This review may contain spoilers
unforgettable, historical, and well made kdrama drama series this 2022!! <3
After few months placed on my watchlist, and finally got the chance to watch this EPIC AND LEGENDARY kdrama, I finally deserve appreciation of how I got the chance to appreciate and GIVING LOVE to this drama!!! I loooooove alchemy of souls!! Even if I am far from how it got a trend throughout my fyp tiktok pages, and now I got the chance to watch it since its the summer break!! I do love the story, but even if I was taken a back because historical kdramas are not really my type of kdrama genre, but again this one was a great start (after my first historical kdrama series I've watched, Scarlet Heart Ryeo)!! I am too speechless with the ending, because of course I've been waiting for the whole episodes both season 1 and 2, and here I am watching all eps in 4 days and I have never regretted watching it throughout the whole series because of how unique and very special in a different way the storyline of the drama is!! Expect that this note would be pretty long, but I do hope this would make me remember the things that I do appreciate the love and support from the drama receives due to how the story makes it recognized by many kdrama fans, like me :p.Now, I'll talk first in regards of the storyline and the plot, telling myself soon why I loved this drama and how *again* appreciated the existence of this drama, especially the writers who did so well with the drama, the cgi, the storyline and how it was written really well that blends with each and every scenes that makes it even more interesting and attracting.
STORYLINE/PLOT
So, the story mainly talks about a magic spell came from a crystal ball, the alchemy of souls (the name itself). Brining power and spirits that switches from one body to another through a soul. With that, from the plot itself, it was set in a fictional country, Daeho which connects to the young mages developing their growth and love as they overcome their challenges and difficulties in life finding the answer that they were looking for in related to the alchemy of soul, how it changes their life through the magic spell.
There we met Jang Uk, the young master of the Jang family who was born from his mother who was a mistress and involved by a scandalous birth that came from his father, who turned to be one of the soul shifters, involved through the magic of the alchemy of soul.
While looking for his destiny and finding the answers of where and how the historical image of his own family was destroyed due to his father and where it all started, there he met Naksu, who was a soul shifter and known as one of the most wanted elite assassin, whos soul is accidentally trapped inside from a weak body, Mu Deok, who turned to be one of Jang Uk's maid/servant from a powerful and noble family in the country. With that, as Jang Uk identifies the spirit inside Mu Deok, which is Naksu the elite assassin, there he declared and told her to be his master.
With that, they discover to learn the different spells and magic that holds deeper through a sword that brings power and strength from a magic occurred from a droplet of water. As Jang Uk and Mu Deok together discover slowly its mystery behind every questions ponders inside their head, until slowly they find its answer and changing their destiny, where their destiny is to be together and fighting for each and every answers they missed to understand. (end of the short summary)
So, I do love how the purpose of this drama was portrayed. From the story itself, it tells the meaning behind the beginning of the story, until slowly it shifts to the purposes of how and where it all began. Alchemy of Souls is one of the dramas that I do appreciate it the most, with the best storyline yet, the smooth ups and downs and unexpected twist and turns from the characters of their different scenarios and challenges they occur.
CAST AND CHARACTERS
Before I'll end this note, since there would be a season 2, I'll thank the cast who did so well with this drama.
