Hidden Love

The Wish of First Love that She wrote on Paper Stars came True!! ♥

Cute and Wholesome ♡♡

Hidden Love is a binge worthy, adorable drama about a young girl in love with her brother's friend. Sang Zhi met Duan Jiaxu when she was just 14 years old and again when she was 17, with time she develops feelings for him. Jiaxu who was 5 years older than him only saw her as his little sister but she always had a special place in his life (as a family). They part ways for a period of time and meet again! And whoa now that she's an adult there starts a story of sweetness, hotness and the chemistry that literally do not leaves a chance of giving you butterflies!!

To talk about chemistry, nah they've physics, maths and every subject you can think off. It wasn't even much about the story tbh, most of us just adored this pair together! The good parts about this drama is probably the CHEMISTRY (*chef's kiss*), the ACTING (they look way too natural) and the LIGHTNESS (name a drama with almost no toxicity).

Not like the story left much impression, there was a lot going on and they could've gone in depth with it but instead they focused on our main couple and how to develop their relationship better. Sang Zhi kept saying "I'm not a kiddo anymore" and him finding his home in her and yet teasing her about it. This... This sweet banter, understanding and comfort they had around each other won my heart.

Sang Zhi (played by Zhao Lusi) is such a thoughtful character. Not only she never gave up on her love, the way she was giving her 100% for him and never being insecure or so damn sure that "yeah he is the one for me" is lovely to watch... and did I mention I fell for Zhao Lusi once again!! She ate her character. even her playing a 17 year old was kinda convincing, tho she was 23 when this was filmed. And she sang two songs that always lit up the atmosphere of each scene. She's genuinely impressive.

Complimenting her is Duan Jiaxu (Chen Zheyuan) . This man is a walking green flag. The reason I don't blame her for the puppy love is because who would not fall for him if the guy is this sweet and caring... and visuals obviously!!... Duan Jiaxu got his own struggles but he still walks like a sunshine being nice to everyone around... so take note future drama writers "past trauma do not makes every male lead poker faced and cold"

We also have some beautiful relationships around our leads like Sang Zhi and her brother Sang Yan (Victor Ma) who bicker so much like any other sibling would do... and her amazing parents that give off ideal family goals...

Just a reminder that this drama is FICTIONAL, Hidden love is a completely romance focused cheesy drama that kicks away all the toxicity very smoothly (unlike reality). there's no way a kind Sang Zhi like this or perfect Duan Jiaxu like this or a fully healthy relationship like this would exist. So don't get your expectations too high haha.

I did encounter some typical cdrama tropes but how come they made this drama extra sweet. I hope I'm not going to get tested positive for diabetes by next week as I plan on rewatching this a little more XD... its honestly been long since I've rated a drama a 10 but this one deserved it for staying in its genre and truthfully being what it is, a romcom.

Also trying to address an issue...
•• Is the age gap really an issue? No it's just 5 years.
•• Did he liked her too when she was still a kid? No. It was always her having a crush on him until they met again after she became an adult. so he is not a pervert


OSTs
If the chemistry wasn't enough to give you diabetes, the songs will - sweet and perfect for the moment

1. Only Want to Secretly Hide You (只想把你偷偷藏好) ~ by Zhao Lu Si & Silence Wang (you'll hear this song for half of the time in the drama and you won't mind it cause it's actually soothing to ears)

2. I Have Someone I Like (我有喜欢的人了) ~ Zhao Lu Si (Ioved her vocals for this song. Zhao lusi is just impressive ❤)

3. Be Your Light ~ Ma Bo Qian (my favorite one, love the feel good casual vibes of the song)

4.The One Who Stole the Stars (偷星星的人) ~ Yi Hui
5. Have You (有你) ~ Zhao Lei

6. Forever Star ~ Zhang Yi Hao
7. You are My Only Wish in this Lifetime (你是我此生唯一所愿) ~ Zhang Bi Chen


So Hidden Love is a 10/10 for me for being that perfect light romance drama that makes you blush in and out with the butterflies. it's worth checking out for the fluffy, sugar factor!! Would definitely recommend it!!

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A Girl's Secret Crush Diary

Hidden Love (偷偷藏不住) adapted from the novel of the same name, is a youth romance drama revolving around Sang Zhi, and her secret admiration towards Duan Jiaxu, her brother’s friend and how it develops to a relationship.

