The First Frost

I love you even with all your flaws, you are worth it, wen shuanjiang

Okay dont quote me on that cause I’m not sure if he did say that or not but he has said some of these words

Anyways I still remember when I first heard the news’s of this drama and coming back once and a while to check on any updates then the excitement of hearing it started filming then it wrapped up filming then impatiently waiting for the airing date (excuse me I’m just getting emotional)

Okay onto the real review
This drama itself is quite slow pace and does have triggering scenes involving SA (I cannot remember all episodes that include SA scenes but those I can remember is ep 25,27,28 maybe there is some in the beginning episodes as well)

if you are a person that is rather impatient I would not recommend this drama but like bai jing ting said in a interview recently for this drama “I hope they give it a chance” cause in the end everything is quite subjective
This drama itself is quite different from hidden love despite having the sang siblings as the main love interest both of their stories are drastically different so please don’t compare them

I enjoyed this drama as someone who has read the manhua but it does have its own flaws such as the arc from ep 24-26 I understand why they did that over the novel version of what was supposed to happen but there is quite some plot holes in that arc
Such as how yifan friends found her so easily in such a big city tho they probably had a ruff idea of where she was

It had its own comedic aspects as well which was nice nonetheless I wish they could’ve handled the second storyline better as there really wasn’t much balance between the main storyline and the 2nd one and sometimes it felt random in certain episodes
I wish they could’ve showed us more of Qiao qiao side of feelings when it came for hers towards haoan
The 2nd lead mu cheng yun was really annoying, it seems he doesn’t have this much of a annoying role in the novel but it looks like they really dialed him up for more dramatic effect

Nonetheless it had many amazing aspects that appreciated them for and it showed just how much effort the director,writer and crew did
The cinematography was beautiful, we were able to see so many beautiful done scenes that added depth in the episode itself
I appreciate how they added flashbacks to their younger days back in highschool in majority of episodes because it really adds more depth to our characters relationships and meanings to some action as well
I don’t know how it was supposed to go in the novel despite not really hearing good things
But I like the direction they took as the fan of the manhua I’m happy
I also appreciate how in a majority of the episodes they add sang yan pov at the end cause we get to see a bit of how he felt or what he did during that episode
Also how they gave us one last scene after a “this story is not over yet” like a bonus scene lol

The soundtrack I loved it and it seems I won’t stop listening cause it’s ending today the drama and I’m too emotional attached to it
A lot of the songs and lyrics fit the drama very well which I’m glad
I used to skip the openings but I learned to appreciate it more and more plus bai jing ting said in the interview for this drama something about how it’s unskippable or something similar but I agree with him

On the acting both leads did such a good job so did the supporting characters and the villain
To me bai jing ting did a great job at portraying sang yan it’s as if I saw him come to life from the story honestly and his subtle acting through his eyes in important scenes such as ep 27
Zhang ruonan did a great job as well portraying wen yifan especially the dead eyes in a way to make us see how Wen yifan really live in a way but just like BJT it’s as if I saw wen yifan come to life despite yifan being described more as a cold beauty and zhang ruonan having more cuter features she did a very nice job
The actors who played her family did a nice job as well cause they made me hate their characters so much

I love this story because we get to see two characters who are flawed in their own ways, learn and grow from the past selves so I hope you give this drama a chance than just listening to reviews and decide for yourself if you like it or not

This part is more of my own opinions/view on both Sang Yan and Wen yifan
So I hope that if you ever struggle to understand them this could help offer you a new perspective

The comment section on MDL (here) has been quite hell for the past few days because of certain opinion that has resurfaced many times to the point it’s scary how similar they are

For Wen Yifan it’s clear since the beginning that the girl has issues and pain
She was abandoned by her own mother, got SA by her aunt’s little brother(he’s a grown middle aged man) , got told to hide this SA by her mom and aunt and that it’s shameful and at her previous work place she got harassed
However I have seen the same argument come up in a lot of people’s opinion
“I understand her pain but why is she so selfish and not one ounce intelligent enough like she was described or she’s a reporter”
It makes me wonder did you really understand her? Or that she just went through pain and trauma?
It’s clear to me that WYF decided to lock that part away in hopes that it will be forgotten
and has been surviving everyday trying her best to be away and afar from her own family who caused her pain
Ultimately when her perpetrator showed again and hurt Sang yan bar’s reputation she spiraled after the threats her perpetrator made and now hurting her lover then went to threaten them hoping that this could be the end but it wasn’t and she ran because she only knows how to do that and even in these moments where you’ve spiraled it’s hard to think “rational” like someone said
I myself see a lot of me in wen yifan that’s why I love her as character and I know what it’s like to spiral and honestly during those times I was more overwhelmed by emotion then able to think smart or rational

