D.P.

 

Image from Soompi

This drama just proved that Jung Hae-in is more effective in action/comedies rather than romcoms. Out of his 3 other romance dramas, I only managed to forcefully finish one. Maybe the nearest thing that I liked was his movie with Kim Go-eun Tune in for Love, but that wasn't even happy-happy. It had a sad vibe to it but it's better than Something in the Rain or One Spring Night. 

However, I loved him in While You Were Sleeping and Prison Playbook. It's probably coincidence or maybe it's fate that in both series, he played a figure in authority--a policeman and soldier respectively. 

D.P. stands for Deserter Pursuit which is a team that chases after military deserters--or soldiers who abandons their military posts without permission. Their military code considers this a major offense and can be punishable by incarceration. 

The drama shows the stories of these soldiers who chose to be deserters and the reasons for their decision. The story is so gripping and gritty and based on what I read, is true-to-life. It pains me to know that these might be the same scenarios that my idols and oppas are going through during their enlistment. Am not saying that they all have the same experience but it can happen--even here in our country. That's why even if it's banned, we would still hear stories of hazing and even death due to this barbarous activity.

Am grateful for Koo Kyo-hwan's character which gave the show a bit of comedy as a respite from all the doom and gloom. 

One of the episodes that I liked was the one which involved a soldier's halmeonni--the reason why he deserted. I found myself shedding tears when he was eventually captured and he requested that he say goodbye to his grandmother who was sick with Alzheimer's. He bowed to her even when she could not recognize him.  

WHAT I LIKE ABOUT IT

Jung Hae In

He was the main reason why I watched this drama. I was initially enthralled by him at While You Were Sleeping (the abs helped) and then continued on with Prison Playbook. I even went out of my way to see him during his fanmeet here in Manila and even had the opportunity for high-touch. Unfortunately, I had no pictures except for the blurry ones during the actual FM. Unlike the other FM's, I only got balcony tickets for this one much to my chagrin. I wish I splurged for a VIP ticket so I could see him up close. After not liking his previous works, I'm hoping that this would be some sort of redemption and I was proven right. He really excels in action or maybe he has not found the right romcom for him yet. I'm missing his nakakakilig na smiles!

I also read that he and Jun-young trained in boxing before they shot the drama. It certainly helped as their fight scenes were beautiful to watch. Their moves were so graceful--not in a gentle sort of way--but you can see the training.

The Mini-Stories

Each episode has a story of a deserter. I was surprised with some of the cameos (I forgot they were in the cast!) especially that of Go Kyung Pyo and Lee Jun Young. I was taken aback by their characters as they were opposite from their usual portrayals. They're still very much pogi even if they were all beaten up and bruised--especially Jun (I should binge-watch his either dramas. Got interested in him after Imitation). 

The Lessons

One of the lessons learned here is violence breeds violence. Like the story of Cho Suk-bong, he was beaten up because his seniors were beaten up by their seniors. It's a never-ending vicious cycle which can never be stopped.

In the last episode, the recurring theme was, "Why didn't you do anything?" They knew that their comrade was being beaten but whey did they not do anything? The sister of one of the deserters also echoed this--even one of the mothers. It's a rude awakening for all of us. We witness all of these injustices but are we doing anything about it? Why do we turn a blind eye?

WHAT I DON'T LIKE ABOUT IT

The Violence

I know it's part of the story but I still cringed during the beatings. The first few minutes were stressful to watch and I had to close my eyes so many times. The justification for the brutality still escapes me sometimes. They claim that they do this to toughen their men up but it's difficult or me to accept their reality. My heart would break if I knew my own son would go through such hell. 

RATING:

Thank goodness that all 6 episodes were dropped by Netflix all on the same day. That's why I love Netflix produced dramas as I don't have to wait every week for new episodes. Giving this FIVE tissue boxes and highly recommending this!

Watched: August 27-28, 2021

Racket Boys

The Korean title of this drama is Racket Sonyeondan and like its sort of namesake, this drama and its young cast built up its own cult following.  

Kim Sang-kyung stars as a badminton coach and Oh Na-ra as his wife who also shares the same profession--albeit with a more successful team. Tang Joon-sang, fresh from his Move to Heaven stint, plays their sports-oriented son who got into baseball and badminton. 

The story is about a group of teenagers who belong to a badminton team in one of the rural towns of Korea. It's a slice of life drama showing how they handle the stress and pressures of competing and at the same time, nurturing their relationships with their peers, family and neighbors.

You learn to love all of the characters and root for them during their competitions and most of all, you cheer them on as they grow to be better versions of themselves. The character developments were spot on and it was heart warming to see them change that would enable them to do great and wonderful things. 

I loved the Coach, the father of one of the protagonists. He started off as an ineffective teacher--somebody who would care first about himself rather than his players. But as he spent more time with his team, he learned to grow and even exceeded expectations--whether as a father, a husband or as a coach. 

He said something which I can relate to, "You guys made an average player and below-average coach like myself feel pretty good about myself." Seeing how much his boys work inspired him to be better at his job and even made some cool calls in one of the games. 

WHAT I LIKE ABOUT IT

Character Development

There were a lot in this story--from the young leads, the coach and even the supporting cast. 

One particular touching moment was when the city folks realized that they have something to live for. They moved to the Haenam as they wanted to literally die. It had to take a bowl of curry to knock them off their misery. If they proceeded with their plans, they wouldn't have been blessed with their bundle of joy which they have been praying and wishing for for so long. 

The Cameos

A good drama usually does not need cameos to rack up ratings but the writer managed to get cameos from some of the actors from Prison Playbook--which he also wrote. Loved the interaction of Lee Kyu-Hyung and Jung Min-Sung (they were cellmates in Prison Playbook).

