Missing my Worship couple and Yeom Siblings <3
I will not pretend I'm happy.I will not pretend to be unhappy.
I will be honest.
I hoped every man who ever left me would be unhappy.
As if I wanted all the people who saw how small I was to disappear from this world, I hoped they die.
For you, I'm going to hope that you never even catch cold.
I'm going to hope that you don't suffer a single day of being hungover.
- Mi Jung to Mr. Gu
I love, love this drama! When I saw the trailer and found out that Lee Min Ki, Kim Ji Won and Lee El will be there, I was excited. So I was bidding my time to watch it, as I want to binge watch it or have it at 14 episodes, but then Gong Yoo recommended it and it added to more excitement. So I decided to watch it and there's no return. I discover this wonderful and amazing actor: Son Sukku and his amazing interpretation of Mr. Gu. I love the problematic siblings and the worship couple. How rich, raw, realistic, believable, and just relatable characters they're playing. The cinematography, OST, rich dialogues, some funny antics, their struggles, and concerns in life were all surprisingly relatable! I can easily imagine myself experiencing and relate with their concerns, frustrations, doubts, fears and struggles in life. Funny how, whenever I see the worship couple, even though they lack skinship, and yet they make me giddy, excited and have butterflies in my stomach. I already prepared myself to cry like there's no tomorrow, when I watched the last episode. As I feel like Mr. Gu will end up dead, or already dead and that it's Mi Jeong's memory that were reminiscing. It's a good thing that I was wrong and that the ending is imperfectly imperfect for me. They were all liberated with all their concerns, frustrations, fears and doubts in life.
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MASTERPIECE! NEW CRUSH UNLOCKED= MRS GU
This drama is the definition of a great character driven drama. The drama doesnt have a specific plot exept of course for the fact that Mrs Gu comes into their lives. Even without a main plot this drama manage to make you fell in love with it and the characters, it can make you excited to watch more, to watch all of the characters struggle in a very realistic way. There is nothing that i can find unrealistic about this drama, each character stayed true to each self till the end, most dramas create characters and as the plot progress they change them, they make them more soft or more loving etc, but this drama just kept everyone the same, maybe with some differences but no one change entirely and that is exactly what makes this so realistic.The characters were so well written with great depth and the chemistry between all of them was great. But what surpriced me the most is how relatable they all are. We watched them in every aspect of their lives, when they were sad and lonely but also when they felt loved and happy, There are not enough words to express how well written and interesting all of them were, i will always have them in my heart, i learn a lot of things from them, the way they talked about their feelings made me realise that sometimes i have the same thoughts (especially with Mi Jung) and that it is okay to struggle sometimes, if only you have at least 5 minutes of happiness each day.
The stories the three siblings had were so interestings. My personal favorite was Mi Jung story mostly because not only i can relate to her the most but also because her story had Mrs Gu aka the NVP of the whole drama, my new crush, they storyline and the whole worship thing was so beautiful, how they felt whole when they were together and miserable when they didnt had each other, how they always talk about their feelings and never judge each other, omg they were so beautiful together, definitely one of my favorite couples in every Kdrama i have watched. Ki Jung story was good too, i would like to see more of her relationship with the child but i liked that they made it realistic and didnt make the child magically accept her. Chang Hee story was the least favorite for me, i think maybe i couldnt really connect with him after all.
The end was quite disappointing for me, i wanted more, but it wasnt bad, i think it was a little anticlimactic but at least we have an open ending so i can imagine all of them found liberation (and there is room for season 2 too, i would love to see more of them). * i was really afraid that something bad would happen at the end especially to Mrs Gu bad i am glad everyone was okay (everyone exept from one -cry-)
Anyway i can write a whole book about this drama and how much it touched my heart but i will just say that it a beautiful journey with great messages that i will cherish for life. I highly recommend this one.
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A MASTERPIECE
I started watching this show because I'm a huge fan of Lee Minki and all I can say is... this is a masterpiece.The writing, directing, acting... everything is precious.
They put all the talent in a project and BAM! My Liberation Notes is created.
All the actors were amazing and all the characters were interesting. Everybody had a story to tell, and I felt confortable watching every single second.
It is beautiful to watch, there are a lot of incredible quotes. You laugh, you cry, you imagine...
I'm really happy to see Minki as Changhee. I think this character was made for him in all aspects because his portrayal is beyond amazing. I'm excited to see his new project.