I saw a lot say they don’t prefer this coward and weak FL and wish she stood up and stop being a weakling
Nevertheless haven’t we all been a coward in our life? Courage isn’t something you earn the moment you’re born
The reason why she ran away was after all those years of not confronting her trauma ultimately led to this situation we saw in ep 23-24
It’s not that she doesn’t trust Sang Yan and her coworkers or friends, it’s that she’s too scared she’ll be the reason why they get hurt whether reputation or physically even
During that arc of ep 24-6 I don’t think she was healing but took the time to find her courage and properly process the situation also to give herself time to think
Dont we all sometimes take a walk to clear our minds? In a way this is what I mean and she was planning to return after that long walk so she wasn’t planning to live there hiding

Some people forget that legal action or police reports always need evidence or her perpetrator can get out of it easily then
So I don’t understand why call her dumb when you’re dumb of not thinking that
Seeking help isn’t always easy especially someone like wen yifan who got abandoned and no one bothered to care about she thinks, trust issues are there but also who’s to say they would believe her? In our modern day, victims get more scrutiny than the perpetrators
Isn’t that ironic? Instead of asking if she was okay, it’s more she was the one who seduced him by her looks or provocative clothes in response

She herself has acknowledged that she hurt Sang yan with her words back in beiyu and how the moment she chose to run she knew and left it in her vague letter that she doesn’t deserve to ask for sangyan forgiveness

Not everyone is gonna react the way you want them to, she did her best as an adult to stand up for herself despite no one being there, she got distant and cold cause that was the only way to protect herself from anymore pain
After all this pain, I admire how strong she is for still even living and breathing and got herself a career

She herself is a flawed character that’s what makes me love her more, I relate to what she went through despite not going through the same pain. She herself is a complex character that’s not many understand after all they say “you should walk a mile in someone’s shoes before you judge them” and I guess seeing so many not understanding her means you probably lived a better life then her which you should be very thankful for & dont take it for granted
She is flawed but aren’t we all? So is the Justice system, we get to see her grow even tho the journey might be slow as hell for many but love can’t heal wounds such as trauma
Somehow we get to see a different side of a story that not many has seen in real life or fiction

Sang yan
many have complained about how this guy is too unrealistic and a SIMP
But pray to god we get a guy who is emotionally intelligent, chose to understand someone
And knows how to take care himself and devoted/loyal, he gets labelled as a doormat
These individuals can’t help but make their comment come off as rude and hateful
I didn’t see people complain about other green flag guys who are “simps” instead they get praised for that, example sungjae from lovely runner or minhyuk from strong women do bong soon

However I have seen majority a dissatisfied with how it seems yifan barely makes much effort as he does (we do see she cares like in ep 28 or how she bothered to cook for him)
She does care it just that not all of us are quite expressive in words or actions and I know well enough that if this is reversed y’all would be slamming the guy like no tomorrow

The thing about him is that since reuniting with her, he never had hopes the she would reciprocate his feelings. After all the young him that separated with her didn’t knew of her pain and struggles and believed what people said around him
To quote what user (u10146071) said in the comment “And he buys into the narrative that then everyone in school would have: oh, SY played himself. That pretty admired girl was never serious about him. How embarrassing.”

In ep 28 we see him say that lowering his pride means nothing for him now especially if it can put her perpetrator behind bars because the young him never understood why she hurt him with those words that day in beiyu until he learned of her past by himself and through her own words. He learned that he was immature and foolish to have had those thoughts about her with his broken pride

He was frustrated with her decisions especially that in ep 24 because then he didn’t understand why but still chose to give her space well he did search for her like a maniac so one can say he maybe lost his mind

Nonetheless he told her how his world crumbled and how sorry he was for his judgments about her back then

The sang siblings love surely is selfless they both don’t expect anything back from their lover but some individuals complain on “his behalf” saying this dynamic is bad
Let’s be honest sang yan himself never expected anything back from WYF, he just hoped that she lives a better life and one she deserves above all he just wanted to make sure she lived a good life and a happy one and he would have been satisfied

He simply saw what life she lived and decided to stay to help her and make sure she knows that he is there for her, that she isn’t alone

So I hope this could’ve offered you a different perspective on these two characters and what I thought of them and If you have made it this far omg congrats I typed a lot

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Let me be the light in your dark world. Best 2025 modern cdrama.