Young Love, Sweet Love

Even if the leads are young, they still invoked the right amount of "kilig" and how puppy love feels like. I guess I've been used to watching dramas were love is passionate and culminated with a kiss (or for other dramas, a trip down the aisle or a bed). For this one, they just hugged it out. You can't help but say, awwwwwww!

WHAT I DON'T LIKE ABOUT IT 

I really can't think of anything. If ever, this drama was considered underrated. There's no big name in the cast yet, the story managed to carry them through. Oh, and the episode delays too! This ran for almost three months. It was extended because from the two-episode a week, it became one-episode a week and then there was a week when they didn't show an episode because of the Olympics. 

RATING

Giving this five tissue boxes! Such an inspirational slice of life drama.  

 

Watched: June 6 - August 10, 2021

It's Okay To Not Be Okay

 

It has been a marvelous 8 weeks with these trio. How do I move on?

It's Okay to not be Okay is one of the best dramas of 2020. If there's anything redeeming about this crappy year, it's this series (and sige na nga, pati CLOY).

I've seen my share of KDramas that tackle mental illness but this by far, is the one I like the most. With mental illness being more recognized and veering away from being taboo, it gives viewers another picture on the lives of families struggling with these realities.

Some of the scenes are romanticized but the lines are eye opening and perhaps, even heart-wrenching. It was satisfying to see the characters grow into the better versions of themselves. They managed to face all the hurts and pains and learned how to heal. Comparing their characters in the finale vs the pilot, they surely have come such a long way. 

I loved how Sang Tae, the older brother "grew" up and realized that he's the hyung. The waterworks came when Sang Tae told his younger brother that Gang Tae belongs to Gang Tae and that he was not born to be the caregiver of his older brother. 

I liked that each episode revolves around a certain fairy tale. My favorite, by far, is the one from the pilot as it set the tone for the whole drama. It also has one of the most poignant lines, for me:

'Hurtful, painful memories. Memories of deep regrets. Memories of hurting others and being hurt. Memories of being abandoned. Only those with such memories buried in their hearts can become stronger, more passionate, and emotionally flexible. And only those can attain happiness.'

So don't forget any of it. Remember it all and overcome it. If you don't overcome it, you'll always be a kid whose soul never grows."

The pilot episode is whimsical which caught my attention. And the female lead, Seo Ye-Ji was so unlike any other. She carried being a bitch so well and her distinctive voice put her above other Korean actresses.  She has come a long way from the teeny-bopper love interest of GDragon in BigBang’s MV Let’s Not Fall In Love.

I’ve seen Kim Soo Hyun in previous dramas but this is his first post-military stint full length project (not counting his cameos in Hotel del Luna and CLOY). I knew that he’s a brilliant actor but he blew my mind again with his performance here.

Oh Jung Se is a revelation. I first saw him in Touch Your Heart but this one, is his best (next to Camellia where he won best supporting actor in the recent Baeksang awards). He made my heart ache with his thoughtful portrayal of a person with mental disabilities. And when he took time off his busy schedule to meet with a fan who has the same condition as his character, my tears started to flow. And he even came dressed as Sang Tae!

I love the story. I love the acting. I love the cinematography. I love this drama!

And that finale. It certainly wrapped everything up and allowed us to say goodbye to characters that we've invested 24 hours of our lives with. It was fulfilling to see the cameos return and their stories incorporated in KMY'S final book. I'm amazed how the writer managed to bring everything together in the end.

If I’m going to nitpick, I’m not satisfied with the explanation of Ko Moon Young’s mother. After scaring us for so many episodes, that's it? 

Also, though there were some nice songs in the OST, nothing that would stick in my mind.

I've said my share of goodbyes to awesome dramas in the past two years that I've been watching. But this one will stay with me for a long, long time.

Rating: Five Tissue Boxes!

Ps

Remember that sometimes, it really is okay not to be okay.

Watched: June 29 - Aug 9, 2020

Vincenzo: A Review

From Netflix FB page

With possible spoilers. Read at your own risk.

This drama made me realize how difficult it is to be Lawful Good. We have always been educated and even reiterated in other dramas that criminals, though how evil and despicable they are, should be dealt with in accordance of the law. Moreover, with their human rights protected. But there will always be a part in us that will yearn for biblical justice--an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth. And suffice to say, this drama successfully wooed my bloodthirsty side.

Throughout the whole series, we've seen how the people of Babel group lead by Chairman Jang, superbly played by Ok Taecyeon (and I say that without prejudice), kill people ruthlessly without blinking an eye. We grieved with the victims and even cheered them on when they were able to get justice at the end. And that justice, oh wow, it was so satisfyingly delivered. I should feel pity on how our hero, Vincenzo, dealt with their punishment but it was so so SOOOO deserved.

There were those who only saw Ok Taecyeon for the first time. He was actually the main reason (yes, Song Joong ki was the second) why I watched this drama. OTY is a member of the kpop group, 2PM, before he ventured into acting (he's still a member of the group and still promotes with them. In fact, they have a scheduled comeback later this year). This is actually his 6th drama that I've watched not counting his reality show appearances (3 Meals a Day and 2PM Wild Six!). Amongst all his shows, Vincenzo is where he managed to show more depth and improvement in his acting. I'm SO proud of him!

A lot of viewers were also not happy with the death of Jang Han Seo. I felt ok with that as it made me despise Chairman Jang Han Seok more. If ever I felt pity for that psychotic chairman, it disappeared when he killed his own brother.

Kwak Dong Yeon, the actor who played Jang Han Seo, again showed his notable acting chops (I can still remember his memorable appearance, albeit a cameo, in It's Okay Not to be Okay). If it's character development that we're looking for then his is the one that deserves an applause. After being physically beaten by his own brother for years, he found the "brotherhood" that he was looking for in his former arch-nemesis. It made his death more bittersweet and touching.

