Mr. Sunshine

I think Mr. Sunshine will forever be the best drama to ever exist, at least in my opinion. I've watched this drama for the second time now; despite me knowing what happens in the drama, I still get surprised by how amazing everything is.

If you ask me what I consider amazing in this drama for you to watch it, I'd say everything is amazing. Have you ever wondered what a drama would look like without flaws? Mr. Sunshine is a flawless drama; from its cast, its storyline, how everything was directed, and everything in between.

I know that a lot of people tend to avoid historical genre dramas, but hear me out. While I believe that a lot of other historical dramas are good and have their own charm, Mr. Sunshine is in another class of its own. It wouldn't be boring as you might expect it to be, because this drama was set during the time Japan was conquering Korea and right before World War 1 (1914), so industrialization was already taking place; guns, trains, electricity, and whatnot were already being used. While certain elements of the story were fictitious, a lot of the story was still based on the true history of Korea; so you could learn a lot about their history and culture. Dramas like this tend to be slow, while Mr. Sunshine isn't necessarily a fast-paced drama, it isn't really a slow one either despite having 24 episodes. When you're watching, you won't feel the drama being draggy, and after watching all episodes you'll realize that not one episode passed by without having something meaningful happen.

Now let's talk about some of the notable things that made this drama so perfect:
1) The cast: The cast was perfectly handpicked. Every single one of them played their role perfectly. You could actually feel their emotions being displayed in full throttle as if they were actually living in this drama itself. I believe that all the cast in Mr. Sunshine deserves an award for their acting, and some of them did. Lee Byung Hun won the best actor award, and Yoo Yeon Seok won the best supporting actor award respectively, beating out other amazing actors from other amazing dramas that also have one of the highest ratings in My Mister, Mother, and Prison Playbook. Unfortunately, Kim Tae Ri didn't win the best new actress award, but she still deserves the praise and nomination nonetheless.

2) The plot: The story was so rich! The writers did an amazing job crafting such an amazing story, and I can't stress this enough. What's more amazing is how they managed to direct such an amazing story to make it even better. The whole drama was so smooth and I didn't feel like there was part of the drama that should've been removed. The cinematography was great and the production of the film itself deserves an Oscar. You don't really have to worry about non-essential episodes wasting your time because Mr. Sunshine did not have any filler episodes; every single episode was meaningful and contributed to the build-up of the whole storyline.

3) The music: Well, not much can be said about this but I just wanted to put it out there. The OSTs of Mr. Sunshine perfectly fit the theme, and highlights/magnifies the emotion felt of every scene perfectly.

Overall, as I said, Mr. Sunshine is the best. I've never been this attached to a drama ever, and I think I'll be forever scarred by it as well. Prepare yourself fully before watching this, as you'll have your emotional sensitivity automatically set-up on high during most of the drama. In certain scenes, I was trying to hold my heart in my chest as it literally felt like my heart would explode from all the crying. I kid you not, prepare yourself for one emotionally unstable roller coaster. Please do consider watching this masterpiece of a drama, I'm sure you won't regret it.

Read More

Kim Tae-ri and Lee Byung-hun Bring Mr. Sunshine to Life: A Historical Drama Like No Other

Mr. Sunshine is a stunning historical drama, but it’s Kim Tae-ri’s performance as Go Ae-shin that truly stands out. She brings a perfect balance of strength and vulnerability to her role, commanding every scene. Her chemistry with Lee Byung-hun’s Eugene is electric, and despite his veteran status, Lee’s subtle, deeply layered portrayal of a man caught between duty and personal feelings is a perfect match for Tae-ri’s fiery and passionate character. Together, they create a dynamic, emotional powerhouse at the heart of the show. Mr. Sunshine beautifully blends romance, patriotism, and sacrifice, with both leads delivering unforgettable performances.

Read More

Guns. Glory. Sad Ending.

I wish that I could go back in time and watch this show for the 1st time, that’s how good it is.

It’s heartbreaking. it will rip you to shreds, but you can’t help but surrender. The love portrayed here can be felt to the core, no fluff. There are no kisses, but the love is so real you can almost touch it.

This show holds a very special place in my heart, right next to CLOY. I love it so very much. I gave the show a 9.5 because I didn’t like how it ended, but after careful review and gave it a solid 10 because it deserves nothing less — this masterpiece.

Read More

A heartbreaking masterpiece that stays with you

Mr. Sunshine is, without a doubt, the most heartbreaking masterpiece I've ever seen. I put off watching it for years. 24 episodes felt like a lot, and I worried the 2018 release might feel a bit outdated by now, in 2025. But giving it a chance turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve made when it comes to K-dramas.

The quality is Hollywood-level, with a storyline so intricate and detailed that those 24 episodes felt fully justified. It’s not the kind of drama you binge in a weekend. That's typically what I do. But this time, I had to watch slowly, with breaks, making space in my heart each time to absorb everything. It demands your attention, your patience, and big emotional investment to truly grasp its value.