Unexpectedly, this became one of the best modern cdramas I’ve ever seen, considering I was on the fence of watching it. If I could give it 100/10 rating, I would. The drama is about the female lead, who goes back to her hometown to work as a journalist. She meets the male lead, who she’s had an emotional connection with back in high school. Due to their complicated past, they pretend to not know each other at first, but end up being roommates. Their love story is emotional, healing and focuses on the female lead’s traumatic past.

POSITIVE:

- Slow burn romance + second chance trope.
- Beautiful kiss scenes.
- Strong female lead. I found her super relatable and loved her mental and emotional strength. To be honest, I wasn’t a huge fan of the actress but this drama made me change my mind about her.
- Green flag male lead. The most devoted, protective and caring towards the female lead.
- Natural and beautiful chemistry between the leads. I love them to pieces.
- No fillers or draggy parts.
- Shirtless male lead scenes. Plus he looked so hot in black.
- Emotional, romantic and very healing. 
Plus, the subtle comedy actually cracked me up.
- No dreaded break up or stupid misunderstandings. Although there is a short separation, I felt it was fantastic as we learned valuable information about the female lead’s past. Plus, the drama did a great job of making me feel like the leads were together even when separated.
- Sexual assault theme. I felt like the drama did a great job in portraying that in a realistic and healing way without making the audience emotionally drained.
- Adorable high school flashbacks.
- Heartwarming and endearing final episode.
- Vibey OST.
- Cinematography - beautiful colouring, lighting + outfits.

NEGATIVE:
- Male lead is the biggest green flag which I LOVE, BUT he does come across a bit stalkerish at times. Especially when they are separated from high school to adult years. I feel like it was a bit too much how he always checked in on her, it looked like his world revolved around her. Still though, I love him haha some of the stalker parts were actually funny.
- Weird cinematography effect of double mirror/vision thing. I don’t even know the proper name but it made me so dizzy. Idk if the director was trying to be creative but uhh I could do without it.
- Second couple. They were super funny, great chemistry and I loved them but I feel they didn’t get enough screen time to really develop. Unpopular opinion but I did enjoy how the grandparents were the reason the leads got together. It felt very wholesome and different. But in the later stages of the drama, I wish the focus was on them as a couple, not the whole family.

OVERALL:
This drama made me smile and cry like crazy, all in the best way possible. I deeply connected to the characters and plot, and loved every minute of it. This is THE healing drama for me, where bad things happen but at the end of the day, justice is served. There are so many wonderful messages in this drama, that vulnerability is strength, that running away is not a solution, that it’s always important to speak up and believe in yourself, that it’s ok to not forgive and most importantly, that there is always light at the end of the tunnel. Having said all that, it’s pretty clear that to me this is truly one of the best modern cdramas I’ve ever seen and will always remember. And that’s coming from someone who was on the fence of even starting this. With the biggest smile on my face and love in my heart, I highly recommend this.

TRIGGER WARNING:

Themes of attempted sexual assault.

FAVOURITE QUOTES:
“What I mean is… no matter what, you’ll always catch me.” (ep 20 / female lead )
“I’ve finally caught the shadows that haunted you. From now on, your world will only have light.” (ep 28 / male lead)
“Love means being each other’s light” (ep 29 / drama)

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A Slowburn For The Ages

I feel like a lot of people are here from watching hidden love and wifty, both of which were decent dramas but not exactly to my liking. Hidden love felt like too much fluff and not as much of an interesting storyline, and I do like the characters but eventually it kind of fell flat to me. Wifty I really enjoyed for that high school nostalgia, friendships, and youth, but it was only the second couple that kept me going near the end. I feel like First Frost has characters and development that's more to my liking from what I've watched so far, and I'm enjoying this slowburn. And to preface, I haven't read any of these novels/manhuas before, so I'm starting the show completely unbeknownst to me as to what will happen.

I want to first praise the fl, Zhang Ruonan, for her amazing portrayal of Wen Yifan. Again, I haven't read the novel, but from my understanding, she completely embodies her character that's an introvert, someone who keeps so much to herself, lives a simple life she believes to be boring, but also someone who has deep trauma from her family relationships that have haunted her until now. The way she speaks, her actions, gestures, and eye movements feel so accurate for someone who appears to be kind of socially awkward with people she isn't close with. I guess another thing I really like about her character is simply because of how relatable she is in terms of her personality, depicting my exact feelings in my own personal life. This is also my first time watching her and she's killing it. Not to mention she's unbelievably gorgeous and adorable. People are talking a lot about the ml, Bai Jingting but Zhang Ruonan is undoubtedly stealing the show right now.