I should also mention the awesome cinematography of the series and the OST too! I love the instrumental violins (?) that were played at the end when Vincenzo was walking away. Makes you really want to give it a standing ovation.

Am glad they did not go too heavy on the romantic scenes. I liked his chemistry with the female lead but am more focused with Vincenzo's relationship with the other characters--the Geumga Squad for one. They're my favorites here, most of all, the president of Vincenzo's fanclub (Oh My Consiglieri). Gosh! That was a riot! Hahaha!

If I were to have a peeve it would be the product placements (PP). South Korean dramas are notorious for their PPs especially if the lead is a hallyu wave star. However, if the PP is smoothly done, it doesn't bother me and I just laugh it off. In this case, it's effective as I want some Maxim and Kopiko.

I originally thought that this drama was a tad too long at 20 episodes and 1.5 hours each! But at its conclusion, there were still so many things that I wanted to see--a reunion with the Geumga squad, the destruction of the building, Vincenzo's new "family island" etc. But I rest easy knowing that this drama entertained me enough for the past 3 months.

Highly recommending this!

Rating: Five Tissue Boxes

For the entertainment and for the superb cast.

I'm Not a Robot

When I started watching K-Dramas, the first few ones that I watched made me cry which me run through my tissue stash quickly--thus the basis of my rating system.

However, it has been a long time ever since I ugly-cried over a drama. The last one was Scarlet Heart (for obvious reasons). But the crying I did over this drama was so worth it. The story called for it and was truly justified.

I again went out of my chronological drama review to write this immediately as it was just so good. I need to write everything down while my memory and the feelings invoked are still fresh. I actually started watching this August 11 but was distracted with Healer.

This series, which is relatively new, aired last December 2017 to January 2018 and starred Yoo Seung-ho, Chae Soo-bin and Um Ki-joon. It introduced me to a new oppa which I'll definitely add to my list.

The story is about a girl, Jo Ji-a (Chae Soo-bin) who pretended to be a robot as a favor to her ex-boyfriend (Um Ki-joon) so she can meet the new investor of the robot project which happened to be Kim Min-kyu (Yoo Seung-ho). Min-kyu then fell in love with robot not knowing that she was human. That's the gist of it but I'll go through the story more later on in my review.

Considering how well made this drama was, I can't help but wonder why it had a low viewership rating in Korea when this was shown. Probably it went against other good dramas but this one is really well-written and the actors were superb!

WHAT I LIKE ABOUT IT

The OST

I put this on the top because I believe that having a good soundtrack will enhance the emotions of a viewer while watching a drama. Having the right song playing during a pivotal moment will invoke the appropriate reaction whether that would involve lots of tears or the opposite.

During my ugly-cry in one poignant scene, Words of my Heart by Kim Yeon-ji was playing in the background. Whoever sound-edited this drama deserves an award! Refer to the video below as Exhibit 1.

The instrumental version of the song was playing throughout the confession but when Kim Min-kyu started to take off his necklace at 1:20, the vocals was edited in and the crying spree begins! Knowing the meaning behind that action added to the drama.



Here's the whole version of the song:



The rest of the songs featured in the drama were also excellent but the one above is the best ear-worm of all.

The Script

Very well written! Refer again to Exhibit 1. The lines were well-delivered, significant and said at the right note.

What Aji3 said before she was rebooted, I swear, that was when I really sobbed as if my own heart was also breaking.

"Every single moment I spent with you made me happy."

It may feel like a simple line but it was said at the appropriate time which made me forget about it. The point that it made Min-kyu sob like crazy (and me as well), drove home the point how meaningful it was. Nevertheless, the scriptwriters, Kim Sun-mi and Lee Seok-joon really wrote heartbreak beautifully.

Another scene was when Jo Ji-a wanted to ask for forgiveness. Min-kyu dropped some painful, albeit, truthful lines which really stabbed to the core. I could understand the girl's reaction when she just stood there and took it in.



One concept that I liked in the story is the human allergy of Min-kyu. It started after his parents died and he was betrayed by the person who he thought was his friend. The pain of the deception manifested itself through allergic reactions that it became impossible for him to have human contact. It's interesting that the series started with Min-kyu not being able to enter the military because of his ailment and it ended with him being discharged after rendering mandatory service as he was able to overcome his allergies. It's like tying a big red bow over a package. So satisfying and pretty.

The character development in the script was also rich that you could see how the characters changed throughout the series and how well the actors portrayed those changes, especially the Santa Maria team--and Min-kyu, of course.

That Kiss!

Refer to Exhibit 2 below. 'Nuff said.



Yoo Seung-ho

Because of Exhibit 2, and of course his stupendous acting, I'm now a fan of this Oppa. He acts with a passion and I love his baritone voice. I was surprised that it was that low. I'm now lining up his other dramas and movies.

And after watching dramas with lead actors kissing their leading ladies, the kiss that Seung-ho gave Soo-bin in Exhibit 2 is one of the best. It was ardent and romantic at the same time. Though I have yet to watch his other dramas but he surely has good chemistry with his partners.

Here's his "come at me" look which made me all kilig.

Kdrama Come_at_me GIF from Kdrama GIFs

The Chemistry

Ok, I'm really shipping them as a couple. Check out the BTS of their kiss below. The shy smiles after the kiss and hesitant glances and touches...eeeeeeeehhhh! Wonder if they have another drama or movie together. I'll definitely watch that.




