angsty, but whatever else, it's gonna be pretty pretty pretty!

Moon In the Day (November 1) - except for GK War, my most anticipated for the rest of the year. Reincarnation/time travel story that flashes back between modern day and Silla - GOD YES!

My Demon (November 24) - sounds like shoujo crack about a demon who loses his powers and enters into a contract marriage (of course) with a human. Done many many times before but I am always a sucker for the trope.

Perfect Marriage Revenge (October 28) - first of all, I have a huge weak spot for Sung Hoon. He's a limited actor but between New Tales of the Gisaeng and his role in Faith, he won my heart forever. But also, this plot is so old school melo the way they don't make it nowadays. Our FL is betrayed by her sister and her husband and dies. But she wakes up before her marriage and decides to do things differently and get revenge. She gets married in a contract marriage to our ML, a chaebol (of course) played by sexy Sung Hoon and...doesn't it all sound like those delicious transmigration novels made flesh?

The Story of Park's Marriage Contract (November 24) - I love time travel/time slip stories and the fact that this is a woman who ends up in the modern day where she comes across the dead ringer of her deceased husband makes it high class Durian, plus Lee Se Young is a wonderful actress who rarely picks wrong.

Tell Me That You Love Me (November) - a remake of my favorite jdrama of all time, Aishteiru to Ittekure, this story about the relationship between a deaf painter and an aspiring younger actress is going to give me the adult love story I crave. The fact that the legend that is Jung Woo Sung is back in dramas, and is playing the ML, is just the perfect thing. (His last proper drama was Padam Padam in 2011!!! He is mainly a movie star.)

Vigilante (November 8) - I am just here to see Nam Joo Hyuk kick people in the face.

Welcome to Samdalri (December 2) - Shin Hye Sun and Ji Chang Wook in a romcom mmmmm. I don't have any pics so have:

#kdrama #welcome to samdalri #vigilante #tell me that you love me #goryeo khitan war #moon in the day #my demon #castaway diva #perfect marriage revenge #The Story of Park's Marriage Contract #the matchmakers #Gyeongseong Creature #boyhood #once upon a boyhood

[inpursuitofnunchi]

the first show i watched with sjk was DOTS and honestly...i didn't get the hype. I got into kdramas with CLOY and my heart belonged to Hyun bin before i discovered jung hae in and others later. I found myself caring way more about the second leads and the bromance in dots and honestly neither sjk nor song hye kyo made an impact on me with their characters/acting. Sjk was playing a classic cocky male lead who was written a little too clichéd for my taste. I like my clichés a little off the mark.

But anyway, fast forward a few years and netflix pitches me space sweepers to watch. And I'm blown away. The acting, the writing, the fun ensemble cast. Brilliant. And then comes Vincenzo. AND THERE IT WAS, that i surrendered completely. The writing, the acting, the chemistry between the ml and fL MY GOD, everything off the charts!! It had me shipping them off screen and I've only done this with binjin in the past. I cannot. Joongki has soared to my top five without even me knowing. What a guy. He's been killing it in reborn rich and proving everyone who said he couldn't do serious roles with his baby face, wrong. And i am SOOOO here for it.

This same thing happened with me when i watched start-up too. seonho completely escaped my radar. I mean i loved his acting and his chemistry with halmeoni (it made me bawl) but i never was on the "second lead deserved the girl" squad. Then in 2021 i started homcha because of my girl shin min-a (my venus of daegu, I'd kill for her) and turns out im smothered, absolutely drowning in hots and love for kim seon ho. And now he is sitting cozily in my heart with that crown. There's something about me and discovering my love for oppas the second time around, hehe.

I am loving joongki in reborn rich (except the forceful fizzled chemistry). I love slow burns and i relished those in vincenzo and stranger. This...whatever this is, is not slow burn. It's mostly cringe and romance written just for the sake of it. It's unfair to both the actors and the audience. About to start ep 11 now and cannot wait to see where this rollercoaster of a revenge drama takes us all.

#reborn rich #song joong ki #kdrama #jtbc #tvn #jtbc drama #tvn drama #hometown cha cha cha #kim seon ho #hyun bin #son ye jin #binjin #cloy #homcha #crash landing on you

[bl-bam-beyond]

ACTORS PROFILES # 11

Name: KANG YOO SEOK

Nickname/aka: Kang You Seok, Kang Yoo Suk

Birthdate: June 10, 1994 [GEMINI]

Nationality: Korean

Born: South Korea

Career: Actor

Debut Role: 2018 God's Quiz: Reboot in a Guest Role.

First Main Role: The Interviewees (Movie)

MAIN ROLE: SERIES- LIGHT ON ME (2021) as NOH SHIN WOO

MAIN ROLE: SERIES- GROWING SEASON as WI SEON WOO

Support Roles and Guest Roles:

The Grotesque Mansion 2021 (Movie) as Tae Hoon

The Flatterer 2022 (Movie) Support Role

The Hymn of Death (Series) Guest Role

Love As You Taste (Series) Guest Role Ep. 1

Melting ME Softly (Series) as Park Young Joon (Support Role)

Dr. Romantic 2 (Series) as Joon Young (Guest Role, Prisoner)

Once Again (Series) as Han Ki Young (Support Role, Doctor)

Mystic Pop Up Bar (Series) Guest Role

Start Up (Series) as Shin Hyun (Developer) Support Role

Beyond Evil (Series) as Im Gyu Seok (Reporter) Guest Role (3 Episodes)

2021 Summer Drama Collage: Monster Mansion (Series) as Tae Hoon (Guest Role)

I Have Not Done My Best Yet (Series) as Kang Doo Seok (Support Role)

Upcoming Works:

KANG YOO SEOK is a part of Netflix Series BLACK KNIGHT as APRIL it is a MAIN ROLE also starring KIM WOO BIN

As well as a Support Role in THE MENTALIST as KANG YEON WOO

Kang is an exceptional actor. He was terrific as Noh Shin Woo in BL series LIGHT ON ME. A role he reprised with co-star LEE SAE ON (TAE KYUNG) in a guest capacity on Season 3 of BEST MISTAKE.

Not likely but I'd personally love to see Noh Shin Woo in LIGHT ON ME Season 2.

#ACTORS PROFILES 11 #GIFS by ME #SOUTH KOREAN ACTOR #NOH SHIN WOO #TAE KYUNG BOYFRIEND #My GIFS #LIGHT ON ME #GROWING SEASON #THE INTERVIEWEES #HANDSOME #TALENTED

[galaxymagick]

@m_bunjum

#뮤지컬 #번지점프를하다 안녕하세요, 뮤지컬 <번지점프를 하다> 제작사 (주)신스웨이브입니다. 공연팀 내 코로나19 확진으로 인한 캐스팅 변경 및 일부 회차 공연 취소 안내드립니다. 공연을 기다려주셨을 관객분들께 불편을 드려 죄송합니다. 보다 자세한 안내는 이미지로 확인 부탁드립니다.

#Musical #Bungeejumpingoftheirown ☂ Hello, I'm Synth Wave, the producer of the musical <Bungee Jumping of Their Own>. We are informing you of the change in casting and cancellation of some performances due to the confirmation of COVID-19 in the performance team. We apologize for the inconvenience to the audience who have been waiting for the performance. Please check the image for more detailed information.

*image translation below

*June 22nd (Wed) 19:30  Im Hyun Bin 役 Ren → Jung Jae Hwan Eo Hye Joo 役 Lee Hue → Lee Jae Hee *June 23rd (Thu) 19:30  Eo Hyejoo, 役 Ji Su-yeon → Lee Jae-hee Yoon Ki-seok, 役 Jang Jae-woong → Kim Dae-ho *June 24th (Fri) 19:30   Eo Hyejoo 役 Lee Hue → Lee Jaehee *June 25th (Sat) at 14:00  cancelled *June 25th (Sat) 18:30   Eo Hyejoo 役 Lee Hue → Lee Jaehee Yoon Gi Seok 役 Jang Jaewoong → Kim Daeho *June 26th (Sunday) at 14:00 cancelled *June 26th (Sunday) 18:30 Eo Hye-joo  役 Ji Su-yeon → Lee Jae-hee *June 28th (Tue) 19:30 Eo Hyejoo 役 Ji Suyeon → Lee Hue *June 29th (Wed) 19:30 Eo Hyejoo 役 LeeHyu → Ji Su-yeon

Taekwoon’s dates were as follows, there are no cancellations to his performances except cast changes. 

*June 23 (Thurs) 19:30 *June 26 (Sun) 18:30 *June 29 (Wed) 19:30 *July 03 (Sun) 18:30

*役 means role *the second image is just how to refund for the cancelled performances

#vixx #taekwoon #leo #jung taekwoon #220620 #musical bungee jumping #*v:p #🖤 #please excuse any mistakes ><;;

[celtalks]

SBS Drama Awards 2023: Triumphs, Tears, and Top Talent Shine at the Prism Tower

A Night of Glitz, Glamour, and Unforgettable Performances Celebrates the Best in Korean Dramas

In a dazzling spectacle held at the SBS Prism Tower in Sangam-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, the SBS Drama Awards 2023 unfolded on December 29th, drawing the curtain on a year filled with exceptional television storytelling. Hosted by the dynamic duo of Shin Dong-yup and Kim Yoo-jung, the ceremony not only showcased the immense talent within the Korean drama industry but also featured electrifying musical performances by TOMORROW x TOGETHER, Hwasa, Guckkasten, Doldams, Ahn Hyo-seop, and Lee Sung-kyung.

Grand Prize: A Celebration of Excellence

The prestigious Grand Prize was awarded to Kim Tae-ri for her outstanding performance in 'Revenant,' while Lee Je-hoon took home the honor for his remarkable role in 'Taxi Driver 2.'

Top Excellence Awards: Recognizing Genre Prowess

Top Excellence Award, Actor (Specialized Genre/Action Drama): Park Sung-woong in 'The Killing Vote' Top Excellence Award, Actress (Specialized Genre/Action Drama): Moon Chae-won in 'Payback' Top Excellence Award, Actor (Miniseries Romance/Comedy Drama): Song Kang in 'My Demon' Top Excellence Award, Actress (Miniseries Romance/Comedy Drama): Kim Yoo-jung in 'My Demon' Top Excellence Award, Actor (Seasonal Drama): Ahn Hyo-seop in 'Dr. Romantic 3' Top Excellence Award, Actress (Seasonal Drama): Lee Sung-kyung in 'Dr. Romantic 3'

Excellence Awards: Showcasing Versatility

Excellence Award, Actor (Specialized Genre/Fantasy Drama): Lee Joon in 'The Escape of the Seven' and Hong Kyung in 'Revenant' Excellence Award, Actress (Specialized Genre/Fantasy Drama): Lee Yu-bi in 'The Escape of the Seven' Excellence Award, Actor (Miniseries Romance/Comedy Drama): Ryeoun in 'The Secret Romantic Guesthouse' Excellence Award, Actress (Miniseries Romance/Comedy Drama): Shin Ye-eun in 'The Secret Romantic Guesthouse'

Supporting Cast: A Vital Backbone

Best Supporting Actor (Specialized Genre/Fantasy Drama): Bae Yoo-ram and Jang Hyuk-jin in 'Taxi Driver 2,' Kim Won-hae in 'Revenant' Best Supporting Actress (Specialized Genre/Fantasy Drama): Son Ji-yoon in 'The First Responders 2' Best Supporting Actor (Miniseries Romance/Comedy Drama): Jung Soon-won in 'Trolley' and 'My Demon' Best Supporting Actress (Miniseries Romance/Comedy Drama): Seo Jung-yeon in 'My Demon' and 'Trolley'

Unforgettable Bonds: Best Couple and Scene Stealer

Best Couple Award: Song Kang and Kim Yoo-jung in 'My Demon' Scene Stealer Award: Go Sang-ho in 'Dr. Romantic 3,' Byun Jung-hee in 'Dr. Romantic 3'

Welcoming New Talents: Best New Actors and Actresses

Best New Actor: Kim Do-hoon in 'The Escape of the Seven,' Kang Yoo-seok in 'Payback,' Lee Shin-young in 'Dr. Romantic 3,' Lee Hong-nae in 'Dr. Romantic 3' Best New Actress: Kwon Ah-reum in 'The Killing Vote,' Yang Hye-ji in 'Revenant,' Jung Soo-bin in 'Trolley'