Like I mentioned, the story is about Wen Yifan, a news reporter who lives a quiet life. Ever since her father passed away in high school, shes been unwelcomed and assaulted by her family, she chooses to cut off all ties with them. She keeps to herself, only has one close friend, doesn't like socializing at work, and lives on her own. Every episode has that melancholic vibe, which I personally like because it feels like a reflection of my own feelings most of the time. This drama does also talk about sexual assault and how this has affected her daily life, and she carries these traumatic experiences with her in her interactions. It's not a one and done sort of topic, the drama shows her journey healing, and it makes my heart hurt whenever she thinks back to these times. Shes gone through way too much, and you spend each episode just wishing that she's happy. To her, she feels as if there's no meaning or joy in life, and she's fine with continuing her uneventful routine every day as long as she can live in peace. But that all changes when she meets her first love again, Sang Yan. He was unfortunately someone she also had to cut off when she graduated high school, not because she wanted to leave him, but because she believed he deserved better, and that she couldn't give him what she wanted. Long story short, they end up living as roommates, with Sang Yan OBVIOUSLY trying to get her back and Wen Yifan being totally oblivious because he actually do be confusing as hell with his communication lmao. I know some people might have complaints about the male lead and how he's so cold with her and how they don't talk much, but genuinely I believe that this is way more realistic than him actively trying to flirt with and pursue her. I see this as him giving her space and carefully tracking for signs that she might just feel the same way he does as hes been in love with her the entire time. What's the drama have 32 episodes for then if they get together right off the bat??? You'll immediately notice the tension between them and the loser that's Sang Yan trying to act non-chalant around her 24/7 but goes out of his way to do everything for her. I'm enjoying this phase of them before they date, and I like that this story shows the timeline, and we get to see their interactions improve the longer they're together.

This is a story about a girl who carries a lot of heavy baggage and trauma with all her relationships, who wants to take a chance and begin her pursuit of happiness, starting with Sang Yan. I'm all here for the second chance, the first love, and these two beautiful green flags. If you're looking for a slowburn with tender and soft romance, you should definitely start this.

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amazing drama, worth the wait <3

"The First Frost" is my favorite novel out of all Zhu Yi's work. I was so happy when they announced there would be a drama adaptation, I went from anticipating this drama the most to watching it with my very own eyes. Although it wasn't complete and exact copy of how the novel is like, I am still very pleased with this drama adaptation, there might have been changes but this changes still brought positive outcomes. From being a favorite novel to now a favorite drama. This drama will remain special for me for the years to come.

Bai Jing Ting potrayal of Sang Yan is immaculate. He nailed his character and didn't disappoint, his acting performance is outstanding. Zhang Ruo Nan did justice to her character as Wen Yi Fan, this woman is so talented. The chemistry between both of them what is there more to say when their chemistry is overflowing. I would love to see them working on another project together.

Thank you the first frost team for bringing us this amazing drama, the long wait is worth it.

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First Frost (Nan Hong): A Slowburn Masterpiece of Healing and Second Chances

𝗜 𝗷𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗲𝗱 𝘄𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗱𝗿𝗮𝗺𝗮 𝘁𝗵𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗸𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗼𝗻 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗸𝘂 𝘀𝗼 𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲'𝘀 𝗮𝗻 𝗵𝗼𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄, 𝘂𝗻𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗹𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄𝘀 𝘄𝗿𝗶𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗯𝗲𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗱𝗿𝗮𝗺𝗮 𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗱 𝗮𝗶𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴.

First Frost is a deeply emotional and beautifully crafted drama that tells the story of Wen Yifan (played by Zhang Ruonan), a reserved and introverted news reporter who carries the weight of past trauma, and Sang Yan (played by Bai Jingting), her first love who re-enters her life after years of separation. The drama explores themes of healing, second chances, and the quiet strength it takes to confront one’s past.

𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆: 𝟵.𝟱/𝟭𝟬
Wen Yifan’s life is marked by pain—her father’s death, her mother’s abandonment, and the trauma of sexual assault inflicted by a family member. These experiences have shaped her into someone who keeps to herself, living a simple yet lonely life. When Sang Yan reappears, their reconnection sparks her journey toward healing. The slow-burn romance is tender and realistic, with Sang Yan patiently navigating Yifan’s walls while grappling with his unresolved feelings.