Hidden Love is a captivating and heartwarming youth romance drama that explores the theme of love, friendship, and personal growth. The drama sticks closely to the novel, keeping the dialogues between the characters. In addition, the drama also manages to beautifully capture and translate the novel to life, capturing the nuances of the character’s relationship and also seamlessly intertwines comedy with poignant moments, romance, and many more.

Although Hidden Love treads some of familiar tropes of a youth romance drama, but it manages to distinguish itself with its heartfelt storytelling, nuanced character development, and some freshness into the genre. Sang Zhi isn't like any other young female lead who blindlessly chase after Duan Jiaxu, just because love at first sight and so on. However, just like any other young girls, she began to develop feelings gradually and secretly. Duan Jiaxu is also a very good male lead, whereas he truly looks upon Sang Zhi like a litttle sister, being kind to her, defending her, guides her, and more.

Hidden Love manages to strike a balance between tender moments of romance, family moments, and also youth leaving a lasting impact on its viewers. The comedic timing of the talented cast is impeccable, delivering punchlines and physical comedy with finesse. Although the drama primarily focuses on the youth and romance, but it also touches on deeper emotional themes. Moments of introspection and personal growth are woven into the narrative, allowing the characters to overcome their past and discover new aspects. Those elements bring an additional emotional depth to the story, ensuring a well-rounded viewing experience.

Chen Zheyuan and Zhao Lusi is the perfect Duan Jiaxu and Sang Zhi! Both of their performances are nothing short of brilliant, both of them are able to bring Sang Zhi and Duan Jiaxu to life. Zhao Lusi is able to bring innocent Sang Zhi to life, she brilliantly portrays Sang Zhi from a young age to adulthood. Her cute little actions are so convicing that makes one think that she really is a high school student! On the other hand, Chen Zheyuan also did a brilliant job in portraying Duan Jiaxu. He uses micro expression and his expressive eyes to act and communicate. Both of their performance transports and immerse viewers in the lives of their characters, making us feel their every emotion, as if we are experiencing the joys and sorrows together with them. Both of their chemistry is also palpable, enhancing the authenticity of the relationships portrayed on screen and making viewers deeply invested in the drama.

The supporting cast also adds depth and charm to the narrative, bringing a diverse range of personalities and subplots that enrich the overall storytelling experience, keeping viewers engaged throughout the drama. For instance, Sang Yan, Sang Zhi’s brother. Sang Zhi and Sang Yan’s on-screen witty banter and comedic timing add a genuine touch to the storyline. The banter between the two siblings looked so realistic, just like any other siblings argument; many of their actions looks genuine, and feels like it is unscripted!

Hidden Love cinematography manages to capture the innocence of youth, the sweetness and pain of one-sided love, and the intimate moments between the character. However, I personally am not a fan of the drama’s green/ grey muted filter in the earlier episodes, which I find it makes the drama looks a little bit dull. However, as the episode progresses and Sang Zhi grow into an adult, the filter became better! There are also few moments when the pacing feels slightly uneven. Some scenes could have been trimmed to maintain a tighter narrative flow in the earlier episodes. However, in the latter episode, a lot of the scenes are cut down, which may leave viewers a little bit confused and unsatisfied with the closure. Nevertheless, these minor hiccups don't overshadow the drama’s overall charm. The overall execution, engaging performances, and heartfelt moments compensate for the drawbacks.

Hidden Love soundtrack also perfectly encapsulated the whole drama, enhancing the overall viewing experience. Composed of enchanting melodies and emotionally charged ballads, perfectly complements the narrative and adds an extra layer of depth to the series.

All in all, Hidden Love successfully captures the essence of a youth love journey. It is a delightful concoction of youth romance drama! With the actor’s stellar performance, engaging story, it offers a fresh delightful take on the youth-romance genre! You will find yourself with smiling, laughing and swooning watching the drama ◝(ᵔᵕᵔ)◜

FYI. the male lead DOES NOT develop any romantic feelings for her until she is an adult

Hidden Love extra chapter (6) - Wedding Night: https://twitter.com/afterrnoont/status/1680883026438537216

Hidden Love extra chapter (7) - The Daily Routine of Life with Two Kids: https://twitter.com/afterrnoont/status/1680630598761861120

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Hidden Love ʚଓ A Beautiful Story of Timing and True Love ʚଓ

SUMMARY ❀˖°🍓

Sang Zhi catches feelings for Duan Jiaxu the guy who used to always come over and hang out in her older brother’s room playing games. He’s five years older than her. When she was younger, she had this huge crush on him, but then they lost contact for a while. Later on, after Sang Zhi graduates, she ends up going to university in the same city as him. And from all their little moments together, getting closer day by day, they slowly fall in love. It’s based on "Secretly, Secretly; But Unable to Hide It" (偷偷藏不住) by Zhu Y.