Rising Stars: Best Young Actors and Actresses

Best Young Actor: Choi Hyun-jin in 'The Killing Vote,' Han Ji-an in 'Dr. Romantic 3' Best Young Actress: Park So-yi in 'Revenant,' Ahn Chae-heum in 'Taxi Driver 2'

Collective Brilliance: Best Supporting Team and Performance

Best Supporting Team: 'Dr. Romantic 3' Best Performance: Jin Seon-kyu in 'Revenant'

Netizens' Choice: Best SBS Drama of 2023

'Taxi Driver 2' claimed the hearts of netizens, earning the coveted title of Best SBS Drama of 2023. In a night filled with emotion, laughter, and celebration, the SBS Drama Awards 2023 paid tribute to the incredible talent and creativity that graced the small screen throughout the year. As the curtains closed on the Prism Tower, the memories of this spectacular event will undoubtedly linger in the hearts of both the industry and its avid viewers, setting the stage for another year of exceptional storytelling and unforgettable performances.   Read the full article

#KimTaeRi #KimYoo-jung #korean #LeeJe-hoon #Revenant #SBSDramaAwards2023 #ShinDong-yup #TaxiDriver2

[brixthomassen22]

Your doing the Skilled and Fabulous: The Allure of Incredibly hot Korean Fashion trendy starsSouth Korea's entertainment industry has got garnered intercontinental acclaim, and one of its most crucial facets certainly is the realm in hot Korean actors. All these talented individuals have not merely made ocean in their country but have even gained a worldwide following, giving significantly on the Hallyu Wave, which represents the global spread of South Korean culture. In this article, most of us delve into the charisma of hot Korean actors, their whole impact on the global stage, as well as some of the standout names on the market.<br/><br/>The Allure of Scorching Korean Actors<br/><br/>1 . Extraordinary Talent: Korean actors happen to be renowned for their versatility and dedication to their craft. A lot of them have produced their capabilities through strenuous training as well as have received acknowledgement for their spectacular performances.<br/><br/>minimal payments Impeccable Appears: Beyond their very own acting prowess, hot Korean language actors typically possess attractive good looks and a unique sense of style that appeals to a global audience. All their visuals cause them to become not only gifted but as well captivating on-screen.<br/><br/>3. Interesting Storylines: Korean dramas, referred to as K-dramas, happen to be celebrated because of their engaging and heartwarming storylines. These a movie often characteristic hot Korean language actors when lead character types, drawing readers into their exciting narratives.<br/><br/>5. Emotional Range: Korean celebrities are experienced at promoting deep sensations, making visitors empathize utilizing their characters' advantages and heartaches. This mental connection should be in their acceptance.<br/><br/>The Global Impression of Hot Korean Stars<br/><br/>Hot Korean language actors include played a pivotal function in scattering Korean way of life and pleasure worldwide. Here's how they have already made an impression:<br/><br/>1 . <a href="https://koreanpornmovie.com/">https://koreanpornmovie.com/</a> -Drama Fandom: The recognition of Korean dramas has resulted in a dedicated world-wide fanbase. Supporters from distinct countries consistently await the discharge of new series featuring their exclusive actors.<br/><br/>installment payments on your K-Cinema Achievement: Korean shows, often acting hot Korean actors, include gained popularity at overseas film fests and package offices. Talented movies like "Parasite" and "Train to Busan" include showcased the talent of Korean actors.<br/><br/>3. Societal Diplomacy: The Korean federal government has regarded the power of the entertainment industry and has make an effort to promoted Korean dramas and films being a form of gentle power diplomacy, further boosting the global reach of scorching Korean celebrities.<br/><br/>Hot Korean Actors: Important Names<br/><br/>Although list of scorching Korean stars is extensive, a few companies stand out for their talent and widespread recognition:<br/><br/>1 . Shelter Min-ho: Recognized as his functions in "Boys Over Flowers" and "The King: Eternal Monarch, " Lee Min-ho's charismatic profile has won him an ardent fanbase around the world.<br/><br/>2 . Melody Joong-ki: His breakout function in "Descendants of the Sun" catapulted Music Joong-ki to international stardom. His performing skills and dashing appears have made him a sought-after actor.<br/><br/>several. Park Seo-joon: With roles in hit dramas like "What's Incorrect with Secretary Kim" and "Itaewon School, " Playground Seo-joon provides gained an important reputation designed for his adaptability and attraction.<br/><br/>4. Hyun Bin: Best known for his roles through "Secret Garden" and "Crash Landing for you, " Hyun Bin's liso demeanor and acting skills have endeared him to fans throughout the world.<br/><br/>Hot Korean actors are getting to be synonymous considering the global method known as the Hallyu Wave. The exceptional expertise, good looks, and ability to interact with viewers by using an emotional level have written for the common appeal of Korean language entertainment. Simply because the world is constantly on the embrace Korean dramas and films, the influence in hot Korean actors around the global stage is set take care of them, solidifying the place because beloved numbers in the world of activity.

[jellyfishright]

At A Distance, Spring Is Green -BL Version (Yeo Jun x Nam Soo Hyun):Chapter 4 :Where I belong

The group gathered at a popular cafe of Yeo Jun's choosing to discuss their project. Everyone except Soo Hyun ordered. Of course Yeo Jun was paying.

"So what should our presentation be on?" Chun Guk asked.

"How about success stories in marketing?" Gung-Ho suggested.

Soo Hyun objected. "No.It's a topic easy to do research on so another team could beat us to it."

"Can't we say we called dibs?" Yeo Jun queried.

The juniors replied in unison. "No."

"A common topic won't let us stand out." Soo Hyun expounded.We won't get good grades even with a good presentation."

"What's your idea then?" Gung-Ho poked at Soo Hyun

All eyes turned to him.

"An analysis on marketing strategies that failed." Soo Hyun replied.

Of course. That sounded so much like him.

"It sounds fresh." Jun offered his opinion. "I don't know any better. But it'll make us stand out."

"Isn't it a cheap trick to go that route just because success stories seems too easy?" It was Gung-Ho who objected this time. Soo Hyun leaned back in his chair. "The conclusion will be the same.Something like failure is the mother of success." 

He looked at the girl who seemed to be content with drinking quietly. "Kim Soo Bin. What do you think?"

So-Bin was startled at this sudden inclusion. Still, she thought for a while and made her suggestion.

In the end it was So-Bin's suggestion that won. They would present on a top tier product falling down the ladder due to failure in marketing and examples of marketing strategies that couldn't adjust to the needs of consumers. 

Their next issue to iron out was choosing a leader from among themselves. Gung-Ho, based on his age, assumed the role would automatically be his since he was the eldest.Jun suggested Soo Hyun, Soo Hyun suggest So-Bin since  she had presented the idea. In the end by 4 votes to 2, So-Bin was made the leader.

With these matters settled, Soo Hyun left first. Without a word of goodbye.

"The pretentious jerk!" Gung-Ho griped. "It's impossible to like him."

Yeo Jun looked at the empty seat and bit his lip thoughtfully.

Gung-Ho and the others, with the exception of So-Bin were now ripping into Soo Hyun and his faults.

So-Bin and Jun had their own opinions on Soo Hyun. Unlike the others who discussed him with passionate dislike, these two could certainly agree:Soo Hyun really was a peculiar person. His ways were different but they weren't necessarily wrong.

They were thus engaged in this conversation when Jun's phone rang. His smile faltered at the name on the caller ID. He stopped walking. 

"I've got a call to make." he told So-Bin. "I'll talk to you later group leader."

So-Bin nodded and left.

When she was far away enough Jun picked up the call.

"Hello?"

[Come home for dinner. It's on Friday night. Your aunt and uncle will be there too]

"Right.It's been a while since I've seen you and father."

[Do you actually miss us?] his mother asked

"Of course. I miss home cooked meals too."

[Don't lie just because I can't see you.I can hear it in your voice.] Jun was silent [I'm fond of having you here either.It's not like you're someone to be proud of.Since your brother is busy you'll have to do instead.What can I do when I have a limited number of sons? Be here, even if you don't want to be.]

"Right.I'll see you then." Jun replied.

[Don't be your usual self and be here on time.]

"Sure."

[That reminds me.Is your hair still a mess?I don't want to burn my eyes out so clean yourself up. Your brother never had his hair like that.]

"Yes mother. I'll do just that." Jun replied.."Don't you worry---"

Click.

The line went dead.

Since the day he'd received that call from his mother Yeo Jun had been listless.Her words reverberated daily.

I'm fond of having you here either.

It's not like you're someone to be proud of.

Since your brother is busy you'll have to do instead.What can I do when I have a limited number of sons? 

Be here, even if you don't want to be.

He wasn't sure why had expected or even dared to hope that call would be different. He really was a foolish person.

No matter how much he wished it was different, the ugly truth stared him in his beautiful face.He had no one who wanted him and he had nowhere that he truly belonged.

A few days after the call and it was finally Friday.It was also the day he had the first official group meet for their project. He met Soo Hyun at the door.

"Hi." he greeted him with a smile.

Soo Hyun only looked at him and continued on his way.

Yeo Jun frowned. So rude.

When they both arrived at the designated room, So-Bin was already there arranging snacks on a table.

"You're already here." Jun greeted

"I just got here." she looked at Soo Hyun "Hi Soo Hyun."

"Don't do things like this by yourself. This isn't a team leader's job."

Jun rolled his eyes. "Come on. All you need to say is 'Thank you.'. You're so cranky." He turned to So-Bin. "He's right though.Get me to do it since I'm the youngest."

So-Bin was beginning to look a little uncomfortable. "Anyone who is here can do it." She hoped that would be the end of that discussion.

"Did you call everyone else on the team?" Soo Hyun queried.

So-Bin confirmed that she had.

Over a half hour later, it was still just So-Bin, Soo Hyun and Yeo-Jun. A few minutes after Jun and Soo Hyun's arrival Hye-Ji had texted to say she was coming down with a cold thus they would be down to five.

But at present, the other two were nowhere in sight.

Jun must have been tired of waiting as he pointed out. "This is our first meeting. Where is everyone?"

"Is this your first group assignment?" So-Bin asked Jun.

He nodded.

Since Jun was  freshman, she proceeded to explain what was commonplace in group assignments.There were types sets of people :Those who are responsible and those who are not. When it came to group assignments you would hear all kinds of excuses.

She sighed.

"Gung-Ho and Chun Guk are not picking up their phones. I should have double checked with everyone." She looked particularly at Soo Hyun who was busy writing something "I'm sorry."

Without looking up, Soo Hyun replied. "The fewer people there are, the easier it will be." He finally raised his head "We're here anyway so let's divide the work amongst ourselves."

"Without the others?" Jun asked.

It was Jun who asked but Soo Hyun didn't look at him  when he was responding. "Then what? Are we going to keep waiting?"

"Then I'll let them know which parts they should work on." So-Bin replied.

"Do you trust they'll  do the work?"

This question caught So-Bin offguard.

"What?"

"It's hard to forgive someone who betrays your trust.It's easier to think they were never on the team."

After saying his piece Soo Hyun went back to his work.

Jun, who had been silent for the most part, finally spoke.

"You're always so negative."

"I'd say I'm a realist." Soo Hyun replied.

"If that's what it's like to be a realist, I don't want to be one."  Soo Hyun finally stopped whatever he was working on.  "But it must be hard to be positive if you're down in the gutter " Yeo Jun continued "I get it."

"You get it?" Soo Hyun echoed. He finally looked at Yeo Jun. "Do you even know what that means?"

Yeo Jun held Soo Hyun's gaze. "I sure do.Being broke isn't the only reason you end up in the gutter.I hope you're not one of those pathetic losers who attack innocent people because they think no one else  is more miserable than they are  when they don't even know others' situations. They do that because they have too much ego."

When Jun was done speaking, Soo Hyun began to gather his things.

Seeing the situation taking this turn, So-Bin felt a sense of panic.

"I'm the team leader." she spoke up. Soo Hyun stopped to hear what she had to say "I don't want to give up on anyone.We'll divide it up into six parts.If they don't do their parts,I'll do their work."

Soo Hyun looked at her briefly before sighing.

"Then I'm out." he declared.Without packing the rest in his bag, he retrieved them from the table and took his leave.

So-Bin was stunned. "We need him to be a part of the team."

"Don't worry. I'll brig him back." Yeo Jun assured her before making his way outside.

They didn't have far to go to catch up with Soo Hyun. He was just outside the second set of doors standing opposite Gung-Ho and Chun-Guk.