The pacing is deliberate, allowing the characters’ emotions and growth to unfold naturally. While some viewers may find the slower moments challenging, the payoff is deeply rewarding. The drama also handles sensitive topics like trauma and sexual assault with care, showing Yifan’s struggles and gradual healing in a way that feels authentic and respectful.

𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀: 𝟵.𝟬/𝟭𝟬
Wen Yifan is the heart of the story, and Zhang Ruonan delivers a breathtaking performance. She perfectly captures Yifan’s quiet strength, social awkwardness, and the emotional scars she carries. Her portrayal is nuanced, from her guarded demeanour to the subtle shifts in her expressions as she begins to open up. Yifan’s journey is relatable and heartbreaking, making her a character you root for from the very beginning.

Sang Yan, played by Bai Jingting, is a green-flag male lead who balances stoicism with unwavering devotion. His love for Yifan is patient and selfless, and Bai Jingting portrays this with a quiet intensity that makes Sang Yan unforgettable. The chemistry between the two leads is electric, with every glance and interaction brimming with unspoken emotions.

The supporting cast, including Yifan’s close friend, Qiao Qiao, and Sang Yan’s loyal friend, Haoan, adds depth to the story through Haoan's family background and the development of his grandparents opening up to each other.

𝗡𝗼𝘁𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗱𝗶𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝗕𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗗𝗿𝗮𝗺𝗮 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗡𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗹:
One of the most significant changes in First Frost from the novel is the handling of Wen Yifan’s confrontation with her abuser. In the novel, Yifan demonstrates remarkable growth by facing her uncle head-on, symbolising her strength and resilience after years of trauma. However, in the drama, she runs away to Hong Kong when her uncle reappears, leading to a more prolonged arc of her hiding and struggling to confront her past. This change has sparked mixed reactions among viewers.

While the novel portrays Yifan as someone who has grown strong enough to stand up to her abusers, the drama takes a different approach, emphasising her vulnerability and the ongoing impact of her trauma. Some viewers feel this shift undermines her character development, making her seem more like a damsel in distress reliant on Sang Yan to “save” her. In the novel, Yifan’s ability to confront her uncle directly is a pivotal moment of empowerment, whereas the drama’s version leans more heavily on Sang Yan’s role as her protector.

Additionally, the drama alters the setting of the confrontation. In the novel, Yifan’s uncle waits for her outside her workplace like a stalker, while in the drama, he becomes a security guard at her office, adding a layer of tension and intrusion into her daily life. While this change heightens the drama’s stakes, it also shifts the focus away from Yifan’s agency, which is a defining trait in the novel.

Despite these changes, the drama still captures the emotional core of Yifan’s journey. Her struggles with trauma from SA, her gradual healing, and her reliance on Sang Yan’s unwavering support are portrayed with sensitivity and depth. However, for fans of the novel, the drama’s decision to deviate from Yifan’s empowered confrontation may feel like a missed opportunity to fully showcase her growth.

𝗔𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗦𝗮𝗻𝗴 𝗬𝗮𝗻:
Sang Yan has been a point of discussion among viewers, with some labelling him as “unrealistic” or a “simp” for his unwavering devotion to Wen Yifan. However, this criticism overlooks the depth of his character and the emotional intelligence he displays throughout the story. Sang Yan is not just a love-struck romantic; he is a man who understands the weight of Yifan’s trauma and chooses to stand by her, offering patience and support without expecting anything in return.

In Episode 28, Sang Yan reflects on his younger self, acknowledging how his pride and immaturity once clouded his judgment. He admits to misunderstanding Yifan’s actions in the past and expresses regret for not being there for her when she needed him most. This moment of vulnerability highlights his growth and underscores his commitment to making amends.

Sang Yan’s love for Yifan is selfless and rooted in a desire to see her live a happy, fulfilling life. He doesn’t see himself as a saviour but as someone who wants to ensure she knows she’s not alone. His actions—whether it’s searching for her tirelessly when she runs away or quietly supporting her as she heals—are driven by a deep sense of care and responsibility.

While some viewers have criticized the dynamic between Sang Yan and Yifan, arguing that she doesn’t reciprocate his efforts enough, it’s important to remember that Yifan’s journey is one of healing. Her reserved nature and struggles with trust make it difficult for her to express her feelings openly. However, her love for Sang Yan is evident in subtle ways, such as cooking for him or standing by him during difficult times.

Sang Yan’s character is a refreshing departure from the stereotypical male leads often seen in dramas. He is emotionally intelligent, patient, and devoted—a true green flag. Rather than being a “doormat,” he is a man who understands the complexities of love and trauma, making him one of the most compelling characters in the story.