WHAT I DON'T LIKE ABOUT IT

Kang Ki-young's character

Kang Ki-young
Source: Kpopmap

I love Kang Ki-young as he's almost in every good drama that I've watched. However, I realized that he doesn't play "meek" well. He kept on throwing stuff which supposedly showed his "anger". Though usually plays supporting roles, he's always good but this one is an exception. His character was just too one-dimensional. I didn't see depth or any development. It's somehow disappointing as he's the bestfriend and supposed to be the one who caused the "allergy" of Min-kyu. As such, his role should be more climatic.


RATING

I give this five tissue boxes! I still can't determine why it did not rate well in Korea. It's really well made and the story took me by surprise. I really thought it's a sci-fi drama as I didn't read any reviews beforehand and had no expectations whatsoever. It's great to discover a new oppa and the soundtrack in this series was just outstanding. Really great watch!

Watched: September 9 - 14, 2018

Because This is My First Life

I'm deviating from my format of posting reviews of series that I've watched chronologically to write this. I just finished this and I'm in awe of this beautifully crafted and written show.

Because This is My First Life aired last October to November 2017 at tvN. The same network that showed my favorites--Goblin and What's Wrong with Secretary Kim, among others. The series starred Lee Min-ki and Jung So-min.

I'm excited to have seen a lot of familiar faces in the drama as its an attestation of how much dramas I've already watched:

• First of, the two leads appeared in cameos as the parents of a young Kim Mi-so in What's Wrong with Secretary Kim (After finishing this, I immediately watched Episode 10 of WWWSK).
• The boss of the male lead also appeared in What's Wrong with Secretary Kim as a blind date of Kim Mi-so.
• The boyfriend of one of the female lead's bestfriends also appeared as a soldier in Descendants of the Sun.
• One of the senior co-writers of the female lead was the flamboyant boss in She Was Pretty.
• The director of the drama that the female lead was writing for appeared as a defendant in Suspicious Partner.

WHAT I LIKE ABOUT IT

The Story

I thought that the plot was something that I've read in my romance novels--both parties entered into a marriage of convenience only to fall in love with each other along the way. However, I liked the way the writer, Yoon Nan-joong, tackled that angle.

You would think that if two people of the opposite sex lived together and suddenly developed a sexual attraction, there would be a lot of sexual innuendos. That was not the case here. There are however, a lot of life learnings and different perspectives.

Nam Se-hee (Lee Min-ki) is an eccentric computer programmer who contracted Yoon Ji-ho (Jung So-min) as a tenant. They married soon after when they realized the advantages that it would bring them. Ji-ho figured later on that she loved him and ended their contract.

This is where I really didn't get it. If she did love him, why did she not just continue the contract and lived as a real husband and wife? Later on, I concluded that she must've wanted to start anew without the complications of marriage (e.g. expectations of in-laws and friends) and that she wanted to "force" Se-hee out of his shell. He has always contained his emotions and she does not want to have a marriage based on that.

There were a lot of references to fiction and non-fiction literature all throughout the series--not surprising considering that Ji-ho is a literature major. My favorite one is pertaining to the book To Room 19 by Doris Lessing. It's about a seemingly perfect married couple with the wife wanting to have space for herself. Initially, the husband put aside a room in the second floor for her but the kids still entered the place. She eventually rented a small motel room and went there several hours a day just to do nothing. She kept this a secret from her husband and family as she treasured her space as it's only there that she can be herself.

Ji ho used Room 19 as an analogy describing their secret space which neither partner can enter. She wanted to find out what was inside Se-hee's Room 19. She ended their marriage because she's scared of what she will find in that room and how it will affect their relationship.

The Two Leads

Lee Min-ki's character needed some getting used to. He was literally a blank slate--like Kim Soo-hyun's character in My Love from the Star. I'm used to watching dramas with me falling in love with the Oppa male lead. But when Se-hee he started to show emotion, he slowly changed to being human and oppa-ble.

I found Jung So-min so beautiful here. She's my other girl crush next to Park Min-young. You would think that she's meek and quiet but she belied that by the strength she showed when she left her job.

I loved their sensitive portrayals and how they gave life to the written characters.

The Lessons and Quotable Quotes

Whenever I watch a Korean drama, I usually pick up something new. This show was no exception.

There was this touching moment between Se-hee and Ji-ho's mother before the wedding ceremony. Ji-ho's mom asked Se-hee to let her daughter continue writing after they get married and not let her live like her mother. Se-hee said that his wife's heart is really strong and she doesn't do anything that will make her unhappy. He will not stand in the way of her happiness and that is all that he will promise her. The mother then said something very poignant--"Just because you're married, it doesn't mean you have to make her happy. What can make anyone else happy?" 

People think that marriage is the one-all and be-all of happiness; that getting married means that they can live happily ever after. It's not usually the case. Marriage is a journey and a relationship that involves numerous complicated elements. It takes years to master these aspects and involves a lot of trial and error.
I initially thought that I will not get married, that I will live my life in the state of single blessedness. I already started making plans on how to live my life with that scenario in mind and decided to be happy about it. Happiness should only come from yourself and not be dependent on anything or anyone. 

"But I don't think marriage is sacred. Love is a sacred thing."
This is a different perspective that I managed to gather from this drama. I come from a culture and religion that considers marriage as holy--what God has joined together let no man put asunder. (Mark 10:9)  Up to now, we are the only country left in the world that considers divorce unlawful. We were taught to save the marriage at all costs and to fight for our husbands and family.
This aspect looks at marriage that should have love in it--and not just something "fortunate". In the olden times, marriage was used for political and monetary reasons. Only a few are lucky enough to be in love with each other when they were joined in matrimony. This has changed over the times with love being the reason for marriage. Throughout the relationship, love then changes over time depending on how each partner handles it. Sometimes it turns to hate but for others, it turns to respect and a deep sense of commitment.
Personally, I'm a believer of divorce as it gives spouses who are victims of abuse a way out. Moreover, if your marriage is healthy and solid, divorce shouldn't scare you. I guess it just takes political will for it to happen.

