I love myself fluffy girly romance thing like this...:)
It's funny & cute (GEORGEOUS drawings at each episode opening), all episodes have funny "epilogues"... The only problems are exactly the same like in 'Noble, My Love'.While I appreciate that they kept the funny male secretary from 'Noble', I'm having the same problems. Firstly, I don't like Sung Hoon (the girl is cute, cuter than most korean female leads). Secondly, I don't even like the kind of main character that he portrays. Again, it's a rich guy who has to gradually blackmail the main girl into being his gf.
The 1st episode is skippable until they hook up in the car, then the proper fun starts. She then meets him again, meets the funny male asistant... But then, it's all about him being her overbearing boss. That's kind of uncomfortable. I didn't like when the lead girl was constantly strained by his demands, while he was actually making a move on her (just because they once met years ago?). It was all so artificial. While the guy she SHOULD really get close to by now naturally (the one from the book store/cafe) got completely side-lined (friend-zoned).
Basically, what I didn't like was: Sung Hoon, Sung Hoon's haircut, his male character who after a one-night-stand acted morelike girls act after them, and also the fact that he became her boss. (Throughout the romance drama, she keeps calling him "director"... idiotic.)
What I liked: It was funny, it was cute, nobody was a virgin or sexually clueless, no one fake/stiff kissed (well, mostly) and nobody yelled on the top of their lungs just during regular conversation (mostly). Wow, k-dramas seem to have improved, lol.
Some moments are SO goofy. Like the kiddie playground in epi 9... I really did regret that I didn't like Sung Hoon. It would be perfect if I did:-) Epi 9/13 main guy also makes his confession. It's not very believable one even for a dramaland. I can't help it: I am used to seeing that after the two characters get to know each other, spend time together, go through things together, they get closer, and relationship develops. This drama, we are supposed to believe that after two random strangers spend a couple of moments together and then don't see each other for years, relationship develops. Why not, right? As long as it's cute... Which brings me back to the problem that Sung Hoon is not my type of eye candy. Else I might enjoy this more. Either way, when his main guy misunderstands that he's got a kid, he embraces it immediatelly, which is really sweet. When the girl left though, I didn't feel sorry for the guy. He LET her leave.
The viewer should be in understanding with the fact that k-dramas ALWAYS tend to overdrag, so this one, having 13 episodes only and not 16, means it REALLY had no other plot or reason for further angst, lol. Last 3 episodes, even the "epilogues" went draggy... We watch scenes like: Main Girl & Main Guy Both Travel On The Same Street But Fail To Notice One Another, And Therefore Fail To Meet. On one hand, this was draggy, but the truth also was that I even didn't particularly mind it that they didn't meet, lol. (And I'll let you guess if such scene then also gets "epilogued".) Then, there's like 1 minute with the funny male assistant... Nice. This is why I rated 'Noble, My Love' 9 stars, though it was basically similar: TIME SAVING, lol.
Near the end, among flashback scenes providing the runtime filler (like, you don't even need to go on youtube to watch this show's MVs, those are already included), they end up at the same place in the same car and that oddly reminded me of another k-drama called 'Witch's Romance', where the couple also had 1 great moment in the beginning and then after many episodes of suffering we watched an actual repeat of that scene. I didn't give that show very high rating... I know wievers were supposed to find the reminiscing montage moving, but something nasty in me wished for the girl to REPEAT her previous behavior, then:) Meaning, leave the car before the guy wakes up and not contact him for years. Who cares about the happy ending, LOL. But, we do get happy ending, and it's like 58 minutes long, so my rating is still generous, considering.
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This is show exactly what it meant to be
I was expecting lightweight romcom to binge watch and got exactly what i wanted. This is the type of show where you just want to chill in your sofa not thinking much about what you are watching and just enjoying some silly romantic comedy with beautiful actors. Is it deep? Nah. Is it toughts provoking? Not at all. Is it funny and romantic? Hell yeah. And thats all it matters. The chemistry between characters was great (even though the first close "encounter" could be somewhere else somewhere more romantic and memorable) and their bickering was just cute and funny.The ML at the first was punchable spoiled kid but he actually turned out pretty good.
Idk what else to say. This is just not something you tear to peaces in a review. Its like when you go to some unknown fastfood where they serve something ordinary. You know what you are getting upfront and if its not awful there is no point to complain about it but you do feel good if its good. After all this is not some fancy restaurant where you expect complex and maybe unexpected flavours, its just a fastfood. And luckily a good one in my opinion
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Where a one-night stand leads to a series of predictable clichés and lukewarm chemistry.
My Secret Romance (2017) – 6.5/10: A Cheesy, Predictable Rom-Com That Starts with a Bang and Ends with a Whimper🍫 THE GOOD:
Sung Hoon as Cha Jin-wook – A charismatic chaebol who brings some charm to the otherwise clichéd storyline.
Song Ji-eun as Lee Yoo-mi – A nutritionist with a shy demeanor, adding a touch of innocence to the mix.