𝗔𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴/𝗖𝗮𝘀𝘁: 𝟭𝟬/𝟭𝟬
Zhang Ruonan and Bai Jingting are the standout stars of First Frost. Zhang Ruonan embodies Wen Yifan’s vulnerability and resilience with such authenticity that it’s impossible not to feel deeply for her character. Bai Jingting, as Sang Yan, delivers a masterclass in subtle acting, conveying layers of emotion through his eyes and body language. Together, they create a love story that feels raw, real, and deeply moving. Their chemistry was off the charts!! Each romantic scene, each emotional and solemn scene was portrayed so well. You could see the gaze in their eyes, the micro-expressions and movements. It felt as if you were seeing it happen right in front of your eyes as a real moment.

The supporting cast also shines, with each actor bringing their characters to life in a way that enhances the story. The villains, particularly Yifan’s family members, are portrayed with such conviction that they evoke genuine disdain, further highlighting the emotional stakes of the drama.

𝗦𝗽𝗼𝗶𝗹𝗲𝗿...
The proposal and ending in EP 32 was the best I've seen among all proposal scenes... (I was in tears ㅠㅡㅠ) Bai Jingting and Zhang Ruonan delivered the emotions and micro-expressions so well SLHTKTLKHKGSKT (crying again).

𝗠𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗰: 𝟭𝟬/𝟭𝟬
The soundtrack of First Frost is a perfect complement to the story, enhancing its emotional depth. The melancholic yet hopeful tones of the instrumental tracks mirror Yifan’s journey, while the lyrical songs add poignancy to key moments. Tracks like the opening theme and the ending song capture the bittersweet essence of the drama, making the music an integral part of the viewing experience. My favourites were the opening- 任性 (Willful) - 五月天 (Mayday), ending- 是你 (It’s You) - 李宇春 (Li Yuchun), My Dear - 张洢豪 (Zhang Yihao), 晚点 (Later) by Zhang Bichen. Bai Jingting also sang one of the OST tracks. So did Zhang Ruonan and Zhang Miaoyi as a duet and Chen Haosen did as well. The OST was lovely!

𝗖𝗶𝗻𝗲𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗽𝗵𝘆: 𝟭𝟬/𝟭𝟬
The cinematography in First Frost is stunning, with each frame thoughtfully composed to reflect the characters’ emotions. The use of lighting and colour palettes—cool tones for Yifan’s loneliness and warmer hues as she begins to heal—adds visual depth to the story. The flashbacks to their high school days are beautifully shot, creating a nostalgic contrast to their present lives. The attention to detail in the sets and locations further immerses viewers in the world of the drama.

𝗥𝗲𝘄𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵 𝗩𝗮𝗹𝘂𝗲: 𝟵.𝟬/𝟭𝟬
First Frost is a drama that rewards multiple viewings. Its layered storytelling, emotional depth, and standout performances ensure that each rewatch reveals new nuances to appreciate. While the heavier themes may make it a challenging rewatch for some, the tender romance and heartfelt moments make it a story worth revisiting.

𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗩𝗮𝗹𝘂𝗲: 𝟭𝟬/𝟭𝟬
First Frost is a poignant and beautifully executed drama that explores the complexities of love, trauma, and healing. Its strong performances, emotional storytelling, and stunning cinematography make it a standout in the world of C-dramas. While it may not be perfect, its ability to touch the heart and inspire reflection makes it a must-watch for fans of slow-burn romances and character-driven narratives.

For those seeking a drama that balances heartbreak with hope and offers a profound exploration of human resilience, First Frost is a gem worth experiencing. It’s not just a love story—it’s a journey of healing, growth, and the quiet strength it takes to find happiness.

Despite the changes from the novel, First Frost remains a beautifully crafted drama with strong performances, a compelling storyline, and stunning cinematography. Zhang Ruonan and Bai Jingting deliver standout performances, bringing depth and authenticity to their roles. The drama’s exploration of trauma, healing, and second-chance love is both poignant and relatable. It is a story about resilience, love, and the quiet strength it takes to heal. It’s a drama that lingers in your heart long after the final episode, making it a worthwhile addition to any watchlist.

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A Masterpiece of Emotion and Storytelling

Story - The First Frost is a beautifully woven tale of love, fate, and personal growth. The drama effortlessly captures the changing seasons, both in nature and in the hearts of the characters. The storytelling is immersive, drawing viewers into a world where emotions run deep, and every moment carries significance. It masterfully balances romance, drama, and life’s bittersweet realities, creating an unforgettable journey that lingers in the mind long after the final episode. The pacing is perfect, ensuring that every scene contributes to the overall narrative without unnecessary fillers.