"What matters is spending time with the person next to you, right this moment, no matter what.
That's why even today we focus on loving each other and to those living this moment with all my sincerity, I wish you the best of luck. Because this is everyone's first life."
Ji-ho narrated this towards the end of the final episode. It somehow espouses the idea of "You Only Live Once" which I'm not comfortable with but I do agree that we only have one life to live so we should make the most out of it.

The Supporting Characters

The story of the supporting characters are also interesting to follow, especially the story of Ji-hee's bestfriends, as they are relatable and familiar.

Yang Ho-rang (Kim Ga-eun) has been in a relationship with her boyfriend, Kim Min-seok (Sim Won-seok) for seven years and has been dropping hints of getting married. Being busy on making his start-up app a success, he did not get the hints which led to them arguing and eventually breaking up.

I've known people who are like Ho-rang and I was almost like that once. I was already past 30 and though my boyfriend and I have only been together for 2 years, I knew that he was the One. But unlike Min-seok and Ho-rang, I've always been transparent and knew of my partner's plans (finish his MBA). My patience paid off and he proposed (albeit unromantically) on July 12 years ago.

There was also the relationship of Woo Su-ji (Esom) and Ma Sang-goo (Park Byung-eun). Su-ji worked for a corporate office and has always maintained casual relationships because she does not want to lose sight of her goal. Sang-goo, the boss of Se-hee, fell in love with Su-ji and fervently did everything to win her affections.

Su-ji's character is interesting because as a person working in the corporate world, I've met people like her--though I'm not saying that they also maintain casual affairs, but females with strong personalities and with a goal in mind. I admire their drive to reach their goals and how they manage their life without a partner.

By the final episode, I was excitedly curious on what their choices will be.

The OST

This song is currently on repeat in my Spotify Kdrama playlist. Definitely my new LSS.



WHAT I DON'T LIKE ABOUT IT

Really depends on other watchers but it's mostly a "talkies" drama meaning not much happening on screen. You have to really pay attention to the subtitles as there are a lot of narrations. But I guess that's part of the technique.

RATING

I give this drama, 5 tissue boxes! So worth the watch!

Watched: August 23-26, 2018

Strong Girl Bong Soon (Strong Woman Do Bong Soon)

I started this at the same time that I watched Kill Me Heal Me because the former, I can only watch online while this one, I can watch downloaded episodes from Viu. Starring Park Bo-young, Park Hyung-sik and Ji Soo, this is one of my highly recommended dramas which I will explain later.

This was shown from February to April 2017 and became one of the highest rated Korean dramas in cable television history. If you watched it, you'll find out way.

Do Bong-soon (Park Bo-young) was born with superhuman strength. Because of this, she was able to get a job as a bodyguard of Ahn Min-hyuk (Park Hyung-sik) who fell in love with her. But she still has unresolved feelings for her childhood crush, In Guk-doo (Ji Soo). This all happens while she tries to catch a neighborhood killer/kidnapper.

WHAT I LIKE ABOUT IT

This is the only series, by far, that I've rewatched more than two times and there are a lot of things to like about it. Sharing my Twitter thread about this series:

STRONG WOMAN DO BONG SOON
At finally, nakilala ko na si Paek Hyung sik! Kasama pa si 14th prince! pic.twitter.com/hcqZULtgKB

— Shine ☀️ 빛 (@sunshi_fairy) July 28, 2018

Park Hyung-sik

He was just so cute here and the reason why he made it to my #1 list of oppas which he currently shares with Park Seo-joon. I'm sore that I only discovered him now when he was just here late last year for a meet and greet. I would've been one of the thousands of fans swooning over him. I've been watching some of the clips during his M&G and I was giggling the whole time.
I love him here because it felt like watching the real PHS. Moreover, it's refreshing to see a guy be all kilig over a girl.

Case in point.

Park Hyung Sik Phone GIF from Parkhyungsik GIFs

Because of PHS, I visited the nearby Bench store and bought this:

The Story
It's a simple story but it's so light and fluffy that it will leave you with a happy heart afterwards. The chemistry of the two leads PBY and PHS will make you smile. I was a bit lost when the reason why Bong-soon was hired was immediately resolved but the writers managed to pick that up.

Moreover, I was very satisfied with how the whole series ended. If all dramas could end like that then I won't have any problems with closure. But this one and What's Wrong With Secretary Kim, ended perfectly. That's why both of them are my most recommended K Dramas.

The OST

Park Hyung-sik's, Because of You, is on repeat on Spotify as I wanted to memorize it (which I already did). I'm not sure if this is really the official music video.

Other than Because of You, there are other songs from the drama which I love.

One of the songs, Super Power Girl is played everytime Bong-soon does something super-heroey. The melody is perfect as it's so catchy--if I could understand the lyrics.




Other songs from the OST can be found in the playlist from Warner Korea.




Park Bo-young
I belatedly realized that I already watched one of her movies before--A Wolf Boy--where she starred with Song Joong-ki. I didn't recognize her as I had my eyes then on SJK but I do remember her sensitive performance.
In this drama, she's delicate and fragile and she certainly looked the part especially when her 5'1" frame is standing beside the 6' PHS. Describing her as cute is an understatement. It's amusing that while PHS is all over the place expressing his kilig over her, she's just standing there as cool as she can be with a serene smile on her face while watching him.

Ji Soo
Ever since I saw him and his emotional scenes in Scarlet Heart, I wanted him to have his own drama. Though he's not the main lead, I was still happy to see him here. He's the anti-thesis of PHS' character. I enjoyed their bromance though.

Park Hyung Sik Cute GIF from Parkhyungsik GIFs

The Supporting Cast 
The people around the main characters were hilarious as well. There was a character there whose purpose I could not see the importance of (the fake Indian monk), but otherwise, they were really funny. Kim Won-hae was especially entertaining as he had to play two different characters.