At its core, Mr. Sunshine is deeply tragic. The weight of Korea’s historical pain is ever-present, but what broke me the most was how that tragedy echoed through every single character. No one felt sidelined. Each character had their own journey, their own sacrifices, their own heartbreak. It’s rare to find a drama where the supporting characters (and cast) is developed just as richly as the leads. Writing about each of them would take me ages.

This was my first drama with Lee Byunghun, and I was genuinely blown away by his performance. Needless to even mention, Kim Taeri was incredible, too. The contrast between her delicate appearance and her fierce transformation into a revolutionary heroine was stunning. Go Aesin's arc is full of quiet strength and impossible choices. At times, I hated her for being so cold, for being ready to sacrifice even the people she loves for her patriotic cause... But that's what makes her irreplaceable.

The cinematography? Breathtaking. Every frame is filled with care and meaning. The drama is soaked in symbolism, history, and emotion. It’s also educational in a way that doesn’t feel preachy. I walked away with a greater appreciation for Korea’s complex past.

Would I have loved a happy ending? Of course. Both for the characters and for the country. But it’s precisely because we didn’t get that, because it ended the way it did, that this drama became so iconic. It reflects a painful reality, and it doesn’t try to soften the blow.

I cried a lot, more than once. And after that final episode, I just sat there with swollen eyes, staring at the wall for a good 15 minutes, trying to process what I had just witnessed. However, I’m so grateful this drama exists.

Read More

A story about Love, Resistance, Passion, and Identity

Omg! What a ride this drama has been!!!
Every episode was like a movie and there were 24 of them!!!!

The storytelling: topnotch!
Character design: each and every character was relevant for the story to unfold and develop!
Cast: The level and skills of the actors were insane!!! Before watching this drama I knew these actors were one of a kind but after watching this I see them in a totally different light…
OST: INSANE! Each and every track still plays in my head like a musicbox… Can’t stop thinking about this drama!
Historical significance: The main plot being the Japanese occupation of Korea and the significance of the Righteous Army, this drama depicts not only human struggles of the characters we see and their connection to their homeland (Korea aka Joseon), but also this drama helps to understand how and why the Korean people nowadays are so passionate and proud of their country…
This was the best way to romanticize patriotism…

What a masterpiece!!!
If you are interested in Korea this drama is a must!!!

Read More

Mr. Sunshine was the first kdrama that I ever watched and oh boy, did it set a high bar. From the costumes to the music, the production quality is really high. The story is compelling and while the romance(s) are very central to the show, there's enough going on outside of them that you never feel that things are being neglected in favour of romance.

I've watched it through all of the way twice and loved it just as much the second time.

Spoilers beyond this point!
I am not, and will never be, over the ending. I just cried through the last few episodes. Full sobs as pretty much everyone died.

Read More

More gorgeous and heart-wrenching I ever thought a political drama could get

This was without a doubt the most stunning drama I have ever seen. From the gorgeous wide shots of the landscape, to beautiful indoor scene, to intimate moments between characters, the cinematography isn’t simply aesthetic, but incredibly evocative, and helps the relationships between characters bloom and the story progress. You could lend on any still of this drama and analyze the meaning of every single element within the story.
The music was also definitely noteworthy here. Sure, we get the typical drama OST ballads, but they’re mostly well-executed, and the original score is absolutely gorgeous and once again, always serves the story wonderfully. It’s also one of the best uses of music in a kdrama in my opinion. That said, Mr. Sunshine also uses silences perfectly to build up the tension or emotions of a scene.
These two elements alone are already enough for me to recommend this drama, but that’s not where it’s qualities end, far from it.
The characters were truly great, all of them full of nuance and complexity. No one is easy to understand, all of them leave you frustrated or confused at some of their actions, pushing you to try harder to understand who they are, what their motivations, and keeping you guessing. Yet, it all does feel natural and organic for them. Once again, one of the best mastery of character writing I’ve ever seen in a kdrama. The relationships between characters are just as complex and captivating. Sometimes they don’t take the paths you want them to take, but it all makes sense and it’s heart-wrenching. This is one of the most impressive character writing I’ve ever seen in a kdrama. The comic relief never feels over the top, they’re welcome moments to break up the tension, but they’re also full of emotions and softness, and make you all the more engrossed. The actors are all at the top of their game and offer incredible performances, full, once again, of subtlety and heart.
The plot, finally, is where I think most people seem to have an issue, as small as it might be. I understand why; once you’re done, the first two thirds or so seem weak compared to the last one, but I think it’s simply because as the conflict progresses, the tension is rising more and more. Thus, the comparatively calm beginning seems to pale in comparison, but that’s simply the drama doing its job right. When you’re in it, it feels intense and so compelling. At least it did for me, I can’t say I was ever bored with it. I do think the drama could have shaved off a few episodes and compressed the story a bit and it would have worked well; however I must say I really appreciate the slower pace here. Since this is the slow mounting tension of a major political conflict, it feels very appropriate that things are progressing slowly, it makes you feel like you’re living it in real time along with the characters. And like I said, the drama uses silences masterfully, and I would say the same about slowness. It feels so intense, but not because it’s nonstop action scenes; it manages to make you feel breathless and on edge while going slow, and I think that’s what’s so impressive. It’s not going to adapt to the usual drama pace, it’s going to make YOU adapt to its pace and be engrossed in it.
The plot was sometimes a little bit hard to follow, at times going a little too far in its search of subtlety and reaching a point where it’s actually just not enough information and you’re left confused, but if you just let it go, there’s nothing that’s either essential or that you won’t get a little later.
What’s most impressive is how carefully everything seems the have been thought-out. Every element serves the narrative, everything has a meaning, a reason, nothing is wasted. Comic relief can feel cheap or not match the tone, but here, it’s an element that adds value to the drama. Same goes for the silences, they always serve a purpose, same with every single element of this masterfully executed drama. Please, do yourself a favor, and watch it!