Hidden Love is a beautiful, well-written love story that deals with friendship, sibling dynamics, family, and the journey of Sang Zhi and Duan Jiaxu’s love story. It’s about two people who started off at the right age and the right time. Sang Zhi is this vibrant, super friendly girl who first meets Duan Jiaxu when she’s young. As a teen, yeah, she did like him first, but as she grew up, she got to know him better and learned a lot of good lessons that helped her stay focused on her studies.
The way their story plays out is honestly so beautiful. They meet again when Sang Zhi leaves for university, and little by little, as they start talking more, Duan Jiaxu falls for her too. Eventually, he asks to woo her, and that’s when they officially get together. Hidden Love never made their story feel wrong or weird, Sang Zhi was at the right age, and everything happened at the right time. It was never about anything inappropriate, no matter what some people tried to say.

CHARACTERS 𓂃 ོ☼𓂃

Chen Zhe Yuan As Duan Jiaxu ⋆˙⟡♡
Starting off with Duan Jiaxu he’s such a well-written male lead. He went through some serious hardships because of what happened in his family. The consequences of his dad’s actions messed him up a lot, and people around him always criticized him no matter what he did. But even with everything he went through, Duan Jiaxu stayed focused. He never let it break him. He kept pushing toward his goals and worked hard to build a better future, not just for himself but also to pay off his family’s debt.
Along his journey, he met Sang Yan his male best friend, before he even crossed paths with Sang Zhi again. Then came Sang Zhi, and honestly, she was like this light that showed up during all his dark nights. But what’s beautiful too is that Jiaxu didn’t just rely on others he healed himself too.

Duan Jiaxu is a man of his word. He’s so determined, hardworking, and respectful. He doesn’t just care for Sang Zhi, he takes care of her in the most beautiful, patient way. And let’s be real, he’s also handsome, super charismatic, and elegant without even trying.

Chen Zheyuan absolutely brought this role to life. He didn’t just act Duan Jiaxu he became him. Every little look, every smile, the way he carried all of Jiaxu’s pain, hope, and love,it was so natural. I could feel everything through his expressions alone. He brought so much depth and softness to Jiaxu’s character that it made you love him even more. Honestly, no one else could have pulled off Duan Jiaxu the way Chen Zheyuan did. He understood the assignment and delivered it better than anyone could have imagined.

Zhao Lu Si As San Zhi 𓂃˖˳·˖ ִֶָ ⋆🌷͙⋆ ִֶָ˖·˳˖𓂃 ִֶָ

Sang Zhi is such a well-written female lead. I loved seeing all the transitions she went through how she handled being a younger sister, a daughter, a friend, and then growing into her own person. She was so good with her relationships with everyone around her. Whether it was with her family, her friends, or anyone she met, Sang Zhi always knew how to balance being sweet and playful while still being respectful. She’s the type of girl you can’t help but like because she’s real, she's humble, and she carries herself so well.

Even though her parents are rich, Sang Zhi never acted entitled. She was raised right, you could see it in the way she spoke, the way she treated people, and how she handled tough situations without ever looking down on anyone. And honestly, her maturity was such a treat to watch. She knew when to be playful, when to be serious, and when to step back and reflect. She was smart too, not just in school, but emotionally smart.

And Zhao Lusi? She Slayed in this role. She didn’t just play Sang Zhi, she made Sang Zhi feel alive. I kept rewinding during her close-up scenes because she was so gorgeous and her expressions were just perfect. Every little look she gave said more than words could. Lusi really captured all the layers of Sang Zhi, her innocence, her growth, her confidence and she made it look effortless. I really admire how she gave Sang Zhi so much heart and made you connect with her instantly.

Victor Ma As Sang Yan .☘︎ ݁˖
Sang Yan was such a good brother to Sang Zhi. You could really tell he cared about her deep down, even when he was acting all funny and teasing her. He never once treated her badly, it was always that typical older brother energy where he jokes around but would still fight anyone who hurt her. I loved how their sibling bond felt so real and natural, not forced at all. They bickered, they teased each other, but at the end of the day, Sang Yan always had Sang Zhi’s back.
And as a friend, Sang Yan was honestly such a good one to Duan Jiaxu too. He never judged Jiaxu for the hardships he went through and always treated him like family. Their friendship felt solid like even if they didn’t say much sometimes, you knew they were loyal to each other no matter what. Sang Yan was the bridge that connected Sang Zhi and Duan Jiaxu in the beginning without even knowing it, and I just loved how he was always present in both their lives without being overbearing.