Lee Jae Wook, you did so well! I love how he proved himself of how he has so much potential to enter different roles from his next future projects. Slowly I begin to be a fan from his kdramas ever since Extraordinary You (one of my favorite kdramas!) who has recognitions from his role as Baek Kyung <33 Jang Uk also deserves a good ending in the next season hehe :p and also, he might be *soon* the next hallyu stars in the kdrama industry in the future of how he was unforgettably known by many fans like me :p
Jung So Bin as Mu Deok, huhuhu she's the same as Lee Jae Wook, so much potential. Knowing her from the very first kdrama that I saw her from Because this is my first life as Yoon Ji Ho, gosh at the same time, she is so pretty and gorgeous! I'll miss her so much because of how she gives a big part of the first season as Mu Deok. Speaking of Mu Deok, I love her humor and how she strives to change her life discovering her mystery from her past life, I love her willingness to be part of their story with Jang Uk together <333
Hwang Min Hyun as Seo Yul, I liked him ever since I saw him from Live On (one of my favorite kdramas as well!) and he did great from his role as Seo Yul, I could say he's really skilled and gifted to be an actor, and an idol as well <333 He also gave himself and proved to have more potential entering roles soon that is far different and trying roles that he never had. Seo Yul is one of my favorite characters from the drama, he is willing to do anything for Mu Deok and his mate, Jang Uk as one of the mages in Daeho. Even if he encountered a one-sided love from Mu Deok, I do at least recognized Seo Yul how he was independent to himself. And I love him so much from the first season <33 Overall, Loving Hwang Min Hyun <333
Lastly, Shin Seung Ho as Prince Go Won. Shin Seung Ho was well known from the web series role A-Teen and 9-Teen which the very first encounter I saw him from his role. I love how he encountered roles from being the villain from Weak Hero Class 1 (also saw him from this drama) and he also proved to have so much potential!! Entering different roles that made him for me made special, I love and appreciate his effort and recognition as he entered the kdrama industry to be the actor. The Charming Prince from his role, I love the character development he made, where he makes different decisions in order to save his part and his encountered friends (like Jang Uk and Mudeok developing friendship even if not quite shown haha, especially their quarrels and little fights turned to chaotic haha). Shin Seung Ho, you deserve so much recognition as well <333
And to the other main and supporting casts like Yoo Joon Sang as Park Jin, Oh Na Ra as Maidservant Kim Do Ju, Yoo In So as Park Dang Gu and Arin as Jin Cho Yeon, they also did so well and take part of giving recognition from this drama <33 Love the casts from the bottom of my heart and soul, love how they take big part of this drama as well that made well known to many <333
Overall, really a great watch. Love how it never made me disappoint and hoping that season 2 would answer few questions ponder inside my head after the ending :')
A good watch, very recommended to beginners who wants to enter and discover historical drama series, great for binge watch as well!! Rewatchable too!! Love it <33
Looking forward to the casts next few roles in the future!! <333
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Honestly, Alchemy of Souls is like a rollercoaster — magical spells, forbidden love, palace drama, and a ton of “wait, WHAT just happened?!” moments. The whole soul-shifting concept is super cool and gives the story this mix of fantasy + sageuk vibes.
The first season hooked me right away — fast pace, funny banter, and amazing chemistry between the leads. The second season slowed down a bit, but it gave us closure (and some extra heartbreak along the way 🥲).
Acting? Spot on. Lee Jae Wook killed it as the serious yet soft-hearted hero. Jung So Min brought so much sass and warmth, and then Go Yoon Jung in Part 2 made the character feel totally new but still connected. Side characters (looking at you, Seo Yul!) were just as lovable.
Visually, it’s gorgeous. The sets, the CGI, the fight scenes — all way above average for K-dramas. And the OST? Pure mood.
Overall: if you like fantasy, romance, and a bit of chaos, this drama will have you binge-watching till 3am. Not perfect, but definitely unforgettable. 💫
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one of my top 10 drama
It is one of the top ten drama .Initially it was a bit boring then it started became more intresting. It was good drama. one of my fav scene is the first scene of GYJ as naksu she looks badass there. It is light hearted full of comedy acting is pretty good and their freindship is amazing . It is like anyother beautiful kdrama which has lots of intresting element with a mix of fantasy and different era. But I like season 2 better there is something about that season it hits differently like I feel more connecting to this. I can watch season 2 as many time possible that season is not as funny though as firat one also it only has 10 episode ... little disapointed with that but it is full emotions and felt those emotions as well whenever I watch season 2 it filled my heart with something Idk I just cant express it in world. Comedy is superficial while emotions are something that has deeper connection maybe thats whyWas this review helpful to you?
The most beautiful masterpiece I've ever watched.
"Alchemy of Souls" is a beautiful story about love, friendship, and fantasy.The plot really made me think about how some people can be selfish by putting their souls into another body, craving youth, fame, and power. Every episode made me curious and engaged. Each of them brought a mystery and solved it; then, at the end of the episode, the drama would raise another subject. I was addicted to everything!