Read More

One of the Kind Drama

This is one hell of a damn good drama that will shatter your heart to a million pieces. It is a lush, breathtaking, and stunning epic historical drama set during the Joseon period of tumultuous change with foreign influences each having their own agendas on what they want to get out of Korea.

The areas the drama really excelled in:

- Impressive Immersive Storyline, very well written, good pacing, and tight plotting.
- Well thought out character back stories and narrative storylines, the viewer feels emotionally invested in the main characters. It is one of the best portrayals of strong female characters, Go Ae Shin and Kudo Hina top my list of favorite female characters.
- Excellent Acting, each of the main and support actors played their parts so well. They really captured the nuances and grey areas of their characters.
- Stunning Cinematography and Production, so many scenes where the cinematography just captures your attention. It is done exceptionally well with deliberation and it is simply breath taking.
- Great Chemistry between the leads and love interests
- Amazing OST, some of the songs are ethereal, sad, and whimsical at the same time.
- While it deviates from actual history and inserts fictional aspects to it along with some controversy, it still highlights a fascinating and absolutely tragic time. It explores the greed of corrupt internal traitors, sacrifices and the courage some make for a better future, meddling foreign countries with their selfish self interest, and Joseon caste system politics that leads to devastating childhood loss and trauma and makes their love forbidden.

It will be considered one of my top dramas for a while.

Absolutely stunning watch.

Read More

A SAD PATRIOTIC DRAMA

Where is Mr. Sunshine? Because we don't see him in the drama, all men were serious deep sober men, but I love this drama so much. Background story was about invasion of Americans and Japanese into Jeseon Empire and how this Eugene Choi who born into slavery, run away to America and graduated as US Marine Corps officer, he returned to Korea as Consulate officer and investigate the murders and missing rifles. This drama has the elements of dramatic suspense, a noble lady who's expert with guns and amazing sniper without anyone knew about it, she met Eugene Choi while they're both on the mission. If you're talking about man with uniform, Eugene Choi (Lee Byung-hun) is the man, with calm steady confident demeanor he's the type of person that you won't mess around while an aristocrat's grand-daughter, Go Ae-shin (Kim Tae-ri), who is part of the Righteous Army, kept herself dignify by defending her beloved country. They both fallen in love but they both born from different class not to mention Ae-Shin has Kim Hee-sung (Byun Yo-han), a nobleman who has been Ae-shin's betrothed since childhood. 3 men loved her deeply; Eugene Choi, Kim Hee-Sung, Goo Dong-Mae and none of these guys stay alive at the end.

I love the character of Kudo Hina, she's an amazing woman - Glory Hotel owner who's using her beauty and charms to move around the elites and helping the cause, with her smile and soft spoken she killed people with her gun and sword. She's braver and more dangerous than any men because she's doing it without a flinch of eye and strong determination. Blow up her own hotel to kill Japanese that resulting her own demise, the ending was so sad, everyone died and unhappy ending. The best thing about this drama is the production did not fake of anything, the actors spoke English, France, Japanese as good as their Korean without sound like gringos. This is a great drama with beautiful background setting, top notch acting and casts, beautiful flowing story line, it's simply the best serious Korean drama so far.

From this drama, I learn something about the history of Americans in Korea and in what involvements, or whether there's truth in this story line. Become a family discussion to compare notes...meticulously Americans been in Korea way before Korean War like what's in the history book told us at school. Very interesting indeed..looking inside of Korean history as well as American history in Korea.

Read More

For those who have not seen this series and have a question for them

For those who have not seen this series and have a question for them, it is really worth their time
First of all, I have to say that this series is about the era of Japanese colonization of Korea, and naturally, it has a very political theme, so if you are one of those people who do not have patience while watching the series, you will not like it.
But if you are someone who really cares about the quality and value of a series, start watching it now
This series may be slow until episode 5 or so, but after that, you will connect with each character as if they were members of your family (even the minor characters). The final episodes, unlike the first episodes, are full of sadness and pain and tears Beautiful and valuable
This is a story of lovers, but a romance where you learn another concept of love. A concept that I have never seen in any movie before

Read More