"What happened Chun-Guk?" I called you several times, So-Bin questioned from behind Soo Hyun.

Chun-Guk hung his head. "We were playing billiards and we lost track of the time."

"Did you guys drink?" Jun asked

"The loser had to buy chicken and beer." Chun-Guk explained.

"Nam Soo Hyun you jerk!" Gung-Ho exploded. "Hey. What did you just say about my age ? Say it again."

"I said you're 26 and you need to act your age." Soo Hyun said matter-of-factly.

Yeo Jun looked at Soo Hyun in disbelief.

"You jerk." Gung-Ho was obviously grieved. "You think I'm a complete joke don't you?"

"Because you played billiards and drank beer, we wasted our precious time." Soo Hyun's words were sharp. "What a way to set an example."

Gung-Ho saw red. "You little jerk. Got a death wish?" He swung at Soo Hyun who dodged. "Look at you. You dodged it? Get back here.Come at me jerk. You're so dead."

Watching this was making Yeo Jun very anxious.

"Gung-Ho. Please calm down." he tried to stay Gung-Ho "We're at school now."

"Get off me." Gung-Ho tapped Jun in the chest

"Help me calm him down." Jun appealed to Chun-Guk.

"Hey. Just leave him be." Chun-Guk frowned. "Nam Soo yun deserves to be beaten up."

"Chun-Guk please." Jun begged.

"You're drunk. Please don't cause trouble. Just leave okay?" So-Bin added her own pleas.

Gung-Ho was incensed "Have you all gone mad?" He looked at Jun. "Yeo Jun.Let go." There was no friendliness in his voice or on his face. "One..two.."

Jun's panic was increasing "You, Chun-Guk and I should go for another drink. Come on." His hands were still on Gung-Ho.

Without further warning, Gung-Ho flung Jun from his body, causing him to slide a few meters away on the floor.

The minute he hit the floor, his pupils shrank as the past came clawing at him.

Pain. Fear. Hurt.Screams.

Pain. Fear. Hurt.Screams.

The voices in the hallway seemed distant and all he could hear were the screams of the past.

"Hey, don't look down on us because your family's rich." Gung-Ho spat. "We know that you belittle us behind our backs."

Soo Hyun looked at Jun on the ground and began walking away.

"Where are you going?" Gung-Ho grabbed him by the shoulder. "You little.." He spun Soo Hyun and swung, finally hitting him in the face.

At the first hit, there was already blood on  Soo Hyun's lips.Gung-Ho grabbed him again, preparing for the second attack when...

"Don't hit him!" Yeo Jun screamed from this place on the ground. It was a pained, desperate scream. "Just talk it out! Why must you hit him?" His chest was heaving. Tears were pricking his eyes. "Don't hit him...Don't.."

Everyone turned to look at Yeo Jun.

"Jun." Soo Hyun called out to Him.

There was a distant look in Yeo Jun's eyes as he repeated "Don't hit him..Don't hit him.."

The group was stunned into silence.No one had ever seen Yeo Jun in such a frenzied, panicked and pitiful state.

Realizing everyone was looking at him Yeo Jun stood to his feet and headed outside, not meeting  a single pair of eyes.

Soo Hyun watched him go.Nevermind his own bleeding face. He was still very taken aback by what he had just witnessed.

Ten minutes later, against his protests, Kim So-Bin applied ointment and a bandaid to his face that was slightly bruised from his run-in with Gung-Ho.

During the time she also managed to convince him to come back to their group as well as promise not to carry the weight of the freeloaders. That satisfied him enough.

He was about to leave when she stayed him.

"Yeo Jun is not normally like that." she said.Soo Hyun looked at her, wondering why she was telling him that. "I don't know why he did that earlier.Please try to understand."

"So you know what he's normally like?" Soo Hyun questioned.

"Jun always smiles alot and is very sociable.I don't think he's usually that sensitive."

"I guess you're right." Soo Hyun conceded. "But I refuse to try to understand him.I simply can't" he confessed. With that, he turned and left.

Yeo Jun hadn't planned on going back to his condo. He's just walked in a daze and this is where he ended up. He was still very bothered by what had happened earlier. He's slipped. At the sight of Soo Hyun being hit like that his own demons came rearing their heads, claws bared.

He sighed.

He was almost at his door when he spotted that car again, parked infront of his condo.

Jun was about to walk by it to head inside when the occupant rolled down the window.

"Get in." he commanded. "You said you were headed home."

Yeo Jun didn't look at Jun Wan. "I can go by myself."

Jun Wan didn't look at Yeo Jun. "Just get in."

Yeo Jun complied.

"Mom called me first. I didn't call her." he said when he was in the passenger seat.

"I told you to let me know if you were ever going to go home." Jun Wan replied.

"I don't want to do that."Neither of them had been looking at the other until now. "Why do I have to do that?" Yeo Jun asked. "Why do I need your permission to go home?"

"Because it's not your home." Jun Wan stated flatly.

"So you're not my brother." he retorted before reaching for the door handle.

Jun Wan locked the doors. "Put your seatbelt on." Yeo Jun complied.

 were looking at the other as they spoke.

The ride to their house wasn't an hour long and before they knew it, the brothers were pulling into their family home.

Yeo Jun timidly walked into the grand home behind his brother.

"Jun Wan! You made it." their mother's face lit up when she saw her elder son.

Yeo Jun might as well have been air---invisible.

"Hello mother." he tried to get her attention.

She gave him a look of disgust, as though he was something foul stuck on the bottom of her shoe. "You're here." She gave him a sweeping glance before focusing once more on Jun Wan.

Yeo Jun's heart dipped lower than the ground as he hung his head. It was like a knife digging into a wound that had not yet scabbed over so it would bleed afresh.

"Come." their mother held on to Jun Wan's arm. "Your aunt and your uncle are here. They will be very happy to see you."

Yeo Jun trailed behind, heading out to the terrace where everyone was gathered.

Including the unwanted Yeo Jun, there were a total of 6 people at the table. His Father,his brother, his mother as well as his mother's sister and her husband.

"I envy you." his aunt spoke to his mother. "Your younger son is so adorable." Yeo Jun smiled.

"And your elder son is the youngest doctorate degree holder and a professor." her husband joined in. "Myung-hoon." he addressed Jun's father specifically "you've done a great job raising your boys."

His father's face was its usual stern self. "A man must ave big goals. I expect more from them." he stated bluntly.

"Doesn't Jun Wan look more handsome in person than he does on TV?" their mother smiled proudly looking at her first born.

"Yes .He does." the table agreed.

"Chan-woo got into Seoyul University you know." his aunt boasted of her son. "He'll attend Jun-Wan's alma mater."

"That doesn't mean they're on the same level." his father's bluntness cut in. His aunt's face faltered.

She turned her attention to Yeo Jun. "Jun. What are you majoring in at Seoyul University?"

Jun-Wan put his fork down.

"I didn't get in." Yeo Jun confessed. "I'm studying business at Myungil University."

"Oh. Right." she replied. "Everyone else in the family studied at Seoyul University so I forgot." She looked at her sister. "Sorry about that."

An awkward silence descended on the table. He had to do something.

"My School's great auntie." Yeo Jun replied. "Jun Wan teaches at my school you know."

"That's true." his aunt conceded. "I thought he'd get a position at either Seoyul University of HAIST but you transferred to Myungil University?"

That awkward silence threatened to metastasize. Yeo Jun's efforts had gone horribly wrong.

"Seoyul University, which we graduated from , isn't that different from Myungil University that Jun is going to. " Jun -Wan pointed out.

"Not different?" his aunt questioned. "That's ridiculous." she'd obviously taken offence to Jun-Wan's proclamation.

"Despite the standards of Korean Universities,none of them produced a noteworthy scholar or has an outstanding educational environment."

There were no more arguments brooked. There was also no way to diffuse the bomb whose fuse had been lit.

#bl series #boy love #at a distance spring is green #yeo jun x nam soo hyun #nam soo hyun #yeo jun #fiction #fanfiction #fanfic

[tsuyoi-hikari]

Memories of the Alhambra Review & Ending Explanation

I really love this drama as a whole. I love how groundbreaking and interesting it is that each episode seemed like its only 15 to 30 minutes long. I love how unpredictable it is like literally, you cant guess whats coming and I love how it is structured to make you speculate and ask questions. The editing was made to show the future first and later flashback scenes will follow aka Christopher Nolan’s ‘Momento’ kind of storytelling. You know that a story is great when it can evoke you all kind of emotions and this drama is exactly that. It made you care for the characters, only to play you around and makes you wanting for more. And I salute the writer for her ability to engage the viewers like she did in this drama.

Aside from that, I really love the writer’s little clues here and there. She did a looooot of foreshadowing in this drama. It sure raise a lot of questions but you know whats coming with that. I mean, we after all can predict Jeong Hun’s death the moment Jin Woo asked Jeong Hun to join him at Granada (as in the train flashback scene, Jin Woo is alone and not with Jeong Hun). We also know right away that Marco is the one who hunt Se Joo the moment he made his appearance in the drama (as a blue checkered guy is the one who shot Se Joo). We also know as early as in Episode 2 that Jin Woo’s leg will be injured but his limp is cured the moment he’s playing the game. The dynamic of Jin Woo and Hee Joo’s relationship is also foreshadow since in the earlier episode on how she’s sitting in front of Jin Woo in the rain is making him feel protected and safe. Hee Joo didnt kill the enemies like Jeong Hun would (since after all she cant see Hyeong Seok's NPC), but her presence and existence is like a buffer between Jin Woo and the game and that particular scene perfectly show what would her role be in Jin Woo’s life in the future. 

Jin Woo has become one of my very fave Kdramas’ lead characters ever. And I have to give credit to Hyun Bin for that. He played Jin Woo in such a depth that you literally feel his pain just by looking in his eyes. I have watched Hyun Bin for the past 15 years and I have to say that this is simply his best role to date (although Hyun Bin's Robin from 'Hyde, Jekyll, Me' is my soulmate :P). Its been a really long time that I’m this emotionally invested in a character and Hyun Bin portrayal of Jin Woo made me feel Jin Woo’s soul. Aside from his outburst in Episode 1, Jin Woo is actually a really nice, humble and level-headed guy. Its evidenced with the way he talk to other people despite their status – he actually use a polite language (instead of Banmal) to everyone even to his low-level workers. And not to mention that despite his trouble with the game, he still treat people with utmost respect and care despite he himself is facing a real life and death situations.

Now regarding the romance part of the drama, I thought it was done very tastefully and slowly -- in a mature kind of way. You could see clearly why Hee Joo falls for Jin Woo. The mixture of Jin Woo kindness (still giving her the full amount of the contract), to him touching her soft spot (playing guitar), to him still taking care of his ex-wife (despite he didnt need to), to him facing real & death situation when he falls at her hostel, to her taking care of him and Jin Woo asking her to stay... And later when she realised the length Jin Woo went through to find Se Joo. All this small details contribute to why she loves him. And as for Jin Woo, its obvious that he falls for Hee Joo's kindness and strength. He was impressed with her ability to feed her family and was also taken back by her kindness (the length she is willing to go to help him either in interpreting to taking care of him when he's sick), to her quirkiness on how she explodes when she's mad. Plus, the most important of all is how her presence made him feels safe -- even when Hyeong Seok NPC is in front of him (during the rain scene). Hee Joo is like a buffer between the game and Jin Woo. He just unintentionally ask her to stay by his side since he is just too scared to be alone. He didnt understand it either but later, he realised that he likes her for her sincerity -- the one he never get from Su Jin or Yu Ra. And he actually smile and laugh when she is around him which he never did the whole 1 year after their last meeting at Granada when the game make him question his sanity. That is why he had the urge to see her before he completed the final mission since she is someone important in his life. IMO, the romance part was dealt with many minor details and mature way thats why I ended up really liking how their relationship grows despite the horrible situation they're in -- its not too much nor too little. When you are deal with real life and death situation, your feelings intensifies which explain their relationship perfectly.

All in all, I give the drama 9.5/10. It is not perfect but it was interesting as hell and full of unpredictable plots. I would love it more if the writer actually explain how the characters die because loss of blood when they were killed in the game but I guess she just lump sum it up as part of the 'fantasy and mysterious’ part of the game when Emma made the reality and game world collide when Marco stabbed Se Joo with real knife. But aside from these minor details, this drama has become one of the most nerve-wrecking Kdramas in my book. Its rare for me to have palpitation when I watch Kdramas but this drama is one of a rare case and it will always be special in my heart because of that. :D

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Explanation on the Ending:

ITS OBVIOUSLY A CLEAR CUT HAPPY ENDING. WHY?