Victor Ma's Acting here was very natural and good, i loved how he conveyed the comedy in this drama, it felt natural and not cring at all and he was very good as a big brother.

SUPPORTING CHARACTERS
I also have to say the supporting characters in this drama were so good. Everyone’s acting felt so natural and real. It never felt like they were acting just to move the story along; it felt like every character had their own life and story going on in the background. It made the whole world of the drama feel more alive and believable. You could tell the whole cast understood their roles and made everything come together so perfectly.

ROMANCE PART────୨ৎ────

I love the romance in the drama, everything came out at the right time, right moment, and the feelings were mutual and not forced at all. The maturity in Sang Zhi was such a treat to watch, Lusi really slayed here as she always does and I kept rewinding during all her close-up moments cos she's so gorgeous. I love how Jiaxu respects Sang Zhi and never crossed any boundaries.

I liked how the drama showed how a healthy relationship should be, just like Sang Zhi and Jiaxu, even when there is a misunderstanding they open up to each other on time. It’s so refreshing to see two characters communicate, compromise, and show vulnerability without it feeling too dramatic or over the top. Their dynamic felt like a real relationship – supportive, understanding, and full of mutual respect. The way Jiaxu listens to Sang Zhi and values her feelings is just... chef's kiss.

There are so many scenes I loved in the drama and I really liked the proposal scene, the birthday scenes, like I said every scene. EVERYTHING ABOUT THEM IS CUTEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE °❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･. The little moments of just them being together, laughing, or sharing a quiet gaze... it felt so pure. And let's not forget the chemistry, it's electric, but in such a natural way. These two were so in sync with each other, and it’s honestly the kind of relationship that makes you believe in love a little more. Just... PERFECTION.

Favorite Scenes 🐻‍❄️ྀིྀི
I loved the OST so much. It just blended perfectly with the drama. Every song matched the mood, and it made each scene even more emotional. The music didn’t overpower the moments ,it enhanced them.
Their first date
Sang Zhi’s birthday
Sang Zhi with her friends
Sang Yan and Sang Zhi’s bickering
Every moment of Sang Zhi and Duan Jiaxu’s relationship-from their awkward but sweet conversations to their more mature moments, I was living for all of it. Their growth as a couple was so natural.
The proposal scene

Overall Thoughts on Hidden Love ｡ ₊°༺❤︎༻°₊ ｡

Hidden Love is easily one of the best dramas I’ve watched. The story is so well-written, and everything just falls into place. The way love, family, friendship, and life in general are portrayed is amazing. Author Zhu Yi has a real gift when it comes to blending all these aspects and creating something that feels real and heartwarming. She doesn’t just write a love story she writes an entire life story. Honestly, I might need to ask her to write my own love story (LOL).
This drama is so rewatchable for me. It's never boring, and I can watch it over and over. I even watched the special episode where the behind-the-scenes cuts and the main leads shared their experiences. It was so nice seeing how comfortable they are with each other and how friendly they seemed off-camera. Since I joined the Hidden Love fandom a bit late, I’m not sure how the fans feel about each other, but I really hope Lusi and Jiaxu get paired up again. It’d be tough to get a second season, though.

The summer’s coming, so you bet I’m going to rewatch it again. Even when I was tired after work, I watched it, and it made me feel alive again. It’s just that good. Now, I’m diving into watching edits and even planning to create a Pinterest board for this drama.

So, would I recommend this drama? A thousand YES, no doubt. Would I rewatch it? Well, I’ve already said yes, and it’s a big YES. And here’s the thing: watch it at your own pace, don’t let FOMO rush you. I watched it at my own pace, and I enjoyed every moment of it.