Congratulations to all the cast and crew! ♥
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Reality Hits
Coming from the writer of 'My Mister' starring IU, I do see the similarities and I am enjoying it.Consider a scenario, I have a friend who is fond of Romances and personally loves romcoms, not that I do not but I tend to try out various genres so I would read and watch everything and anything recommended, but to my friend, I am still kind of skeptical about recommending because she might find it boring, dark and dull.
Now, that is the point. Reality hits, its boring and dark. For a person who is watching dramas for entertainment and for the sake of entertainment only and lighthearted stuff, this is not for them, but on the contrary it is definitely a MUST WATCH.
Reality and truths are not always sweet and yummy but sometimes, ridiculously bitter and this dramas shows that aspect.
Introverts (Check)
Office issues (Check)
Disoriented Family (Check)
Finding Solace (Check)
Mysterious Man (Check)
Societal Stereotyping (Check)
Dating Issues (Check)
Furthermore, I love the way LIBERATION is depicted in this story. Honestly, its too vague and for some it might as confusing as a difficult maths puzzle, but I entirely feel the liberation that is intended to be reciprocated in the series.
The drama is catching up and definitely growing on me.
I would also love to acknowledge Kim Jiwon, a name that always forces me to press the play icon without thinking of the story because I blindly trust her on her roles choice and I greatly admire the versatility in her portfolio.
Goodluck to the entire team!!
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i advise peoples to watch this drama(my liberation note). i recommend to wach this. it the best movie i have ever watch. they all deserve award.
I wish this drama never ends. Thank you to the writers, directors, artist and every person who are involved in making this drama.
Son Suk ku is the best actor they he can acting in a different way. Every person in this drama are amazing .they're best .
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To love life, to love life even if you have no stomach for it
As if the first two episodes didn't hook me in already, episodes 3 and 4 managed to get me super invested in the drama.I didn't want the episodes to end every time they did.
I feel like many people related to Mi Jeong who constantly seeks freedom from the suffocating void of her monotonous and repetitive life.
She feels lost most of the time, with people or by herself, unable to identify herself as a person.
She wants to know how it feels to be whole for once. Her character definitely felt extremely relatable despite me being an extrovert and this and that.
Every character was written and made so well and also portrayed so well that it always kept me wondering what would happen next.
The way Mr. Gu and Mi Jung were silent and still mastered the silent acting and I appreciate that so much. Not all actors could captivate viewers and make them completely drawn into their characters by not saying a single word throughout most of their scenes.
This drama isn't one of those full of plot and suspense, no- this drama was just another slice of life we drama fans needed to see and watch after all the other dramas we've seen this year.
This drama portrayed a different kind of life that many people live and go through. It's not the expensive phones we usually see in dramas despite the 'poor' characters, the fancy cars, the living alone in apartments and all those details.
No.
"I don't know where I'm stuck but I want to break free."
We see an entire family stuck together in a crowded space. We see the heat of the morning and the cold of the night.
We see these characters struggling to make an 'I' for themselves in their family and outside of their family.
We see them searching for happiness, freedom and love in the most unique way.
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Liberating and Worship Worthy
My Liberation Notes is a drama that resonated with me in many ways. Just watching it made me feel like I, too, am being liberated, and I wasn't even half as deep as the characters were, if at all. But then, who can't relate to the struggles of fading youth, wanting to love and be loved, managing mounting responsibilities to the extent of losing the will for idle talk, and the unavoidable frustrations and challenges of daily life when even living itself is burdensome? Not many.I loved how the story handled itself, and the message that liberation is realizing the voices in our heads aren't who we are, and only when we see that can we indeed be free. I felt liberated by how this drama depicted human relations, giving me the sense to appreciate the people in my life and opening me up to accept those to come in the future, something my old self before My Liberation Notes wouldn't have done. Every relationship in this drama mattered no matter how small, which made it so special.
I loved how real this drama was in expressing real people's thoughts and actions; how it addressed the fact that some people put others down, not because they are evil or rotten human beings, but because sometimes it's the only way they know how to feel better about themselves. And that sometimes all a person needs is the acknowledgment that someone cares to make a difference.