I know that many people are really dissatisfied with this drama’s ending. I personally thought the writer trying to be creative with her ending but kind of backfired as many people got confuse with the game concepts and thought that the bug cycle was repeating themselves over and over again now that Jin Woo is still stuck in the game. 

On the surface, the drama ended with a bittersweet note with a glimmer of hope at the end. However, after a second viewing, I have to admit that it is after all a clear cut happy ending. I realised many small details that the writer gave to us – that it was clear that despite the ending is ambiguous, the writer aimed for a happy end to both of our main leads. First of all, lets clear the confusion regarding the concept of the game world.

1. At first, I thought that Emma, while one of her features is to delete bugs, is a bug itself as she’s the reason why the game world and the reality world collide when Marco stabbed Se Joo with real knife. I mean, if she’s not there, the whole mess of the game become real wouldn’t happen as Se Joo will just bleed after the stab and probably recover after he go to the hospital. Jin Woo wouldn’t be in that mess and the only one suffers is only Se Joo with the stab wounds on his stomach. 

2. Marco is Se Joo’s bug thus he do not need to be deleted for Jin Woo to reset the game. Plus, Jin Woo can't see Marco anyway unless he made an alliance with Se Joo. Bear in mind that Se Joo is the one who create this game and he set the rules. Among the rules are those who gave Fatima the Key to Heaven will win the game and become the new Master. And he also put one of Emma’ s features is to delete bugs and once bugs are deleted, the game will reset. And that is exactly what Jin Woo did; level up, get the key, kill the bugs and hand over the key to Emma and Emma reset the game. Now, why Jin Woo is a bug and need to be deleted? It is because he played the game while the game is in error state. Had other testers of the game made a duel and killed their opponents like Jin Woo, they will be in the same position as Jin Woo as well.

3. Jin Woo made sure he killed all of the bugs and also sacrificing himself in the process to end the game’s sinister elements. Since he already do this and reset the game to zero, there are no more evil cycle of one has to sacrifice themselves to save the others. Once Emma reset everything, it is a new game without bugs/errors/glitches. J One lost all the data and build the game back from scratch that is why it took them another 1 year to release the new game as they have to rebuild everything. The good thing about the whole thing is that is game is finally safe to be played unlike Se Joo’s original game which mix game world and the real world. The writer made it clear that the evil part of the game was buried once and for all when Jin Woo sacrificing himself at the end. 

4. It was obvious that Yang Ju finally delete Emma from the new game when we hear that he regretted of keeping Emma where Emma in the end reset the whole game and delete all their hard work for the past 1 year. So no Emma, no more error in the game. There is no more Emma so the features of her to delete bugs and reset back the game is no longer there as well. 

5. Regarding whether Hee Joo can see Jin Woo or not, she can see him as she is wearing lenses. All game users can see Jin Woo if he made an appearance that is why the guy at the restaurant insisted that Jin Woo is not NPC but an advanced user. But why there's no name for Jin Woo in the new game? It is because Emma has deleted everything including Jin Woo's game name 'Zinu' that is why he is without name. ‘Instance Dungeon’ is to make one become invisible from the enemies and hide themselves. Se Joo did hide himself for 1 year as Marco is there to hunt him so he keep using the instance dungeon feature to remain safe. Jin Woo in the other hand just use the feature to save himself from getting deleted by Emma. So if he didn't use the instant dungeon feature, other game users can see him. The problem is getting him out of the game and I believe that is Se Joo's task to do that. 

And now the for ending, the writer purposely tell us about the 'Instance Dungeon’ and how a user can use it to hide themselves. And later at the end, it is shown that Jin Woo after all did use that feature to save himself. But why is he helping in killing low-level NPCs for other game users just days after the game was released? It is not actually a 'Master’ task to do that and he knew the game is now free from bugs and no one is getting killed for real. But he did it anyway. Why? He did that as a call of help to alert everyone that he is after all still alive but somehow still stuck in the game. He clearly let them know that he is still alive by helping the other game users. Now that Hee Joo knew that he is alive and hidden, it is only a matter of time for him to be saved just like how he saved Se Joo the year earlier. So, technically, it is only a matter of time before he can get his happy ending. 

I am pretty much disappointed with the ending but upon second viewing, it wasn’t really that bad like I initially felt. The writer for surely aimed for a happy end, it just that, its not in-your-face type of ending like other dramas.

#Memories of the Alhambra #Memories of Alhambra #Hyun Bin #Park Shin Hye #Chanyeol #Kdramas #Reviews #Rants #The best drama of 2018 #Hyun Bin was exceptional in this role #I wanted more!

[peepspersonalperspective]

MY PICKS: Top 10 K-Dramas

Disclaimer: These are totally subjective choices and I've justified them as per my preferences. Consider them friendly recommendations and let me know if you disagree. Also, I've discovered the wonderful world of K-Dramas over the last couple of years and they've really evolved not just in storytelling but also production value so I personally prefer the more recent ones. So for example I haven't put a very popular pick like My Love from the Star simply because I've seen better stuff since (don't shoot me). Anyway, 가자!

MEMORIES OF ALAHAMBRA

This is my first recommendation for anyone who's just starting out watching Korean television content simply because it's so different from what new viewers expect it to be. It's so gripping and thrilling. I would expect nothing less from Song Jae Jung's writing.

So it's a sci-fi show, set in Spain, about an augmented reality game, that seems to have physical implications in the real world, sending the lead, Hyun Bin on a rollercoaster ride to find answers. Exo's Chanyeol has a recurring role as the game developer, so that's exciting too. I learnt that he was cast because of his love for PubG. Lol.

Every episode will leave you wanting more, and you'll find yourself as desperate to search for answers as Yoo Jin Woo (Hyun Bin).

Granted, mid season, it gets a little complicated, especially with newer nuances of the game unfolding, but fret not because the characters are discovering the secrets of the game with you. So they're as confused as you would be, and that's why this show is so good! More so because the graphics are excellent! You can tell they really spent money on ensuring high quality work. You will really feel like you're part of the game with Yoo Jin Woo.

Anyway, if you are an EXO-L, or you like gaming, sci-fi, thriller and Hyun Bin, this show is great!

2. W - Two Worlds

Another piece of awesome from Song Jae Jung. I would still rank this show a little below Alahambra, because I think the makers made improvements from this sci-fi drama in Alahambra, in the sense of storytelling. Still, W is just as intriguing.

Oh Yeon Joo (Han Hyo Joo) gets sucked into a comic book where she falls in love with the lead character of the comic book, Kang Chul (Lee Jeong Suk). Sounds like a typical romance drama right? Don't be fooled because there are many many twists and turns along the way.

I feel like there is metaphor in there somewhere about existentialism, the creation and destiny. But maybe that's just me reading into things.

Lee Jeong Suk is extremely desirable as Kang Chul, unsuspectingly charming and endearing, and Oh Yeon Joo is an absolutely relatable character, and how she deals as an ordinary girl thrown into extraordinary circumstances is genuine.

I would say this drama is wholesome, with sci-fi, suspense, thriller, action, romance, filial relationships, and more. And while it's usually difficult to jam pack all this into one show without screwing it up, W emerges exceptional.

3. Extraordinary You

This show is so cute! If you want just a light hearted, quirky show, this is the one for you.

It's about characters in a cartoon becoming aware of their existence in a cartoon. But don't worry this is NOTHING like W.

The best part about the show is that it's not about the main characters of the said cartoon. It's the story about the extras finding their way in that world, hence the pun intended in the title. The main characters (of the cartoon) are actually the most dull, because they are bound by the laws of stereotypical high school romance. But the real stuff is happening on the sidelines, with Kim Hye Yoon as Dan Oh and Rowoon as Haru.

Dan Oh is a hilarious character and Kim Hye Yoon does a fantastic job of switching emotions when she's in and out of a scene in the cartoon. One minute she goes into character mode, next minute she's bitching at the sorry fate of her character when she wakes up, to the astonishment of the characters surrounding her (who aren't aware of their reality yet).

Rowoon has a quiet charm about him that perfectly complements Hye Yoon. Check it out for a chuckle and a taste of something different.

4. Crash Landing on You

This show is hard not to like. Apart from the poorly picturized tornado carrying our leading lady over the border to North Korea, this show is a wonderful Netflix and Chill kind of show, I think.

The cultural disparity between the South and North is interesting to watch and also entertaining. Like when they mention buying mobile games at an App store (a literal application store in a Pyongyang market).

Ri Jung Hyuk (Hyun Bin again) and Yoon Seri (Son Yejin) are such a delight in comedic, romantic, and dramatic scenes. But the scene stealer for me was Yang Kyun Won as Pyo Chi Soo, and his unshakeable nationalism that he is ready to set aside for some shampoo and conditioner.

The interesting thing is going into the show, you have an idea of the longevity, so ofcourse, Seri's journey back to the South ain't going to be easy, also her relationship with Ri Jung Hyuk is doomed, and yet you find yourself rooting for them at each step, crying with them during their failures and crying with them even in their triumph. But the most tears were shed for the least expected character, who simply left us all heart broken.

5. Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo

In a world where women are expected to behave and look a certain way to be considered attractive by someone they're vying for, here's a food hogging, tomboy, weightlifting champ, with her first crush.

The premise may rope you into the show, but midway you realise that the heart of the show is in its characters, and without realising you become so invested in them that you feel their fears, insecurities, and cherish their victories with them.

This coming of age show really relishes on the quirks of each character, friendship, love and aspirations. It's not a very dramatic story which is probably why it didn't rate very high during its broadcast, but that's part of its charm, and that's why it's been able to gather a significant cult following since.

Lee Sung Kyung and Nam Joo Hyuk portray the most sincere friends and eventual couple. Their relationship blossoms in the most organic manner and it's so heartwarming. They're not cheesy or unrealistic; they even beat each other up! I don't think I've seen that level of comfort portrayed on screen so well before.

Watch out for guest appearances by Ji Soo and Lee Jeong Suk.

6. Strong Girl Do Bong Soon

I'll be honest, this recommendation is mainly for Park Hyung Sik. He's amazing in the show. And there could be no better supernaturally strong petite girl than Park Bo Young, either.

So there are actually a lot of things happening in the show, story wise, but I promise it all comes together in the end. There is quite a build up and I'm happy that it pays off adequately.

This is like a superhero show with all the spices and flavours of a Marvel movie, but K-Drama style. There's an invincible villain, some idiot gangsters for comedic value, romance (a love triangle infact), functional training, a point of lost hope for Bong Soon, and then her resurrection as a superhero.

It's all there, and more.

But Park Hyung Sik.....

7. Itaewon Class

This recommendation is simply for the refreshing change of representation on TV. I know a lot has already been spoken about it already, but I have to admit that that's what sets this revenge drama apart. That, and the music. Dayum, Start by Gaho is so catchy! And let's not forget V's Sweet Night.

This show starts off slow but give it 3 episodes before it gets to the real shit.

Park Saeroyi is almost too good to be true, and in that lies his shortcoming. His character is so strong that while watching him I forgot that Park Seo Joon was acting. And despite some unnerving moments I found myself rooting for him. He has some strong motivational lines too, like about his choice for a better life. His determination is almost unreal, as he goes on to take down his mortal enemy.

Some of the best scenes, though, are of Jo Yi Seo (Kim Dami), a sociopathic enterprising genius. She was the one who actually kept me hooked to the series. She added some much needed flair to the show, and as it appears to Park Saeroyi's establishment.

Actually, every character was strong, every character had a strong backstory and motivation for the action, and most importantly they never broke character.

Watch out for Park Bo Gum's special appearance.

8. Love In The Moonlight

Speaking of Park Bo Gum...

This show is all kinds of weird in the best way! A girl pretends to be a palace eunuch and falls in love with the crown Prince. That is so messed up!

But that's the fun part! And Park Bo Gum and Kim You Jung make it a wonderful ride. Full of quirky romance, political conflicts and hidden identity issues, this show is addictive af!

And even though this wasn't in the show and was just a promo, be sure to watch Park Bo Gum's Bombastic dance. It's adorable!

9. The Third Charm

I'm sure this is my least popular recommendation. But something about watching this show was so cathartic. I highly recommend it for those who may have gone through heartbreak ever in their lives.