Visual appeal – The leads' chemistry and attractive appearances provide some eye candy for viewers.
⚠️ THE "ALMOST, BUT..." MOMENTS:
Overused tropes – The drama relies heavily on familiar clichés, offering little originality.
Underdeveloped characters – Supporting roles lack depth, making it hard to invest in their stories.
Pacing issues – The storyline drags at times, making it challenging to stay engaged.
💔 STANDOUT SCENES:
The initial encounter – An unexpected one-night stand sets the stage for the ensuing drama.
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Office interactions – Awkward moments between the leads as they navigate their professional relationship.
🎯 VERDICT:
"My Secret Romance" offers a light-hearted, albeit predictable, romantic comedy experience. While it may appeal to fans of classic K-drama tropes, those seeking a fresh and engaging storyline might find it lacking.
Watch if: You're in the mood for a simple, trope-filled rom-com.
Skip if: You're looking for originality and depth in your K-drama selection.
Best paired with: A glass of wine and a willingness to indulge in guilty pleasures.
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Without being too heavy, this series allows for a mental break for a relaxing evening
If you're looking for a series that can entertain you without taking up too much mental space, this one is definitely a solid choice for a relaxing evening.It's not the ultimate drama, but it's definitely a good experience. I agree that there are flaws, but honestly, it's just a drama to watch in chill mode. I really enjoyed the story, even though it dragged on towards the end. The music is beautiful, and the actors are pretty good. There are some beautiful shots of the ocean, the couple, and the city.
The drama is based on romance, and personally, it's perfect for a relaxing night on the couch. If you don't know what to watch after finishing a long and gripping drama, you can definitely check this one out. It's nice, but not exceptional.
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This review may contain spoilers
CUTE ROM-COM!
Unlike the negative comments here, I have come up with the positive review. When it was released, it was quite hyped at that time and I watched it ongoing. I loved it alot. It's romance part is sizzling with chemistry, the ost was sweet and in my playlist. Good music choice.Sunghoon can portray indifferent CEO roles very well and comedic at the same time. The fl was a simple girl with complicated family which led her engage in a one night stand. Years later they meet again as employee and employer. It's a simple cliche story with good execution. Many might not like it and feel stretchy but rather than binge watching, I will suggest to give time in between and watch it with an open mind. It's a cute rom com which will not disappoint you. However, if you're not a fan of rom coms or cliche plots, this might not be your cup of tea.
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But anyway, this is my second time watching this drama and I am still thrilled by the story and romance.
I keep seeing videos of this drama and I miss their OSTs.
If you like to watch a fast-simple yet attractive and easy show, I really recommend this drama.
I finished it in one day (because I have other dramas that I have not yet finished T.T) and the ending made me sad..cuz IT'S THE END. Who doesn't cry In the end?
This drama is mostly rom-com... and I like how the kiss scenes are right there. LMAO.
I was kinda scared to watch this show because it's a small series, but I like it now because it's fast... at some ep it may be a bit slow.. but overall it flows.
The cast was amazing, I wish I can see them on their future roles.
Song Ji Eun is SOOO cuteee and when I searched up her age... I was shook. I wish I can still look young while my age is growing. The way she portrayed her character is astonishing. Her figure and such really matches her character in this drama.
Sung Hoon was of course 100% AMAZING. no cap. I wish i can see More of his abs hehe. Anyways I like his arrogant, bitchy look but is really a simple and nice person on the inside. I hope I can see him more on diff roles rather than just being the CEO or Manager in dramas. I like to see his normal outfits without any suits n such.
Kim Jae Young tho!! Ugh!! the Second lead-syndrome. T.T But I like how his ending turned out.. <3
For their first encounter, that was a really unique and mess up (in a good way) introduction. And they way they felt for eachother.
Anyways, I love this drama which is why I watched it for the second time.
<3<3<3<3
12:27am
4/26/20
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Perfect fluffy romance piece
I was ready to dislike this drama, but find myself absolutely enchanted by it. I realize this isn't a serious piece nor is it the most stellar acting from the cast, but I think they all work well together to create an enjoyable drama that I personally have watched over and over again.The chemistry between the leads makes it easy to watch their every interaction and I'm a sucker for any drama where the male is a bit of an arrogant ass who is overcome by his feelings for the female lead. I realize the FL in this is naive beyond belief, but somehow this never in any way minimizes my viewing pleasure.
This seriously is my go-to drama for anytime I'm overwhelmed by some of the more probing and "deeper" dramas. I feel so grateful to have discovered it.
I know I've read many reviews here and on YouTube pleading that this pairing be given another opportunity to act together. I'm not sure how likely this is after so many years have passed, but I know I'd love to see another romance between them.
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This review may contain spoilers
A realistic modern day drama...