More than any other drama, My Liberation Notes made me realize how blessed I was in my life rather than the life I think I should've had. I would not have had that without going on this fantastic, silent yet deeply touching and meaningful journey with Gu, Mi Jung, Ki Jung, Chang Hee, Tae Hun, and everyone else who was part of this story, whether in a prominent or supporting role. There were many touching and emotional moments, but the Yeom children gathering for their father's birthday, and him finally opening up to them, is one of the best. The genuine moments between Gu and Mi Jung, Ki Jung and her boss, and Tae Hun and Chang Hee at work and with his friends—all the little nuances in the storytelling — made this drama one of the best, if not the best, of 2022.
A thousand and one kudos to the writer who excelled at making me feel and live each step of this drama's journey. The director for bringing it all to life, and the actors for quietly yet forcefully imparting to me the message that life is what we make it, always has been, and always will be; we just need to believe that. I felt worshiped just watching this drama.
I will miss My Liberation Notes. As much as I already enjoyed Lee Min-Ki and Son Seok Koo's acting skills in other projects, their natural way of depicting their roles in this one made me realize how talented they are, and the same goes for Kim Ji Won, Lee El, Lee Ki Woo, Chun Ho Jin, and the rest of the cast. Next to My Mister and Lost, My Liberation Notes will remain with me for a long time to come for silently making me hear the things I unconsciously and sometimes consciously ignored.
Ignore what you may have heard or read about this drama; watch it, and I mean really watch it. Don't fast-forward through it; you will not be disappointed. On the contrary, you may learn something about yourself you didn't know before.
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This review may contain spoilers
what mln taught me
Loved everything about this drama, from the simplicity to the soothing aesthetics. From witnessing them to their desire to be liberated to actually witnessing their liberation. Loved how they potrayed their characters effortlessly and flawlessly. The chemistry between each of them was incredible to watch. It's a must watch. 10/10Chang hee, possibly my favourite character in the drama, was the figure with whom I was most closely associated. The fact that this drama was so realistic, with characters that shared our desires and found delight in small ways. I liked how in the final episode, instead of venting like he had throughout the drama, he gulped down. Chang hee was never one to blame fate for anything, but accepting it and moving on from it meant the world to me. In the end, I really wanted him to meet Mr Gu. He had the best character growth. Moving on to Mr Gu and Yeom Mi Jeong, they won hands down for making me feel as if I was there with them at the time. I'm at a loss for words to express how much comfort they gave me. Only by watching the drama will you be capable of understanding this. They are, without a doubt, the most interesting aspect of the story. They were both liberated together, and even when they were at their lowest, they found solace in one other. Mi Jeong's decision to settle for less was disappointing, but she genuinely loved tae hun. Would have been much better if Tae hun had proposed to her or given her reassurance, but she was still the most powerful person there.
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A Masterpiece of Realism and Emotional Depth
My Liberation Notes is one of those rare dramas that excels in portraying the quiet intricacies of life. From its opening scenes, it’s clear that this series isn’t about grand, dramatic moments, but about the understated beauty and struggles of everyday existence. The pacing is deliberately slow, giving you time to soak in the characters, their surroundings, and the complex emotions they face. It’s this slow-burn quality that makes the series feel so grounded and relatable.What sets *My Liberation Notes* apart from other Korean dramas is its unwavering commitment to authenticity. There are no exaggerated characters or over-the-top plot twists. Instead, we’re given an intimate look at the lives of ordinary people who are simply trying to navigate through their own personal challenges. It’s rare for a show to capture such a raw and honest depiction of the human experience, and this series does it masterfully.
The story centers on three siblings, each dealing with their own frustrations, loneliness, and desires. What’s fascinating is how the show doesn’t rush their development or try to solve their problems in quick, convenient ways. Instead, it takes its time to show the subtle changes and moments of introspection that lead to personal growth. Watching the characters evolve feels natural, and their journeys are presented in a way that anyone can relate to—whether it's feeling stuck in life, longing for connection, or grappling with a sense of dissatisfaction.
One of the most captivating aspects of the show is its ability to convey deep emotions without needing to rely on excessive dialogue or action. There are moments where the silence between characters speaks louder than any words could. It’s a series where you can feel the weight of every glance, every pause, and every seemingly mundane interaction. These small moments build up to something far more profound, creating an emotional depth that resonates long after the episode ends.
The performances are stellar across the board. Each actor brings a quiet intensity to their role, portraying their characters with an authenticity that makes you forget they’re acting. There’s no melodrama here—just nuanced, deeply felt performances that capture the essence of their characters. You can feel their pain, joy, and longing in every scene, making it easy to become emotionally invested in their journeys.