This is probably one of those rare times when I was lost in the story instead of Seo Kang Jun's eyes. Hehe. This story is about an on again off again couple and their journey through life together and apart.

This was meant to be a healing drama, and it really does take you through the emotional evolution that comes with growing up. I think it's the perfect medicine for a healing heart.

10. It's Okay Not To Be Okay

This show! This is my current obsession. Kim Soo Hyun's comeback couldn't have been more perfect. Seo Yeji couldn't have been a more perfect casting. And the two leads couldn't have had a better chemistry.

This show is all kinds of whimsical and I love it. Also a healing drama, this show deals with.... Baggage....to put it simply. Some baggage may be bigger than other baggage, some even irrevocable. But seeing all the characters overcome this baggage is so fulfilling.

But the charm of this show is in Ko Moon Young's (Seo Yeji) craziness and the Tim Burton-esque setup, that really makes one perceive fairytales in a whole new way. I mean I always knew that fairytales were sanitized German folklore, but I never thought to find a very different messaging from the material. The parables are ingenious, and it really is a pleasure to watch each and every person on this show.

Special mentions: Goblin, Reply 1988, 30 but 17/ Still 17, My ID is Gangnam Beauty, Hotel Del Luna

#tvshow #kdrama #memoriesofalahambra #w two worlds #hyun bin #crash landing on you #extraordinary you #rowoon #haru #kim bok joo #weightlifting fairy kim bok joo #lee sung kyung #nam joo hyuk #ahn bo hyun #strong girl do bong soon #jisoo #itaewon class #park seo joon #love in the moonlight #park bo gum #the third charm #seo kang joon #its okay not to be okay #kim soo hyun #seo ye ji #netflix #tv #tv show

[popsiclemania]

My 2020 in K dramas (+1 J drama)

I began watching k-dramas in 2018 but I’ve never watched as many shows, Korean or otherwise, as I have in this one. 2020 ¯\_(ツ)_/¯. I think what helps me really enjoy this over Bollywood+Malayalam+ American pop culture I grew up with is that a smirk on the wrong character’s face doesn’t make me seethe with rage and want to burn everything down. It’s not like growing up with SRK on screen and then having SRK wannabes leave you with lifelong trauma in reality. I can just move on. It’s removed enough from my everyday life but still familiar in a generic Asian family way. Does that make sense? It’s not perfect and it’s not free of its own harmful stereotypes and narratives, but there’s enough of the good stuff to make you stick around. This year I fell in love with Nana, Kim Hye Soo, Han Yeri, Park Eun bin, Ahn Eun jin, Kim Bum, Kim Yong ji, Flower Boy’s Go Dok Mi and Search:WWW’s Bae Tami. Cancelled Ji Chang wook (bye). Desperately missed Kim Jae Wook. Had thoughts on Hwang In Yeop, which were mostly heart eyes. Discovered J dramas and fell in love with Cherry Magic’s Adachi.

My year-in-review below:

LOVED

Into The Ring - I am so glad I saved this for a rainy day because it’s exactly the kind of upright citizen shenanigans my unemployed ass needed at the end of the year.

Goo Se Ra thinks the govt should work for the people but that doesn’t mean her own moral compass always points north. Her purpose is to make steady money, and I love seeing her go hard to survive and cobble together what she needs. The thing that really works for me is that she wants to be good, but she isn’t always. And you get to see her be disappointed, upset, embarrassed and hurt from being publicly kicked in the gut as she navigates a job where she appears, on the surface, to be a supremely confident, self-serving, accidental politician. What you see as her naiveté is mostly just her being a regular person in an environment dictated by backhand deals and rich people politics. She gets hit again and again, and you see what it does to her sense of worth to get back up again, how she grapples with her self. And through all this the show is funny?! Se Ra is what writers of manic pixie characters think they are doing and not doing at all. Love her friends, and Jang Hye-jin is *chef’s kiss*!

Hyena - Kim Hye Soo’s Jung Geum Ja is perhaps Se Ra’s older and darker contemporary.  Geum Ja is a survivor and will get what she wants and where she wants to, however many hells she has to cross. She’s single-minded about her success, ruthless and has no qualms about bending morals to get the outcome she needs. She’ll never compromise on who she is or justify how she lives, can build people up and also tear them down, but she also knows care and kindness.

I turned to Signal for more Kim Hye Soo but was disappointed in how the first few episodes seemed to shortchange her. May try again in 2021.

(Highly recommend @saltr0se​’s  fic series which just GETS Geum Ja so well. Fic writers are the best)

Search: WWW (Finished in 2020) - It took me half a year to finish this. I started watching Search in Oct 2019 and raced through the first 6 episodes because I couldn’t take my eyes off the rollercoaster of Bae Tami’s life. And then I had to take a break because it was a little too close to the frenetic pace of my own industry. As @drivingsideways wrote, a lot of Search is premised around ‘patriarchy? who dat?’, which is why watching its politics play out is so fascinating.  It’s also deliciously turmoil-y to watch a very clear-sighted, weathered Tami put on rose-tinted glasses for her romance and then frequently peer over them to evaluate whether it could actually meld into her life.

Catch The Ghost - Kim Seonho oozes charm and perhaps Startup was a showcase of how effectively he can be a typical male lead. But Catch is exactly not that. Go Jiseok and Yoo Ryeong have moulded their lives around to meet their most desperate wishes in life and in the process also left parts of themselves untended. There is guilt, pain and need. Now guess who will tend to whose wounds? Their dynamic is electric even when the central mystery flags towards the last few episodes of the show. I really hope Moon Geun Young is doing well and gets more amazing roles soon. She is so good here.

(Highly recommend @melonatures​‘s fic for putting that sizzling on-screen chemistry into words. HOW?!) Cherry Magic - Stories about painfully awkward people are my jam and Eiji Akaso gets Adachi’s shy, nervy energy so right. Cherry Magic is straight up just 12 hours of 🥺🥺🥺. 

Stranger/Secret Forest - I’ve been devouring the entirety of Agatha Christie’s work this year after Stranger reminded me how comforting murder mysteries can be. I love Bae Doona. I also love characters who don’t get social norms, not always because they are out to flout them but because that’s just not how their mind/brain works. (have to watch S2)

Flower Boy Next Door -  Honestly, the opening scene introducing Park Shin Hye’s character Go Deok Mi sold me on this immediately. An introverted, penny pinching copy editor living alone and working from home thanks to extreme social anxiety? Love. All the side characters are a lot of fun and I’ve never loved Kim Seulgi and Go Kyung Pyo more. It’s a warm show, slowly rounding off the sharp edges of every character.

JUST FUN

The Spies Who Loved Me -  It’s been a year of disappointing rom-coms and Spies kind of quietly turned it around for me. I want to be the fly on Yoo In Na’s wall as she figures how to play her characters. I’ve only seen her in 3 roles but somehow she always manages to be in character arcs that don’t short change her. Spies could’ve been and sometimes is the regular heterosexual fare, but In Na ups the ante over and over again, coming out on top as the smartest person in the room.

ENJOYED WITH *RESERVATIONS*

I have to watch A Piece Of Your Mind again because I don’t understand how Jung Hae In and Chae Soo bin built SO MUCH warmth and crackling chemistry with barely a kiss. I was iffy about how the whole AI thing started off and the tortured musician plotline (angsty male artists will forever be an eyeroll for me).

Park Min Young is a queen who never disappoints and When The Weather Is Nice is everything you want in a winter romance. My reservation was in how they explore so much of domestic abuse and the complex ways its traumatised the women in this family. I’m ok with the characters having imperfect ways of processing and understanding the violence, I welcome it. I’m not ok with the show dancing around whether the pivotal crime was justified/ self defence (it was).

A lot of dramas did this. I loved Han Yeri and Choo Ja Hyun in My Unfamiliar Family, I didn’t like the free pass the show gave their dad’s abusive character. 

Hwang Jung Eum’s comedy style is generally not my thing but she was pretty great in Mystic Pop-UP Bar. But I’m side-eyeing the sanctity surrounding motherhood. Maybe I should read more about babies and Korean folklore.

Hospital Playlist was my comfort watch through June and July. I think its wholesomeness and non-plot writing came at a good time for me. But I noticed then that the throughline for all main characters was moral superiority and hence what I then saw as *wholesomeness*. It’s kind of what makes it a grating rewatch in parts. Plus the real life of misogyny of Yoo Yeon Seok makes me want to push his angelic catholic character off a cliff. (For context, i was raised catholic). I want to continue loving Chae Song Hwa, and for that the showrunners need to stop cornering her with overbearing romantic interests (let that woman breathe! she literally ran away to another city!) 

Hospital is good at creating moments of comfort, so much so that I went to watch Reply 1988 after it, but had to drop it coz I couldn’t get into it. Maybe I’ll come back to it next year.

Once Again is what I call joint family propaganda. What it does well is lay bare the mechanics of living in a society that prizes the heterosexual family structure, the loops you have to jump through to hide when you break its rules and what happens when you are found out. I love the characters, their fights, their frustrations. I just don’t love the validation of joint families. (context: i grew up in an oppressive joint family lol). In my au, Nahee and Gyujin don’t get married again or immediately have children, but take the long route to figuring out how to love the person the other is. Gahee is openly dating Hyo shin and her parents have to figure out how to process her success and her romance. Young dal and Ok boon have to learn to stop dictating their children’s lives.  Joon sun runs his company from home, so his wife Hyun kyung can work on what she wants. Choyeon, Joori and Ga-yeon go back to being flamboyant AF and the market learns to not judge. Gyujin and Jaesok have to actually work on the relationship with their mother and what sent her into depression. Just a lot of learning involved.

Just Between Lovers was a nice watch, i just don’t get how Kang doo and Ha Moon So’s relationship will survive his constantly simmering anger. 

Crash Landing on You was so much fun until the main romance turned angsty, but it gave us North Korean soldier shenanigans and the epic romance of Seo Dan and Alberto Gu that we needed more of.

Tale of The Nine Tailed is probably what Goblin wished it was. I, however, will never be over Lee Rang. (Also, when can gods stop meeting their love interests as babies? Asking for my sanity)

I literally ignored everything in Oh My Ghost except Park Bo Young and Kim Seulgi and it was amazing. 

NOPE

Goblin, Dinner Mate, Oh My Baby and My Secret Romance were a whole lot of NO, NAHI, ILLAAA. 

I loved hate-watching The King:Eternal Monarch with the rest of k drama tumblr but someone please take away Kim Eun-sook’s access to gigantic budgets and all-star casts.

It was painful to watch Do You Like Brahms squander away its potential but I’m glad to be introduced to Park Eun bin. Age of Youth is next on watchlist.

More than Friends to me is only Ahn Eun jin. Someone give her amazing lead roles asap.

Why did Record of Youth do that to Park So Dam and her clothes? Just why

WANTED TO WATCH, BUT COULDN’T BECAUSE *INTENSE* 

World Of The Married, It’s Okay Not To Be Okay, Sweet Home, Extracurricular, Penthouse, Flower of Evil, Lie After Lie

WILL WATCH NEXT YEAR

SF8, Stove League, Birth Care Centre but I’ll start the new year with School Nurse Files coz it looks very good.

#long post #kdramas #review #2020 #A DECADE #Goo Sera’s and Yoo Ryeong’s are the kinds of stories I wish I’d watched through my late teens/early 20s #Jung Geum Ja and Bae Tami are who I’m taking into my thirties.

[theadusa]

All the dramas I’ve watched in 2020

These are all the dramas that I watched in 2020, with some review there should be NO Spoilers. I think I watched a lot more than usual probably because what else am I supposed to do between school and quarantine. So this is gonna be a long one...

Crash Landing on You (Lee Jung-hyo, 2019-2020)

Main Leads: Hyun Bin and Son Ye-jin

Episodes: 16, 70 to 110 Minutes 

Thoughts: I enjoyed this drama, and it was a good one to start 2020 with. I thought it was a perfect blend of romance, comedy, heartfelt, found family, action, and some tragedy. I would highly recommend it, especially for those who are new to Kdramas. Also fun fact this is my first Hyun Bin drama. Rating: Fun and adorable

Tale of Nokdu (Kim Dong-hwi, 2019)

Main Leads: Jang Dong Yoon and Kim So Hyun

Episodes: 32, 35 minutes

Thoughts: I actually started watching this when it was airing but I stopped around episode 13 because of my busy schedule and finished it in the new year. I adore the main couple, the romance, comedy, the found family, and the women center story. I thought it shined the brightest when it was focused on the group and its funny and warm moments but once it got too political it kinda fell flat. I loved the ending, however. Also, I really like Jang Dong Young as an actor, I saw him in Solomon’s Perjury (2016) and Mr. Sunshine (2018) and I loved how he played Nok Du too. Rating: I love a women’s only widow village

I’ll Find You When The Weather is Nice (Han Ji-seung, 2020)

Main Leads: Seo Kang Joon and Park Min Young

Episodes: 16, 60 minutes 

Thoughts: I really liked this drama, probably one of my favorites this year. As you will notice I enjoy quieter and more slow-burn stories. Also, I am a fan of Park Min Young she tends to pick more interesting and strong-willed female roles, so it is really enjoyable to watch.  Rating: makes me want to own a book store.