The worldbuilding is detailed but not messy or complicated to understand. The magic system, combined with the fighting skills, suits the drama so well!
The characters are well-written and developed. I love the friendship of Jang Uk, Yul, and Dang-gu. The crown prince is such a fun character as well. The main couple, Naksu/Mudeok and Uk, has the best chemistry and development. Their relationship was multifaceted: from strangers to "we are master and pupil" to "we are friends" to "we are lovers."
On the other hand, both Jang Uk and Naksu/Mudeok are great main characters. I am passionate about how Uk started as the weaker wizard and became the most powerful one. I love that he is both sunshine and moonlight. He doesn't discriminate against the kind of magic you use to save someone, and I think this side of him is what makes him so attractive to me. Plus, Somin is the best female character ever. Naksu inside Mudeok's body was funny and amazing to watch. I must confess, I miss her in S2; she was the star of this show. My baby suffered a lot by always being manipulated, a puppet, a pawn in another nasty game. She deserves a happy ending, it doesn't matter the body.
The second couple, Dang-gu and Cho-yeon, were the sweetest. They truly represent summer and spring falling in love. Moreover, the place where Cho-yeon came from has many interesting artifacts that make the story richer.
Finally, the villain gave me goosebumps; I was really afraid of his ambitions. By the way, I hate everything he did to my Naksu.
Then, I must add: nothing I write here will truly convey how I felt watching this show. My mother and I relished every minute of it, finishing the first season in 6 days! The cast is amazing, the photography, the soundtrack. Everything is perfect.
I truly will never get over this drama.
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This review may contain spoilers
Alchemy of Souls: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly of the plot
I have to write these thoughts down otherwise Alchemy of Souls will keep occupying my mind and probably my soul.The last few episodes of season 1 are very emotional and there are lots of plot twists. One of the twists is Mu-deok drawing her sword through the body of her fiance, Jang Uk. Surprisingly, I didn't cry watching this scene. Don't get me wrong, I did not see it coming either. However, I started bawling when So Yi was killed by Jin Mu's guys in season 2. So Yi, despites being a swindler, is able to form meaningful relationships with her helper and Seo Yul. It was really touching to see Seo Yul repeatedly tries to protect So Yi, who he is not close to, who gives him the poisonous parasite that can kill him, and who is of no use to him. He understands that she is merely a victim of her circumstances and empathizes with her pain. I was hoping that happy endings can still come to those who do wrong in the past and the writers will let So Yi live. I did not cry for JangUk because I knew that this character was destined to get a happy ending. Sometimes, the death of a supporting character, especially those who are helpless, weighs more in my heart than those of the leading protagonists.
Why does Seo Yul not end up with anyone in the end? He is such a mature and considerate man. In real life he would probably be wed a long time ago. Is it because he is hung up on Naksu the whole time?
I am glad that in season 2 the writers do not keep going with everyone trying to protect Naksu from dying. It is much more down to earth and realistic for her to accept the fact that she is an assassin who has killed many people. Being controlled by Jin Mu is not an excuse for all the damage she has done. I am very surprised and pleased when Jang Uk acknowledges that he would have to kill Naksu if he recognizes her, which must have relieved Seo Yul from his guilt of planning to kill Naksu. In the end, her soul is saved by Naksu's willingness to die and her contribution to saving the world from the firebird's destruction.
The writing of the show lacks female empowerment. Naksu is saved as a reward for Jang Uk, who kills the firebird not because she is a strong woman with power and her own moral compass. That's such a misogynistic message. Light and shadow always go together and they give too much credit to the male lead in season 2 and not enough to the female lead. The writers even downplay the divine power, which is supposed to be the mastermind of Jang Uk's destiny. I was screaming when Maidservant Kim, and Lord Park died but apparently they did not. Like KimChi Review says, I demand my bucket of tears to be refunded. They do not die thanks to the divine power Jin Bu Yeon possesses. Her power is often told from Master Lee's perspective, which does not give it enough justice. Jang Uk always gets the cool action scenes as resolutions for any problems. The scene in which Jin Bu Yeon's entering Jinyowon to save her mom and Maidservant Kim could have been given more action and air time. To my disappointment, it felt underwhelmed as the previous scene is extremely emotional with the deaths of such great characters like Park Jin, a great couple (Park Jin and Maidservant Kim) and Bu Yeon's mom, who is the leader of a Jinyowon, a highly prestigious organization that protects the world from dark magic.