A beautiful take on a realistic modern day love story. Although most of the actors were new to me, they did manage to give justice to the role. It is realistic to a point, short, sweet and simple. No blood, no death, no evil.The characters were portrayed flawed, adding a little bit more charm to the show. ML owns his world but still longs for love. He has a dominant character, but never cruel. Oh and he hates being left behind. FL is loved by her family but still is peppered with insecurities. She's a straight laced girl with dreams of being a nutritionist. This was mainly because she didn't want to be branded as an easy girl. The love triangle on both sides of ML and FL were non life threatening nor vindictive. Even if their parents were far from being perfect, in their own way, they love their children very much.
Then they met and the magic begun. Their journey to falling in love was sweet, almost innocent like. At the latter part of the show, the mom of FL raised a really good question: Why does it matter how love started? Why does it matter if it's a one night stand or even two? The right thing to do, is to be responsible for your actions. If you love him/her then go get him/her.
The beautiful scenes, the meaningful message of the show plus the music, binds everything together.
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One night to happy life
What can be better than a lovely drama with Sung Hoon? One-night-stand with him in the drama! Oh yeees 😈 till today's day I didn't know that something like that can happen in korean dramas but seems it can 😵 The show started off strong and hooked me hard from first to 14th episode.My Secret Romance is one of those dramas that you don't want to break away from and return to the gray everyday world. It is sweet and light breath of fresh air! I absolutely loved the storyline which was rather simple and straightforward what was a nice change after The Sword and the Brocade where a loooot was happening 😅 Moreover, there was no conspiracies here, evil plots or in-laws, sudden murders or weird childhood connections.
It definitely could have been longer but it didn't take away much from its quality therefore I could totally recommend to watch it. Would I see it again someday? Sure, why not ^^ It's like Bridget Jones Diary, you can watch it any time😁
You can find this one and more reviews of kdramas on my blog: https://my-asian-dramas.blogspot.com/2021/05/my-secret-romance.html
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But I think Song Ji-Eun, who was Lee Yoo-mi in the show was really innocent, she really portrayed the like really innocent look in this drama. Like a girl who just sometimes was a little oblivious at times.
But, I mean Sung Hoon, was really good looking in this show, so I can't complain too much! -
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This review may contain spoilers
Its no secret I like this drama.
Using my personal rating system of "loved," "liked," "meh," & "nah," this is a “loved”.What I liked:
I have watched this at least three times. Its one of my favorite KDramas ever. The main reason is that the FL is in the same profession as me (except that I hated being a foodservice dietitian and that is her primary area of practice). Well, to be truthful, the main reason is Sung-Hoon (thank you for showing him in swim trunks!!!) but having the same profession as the FL (and to have it accurately portrayed) was a big reason for me, too. Minor additional point of similarity with the FL: I love the scene where she introduces his dinner but gets distracted by his arms and instead announces she’s serving him “vein pasta” that night—because forearms and hands are a major attraction point for me, too.
Other things I liked: the comic relief of the personal assistant; the chemistry between the ML/FL; the SML (and yes, I had SMLS but not too bad since he had plenty of opportunities to confess before she met the ML again; I had watched 100 Days My Prince before this so was happy to see Kim Jae Young again—seriously, that boy needs to do more costume dramas!). I loved the mother and felt bad for her that she could not connect with her daughter. I get the impression that Korean society is very conservative about sex and her sexual liberation was brave. I liked that she did not apologize for who she was and the decisions she’d made in her life. It was just sad that they so negatively affected her daughter.
I love that in the end, the ML chose the FL, chose to stop being a chaebol and go it on his own rather than be under his father’s thumb—while at the same time maintaining a father/son relationship.
Things I did not like so much:
I did get frustrated with the FL’s need to keep secrets (her half-brother), her vulnerability to what others thought about her, and her dislike of herself for having had a one-night stand. She lied to both herself and the ML (though it does all work out in the end). On the other hand, given the bullying she experienced in high school as the result of her mother’s line of work plus the tendency (at least in Kdramaland) Korean society to hold children at fault for the ‘sins’ of their parents, I can see why she was so on edge all the time.
I did not like the jealous girl trope. First of all, if someone has barely noticed you for twelve years, that sounds like a personal problem. You need to get some self-esteem and move on. And why do these characters always think that as soon as they get rid of the FL the ML will magically fall in love with them!? Its lazy, tropey writing and I wish they could have come up with something better.
Minor point: The ML’s dad did a good job acting but there is no way someone who looks like him fathered someone who looks like Sung-Hoon. C’mon.
And I got tired of the “she’s not good enough for you” argument as well. That may be a cultural difference I’m not used to or don’t understand, but why people treated the FL like dirt because of who she was dating was so ridiculous to me.
Final thoughts: This is a favorite for me, personally, but I know its not everyone’s cup of tea. I recommend it, of course, but you do you. :)
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Watch!!
I have now watch this drama twice I love everything about it from beginning to end. The female lead is hilarious and the male lead is so handsome that you just can’t take your eyes off of him. And if anything I wish they could’ve flushed out their romance a little bit more but other than that it’s great beginning to end please watch it you will not regret it. There was a lot of humor to especially involving the female leads mother she was ridiculous but try not to pay too much attention to her.Was this review helpful to you?