Acting/Cast – Bai Jingting and Zhang Ruo Nan deliver stellar performances, making their characters feel incredibly real and relatable. Their on-screen chemistry is undeniable, bringing both warmth and heartbreak to their love story. Bai Jingting’s portrayal is nuanced and powerful, showcasing his ability to convey emotions through subtle expressions and heartfelt dialogues. Zhang Ruo Nan’s performance is equally mesmerizing, bringing depth and authenticity to her character. The supporting cast also plays a crucial role in enriching the drama, adding layers of meaning to the main storyline.

Music – The soundtrack of The First Frost is nothing short of breathtaking. Each song complements the mood of the drama perfectly, enhancing the emotional depth of key scenes. Whether it’s a melancholic melody accompanying a heartbreaking moment or a soft, hopeful tune underscoring a tender interaction, the music elevates the storytelling to another level. The OST is so powerful that it stays with you long after the drama ends, making it a perfect addition to any playlist.

Rewatch Value – This is a drama that deserves to be rewatched, not just once but multiple times. Every rewatch unveils new layers of meaning, allowing viewers to appreciate the finer details of the story, acting, and cinematography. The emotional impact remains just as strong, if not stronger, upon revisiting it. The depth of the characters and their journey make The First Frost a timeless piece that will continue to touch hearts for years to come.

Overall, The First Frost is an absolute masterpiece—emotionally profound, visually stunning, and deeply touching. With its flawless storytelling, outstanding performances by Bai Jingting and Zhang Ruo Nan, a mesmerizing soundtrack, and immense rewatch value, this drama stands out as one of the best in recent years. Whether you are a fan of romance, drama, or simply beautifully crafted narratives, The First Frost is a must-watch.

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A Story That Lingers

The First Frost unfolds like the season it’s named after—cold, quiet, and heavy with unspoken emotions. The adaptation stays close to the novel but intensifies the female lead’s struggles, making her journey feel even more layered.

The pacing is slow, but that’s exactly what makes every moment between the leads matter. Their connection isn’t built on grand gestures but on quiet presence—on understanding what the other doesn’t say. The female lead isn’t written as someone waiting to be saved, and the male lead doesn’t try to "fix" her. Instead, their relationship moves with hesitation, shaped by the weight of their pasts.

Visually, the drama leans into its introspective nature. The muted colors, the distance between characters, and the way space is used all reflect their emotional state. Only as their dynamic shifts does warmth start slipping in. It’s not a typical romance, but for those who like slow, character-driven stories, it’s worth the watch.

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I feel like I gained a friend through Wen Yifan and Sangyan..

Instead of a review, this is my love letter to The First Frost. 🤍

One of the most beautiful, heartwarming, heartbreaking, precious, comforting, healing, nostalgic, and memorable series I've ever watched in my entire life. I've been watching asian dramas since high school and now I'm a working adult going through life as times go by. A lot of has happened and things have changed but The First Frost made me feel like everything will get better soon. No matter how dark our past was. No matter hard it is. No matter how tough it will be in the future. Everything will be alright as long as you hold on and keep on fighting.

Yifan taught me to how to stand up, speak up, and fight for myself. She made me believe that even after we lost almost everything in our lives, there'll always be hope and light to guide us towards a brighter future and more fulfilling life.

Sangyan taught me how important it is to take care of myself and that I deserve all the best things in life, even if everyone around you tells you the opposite. He also made me realize how supporting and loving someone truly meant.

They both taught me how to treat myself well, accept all my insecurities, move forward, and live my life to the fullest.

Just need to work hard, be patient, and focus on ourselves. I want to have the courage, bravery, persistence, patience, calmness, and love they both have.

I'll cherish their story forever and keep them in my heart, eternally. ❄️🍃

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A love letter to Wen Yi Fan

"No one loves me anymore, only you."
"I will only love you..."

It's been a long time since I've felt as deeply about a drama, enough to write a review about it. It's a love at first sight story, and the chemistry between the two actors is out of this world.

Bai Jing Ting plays Sang Yan, the greenest of green flags. If you've watched Hidden Love, you would have a deeper understanding of the environment he grew up in. Both he and Zhi Zhi (his younger sister) grew up in the healthiest environment, full of warmth, love, and support. At first sight, he falls for Wen Yi Fan played by Zhang Ruo Nan. Wen Yi Fan's upbringing was also full of warmth, love, and support until her father passed away. Her entire life was turned upside down and spiralled into the most horrific nightmare.