The transition to a new actress and character of season 2 is actually great in my opinion. The chemistry of the new female lead and Jang Uk is adorable. It is a great break from the sharp, selfish at times, and determined assassin who lives in Mu-deok's body. I love how her character comes back as childlike, gentle, and considerate. She is forward with her affection towards Jang Uk, worried about her mom's fear of losing her, and asks Seo Yul if his friend ever gives him his favorite snack as well as letting Seo Yul get lost and wander with him to calm him down. Her compliment to the Crown Prince is also genuine and does not contain any ulterior motives. Mudoek's character is complicated and interesting, but her thorn is tiring and hard to understand at times. Jin Bu Yeonn's character is refreshing and mature in contrast. Even when she gain Naksu's memories back, she is able to handle them very well.
I cannot not write about the Crown Prince and the turtle. They are such a great pair. The Crown prince's saving the turtle represents his will to protect those who are powerless. The scenes that have the Crown prince and the turtle are always humorous and heartwarming. It is because of these characters along sides with engaging stories, great acting, and powerful cinematography that makes me find it even harder and sadder to say goodbye with Alchemy of Souls.
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A little touch of magic in everything
Review:The series is split into two parts for a complex storytelling. The first part (20 episodes) really lays the foundation for an amazing character arc that comes full circle in part II. You have to be patient at certain points, but overall, the intensity of the characters and attention to detail does not disappoint. The secondary characters are a delight to behold as they bring a vibrancy to the story in an otherwise heavy on the plot story. The dynamics between the Four Seasons (Jang UK, Seo Yul, Park Dang Gu and Cho Yeong) are funny and makes you wish they had included more of those moments. It’s humorous without trying too hard and the endearing moments between the friends is something so real in a story set in a fictional town based entirely in the fantasy genre. Towards the end (especially in part II), I wished there had been more between some of the secondary characters (especially Park Dang Gu and Cho Yeong) as it felt their story was sort of rushed over for the benefit of the main leads.
The Cast and performance:
The Main male lead – Lee Jae Wook – brings a surprising intensity to the character Jang Uk that immediately has you rooting for him. Part I sees Jung So Min as the female lead and she does a brilliant job of layering the character’s story so beautifully. At one stage there are multiple characters and personalities and she plays them ALL flawlessly. The leads have amazing chemistry and its rather wonderful to see because you don’t quite realise it’s an epic love story until its too late.
The second female lead – Go Yoon Jung, (in part II) was an interesting but apt choice – as she immediately highlights the sharp contrast to the male lead especially to the character he once was. She protects him (Jang Uk) so he can protect everyone else. Her softness contrasts with the harsh reality of his pain and heartbreak. Go Yoon Jung deserves a lot of credit for being able to make the character her own while still drawing from part I so we’re not left feeling like we totally lost something. We grow to love the character she plays, nearly as much as we love Jang Uk does.
I loved the soundtrack on this one. There are some beautiful instrumental pieces that will leave you feeling nothing but utter peace. The opening sequence is pretty catchy and matched with great visuals. The OST can be found on spotify. I added a few of my personal faves to my own spotify playlist as well.
Final thoughts:
While the ending might have been a tad bit rushed for me (and others alike), I really enjoyed this from start to finish. The fantasy element really shone through for me. There might have been more I wanted form the show there was very little I would have changed. This is a beautiful story told with amazing scenes and an impressive cast. It’s a long haul of a story but definitely worth it.
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it will take your actual soul
This was the show that got me into dramas so it will always have a special place in my heart. I actually started watching it with a lot of doubts since i wasn't sure a show with 20 episodes of over an hour each will really hook me up. I was sooo very wrong, i love it so hard the episodes started to get too short lol. I'm very spoiler free and in this case in was hard not to look for what was about to happen.I was always a fan of magic and supernatural shows and this one have all of that and more: Magic, conspiracy, action and, above all, love.