WHAT I DON'T LIKE ABOUT IT

None! There were some minute details but it did not stop me from enjoying the whole drama.

RATING
I give this a rating of five tissue boxes even if I did not cry over it. It's just a feel good series that will leave you smiling and happy afterwards. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

Park Hyung Sik GIF from Parkhyungsik GIFs

Watched: July 22-July 29, 2018

Kill Me, Heal Me

I watched this as part of my PSJ marathon. Though he's second lead here, I've heard great things about the main, Ji Sung. The other main, Hwang Jung-eum starred with Park Seo-joon in She Was Pretty. Although this was the reason why they had that series together because of their chemistry in this drama. This aired from January to March 2015.

The story revolves around the idea of multiple personality disorder and how Cha Do-hyun (Ji Sung) dealt with it.

Oh Ri-jin (Hwang Jung-eum) is a psychiatrist who was hired to treat Do-hyun and in the process, encountered all his other personalities. Oh Ri-on is Ri-jin's twin bother who was actually a blockbuster fiction writer in secret.

WHAT I LIKE ABOUT IT

The Story
The plot and its reveals deserves a standing ovation. The last twist made my jaw drop and I had to point at the screen and shout in astonishment. It was just awesome!
When I watch something, I usually try to guess the outcome and more often than not, I'm right. But this one, I really did not get it at all that's why I was so surprised! I never expected that curve ball! Though I want to discuss it in detail, I don't want somebody reading this who haven't watched it be disappointed.
It's interesting to note that the writer of this series, Jin Soo-wan, was also the writer of my other favorite drama, Moon Embracing the Sun.

Ji Sung
He was just a revelation. Portraying 5 or 6 different characters one after the other can be difficult but he did so with flair. Other actors would opt for a costume change but in his case, it was not necessary (although I think the director did it to not confuse the viewer). He altered his pitch, his mannerisms and his voice to fit the personality of who he was portraying. I am just at awe of him.
I have a crush on one of the personalities of Cha Do-hyun, Shin Se-gi. He's sort of the "bad boy" personality and he appears whenever Do-hyun experiences violence. I used to wonder why these guys wear make-up but the eyeliners are really growing on me. It makes them look more sexy.

Shin Se Gi Killme Healme GIF from Shinsegi GIFs

The Bromance
The scenes of Ji Sung and PSJ together were just hilarious especially when Oh Ri-on met the other personalities of Cha Do-hyun. They really deserve to win the Best Couple Award!



The OST
There are a lot of ear-worm songs in this drama. One of them, Auditory Hallucination is featured in the clip below:



Park Seo-joon also has a song featured in the series. It's one of my favorites:


Quotable Quotes
I found myself pausing in the middle of an episode because I wanted to take down the lines being uttered by the actors.

"My imagination decides the size of my fear. Fear is something created by oneself, and is the fruit of one's imagination. So now, confront your past. Don't waste your imagination on your past that has already been concluded. Imagination should be left over for the future. For the sake of the future what's going to happen ahead." - Mr. X, Episode 20

- The above is my favorite quote, especially the part on imagination being left for the future. There's no use in dwelling in the past because it's already done and we cannot change it. We should spend more of our energy in preparing for the future.

"There is a dark basement in everyone's hearts. If ignored and is only observed, the darkness becomes thicker. You should muster your courage and go downstairs, then turn on the light. If you're scared when alone, someone can hold your hand." Cha Do-hyun, Episode 20

"No matter how scary the nightmare, it will always end sometimes." Cha Do-hyun, Episode 13

"If it folds in one go, then it's thank you. If you open it up again, then it's lingering attachment. If you open it twice, then it's sadness. If you open it three times, it's pain. After unfolding it over and over again and it becomes ragged, that's how the heart gets ripped. And when ripped, just deal with it until you become numb. That's how it is." - Oh Ri-on (Episode 13)

- It took awhile for me to understand what the above quote meant and when I did, it sounded cool, especially the last part. A broken heart can really be painful and one would tend to wallow in that pain. But however painful it is, you really have to deal with it and later on, it will get better.

WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE ABOUT IT

Hwang Jung-eum
I cannot unremember her from She Was Pretty and she was again screaming and overacting in the first episode. I had to turn down, again, the volume of my speaker as my ears were hurting. Fortunately, she was more quiet towards the middle and end of the series.

Lover's Resolution
In the dramas I've watched, I always look for the happy ending of the main leads. Though this one ended with them together, I was looking for something else--like if they're getting married or what. I'm too old to still believe in "...they got married and lived happily ever after." but I'm still a child at heart.

RATING
I give this a rating of five tissue boxes. Definitely one of my favorites! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

Watched: July 22-28, 2018

What's Wrong with Secretary Kim

I joined an online group comprising of mommy friends with a common love for Korean drama. It is there that I learned about this ongoing series starring Park Seo-joon and Park Min-young.

This is the first series that I've watched while the drama is being shown weekly. It started just this June and ended the next month (16 episodes total). I get to wait along with other viewers until the next episode which adds to the suspense especially when the ending of the previous one leaves you in tenterhooks.

The story was based on an ongoing webtoon about a narcissistic Vice Chairman of a family corporation and his very able and efficient secretary. It started off with his secretary wanting to resign after working for him for 9 years. Think Sandra Bullock and Hugh Grant's Two Week Notice but I liked this one better.