Wen Yi Fan deserves a separate paragraph as much as she deserves a happy ending. I've only skimmed through the novel and didn't have a firm attachment to it. I want to extend my gratitude to the director for being trauma-informed and giving us a beautiful love story without sweeping under the rug all the uncomfortable things that come with complex PTSD. It's rare for a Chinese drama to portray the recovery journey of PTSD accurately. Mostly because people are uncomfortable with the ebb and flow of healing. We like things to move in one direction - forward. But the reality of working through PTSD is back and forth, full of mistakes and darkness, which I think this drama portrayed incredibly well.

I've been a fan of Zhang Ruo Nan ever since her first drama, "Everyone Wants to Meet You". She truly outdid herself in this drama. Wen Yi Fan is a heavy character to embody. Zhang Ruo Nan carries Wen Yi Fan's sorrow and pain incredibly well. From the sleepwalking scenes to that moment when her mum abandons her on the worst night of her life, her portrayal of Wen Yi Fan's emotions will stick with me for a long time.

I'm also a huge fan of Bai Jing Ting, and goodness, if a man like Sang Yan truly exists, I will wait forever for him to arrive by my side. He loves Wen Yi Fan wholeheartedly. Some call it an obsession; some have called him a doormat, a simp, a loser - I see it as pure. His love for her is untainted, despite all the pain they had to experience to get their happy ending. By the end of the drama, there is no doubt that he is as loved by Wen Yi Fan as Wen Yi Fan is loved by him.

I don't know if there is another modern C-Drama that is on par with this one. I can count on one finger how many dramas I've rated a 10/10, I didn't even hesitate to give this drama full marks. It's slow, it's healing, and it engages with all your emotions (including the uncomfortable ones).

Lastly, if there is a Wen Yi Fan somewhere in this world, I hope you know how brave and strong you are for surviving all that you have experienced. And I hope there can be more Sang Yans in this world, walking alongside their Wen Yi Fan during her darkest days without ever giving up on her.

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SANG YAN SET THE STANDARDS HIGHER

First of all, let me scream real hard and loud. SANGYAN SET THE STANDARDS HIGHER! Imagine waiting for a person for years, constantly going back and forth to Yihe just to see Yifan, played games to be his mentor, bought cake for her, and made himself as Yifan's wings, loving her for 4064 days.

This cdrama tackles about love, toxic or not, phillia, eros and self-love. They really gave all the justice to Zhu Yi's work. The acting is top-tier, I really felt bad for Zhouran (Yifan) because in the entire series she's crying and hurt. The OSTs got me really bad because it made me search the lyrics and it's English translation. It'll be my 2025 LLS; Silence Wang's voice and songs are just-- I'm speechless. Also, the production is superb!

Throughout the series, Wen Yifan taught me how to be strong -- that instead of running away, we must face every challenge life may give. Even though her wings are broken, she found the right person who is more than willing to be her wings. Life is not sweet, but Sang Yan made it bearable. And lastly, let's talk about Sang Yan. His character made me really want to fall in love.

A rollercoaster of emotions, I cried, I laughed, cried again, squeled out of Sang Yan's actions, cried again. I'm so in love with this drama. This is totally highly recommended.

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Slowburn or boring?

I watched this after all the hype I saw online, I also really enjoyed Hidden Love so I was excited to get this spinoff focusing on the brother. The acting was good and I enjoyed how the characters were portrayed. I was surprised by Sang Yang and how different he is in this compared to the character in Hidden Love. The music was good and visually the entirety of the show was nice to watch.
The plot is where I find the show to be the most lacking, I enjoyed how the writers tried to go for a more taboo and serious storyline but the execution was questionable. I found myself getting annoyed at how most of the men in the show were 1 dimensional and wanted to get with Wen Yi Fan or force themselves on her. It was just one after the other, it made the plot feel a lot less serious than it actually was. Also, I thought it was weird how Yi Fan would confront her uncle but also run away from him 2 minutes later, It felt out of character.
The pacing has to be this shows worst enemy, it was so slow and for no reason. Nothing happened for many episodes and I was bored out of my mind, I ended up watching it at a 1.75x speed and skipping a lot of scenes.
Overall I feel like this show had a strong premise but it was poorly executed. The acting and visuals were the only strong thing about it. It felt like a big downgrade from Hidden Love. I don’t think I could ever put myself through rewatching this show or the leads romantic scenes, not that they were cringe or lacked chemistry, I just got to a point where I didn’t care at all.
Cdrama are always a hit or miss for me and this one was a big miss.

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