The cast is perfect for each of they roles starting with our boy Jang Uk and his quest to find a master who actually help him get what should be rightfully his. He is a spoiled little boy don't get me wrong but the moment he meets Naksu is really the moment his live change. The aesthetic also is on point, you see them with the other male characters and he is taller and more like you can't look any other way.
The FL is fantastic also how she only wants to gets her powers back but meeting Jang Uk will get her world upside down. We get to know her backstory and is tragic and awful. She was used all her life so her priorities change but she still is a strong female character.
The humor is also soo good. Seo Yul, Jang Uk and the Crown Prince on the Jinyowong cave is epic. Seo losing his direction when he gets nervious is just hilarious.
Episode 18 is my favorite episode of both seasons, everything that happens is on point and love every second of it.
There are two other moments that i will hightlight in this season: When Jang Uk have to fight with the last one of the other mages and is Seo the one who came forward. I was surprised because i didn't expected it and also broke my heart in pieces.
and the other one, clearly, is the end. how much that end hurts??? they almost got the happily ever after so that makes it hurt even more.
Really if you like fantasy dramas even a little bit this is the one for you.
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I’ve written this review without including any spoilers to ensure you can enjoy the series fully.
I’ve come across its poster countless times on Facebook and Google, especially when searching for a good Korean historical drama to watch. Just a note: I absolutely love Korean historical dramas, just as much as I enjoy Chinese historical dramas.Initially, I was drawn to Alchemy of Souls because of Jung So Min. I’m a big fan of hers. However, I hesitated to start the series because I wasn’t fond of Lee Jae Wook, the male lead. There was just something about him—his face, perhaps? I couldn’t quite pinpoint it, but I had this irrational dislike for him.
It took me a year to finally give the series a chance, all because of my admiration for Jung So Min. To my surprise, as I continued watching, I began to appreciate Lee Jae Wook. He grew on me with each scene, and eventually, I found him incredibly charming and attractive. It was unexpected, but his performance captivated me.
I initially started watching for Jung So Min, but when Season 2 came around, even without her in the cast, I still watched it—this time for Lee Jae Wook. He’s such an amazing actor! His portrayal kept me hooked, and the storyline was so gripping that I didn’t want to miss a single scene.
What’s more, the supporting cast delivered fantastic performances that added humor and depth to the series. I laughed so much, especially in the lighter moments, which balanced out the more tragic elements of the story. Every actor brought their A-game, making the series worthwhile from start to finish.
Even though Season 1 had its share of heartbreak, it was all worth it. I don’t regret watching Alchemy of Souls at all—it’s truly a must-watch!
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A Magical Love Story
I added this to my list from the high rating on here. At the time that I went on a K-Drama adding spree, this was one of the ones that sat on the top. I dove right in hitting a wall with some of the current dramas I had on my list.The story, I thought was great. At least Jang Uk's story. I want to say his is the only story, but unfortunately there are so many filler episodes and it's like they really try to push the entire cast into a main lead role, which gets very boring fast. I found myself almost wanting to skip to get to the stories I wanted to follow. I'm not saying the side stories weren't good, but I didn't find them necessary and they really could've just condensed the drama to 10-16 episodes vs the full 20, especially with each episode being an hour and a half. I really wish they would have spent more time developing Mu Deok's story. I think they spent too much time on trying to bring everyone main character energy that she got lost in translation.
The acting was done well. Everyone had great chemistry, although I do question the chemistry of the two main leads. It felt forced and unnatural compared to the way all the other cast seemed to mesh. The casting was great on all fronts! I can't imagine a different cast to play those parts.
The music was well orchestrated and catchy. The cliffhanger ending ment definitely had me screaming (because of the cliffhanger), but enjoying the song at the same time.
I did add this to my list of rewatches while I do other things and don't necessarily need to look at the screen because I already know what's going to happen. I can't deny that Jang Uk's story is intriguing and you really connect with the character throughout the drama.