King: The Eternal Monarch (Kim Eun-sook, 2020)

Main Leads: Lee Min Ho and Kim Go Eun

Episodes: 16, 70 Minutes

Thoughts: Confession; I am actually not the biggest fan of Lee Min Ho, nothing against him I just hate rich bratty characters and he tends to play them. However, I surprisingly really liked his character, he wasn’t a rich brat he actually was likable. I also really like Kim Go Eun, she is actually one of the main reasons why I watched and also with all the hype around it. Woo Do Hwan, who I have always liked, stole the whole show, however. I didn’t hate it like a lot of people, I really liked the characters, I liked the romance and the action. Also, Lee Min Ho and Kim Go Eun’s hugs were absolutely fabulous. It wasn’t my favorite and there were too many product placements, but I don’t think it was the worst drama this year. Rating: Lukewarm 

A Piece of your mind (Lee Sang-yeob, 2020)

Main Leads: Jung Hae In and Chae Soo Bin

Episodes: 12, 70 minutes

Thoughts: I actually really liked this drama despite the low views, again I’m big on slow burn stories and character focus. I believe the episodes were cut from 16 to 12 I don’t know exactly why maybe because of the Pandemic or due to viewership or a mixture of both. Despite its being cut short I really liked the ending, and I thought the two leads were sweet. Rating: Wish we had more time to develop the characters.

Its Okay not to be Okay (Park Shin Woo, 2020) 

Main Leads: Kim Soo Hyun and Seo Yea Ji and Oh Jung Se 

Episodes: 16, 70 to 85 minutes

Thoughts: Out of all the dramas I talked the most about this one. I have always been a fan of Seo Yea Ji since Save Me (2017) and Lawless Lawyer (2018) and I am happy to see her getting more recognition because of this role. The entire cast was amazing and I think I cried every episode. Such a good and heart-wrenching drama which is why I chose to watch it before work every time. Rating: I would let Seo Yea Ji stab me with a knife anytime.

Mystic Pop up bar (Jeon Chang-geun, 2020) 

Main Leads: Hwang Jung Eum and Yook Sung Jae and Choi Won Young

Episodes: 12, 70 minutes

Thoughts: I actually watched this while I was watching Its Okay Not to Be Okay and it was a nice balance to it because this was more of a found family story with less heartbreaking moments. Though it did have its share of heartbreak. I really liked all the characters and their relationship. Also, I am a sucker for bureaucratic fantasy/ magic, and kdramas are so good at it. Rating: I wish it was 16 episodes. 

When the Camila Bloom (Cha Yeong Hoon, 2019) 

Main Leads: Gong Hyo Jin and Kang Ha Neul

Episodes: 20, 63 to 75 minutes

Thoughts: I liked the story overall, the romance was cute and the mystery was interesting but I thought the family expectations was the best part of the story. This was not my favorite drama, but it was enjoyable and heartfelt. I watched it right after It's Okay Not to Be Okay and while I was watching Flower of Evil (2020) which probably is why I was so underwhelmed by it. Rating: Sweet romance and adorable found family.

Flower of Evil (Kim Cheol Kyu, 2020) 

Main Leads: Lee Joon Gi and Moon Chae Won

Episode:16, 70 minutes

Thoughts: This was my favorite drama of this year. I went into this drama not thinking much of it, and I mainly watched it as a post drama blues drama. It was an action and thriller which I mainly don’t get attached to plus I am a huge fan of Lee Joon Gi. I should have known better, I cared so much about all the characters, the acting phenomenal, also every time they showed their hands I cried. This drama left me shriveled and empty inside. Rating: Lee Joon Gi will literally kill me one day. 

Put Your Head On My Shoulders (Zhu Dongning, 2019) 

Main Leads: Xing Fei and Lin Yi 

Episodes: 24, 40 to 45 minutes

Thoughts: This is the first Chinese drama on this list. I thought it was cute, I liked the couple and thought it was alright. I started to dislike the male lead later in the series but it was overall fine. It was basic and sweet with very little drama. Rating: It did its job.

The School Nurse Files ( Lee Kyoung Mi, 2020)

Main Leads: Jung Yu Mi and Nam Joo Hyuk

Episodes: 6,  45 to 57 minutes

Thoughts: This is probably my second favorite drama. I couldn’t tell what happened in the drama but I loved it. I thought it was weird and fascinating, and just so magical. I loved the children and just how the whole school was just off its rocker. I also think that Nam Joo Hyuk does really well in serious roles, and I thought he did a really good job here. Rating: 1 jelly heart.  

Mr. Heart (Park Sun Jae, 2020) 

Main Leads: Cheon Seung Ho and Lee Se Jin

Episodes: 8, 11 Minutes

Thoughts: This was 8 episodes of start fluff and I adored it. Apparently, it is apart of a BL series by Park Sun Jae and there is a movie version that I haven’t watched. If you want to destress and watch just fluff this is the show for you. Rating: If it is any sweeter I would be going to the dentist. 

You are My Destiny ( Ding Ying Zhou, 2020) 

Main Leads: Xing Zhao Lin  and Liang Jie

Episodes: 36, 45 minutes

Thoughts: I hated this drama, I thought it was the worst thing ever. I don’t know why I even watched all 36 episodes. Apparently, it is a remake of a popular 2008 Twaniese drama Fated to Love You and there is a Korean remake of it as well. I have watched neither of them, so I was brand new to this story. I hated, despised the male lead. He was whiny, entitled, and an asshole. The only good part of the drama was the male and female lead actually had a lot of chemistry, unfortunately, they are playing awful characters. Rating: This was made in 2020???

First Romance (Ding Pei, 2020) 

Main Leads: Wan Peng and Riley Wang

Episodes: 24, 45 Minutes

Thoughts: This is another Chinese drama. Similar to Mr. Heart (2020) this show was super fluffy. I really liked the main couple they seem to respect each other and they both had adorable crushes on each other. I loved the whole dumb jock and dumb artist dynamic it was so funny. Rating: Cute!!! 

Lost Romance ( Eri Hao, 2020) 

Main Leads: Marcus Chang and Vivian Sung

Episodes: 20, 70 minutes 

Thoughts: This is the only Twainese drama on this list. I think I liked this drama, I actually only remember very little of this drama. I like the CEO in the real world more than the book world, and I also really liked the female lead except she lowkey stalked the CEO like that was not okay. Rating: I think I liked it???

When We Were Young ( Deng Ke, Liu Guo Hui, 2018)

Main Leads: Neo Hou and Wan Peng and Gala Zhang and Pan Mei and Ye Marcus Li

Episodes: 24, 45 minutes

Thoughts: I really liked this film, I loved all the characters and thought it was all very heartfelt. I cried like a baby, and Hua Biao was such a touching and relatable character. And the whole grandma story hit so close to home. Rating: Made me cry like a baby.

Moment of 18 ( Sim Na Yeon, 2019)

Main Leads: Ong Seong Wu and Kim Hyang Gi

Episodes: 16, 70 minutes

Thoughts: I really liked this drama, and I thought the romance was so cute. I also really liked the relationship between the moms and was sad that the rich mom was a bitch and ruined the friendship. I also wasn’t a big fan of the ending, but I loved the rest of it. Rating: The main lead is part of a boy group because he had a random singing moment. 

Perfect and Casual ( Li Shuang, 2020) 

Main Leads: Miles Wei and Xu Ruo Han

Episodes: 24, 45 minutes

Thoughts: This is another Chinese drama on this list. I’m pretty sure it's considered an Idol drama so that sets your expectations. I really liked this drama a lot, I am a big fan of contract marriages and I thought the leads were so cute together. Also, this is the first contract marriage drama where the leads don’t break up which I like. A lot of the drama came from outside of the relationship. Rating: You can’t analyze love.

Le Coup De Foudre ( Wang Zhi, 2019) 

Main Leads: Janice Wu and Zhang Yujian

Episodes: 35, 45 minutes

Thoughts: My favorite Chinese drama on this list. I loved this drama, I thought it was sweet and simple and the main couple was so realistic. Unpopular opinion I disliked the second couple and the best friend I thought she was annoying and brattish. However, I adore the main couple and their relationship. Rating: Realistic sweet romance. 

More Than Friends ( Choi Sung Bum, 2020)

Main Leads: Ong Seong Wu and Shin Ye Eun

Episodes: 16, 70 minutes

Thoughts: I enjoyed the overall story and characters. I loved the group and their relationships. Also, Young-Hee made me cry, and her relationship with Hyun Jae was so sweet. The main leads were also sweet, and I related a lot to Lee So. I just didn’t like the back and forth. Rating: How many times can we break up in a drama. 

Be With You ( Zhou Miao, 2020) 

Main Leads: Ji Xiao Bing and Zhang Ya-Qin

Episodes: 24, 45 minutes

Thoughts: This is the last Chinese drama I watched this year. It was alright, the romance was sweet, I really like the female lead, and the male lead was nice to look at. It was okay. Also, the second couple was so ??? She was his boss, enemy, and older than him, what?? Rating: Sometimes you need to fall in love to be creative. 

Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo ( Kim Kyu Tae, 2016) 

Main Leads: Lee Joon Gi and Lee Ji Eun (IU) 

Episodes: 20, 60 minutes

Thoughts: I know I am really late watching this, but I finally did. I went in knowing this would hurt me and Lee Joon Gi already scared me this year ( damn this man) so I was fully prepared. I really wasn’t,  it so much. (SPOIlERS) When Wang Eun and Park Soon Deok died I sob like a baby (SPOILER ENDING). It took me a long time to finish this show because its heart so much, like it physically hurt me. The show was really good, and heartbreaking, and the ending stabs me in the heart 20 times. Rating: Lee Joon Gi is trying to kill me with tears. 

Persona ( Lee Kyoung Mi, Yim Pil Sung, Jeon Go Woon, and Kim Jong Kwan, 2019) 

Main Leads: Lee Ji Eun (IU) 

Episodes: 4, 19 to 27

Thoughts: This is a collection of mini-films by directors. 4 separate stories are starring Lee Ji Eun. I thought all of them good, especially “ Kiss Burn” and “Walking at Night.” There isn’t much else to this, more than it is an artistic display of filmmaking. Rating: Hipster Kdrama

Come and Hug Me ( Choi Joon-bae, 2018) 

Main Leads: Jang Ki-Yong and Jin Ki-Joo

Episodes: 32, 35 minutes

Thoughts: I actually just finished this show today. I really liked it, I thought it was both sweet and heartwarming/wrenching. I hated that one journalist and the public like why are they blaming a victim. I didn’t watch it with my full mind because I’ve been distracted lately, but I did enjoy it. Rating: another cute but sad couple. 

Movies I watched this year: 

Spell Bound ( Hwang In Ho, 2011)

Main Cast: Son Ye Jin and Lee Min Ki

Running Time: 114 Minutes

Thoughts: I watched this at like 12 am after a bad day and it was cute. I love RomCom fantasy, which I think Korean media does really well. I don’t know what else to say except it is a really cute romance. Rating: Is it the ghost or the butterflies

The Host ( Bong Joon Ho, 2006)

Main Cast: Song Kang Ho and Byun Hee Bong and Park Hae Il and Bae Doona and Go, Ah Sung

Running Time: 119

Thoughts: This film I had to actually watch for class. It was a really good film which is expected from Bong Joon Ho. I love monster films and I thought this was a good rendition of this film. Also, The monster was so cool especially from 2006. I thought it was heartbreaking, stirring, and so beautifully shot. Rating: Oscar-worthy Direction 

Little Forest ( Yim Soon-rye, 2018) 

Main Cast: Kim Tae Ri  and Ryu Jun Yeol and Moon So Ri and Jin Ki Joo

Running Time: 103 minutes

Thoughts: I really, really liked this film. It reminded me so much of I’ll Find You When The Weather is Nice (2020) that I thought that it was based on this film but it isn’t. I have watched this film 3 times since October and every time I watch it have made bread. I really just love everything about this film, how quiet it is, the cinematography, the acting, just everything. Rating: Three loaves of bread. 