WHAT I LIKE ABOUT IT

Park Seo-joon

PSJ was a revelation here. He already made several dramas before this but this was the first one of his that I've watched. I initially did not like him but he really grew on me. It made me search for his other works and immediately fell for his magical charm. (Amazing how these oppas can do that when I can barely understand what they're saying.)
PSJ is known for his rom-coms and after watching his other series, this one, for me, is the best. His chemistry with PMY is off the charts (too bad they're not dating in real life and the behind the scenes clips can attest to that. They would immediately move away from each other after shooting an intimate scene).
Because of this series, PSJ cemented himself in the top spot (which is currently being shared with Park Hyung-sik. Sorry, Gong Yoo, you just moved to number two) of my list of Oppas.
Another thing I can say about him, no drama of his is complete without any shower scene. He's known for his fantabulous body and he certainly lives up to the hype. No wonder my friends went crazy when the shower scene came up.

Park Min-young

Other than her itself, I love her character here. When I was younger, all I wanted was to become an executive assistant. I find accomplishment in anticipating the needs of my bosses and making them as comfortable as I can. Kim Mi-so is the perfect secretary and the best thing I admire about her is her ability to run in high heels!
PMY is also so pretty. Shiseido was spot on in getting her as an endorser.

Supporting Cast
The supporting cast were marvelous and added to the light-hearted moments. I like the love pairings on the side, especially that of Mr. Yang and Bong Se-ra. Other than the two leads, my favorite character is the best friend, Park Yoo-sik played by Kang Ki-young. Even if he looked and acted flaky and nutty, he aptly guided PSJ's character, Lee Young-joon, to navigate the murky waters of love. All his advices to Young-joon were learnings from his own failed relationship.

The Story
One thing about watching this weekly, almost each episode is a cliffhanger. I would rewatch the previous episodes while waiting for the new one to be shown. Fortunately, I subscribe to Viu Premium which lets me watch the newest episode in less than 12 hours after it comes out. Best investment of a Kdrama addict.
The series also quoted from a book (though I'm not sure if the book is really existing or not):

I want to be in the kind of relationship

where I feel like the tiredness of my day gets washed off

just by hugging you once

even if you don't make my heart

flutter every second.

This is one of the best light rom-com Kdramas that I've watched so far. This will become (together with Strong Woman Bong Soon) as one of my go-to series if I need a pick-me-upper. It made me feel warm and fuzzy afterwards.

Lessons
I was once in Secretary Kim's place before. Not really an EA but I understand how work can eat up your time leaving you less time for yourself. I used to work for a multinational company and going home on the dot was not the norm. She wanted to resign because she wanted to find herself. I resigned from my job then to have more time for myself and my family.

WHAT I DON'T LIKE ABOUT IT

None! Other than suspending my disbelief during a few episodes (e.g. The President tolerating an inefficient secretary; an executive secretary affording an expensive bed when her apartment is a monthly rental), but everything just ended in a happy note.

RATING

Considering I didn't cry much but gave me the happy feels, I give this a rating of five tissue boxes!

Watched: June 25 - July 27 (I started late when episode 4 was already shown)

Moon Embracing the Sun

Ever since my sister and sister-in-law found out that I've been watching Korean dramas, they've been bugging me watch this. I finally gave in after watching Kim Soo-hyun at My Love from the Star.

Moon Embracing the Sun is the first Joseon-period drama that I've watched. The other series (Legend of the Blue Sea) had old Korean scenes in it but not the whole drama. This one had them wearing hanboks from the start up to the end.

This series was shown January - March 2012, definitely older than any that I've watched. It starred Kim Soo-hyun and Han Ga-in as the two leads with Jung Il-woo and Kim Min-seo as the second leads.

This historical drama, which has elements of fantasy, was adapted from a novel written by Jung Eun-gwol. It revolves around a king from the Joseon period and his attempts to be with his loved one and at the same time, fight his way through the political intrigues to solidify his hold on his throne.

WHAT I LIKE ABOUT IT

Kim Soo-hyun
If I took notice of him at My Love from the Star, this series made me love him more. Even the actor who played his younger version, Yeo Jin-goo, was superb. Soo-hyun was only 24 when the drama was shot but he had shown acting maturity that can be the envy of actors his age. He also won the Best Actor award for this series in the 48th Baeksang Arts Awards (Korea's version of the Golden Globes) and the MBC Drama Awards.
I also love his character here. I love how he grew into such a strong person and to have enough guts and courage to fight for his convictions and for the woman he loves.
When he cries, he definitely gives his all. Here's a clip below posted by TV-People where Kim Soo-hyun's character finally learned the truth about his beloved and how much she suffered.



The Story
The final episode was so suspenseful that I cheered when a key person made a vital decision which turned the tide of the story. I cried so much over this drama and all the twists were properly unraveled and closed. I actually loved it when the contrabidas got their comeuppance and it was bloody like the way they deserved it. Hehehe.
This won Best Drama in the 2012 Baeksang Arts Awards and tons of other nominations and awards.
Definitely one of the best ones that I've watched.

The Oppas
In the past dramas, I'm just used to seeing one or two oppas during the series. This was the first time that I experienced multiple ones that I was smiling the whole time I was watching them.
The younger versions of their characters are not excluded from the list.

• Yim Si-wan, who played the younger version of Heo Yeom (the brother of the female lead)
• Lee Tae-ri, who played the younger version of Prince Yang Myung (the brother of the male lead and the second lead as well)
• Song Jae-rim, who played the bodyguard of the king. I would swoon whenever he would do his swordfights and such. The moves are so graceful it looks as if he's dancing.

Jung Il-woo, Kim Soo-hyun and Song Jae-rim

Instant Korean History and Cultural Lesson

Watching the series gave me an idea on what Korean culture is all about. One thing's for sure, anything that involves a throne would lead to a lot of bloodshed and sacrifice. 

Other than that, I enjoyed seeing the intricate hanbok costumes and the elaborate headpieces (the thing that looks like a chopstick but with decorations at the end) the designs of which emphasizes their social rank. Makes me want to wear one when I eventually visit Korea.