🐻‍❄️ྀིྀི🧸🎀
"Our story began when he was 22 years old. I once buried my feelings towards him worried that someone else might find out. I worked hard to become a better person to match his pace. And when I finally caught up to him, that's when I knew that I wasn't the only one running. He was running towards me too. In these five whole years, I healed his trauma. He gave my bittersweet first love a happy ending. Our story began when he was 22 years old. And it came to an end when I was 22 years old" - Drama's Message ₍ᐢ. .ᐢ₎ ₊˚⊹

Hidden Love – Released 2023, Watched 2025 LOVED BY PRECIOUS ִ ࣪𖤐

Thanks For Reading ✮ ⋆ ˚｡𖦹 ⋆｡°✩ Final message from the BTS - Love changes one's chaotic life into two mutual journey, going through High's and lows together. ‧₊˚ ☁️⋅♡🪐༘⋆

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The Best Cdrama I watched so far

Cdramas have tendency to have some toxic/red flag behaviors from some of its characters and I love how supportive and healthy all the relationships are. Hidden Love reminds me of what young first love feels like. The male lead was not only goodlooking but he also played his character well. Whenever he looked at the FL, it gave me butterflies. It was such a refreshing series that it totally on my re-watch list. Normally, with CDramas I start losing interest because of so many episodes and this is the first time that I wished it was longer.. I definitely recommend this drama!

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Hidden Love: A Heartwarming Journey Through Love and Growth

"Hidden Love" is a spellbinding youth romance drama that captures the essence of love, friendship, and personal transformation. Adapted from the novel of the same name, the series introduces us to Sang Zhi and her secret affection for Duan Jiaxu, her brother's friend, as their relationship blossoms.

This drama is a refreshing take on the genre, with a focus on heartfelt storytelling and character development. Sang Zhi's journey is portrayed with authenticity, avoiding the clichéd "love at first sight" trope. Instead, her feelings develop gradually, showcasing the realism of young love. Duan Jiaxu's character is equally well-crafted, adding depth and sincerity to the narrative.

One of the drama's standout features is its balance between tender romantic moments and the exploration of deeper emotional themes. The talented cast's comedic timing and chemistry add layers of enjoyment, making every interaction engaging and relatable.

Zhao Lusi and Chen Zheyuan deliver extraordinary performances as Sang Zhi and Duan Jiaxu. Their on-screen chemistry is palpable, capturing the audience's hearts and emotions. Their portrayal is a testament to their exceptional acting skills, as they convincingly bring their characters to life.

Supporting characters, including Sang Yan and the parents, contribute to the richness of the narrative, making the world feel authentic and relatable. The drama's cinematography captures the essence of youth and adds a visual dimension to the storytelling.

While a few minor drawbacks like pacing and filter choices exist, they do not overshadow the drama's overall charm. The soundtrack complements the story beautifully, adding an extra layer of emotion to the scenes.

In summary, "Hidden Love" is a captivating exploration of youthful romance and growth. With its exceptional performances, engaging storyline, and genuine characters, it offers a heartwarming viewing experience that will leave you smiling, laughing, and cherishing the journey of love. Don't miss this delightful drama that invites you to immerse yourself in the beauty of hidden emotions and blossoming relationships.

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THE WAY 2 MY HEART

I usually never write these things but the way this drama has me on a chokehold I couldn't resist. I have always been a fan of lusi, and her extravagant acting but the way she expresses the character in this drama just shows you what an amazing actress she is. Waiting for one episode a day is really so annoying but this drama is really worth it.

I have seen a lot of TikTok taking about their age gap and how that is a problem, I just want to say 5 years is not even a big age gap. And second he doesn't even fall for her until she is fully grown which someone are saying - maybe he was waiting for her - as you can see in the first 8 episode he fully treats her as a little sister and nothing else. Even when he sees her 2 years later he still calls her a kid as if nothings changed which in his mind he still thinks of her as the shy little girl he used to tutor nothing more. But anyways I just want to say people need to stop being biased and unfair.

AFTER EVERY DRAMA I HAVE WATCH THIS HAS BEEN THE MOST THRILLING ONE AND THE WAIT IS KILLING ME - DONT FORGET TO RATE <3

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HIDDEN ❤ LOVE - deep in heart

Loved and enjoyed this drama so much feeling too many butterflies!! Great story and perfect cast they nailed it. Zhao lusi stolen our hearts in every drama.

I watched this series when it was still on air and amount of curious and patience to wait for next episode to air was another excitement for me!! But as we all know "worth the wait" , this drama nvr disappointed in the storyline .
Perfect balance of FL and ML chemistry and understanding level. The bond between sister and brother is another spark to this drama. Its so real and natural.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED 🐱🐱

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The sweetest drama of 2023

I have been waiting for this drama since last year when i found out lusi was filming this drama after she finished filming gen z.. i love this pairing , because previously I've also watched dramas from Chen Zhe Yuan. so I was happy when I found out that they were paired up in the drama. I know that Lusi is the queen of chemistry, she has charm and chemistry with all of her co-stars,
but lusi with chen zhe yuan is very different, their chemistry is very good both in the drama and outside the drama.
Even though the plot is rather simple, this drama has quite complex characters and backgrounds. especially when ML fell in love with FL and tried to pursue FL. this moment was so sweet that it made all the viewers always smile to themselves when watching this drama. The chemistry between FL and her brother was also very good, they were two funny siblings.
Well IMO this drama is the best romance comedy of the year 2023