Always ( Song Il Gon, 2011)

Main Cast: So Ji Sub and Han Hyo Joo

Running Time: 106 Minutes

Thoughts: I thought it was okay, I watched it while I was knitting so I was distracted a bit. But I thought the couple was sweet, and the characters were interesting. Rating: It's Okay.

       Currently watching 

True Beauty ( Kim Sang-hyeop, 2020-) 

Main Cast: Moon Ga Young and Cha Eun Woo and Hwang In Yeop

Episodes: 16, 70 minutes 

Thoughts: This is currently an ongoing series that is actually really popular. Apparently, it is based on a webtoon, which I haven’t read. I like it so far, I always liked Moon Ga Young and I think she is a great actress. She plays Im Ju Kyung in a likable and insecure way, instead of someone annoying which could easily happen. I will be continuing watching. Rating so far: Okey dokey yo.

Live On ( Kim Sang-woo, 2020-) 

Main Cast: Jung Da Bin and Hwang Min Hyun

Episodes: 8?, 60 Minutes

Thoughts: I really Like this show. The main couple is sweet and supportive. I really like the female lead, I like that she is cold and kinda quiet, but with a sweet spot if you are not a dick. I really like the main relationship conflict comes from friendship instead of romance, I think it makes the show more interesting. Rating: I want to Join a Broadcast group.  

On My List: 

I actually don’t have anything else on my list so if anyone has recommendations please tell me. I am thinking about watching Mr. Queen ( 2020) because I really like Shin Hye Sun. I also want to watch Sweet Home (2020) the Netflix series. But please recommend me some dramas!!!

This is such a long list, and I had fun doing it and going back over all the dramas. I hope everyone has a good New year and that we will have many more good dramas in 2021!

#kdrama thoughts #kdrama #kdramas #kdrama review #kdramas 2020 #2020 #crash landing on you #hyun bin #son ye jin #tale of nokdu #jang dong yoon #kim so hyun #i'll find you when the weather is nice #i'll find you on a beautiful day #seo kang joon #park min young #king: the eternal monarch #the eternal monarch #lee min ho #lee minho #kim go eun #woo do hwan #a piece of your mind #jung hea in #chea soo bin #its okay not to be okay #psycho but its okay #kim soo hyun #seo yea ji #mystic pop up bar

[randomobsessionsofa30something]

My top 10 korean dramas of 2020

Today is the last day of the year so I think it's time to share which dramas were my favorite in 2020. I wish you all the best for 2021!!

10.5. The King: Eternal Monarch. So here's the thing: this drama was not great. I absolutely hated the ending and the editing however I do appreciate what they tried to do. It had great potential and Lee Minho and Kim Go Eun were nice as a couple. The story is about two dimensions: one that is like the real world and another where Korea still has a king. The worlds start to mix and the King crosses, meets a detective, someone he has been looking for since he was a kid.

10. Find me in your memory. This drama was so much fun especially in the first half. I had a couple of issues with the last two episodes but nothing major. Moon Ga Yeon plays an actress that lost some of her memories and is trying to live in the moment. She meets a newscaster (Kim Dong Wook) and falls for him. However he has a disease that makes him unable to forget each and all details he has lived through. They both are unaware they share a bond that will link them but also puts them in danger.

9. Start up. This drama was silly at times but I really enjoyed it. Suzy stars in this drama as a sales employee that has gone through a lot because she chose to stay with her father after they parents got divorced who was an unsuccessful entrepreneur. She wants to show her sister and her mother she can be successful on her own so she applies to receive a grant (korean survival style). There she meets her childhood crush, a guy who she exchanged letters with or so she thinks. Nam Do San (Nam Joo Hyuk) is a guy that is trying to start up a company but has failed so far to get investors. When a famous CEO shows up at his door asking him to pretend to have written some letters he ends up getting dragged into a ruse to cheer up this girl except she shows up in what was his last chance to make it.

8. Kairos. I started watching this drama just because WINNER's Kang Seung Yoon had a role in it. At the beginning I thought I wasn't gonna love it because of the time travel aspect to it. The plot though changed my mind. This mistery drama starred by Lee Se Young and Shin Sung Rok really surprised me. The story is about a girl that is struggling to get by but things change when she loses her phone and when she calls back a man picks it up in the future. By the way when I made my OSTs list it totally slipped my mind just how good Kang Seungyoon's rock ballad Can you hear me? is.

7. Itaewon class. Park Seung Joon plays a man that did time in jail because of an injustice. He comes out with a plan to bring down the people responsible for his father's death. To do that, he assembles a team of misfits and opens up a restaurant in Itaewon. The injustices in korean society and his past will get in the way of his love life and his goal to achieve his dreams. I wasn't a huge fan of the last few episodes of the drama but I did liked it overall.

6. Strangers. Season 2. If you watched the first season you'll definitely like the second. A web of corruption and deceit is drawn from episode one so it really was satisfying when it all came together. If you haven't watched the first season, I'll just say this is well made crime drama and that now would be a good time to binge watch both seasons.

5. Sweet Home. I don't really watch horror movies because I think I'm too logical to be scared with monsters or ghosts so most times I just don't watch any. However I really enjoyed this apocalyptic horror 10 episode drama. Based on a webtooon, it tells the story of the inhabitants of a building after Seoul is run down by monsters.

4. Kingdom Season 2. I actually didn't watch Kingdom last year. I watched the teaser and I was like "Joseon and Zombies? I don't know about that". The pandemic has led me to stay home for so long that I think I watched all of Netflix korean dramas I hadn't checked out which finally led me to watch Kingdom. I liked the first season but it was the second season I enjoyed the most. If you haven't checked it out, I'll just say it's based on the Land of the Gods webtoon and it's the story of the Crown Prince who finds out that, because of greed, his stepmother has revived his father and a plague spreads through Joseon.

3. Hyena. This intense legal drama tells the story of a prideful attorney that lives for his job and meets his ideal woman in a laundromat. However she humiliates him when she shows up as the opposite counselor in a high profile divorce case. This was such a funny drama and the cases were interesting. It had a double digit ratings in Korea.

2. Do you like Brahms? This drama is slow. Like really slow paced. So it's not for everyone but I was just so obsessed with this drama while it was airing. It's a sweet romantic drama about a pianist (Kim Min Jae) who has no passion for what he does and a violinist (Park Eun Bin) who has all the passion but lacks talent. They are both kind and just really bad a communicating their feelings so when they end up getting to know each other they somehow connect. They have another thing in common: they both are in a similar position when it comes to love they're in love with the girlfriend/boyfriend of their best friends.

1. It's okay not to be okay. This was my favorite drama by a long shot. It's just another romantic comedy. However it is so well done. From the cinematography to the plot and even the animation everything was on point for me. Honestly it felt like this really was Kim Soo Hyun's grand comeback to dramas. Seo Yeo Ji's excelled in portraying a strong but lonely woman whose upbringing was different from anyone else's so she grew up to be a rude and unapologetic children story writer. She meets Moon Gang Tae and realizes it's not the first time she has met him. On another hand, Moon Gang Tae puts on a strong face whose sole goal in life is care for his autistic older brother. When he goes back to his hometown he ends up finding out the truth behind his mother's death. I also loved that the story is narrated at times as a fairy tale.

#korean drama #kdramas #lee min ho #kim go eun #kang seung yoon #yg winner #suzy #nam joo hyuk #lee se young #shin sung rok

[dangermousie]

Are there any popular kdrama actors/actresses that you always watch stuff for/always love in their role?

Nope.

I mean, I like some actors more than others, but all that means is it will move the needle from excited to more excited about a drama. If I have no interest in a drama otherwise, it won’t matter who they cast, I won’t watch.

For example, I adore Joo Ji Hoon and Bae Doona but I have no plans to ever watch Kingdom because I don’t do zombies. I love Lee Jun Ki and Moon Chae Won, but I am never going to watch Criminal Minds because I don’t do procedurals etc.

For me, if a drama is bad or just not my type, no actor can save it. I mean, I fangirl Joo Won and Jang Ki Yong like mad but Alice and Born Again were horrors; with Alice I dropped out after four eps and I finished BA more out of sheer “this can’t be real, how bad CAN it get?” bogglement.

OCN’s entire existence proves this. Except for the vanishingly small number of their dramas with romance, I tend to stand away from the bulk their stuff because I don’t do romance-less mysteries and procedurals AT ALL. Over the years, many a Mousie favorite went to do a drama on OCN and I have never even been tempted to watch one. I just sigh and think “ugh, that’s a wasted role for my purposes, dammit,” and that’s it.

This said, there are actors I always enjoy in everything I’ve seen them in, but since I am picky what I check out, that’s not as impressive as it sounds (a small sample: Ha Ji Won, Han Ji Min, Park Min Young, Lee Bo Young, Moon Chae Won, Han Hyo Joo, Song Hye Kyo, Gong Hyo Jin, Lee Jong Suk, Hyun Bin, Lee Byung Hun, Yoo Ah In, Jang Hyuk, Lee Jun Ki, Joo Ji Hoon, Lee Dong Wook etc.)

#asks

[brixthomassen22]

Drinking the Gifted and Gorgeous: The Attract of Popular Korean Fashionistas

South Korea's entertainment industry has got garnered intercontinental acclaim, and one of its most crucial facets certainly is the realm in hot Korean actors. All these talented individuals have not merely made ocean in their country but have even gained a worldwide following, giving significantly on the Hallyu Wave, which represents the global spread of South Korean culture. In this article, most of us delve into the charisma of hot Korean actors, their whole impact on the global stage, as well as some of the standout names on the market. The Allure of Scorching Korean Actors 1 . Extraordinary Talent: Korean actors happen to be renowned for their versatility and dedication to their craft. A lot of them have produced their capabilities through strenuous training as well as have received acknowledgement for their spectacular performances. minimal payments Impeccable Appears: Beyond their very own acting prowess, hot Korean language actors typically possess attractive good looks and a unique sense of style that appeals to a global audience. All their visuals cause them to become not only gifted but as well captivating on-screen. 3. Interesting Storylines: Korean dramas, referred to as K-dramas, happen to be celebrated because of their engaging and heartwarming storylines. These a movie often characteristic hot Korean language actors when lead character types, drawing readers into their exciting narratives. 5. Emotional Range: Korean celebrities are experienced at promoting deep sensations, making visitors empathize utilizing their characters' advantages and heartaches. This mental connection should be in their acceptance. The Global Impression of Hot Korean Stars Hot Korean language actors include played a pivotal function in scattering Korean way of life and pleasure worldwide. Here's how they have already made an impression: 1 . https://koreanpornmovie.com/ -Drama Fandom: The recognition of Korean dramas has resulted in a dedicated world-wide fanbase. Supporters from distinct countries consistently await the discharge of new series featuring their exclusive actors. installment payments on your K-Cinema Achievement: Korean shows, often acting hot Korean actors, include gained popularity at overseas film fests and package offices. Talented movies like "Parasite" and "Train to Busan" include showcased the talent of Korean actors. 3. Societal Diplomacy: The Korean federal government has regarded the power of the entertainment industry and has make an effort to promoted Korean dramas and films being a form of gentle power diplomacy, further boosting the global reach of scorching Korean celebrities. Hot Korean Actors: Important Names Although list of scorching Korean stars is extensive, a few companies stand out for their talent and widespread recognition: 1 . Shelter Min-ho: Recognized as his functions in "Boys Over Flowers" and "The King: Eternal Monarch, " Lee Min-ho's charismatic profile has won him an ardent fanbase around the world. 2 . Melody Joong-ki: His breakout function in "Descendants of the Sun" catapulted Music Joong-ki to international stardom. His performing skills and dashing appears have made him a sought-after actor. several. Park Seo-joon: With roles in hit dramas like "What's Incorrect with Secretary Kim" and "Itaewon School, " Playground Seo-joon provides gained an important reputation designed for his adaptability and attraction. 4. Hyun Bin: Best known for his roles through "Secret Garden" and "Crash Landing for you, " Hyun Bin's liso demeanor and acting skills have endeared him to fans throughout the world. Hot Korean actors are getting to be synonymous considering the global method known as the Hallyu Wave. The exceptional expertise, good looks, and ability to interact with viewers by using an emotional level have written for the common appeal of Korean language entertainment. Simply because the world is constantly on the embrace Korean dramas and films, the influence in hot Korean actors around the global stage is set take care of them, solidifying the place because beloved numbers in the world of activity.