Overall, it is a good drama. The antagonists really make you despise them and you call their bluff out loud in hopes the other characters hear you. It had re-watch value and I was definitely excited for Season 2.
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Alchemy of Souls Season 1: A Fantasy Masterpiece
Alchemy of Souls Season 1 is a rare gem that flawlessly blends fantasy, romance, action, and drama into a captivating tale that keeps viewers hooked from start to finish. Released in 2022, this K-drama stands as a true masterpiece in modern Korean storytelling.Set in the fictional country of Daeho, the drama revolves around a forbidden sorcery called the "alchemy of souls," which allows souls to switch bodies. At the heart of the story is the mysterious and deadly assassin Naksu, whose soul ends up trapped in the frail body of a blind servant, Mu-deok. Her encounter with the charming yet secretly powerful mage Jang Uk sparks an intense and emotional journey of training, growth, secrets, and unspoken love.
The world-building is phenomenal — richly layered with ancient magic, political intrigue, and mythological elements that feel both immersive and believable. The production quality is top-notch, with breathtaking cinematography, elegant costume design, and epic fight choreography that rivals any high-budget fantasy series.
What truly elevates Alchemy of Souls is its brilliant cast. Jung So-min delivers a nuanced performance as Mu-deok/Naksu, effortlessly balancing vulnerability and ferocity. Lee Jae-wook shines as Jang Uk, capturing his character’s internal conflict, stubbornness, and eventual maturity with emotional depth. Their chemistry is electric and deeply moving, giving the romantic storyline a compelling edge.
Supporting characters like Seo Yul, Park Dang-gu, and Jin Cho-yeon are equally memorable, each adding depth and warmth to the story. The drama never loses momentum, thanks to tightly written scripts, unpredictable twists, and moments of both laughter and heartbreak.
In short, Alchemy of Souls Season 1 is not just a fantasy romance — it's a beautifully crafted journey of identity, destiny, and love. Whether you’re a longtime K-drama fan or new to the genre, this series is an absolute must-watch.
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best K-drama 2022
Alchemy of Souls[6] (Hangul: 환혼; RR: Hwanhon) adalah seri televisi Korea Selatan yang akan datang yang dibintangi oleh Lee Jae-wook, Jung So-min, Hwang Min-hyun, Shin Seung-ho, Yoo Jun-sang, Oh Na-ra dan Jo Jae-yoon.[4] Seri ini ditulis oleh Hong bersaudara (Hong Jung-eun dan Hong Mi-ran), itu menggambarkan kisah-kisah penyihir muda yang berurusan dengan langit dan bumi.[1][7] Seri ini dijadwalkan tayang perdana di tvN pada tanggal 18 Juni 2022, dan disiarkan setiap hari Sabtu dan Minggu pada pukul 21:10 (WSK).[8] Seri ini tersedia untuk streaming di Netflix di wilayah tertentu.[9]Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
9.5/10 - Like / Dislike
This series is still being my most favorite after watching many more series, the reason is:1. I always rate every kdrama based on the plot and how not dumb of characters are. Because the dumbness on characters' action make me feel irritable and ruin my mood to keep watching. But in this show, each characters' decision are justified and have a decent reason to support their action. Especially Mudeok and Jinmu are very clever actually.
2. Some kdrama, support couples are kinda boring and uninterested to watch. But in this show the support couples are very funny and entertaining. Especially Kim dojo and Park jin, they carry the show along with the main couple.
3. Despite of Fantasy and historical drama , I didn't expect this show to be very funny to be honest. And there are a lot of funny scenes which makes me very impressed. So it's a bonus score for me.
4. Chemistry between main couple is Insane. They are very funny especially the actress.
The reason I give 9.5/10 and not 10 is because:
- It's too long that some parts are kinda boring especially last 3 episodes and it feels like they unnecessary drag the a story for 20 episodes' sake.
So overall, I'm very impressed of this show and it's still being my top 1 kdrama. Very worth watching till the ends. I would give it 9/10 if I have another dislike but I can't think of any. I still want to rewatch it.
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