WHAT I DON'T LIKE ABOUT IT

I found it a tad bit too long. I really felt sorry for the character of Han Ga-in especially all the sufferings that she had to undergo. Moreover, the main characters did not appear until the 6th or 7th episode. But I can forgive them for this because of how everything was resolved in the end.

RATING

Highest rating should be five tissue boxes but this deserves 6 tissue boxes for the story and acting. It also made me appreciate Sageuk dramas more.

Watched: June 25-28, 2018

Goblin (Guardian: The Lonely and Great God)

The first Korean drama series that I watched and the one that got me hooked into this. It came out on December 2016 and ran until January 2017. It stars Gong Yoo as the title character, Kim Shin, together with Kim Go-eun (as Ji Eun-tak), Lee Dong-wook (as the Grim Reaper/Wang Yeo) and Yoo In-na (as Sunny or Kim Sun).

Kim Shin was once a warrior who was killed and as recognition for his unjust death, was cursed/blessed to live an immortal life and be a goblin--a god who protects souls. His existence can only be ended when he finds his bride.  Eun-tak is a girl who has lead a harsh life and summoned the goblin by accident and falling in love with him in the process.

The other main cast has their own love story to share and it's as heart-breaking as that of Kim Shin and Eun-tak's.

WHAT I LIKED ABOUT IT (Possible Spoilers for those who have not watched it)

Gong Yoo

Grip Reaper and Goblin

I was never attracted to any Oppa. Even when one Oppa after the other visited the Philippines, I never gave them a second glance. However, seeing him act with his expressive face and eyes, I can't help but succumb to his charms and eventually fall in love with him.

I first knew about him in Train to Busan. I wanted to watch it when it first came out but I was pregnant then so I delayed watching it. My colleague at work starting telling me about him when she saw him in Goblin. It was because of that that I found myself watching it as well.

He can sing too! He did not lend his vocals in any of the songs in the OST but I managed to listen to some of his songs. His voice is so cool and soothing and made me want to learn Korean more!

Lee Dong-wook

He was perfect as the Grim Reaper and his back story with Sunny was as heartbreaking. I love his bromance with the Goblin. I always look forward to any of their interactions and scenes. Though they profess their dislike for each other, they end up watching over each other.

The story

There's a saying that nothing worth comes easy. The love stories in this series were definitely not easy. But seeing them overcome all odds made me feel warm and fuzzy inside.  I cried so much in the four days that I was stuck in my chair watching this. The writer, Kim Eun-sook is indeed talented to be able to come up with a story that intertwined so many lives and with lines (even if translated) that can skewer a cold heart. I'm so amazed how it managed to really hook me until the end.

I guess what really got to me was the premise of someone living an immortal life and looking for the person who can end it, only to fall in love with that person in the process. And when he tried to extend his life because he wanted to spend more time with her, she started getting into accidents because she has no reason to live if her purpose cannot be fulfilled.

Grim Reaper and Sunny's story is more tragic as it involved their past lives. I'm happy how it was resolved at the end but I still have some concerns with Shin and Eun-Tak's story. What would happen to the goblin when Eun-Tak finishes all her 4 lives? 

The OST

This was a surprise. Considering that I don't understand Korean, I was expecting that I will not appreciate the music but I felt otherwise. I guess music will always be universal--like love. Even if you don't understand the lyrics, the melody can become an earworm.

There were several songs that I like: 

- The opening theme, Round and Round by Heize and Han Soo-ji. Though it reminded me a bit of Evanescene, the song captured the mystery and fantasy of the drama.

- Beautiful by Crush. It was played during poignant scenes involving the two main leads. 

- Who are You by Sam Kim. Whenever the chorus is sung, I could see in my mind, Eun-tak running towards the goblin.

- Stay with Me by Chanyeol (EXO), Punch. The result of the collaboration of the aforementioned artists is just beautiful. Now if I can speak Korean so I can sing of the parts that I like.

Fashion

I don't consider myself a fashionista. I have a basic fashion sense but nothing that would warrant me a place in Project Runway. However, I was entranced by the winter attire, especially that of the male leads. They look oh so cool and dashing--especially when they were wearing those long coats. I heard that those coats were sold out after they wore it in the series.

The Poetry

The poem above was read by the Goblin when he realized how much he has grown to love Eun-tak. I'm not sure if the translation did justice to the original poem.

WHAT I DON'T LIKE ABOUT IT

Some say that the ending can be left as is. But I really wanted to find out what would happen to the goblin when Eun-tak's lives run out. Also, will his wife keep on getting into accidents if she postpones killing him? Will she have a different purpose when she's reborn? After all, the purpose of the goblin bride is to kill the goblin.

There was a time that I felt uncomfortable of the age gap of the two leads. She's a 17-year old high schooler (although in real life, she's older than that. But thanks to their inherent good skin, she really can pass herself off as a teenager) while the guy is in his late 30's (well, technically, he's more than 900 years old). But I managed to ignore it when they did not make any mention of it in the series which was a big relief. Other writers would've made it a source of contention between the leads, for sure.

RATING

I rate my dramas with the amount of tissue that I have consumed while watching the series. 

Five Tissue Boxes - Awesome! Exemplary! More! More! Standing ovation! Finished a whole tissue box from all the crying! 

Four Tissue Boxes - Great! Good job! But something missing.

Three Tissue Boxes - Ok. Not great but just ok.

Two Tissue Boxes - Not ok but not bad either. The disadvantages outweighs the redeeming factor.

One Tissue Box - Meh.

Since this was my first, I felt that the next ones really paled into comparison (except for Moon Embracing the Sun). So I give this five tissue boxes!

Watched: June 7-10, 2018