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LIKE RIDING A CAROUSEL; DELIGHTFUL, CALMING, AND PURE *DJX* RIZZ OF THE YEAR AWARD

**Don't watch if you're into a rollercoaster, complicated romance/drama. This would seem like a boring series because it's like looking into a couple's intimate life. But I forgive all the flaws it has because of how it made me feel. This couple had me grinning, crying, blushing, kicking my feet giggling. I keep dropping the dramas I watched after this. I think I have seen this 9 times already (and counting) **

The best drama I have seen this year (or ever). It's not perfect, but with all the drama out there, this is the closest to what a relationship should be with family, friends, colleagues, and partners. They had ups and downs but they think rationally and always communicate. The plot is so simple but had a lot of people cringing because of the age gap (5 years in the drama and 7 years in the novel. I read a bit of the novel because waiting for the next episode was killing me but I didn't finish it because the translation was meh). When I watched it, it wasn't like Jiaxu was grooming Sang Zhi. It was wholesome; as a middle school she admired him as a sort of big brother, as high school she started having a crush on him and it developed naturally. He saw her as a younger sibling and protected her as her brother Sang Yan did up until the time he was the one that needed to be protected and taken care of, he started seeing Sang Zhi in a different light. Watching Sang Zhi portray the different stages of her life and Jiaxu's flirting were the best parts. This has one of the best confessions I have ever seen. I don't believe I have ever seen a drama unfold this way with zero dragging and just two people falling in love together (he is a central AC, alright). The way he teases, flirts and the little touches are done so well that you can not help but have a silly grin on your face. I don’t think I’ve ever watched a drama as sweet and romantic as this one before. Thank you for playing the greenest girlfriend and boyfriend Zhao Lusi and Chen Zheyuan! Lusi especially, she had a lot of input and influence in this drama. I savoured every single episode and will watch it over and over again. This drama has my heart. It wasn't a roller coaster ride, this is like riding a carousel, delightful, calming, and pure. I am so obsessed with this drama, it's not even funny.

PS. To all the future viewers who are reading this, trust me, you guys are so lucky you got to binge-watch it all together because I know how much I had to suffer every day waiting for each episode to air. BTS and the nuggets at the end of each episode, RIP replay button.

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Exceptionally Executed and Performed

Hidden Love is an exceptionally executed and performed contemporary romance. Emotional, humorous, heartwarming, romantic - honestly, it evoked a ton of positive feelings and featured some incredibly swoony moments. Zhao Lusi continues to impress me with her ability to sink into her characters, making her mesmerizing onscreen. Sang Zhi's evolution from shy teenager with a crush to feisty adult willing (and able) to protect the man she loved was done to perfection. Not to be outdone was Chen Zheyuan, who convinced me 100% the amusement Duan Jiaxu felt for his friend's kid sister could transform into the love of his life. The character's progression from friends to lovers felt so genuine, authentic, and earned. I could watch it over again and again (and I intend to soon).

The romance worked so well because the two characters were dynamic individuals. They had their own careers and connections outside of the romance, but those elements never overshadowed the romance. The biggest connection between the two is Sang Yan, the best friend of Duan Jiaxu and brother to Sang Zhi. He brought a wonderful dynamic in his relationship with both of them individually and as a couple. In particular, I loved the sibling rivalry and love between him and Sang Zhi. Their interactions felt so natural that I felt like I was watching two real life siblings on-screen, not actors.

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Unpretentious Fluffy Drama

This drama is perfect for a binge-watching experience. Watch beautiful people enact young love. It is perfect escapism.
The actors did a stellar job but I have to specially mention #ZhaoLusi who brought the character of Sang Zhi very true to the book.

The chemistry between Zhao Lusi (Sang Zhi) and Chen Zhuyuan (Duan Jiaxu) is palpably scorching. But having said that I actually love the brother-sister synergy between Zhao Lusi and Victor Ma better. It actually got to me more and I would have loved it if they had more scenes together.

Highly recommend this drama, particularly to those who wanted to relive the cute feeling of puppy love/first love.
I would also like to mention the OST. The songs are very catchy which is of course a testament to how good they are for a non-Chinese speaker.

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