#website

[seulgirk]

Backdated To begining of the year A staff member leads you down NOVA’S winding hallways to Hyun Bin’s office, then opens the door and leads you inside, where the CEO awaits, sitting at his desk with his hands folded on top of it. His fingers are drumming against each other as he watches you enter. It seems as if he has been waiting for you already. Seated across from his desk, next to an empty chair, is a company lawyer whom you recognize from before; she’d been present when you signed your initial company contract. The staff member directs you to take the empty chair next to the lawyer and then leaves. You hear the door close and the latch click back into place as your CEO continues to look at you. After a moment of silence, he clears his throat and decides to speak up.

“Whenever I offer a position in this company, I am confident that this person is deserving of a spot in NOVA Entertainment and will be able to accomplish something great with our help and resources. I have high hopes for each and every one of my trainees to not give up somewhere along the path and make it until here: debut.”

“You weren’t under our care for too long. But we picked you specifically for the role we gave you and helped you grow into it. You showed me that you are deserving of this spot in AND*ROMA. You had to wait a bit longer for things to come together, but it’s finally here.” He trails off and diverts his attention to his desk, where he pulls a manila folder from a pile on the edge of his desk and sets it down in front of you. “This here,” he says, opening the folder to reveal a single sheet of paper, “is a contract exclusive to AND*ROMA and will tie you to this group, and to NOVA Entertainment, for the next six years.” 

“Hard work doesn’t stop after debut. It only begins.” There’s a hint of a smile on his lips as he hands you a pen. “But if you are ready to do so and want to become a part of the top new girl group of Korea with my help, you know what to do.”

Seulgi was finding that she wasn’t as nervous about meeting Hyun Bin as she had been with Baek Jiyoung when she first met her former CEO. Maybe it was because Wendy had bad-mouthed him so many times. She was new to the company, she only really knew him from his celebrity status.  Sitting down n his office when requested, she listened to everything he had to say intently, her heart beating faster not out of nerves, but just excitement in general.  He was giving her her dream, not only to debut, but to debut in a group with her best friend in the world.  She thanks him when she’s handed the folder, which she signs without any hesitation. 

“I’m ready to put in all the hard work I can to make the most of this opportunity. I won’t let you down. Thank you for taking a chance on me.”

OOC NOTE: First of all, congratulations on arriving at the final step before debut! I know it’s been a long and crazy journey, and I’m so glad you’ve stuck through it. When you are ready, feel free to post this prompt with Seulgi’s response to it.

Should Seulgi choose to SIGN the AND*ROMA contract, she will be employed by NOVA Entertainment without a need to renew a contract until the duration of this one has concluded. As a reward for making it this far, she will receive THREE WEEKENDS unpaid vacation time to use any time between now and the start of July, so long as it doesn’t clash with any special debut activities (such as music show appearances, meaning she can’t actually use her vacation time until after her music show performances have finished.)

Should she choose to REJECT this contract with NOVA and AND*ROMA, she will leave the company, effective immediately upon rejection. She will be able to keep all of her debut points, but will not be able to take any trainee workshops or earn any more debut points/workshop points until she becomes a trainee again. She will not have any special advantage over newer characters when she auditions for other companies in the future, and should she become a trainee at a new company she will be considered a junior trainee all over again, even though she will still have her debut points and would be eligible for debut right away. She WILL have the right to audition for NOVA again, but the fact that she gave up a contract renewal, especially a debut one, WILL be taken into account in final casting decisions.

She will have up to one week to make her decision IC, meaning that if she does not make a decision by April 8th, she will automatically be cut from the company. Exceptions can be made for those on hiatus.

#Seulo #(Let's pretend that I actually got the notification of this in April(which I did not)and actually did this on time... >_>) #submission

[19-falls]

jumbled thoughts on crash landing on you (2020).

ㅡ this is nowhere near what you’d call a ‘review’.

spoiler alert!

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First of all, I might need to say that I initially had no plan on watching this show. It’s pretty understandable considering that I recently lost interest on being the avid drama watcher I was, and now shifting more on films & books. You see...if you watch too many dramas, it’s totally normal to get bored of it (i mean the overused tropes???typical plot???) and just staying away from it. It’s not helping that recent shows I’ve watched are lackluster at best, and I haven’t been able to found a good one in a while. But I was just recently subscribed to Netflix, and this pops up more than I’d want it to, which brought me to mindlessly clicking the first episode due to boredom I’ve had for not watching any shows in MONTHS and the rest is history. I wasn’t that excited for starting this one to be frankly, due to endless spoilers I’ve gotten from twt and I had been mad over it. I was in a state where I knew how this’d end, but goes for it anyways because I have nothing to do.

The scriptwriter for this particular show is also the one who wrote You Who Came from the Stars (2013) and Legend of the Blue Sea (2017), and I wasn’t exactly a big fan of her writing. And the very troupe that I immensely dislike on the afore-mentioned shows was included on this drama as well. This scriptwriter seems to have a huge liking for putting out thriller-like tone on a romance drama, and it didn’t sit well for my preferences. If you’ve watched these three shows, you’d know all the leads are ALWAYS having dangerous encounter with villains and near-death experiences you’d rarely see in romcoms. It bugged me off how much she seems glued to this troupe and constantly having it on three representative shows she’s writing for, and these are honestly one of my ultimate reason for not doing rewatches for her dramas (I think CLOY could be an obvious exception due to the stellar casting choices for the leads; i’ll explain this later). Not a lot of people could do a well-written thriller-romance, and hers weren’t ones of those. It takes a fair and well-balanced tone to make it work, but in these shows, it just feels like constant fillers and a complete try-hard to make this unpredictable, when all we know that it’s nearly impossible to kill the leads (which I might be wrong while making this seamless assumption but okay).

The biggest downside for the writing style for these shows (bcs I’m not just talking about cloy ㅡit applies just the same for ywcfts and lotbs) is the very inability of Park Ji-eun scriptwriter-nim to write at least a DECENT ending for her shows. And that, my friend, is why I wouldn’t give this perfect score despite my unlimited praises in terms of acting, when I knew how good it’d be if she just let go of her obsession for making the ending ‘impactful’ (which seems to be horribly received by the audiences), and just write a proper ending for ONCE. It’s a big shame it didn’t happen on this drama (*disappointed but not suprised*), but I won’t stop hoping nonetheless. She has a knack for writing witty & entertaining script with great cast ensemble, and that’s why despite my dislike for some of the traits of her shows, I still watch them anyways.

Aside for the poorly-written ending, while I found the editing for first half of the show a lil bit tacky sometimes (especially when it needed CGI), Crash Landing on You also suffers from unnecessary lengthy duration (mostly because it hit big domestically and internationally and the creators get greedy which is never a good thing) that could have been made effective if they weren’t spent so long on shallowly written villainous role which seems to be written for the sake of unpredictability (and was acted wonderfully by Oh Man-suk with its limited character background given). It happened as well on YWCFTS and LOTBS, and again, if you’ve seen those two shows, you’d know how similar the pattern for the plot of CLOY compared to them. If you love them, then it’d work out good for CLOY as well, and if it’s not (like me), then you’d know what kind of writing style Park Ji-eun’s best at along with her worst features on the shows.

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DO THESE LISTED-DOWN FLAWS MEAN I’M NOT ENJOYING THE SHOW?

NO.

In fact, I’m enjoying it a whole lot more than I did with ywcfts and lotbs.

What ultimately sets cloy apart from the two shows is the leads’ acting compability. With ywcts and lotbs, it’s no doubt and much obvious to see that Jun Ji-hyun greatly overshadowed her acting opponentㅡplaying on roles she’s best at, be it as a spoiled popular actress and clueless mermaid. She’s just that good on playing roles that doesn’t have any calmness to it; and more like crazy and freeing women who knows no boundaries. Although her emotional acting was very much in good quality, as well. And because of this very fact, both her costars couldn’t have the equal amount of spotlight, mostly because the characterization for her character (and how she added flavor to that) is much stronger compared to what could be expected from the male leads who, most of the time, don’t share similar traits like hers. I still say that Kim Soo-hyun’s performances on ywcfts are definitely good enough to pair up with Jun Ji-hyun, but I couldn’t say that he’s on his best role despite it prolly being one of his widely known ones.

On this show, Hyun Bin and Son Ye-jin could be said on a similar level for acting capability. Though Son Ye-jin wins out more because of the scriptwriter’s tendency on making her female lead stood out due to their strong characterization, it worked okay because Hyun Bin does match her energy and it just contributed to the fact that he’s a visually good looking actor but still manage to be very damn good at acting as well. And it’s rare to see actors like that on dramaland, you know. Most of widely popular actors seems to stick on one role and never grows from that, but despite his flopped works (yes I’m still bitter on how ineffectiively used he was on Hyde Jekyll and Me) before he started to hit big again after Memoir of Alhambra, ones that had paid attention to his works would know that Hyun Bin, is indeed, good at acting, especially on showcasing his detailed expressions added to the role he’s given. His performances on Secret Garden still awes me to no end, and I’m happy to see that powerful raw acting capability again while he potrayed Ri Jeong-hyeok in this show. 

And Son Ye-jin?This show is just another valid proof that she’s more than a “Melo Queen” people seems to have loved her for. The bratty, spoiled and even brazen acting she’s showed on the drama was incredibly well-acted. Her chemistry with her co-stars were fantastic. Of course, I shouldn’t have to say anything about her acting qualityㅡshe’s just THAT good.  And I love her more on roles like this; where she could  freely show off her capability as an actress on a broader spectrum, rathen than her usual melancholic roles in most of her films. I thought she was a lil bit wasted when she chose to play on Something on the Rain, so thank god she accepted the offer for this show!

And their chemistry is totally off-the-charts, fyi. I might have recently added them on my personal top list for being the most visually good looking couple I’ve ever seen on kdramas with explosive chemistry which I greatly appreciate, and YES I have seen a lot to know that their magnetic presences for each other is like no other. A lil bit biased but okaayyy.

From the leads alone, this is just an absolute must-to-watch show. It’s incredibly rare to see such good performers to helm a show on romance dramas these days. And the most suprising thing is how they doesn’t lose out to the second leads. Seo Ji-hye and Kim Jung-hyun were great on their own feet, but Hyun Bin and Son Ye-jin were just so good on this show that I ALMOST couldn’t care less about the second leads. They grew on me though, and THAT ENDING HURT ME.

And the rest of the casts???Just pure goodness. Everyone has their own color, from the neighborhood moms, the clueless & silly team but still one of my favorite bits to watch, to the villainous role. Everyone’s just doing so great on their role that I couldn’t pick on anything about them. All the characters are the the life of this show. If you’re more of a character-driven drama person, you’d enjoy this immensely.

And it’s so fascinating how they could maintained the light-heartedness of the show to the very end albeit a couple of finale episodes getting so dramatic & hits more emotional beats than usual. I mean, THIS SHOW FEELS LIKE A COMICAL TYPE OF DRAMA SOMETIMES BECAUSE IT WAS THAT HILARIOUS T.T One of the best traits from Park Ji-eun’s scriptwriter, if I might add. Not to mention, the soundtracks!My favorite is Davichi’s by the way :)

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I still have a lot of praises for the acting part, because it feels refreshing to see such a well-acted drama while getting so much popularity at the very same time. With dramas like Descendant of the Sun, Goblin, and more internationally well-received kdramas out there, I still find it hard to choose a drama that has leads with equal amount of respect, trust, and purely in love just as much as they are to each other like this one. Most of romance dramas heavily relies on either the woman or man to be a lil bit more in love with their respective partners, but it wasn’t the case with this one. And that is why despite my constant rant & nitpick for the show, I still consider this as one of my great watch in recent years (not that I have many that I had watched lol).

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Watch it for you’re in for witty dialogues, constant hilarity between the characters, and explosive chemistry & well-acted performances from the leads & the rest of casts. 

Do not watch it for you’re not prepared for the flaws I’ve listen down, and how this is not directed for ones that seek a realistic watch. Ultimately, Crash Landing on You is best watched if you’re not using your brain for it. 

#cloy #crash landing on you #kdrama #hyun bin #son ye jin #thoughts