Visually, *My Liberation Notes* is stunning in its simplicity. The cinematography often mirrors the characters' internal states, with wide shots of the countryside highlighting their isolation or close-up shots capturing the intimacy of their emotions. The rural setting of the show adds a layer of beauty and melancholy, creating a visual representation of the characters’ desire for something more while being rooted in their reality.
In conclusion, *My Liberation Notes* is a masterclass in storytelling that embraces the quiet struggles and moments of liberation that define the human experience. It’s a series that doesn’t rush to provide answers but instead invites you to reflect on your own life. A true masterpiece of emotional depth and realism, it’s a must-watch for anyone seeking a profound and moving drama.
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An introverts dream
In eight simple weeks, I spent my weeks longing for the weekend to come by quickly just so I could watch 2 hours of My Liberation Notes. I haven’t felt this deeply about something in a while, Park Hae-young is an incredible writer who consistently puts out profound work that I just know I will tune in.My Liberation Notes touches on the mundane and depressing notes on life and work that just about anyone can relate to. The feeling of getting up in the morning knowing that all you can think about is getting home so you can go back to sleep and escape life for eight hours. That as soon as Monday comes around you cannot wait for Saturday. It’s not often I ever feel represented in the shows I watch but seeing Mi-jung navigate life and liberate herself from the pain that is life was so personal to me because she spoke true words that I felt everyday. Life is so painful and working is a chore when you don’t necessary enjoy the life you’re given.
From an introvert who also finds this life depressing, dull and unfair. I’m so thankful I was given something to watch that gave me an escape but also was able to see myself in this story.
A+ for the cinematography, OST, phenomenal cast, writer and director everything about this was so perfect to me.
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Mixed feelings
I have mixed feelings for this drama. The beginning was good- I binge watched the first couple of episodes. The daily life between city and countryside was realistic and as someone who also has to commute (though I live in a city) and who is just like the FL an introvert I could relate to many things.But around the 11th epsiode I started to skip many scenes, especially related to the siblings. The (poetic) dialogues got heavier, seemed to be forced, the order of the scenes didn't seem coherent and it was hard to follow. Also I couldn't stand the toxic behaviour of some characters. I made me mad how the brother treated his chummy friend. It was also such a disappointment that we didn't get more romantic scenes between FL and ML. I was rooting so much for them and when they finally kissed the camera immediately zoomed out. It was a huge let down... therefore the rating in Netflix doesn't make any sense (in my country it is from age 16, same like squid game).
Also the huge alcohol abuse was irritating. They were basically drinking all the time and even if you are just drinking daily an after work pint you can be considered as an alcoholic. There wasn't a big difference between Mr Gu and them. I know alcohol is rooted into Korean culture but it was shocking that the consequences of alcohol consumption were so much played down and not carefully painted.
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Living life, and accepting it for the journey if it, is the journey completed
Make no mistake, this is a slice of life through and through. And if you're not one to be pulled in with characters over action—if you don't like the introspective and sometimes crushingly realistic journey of these characters change, or if you don't like heavy symbolism and an ending that isn't the clear-cut "life is all good now", then this drama might not be made for you.It was very much made for me, though, and I'm sure a lot of others too.
First off, let me appreciate the writing for a minute. The level of skill, and dedication to craft it takes to create a story that's so emotionally resonant—where every disappointment, every bit of happiness, every piece of love, contempt and grief that the characters feel—you feel. Line by line, it's impressive, but character to character too. Even if the ending was heavy on the symbolism—none of it felt cheap, and all of it can be pieced together with fragments of the earlier episodes. The Netflix subtitling, even when very notedly wrong in some places, still manages to encapsulate some of the great feeling of this drama.
"I wish I could go back in time and sit quietly next to your younger self."
"Rather than going through exhausting, difficult times without you, isn't it more admirable that I'm finding strength thinking of you?"
"Come eat. This is me worshipping you."
It's not just the writing that should be lauded though. Everything culminated beautifully in this drama; the acting, the direction, the music. It feels like you're watching a work of love.
These are characters on a journey of liberation, which is a constant process of identification, acceptance, change—then the cycle keeps on going, and never stops until right at the very final destination. Even if that cycle feels monotonous, like it's unchanging and you're caught in a world of apathy, there is a freedom, a beauty and a joy to be found in it too. This drama feels like a therapy session I needed, and it has given me a lot to take on with my own journey of liberation.
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