✨
This is such an amazing series, and I very much enjoyed it. The way they get their audience hooked and curious about what happens next is spectacular, and I really love the chemistry between Yi Chan and Eun-gyeol—the fatherly-son love and, at the same time, their chemistry between friends. The romance in this drama is amazing too; although it's frustrating at times, it is worth it to see their sweet moments together after. However, Ep 15-16 is somewhat lacking and confusing because it leaves my questions unanswered, and it feels rushed. Nonetheless, it's still such a good drama and will be my top 1 and fav K-drama.Was this review helpful to you?
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One of the best
Truly a masterpiece.Such amazing acting from everyone, but especially Ryeoun. I really do love all his emotional scenes, he did so well in them. Followed by Hyunwook's hilarious potrayal of a happy, rambunctious student, who was also very confused by the appearance of the very weird Eungyeol.
The show is pretty much hilarious, emotional and yet the sad scenes really hit the spot.
The story is unique and very well-written, though the ending felt a little rushed. There was very little mention of the impact of the changes to Eungyeol personally. I really think he would be mourning the fact that his family did not remember their original lives together, and the that he did not remember the childhood of his new life.
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the message contained in the drama and its story
The storyline is good, it runs smoothly and the story is fun but has deep meaning. I like their friendship. Even though the first episode was a bit boring, it started to get fun in the middle. I like K-dramas.starting from the story, their friendship and also the music they make in their band I like stories about romance and friendship contained in the kdramaThis is one of the best kdrama I have ever watched. I really like the band's songs which sound cool.I also like the cool actors VIVA LA VIDA🍉🍉🍉Was this review helpful to you?
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I LITERALLY LOVE THIS SHOW ?
Okay so, I started this show thinking "I don't want to get my hopes too high, this show might be overrated." Oh boy was I wrong. This show is as good as people say it is. Especially to me this series captures everything I would want in a k drama. Cute love stories, family oriented, high school life, a 90's throwback , coming of age, a fun band, and a happy ending. First I have to give credit to all the actors and writers, the acting was amazing, they all did a fantastic job on portraying the characters,and in my personal opinion this show was well written. Seeing how Ha Eun Gyeol grows in the story, helping his mom and dad have a great future and, his own romance were just a chef's kiss. When we saw his younger self at the start with his loving family, but him having to carry being the only non deaf person in his family, having him feel as if he didn't fit in, was a beautiful starting point for the story to grow on as the show continued. Him traveling to the past and his whole main mission being to make a positive outcome for his entire family is a really good character motivation, and made me as the veiwer want to root for him in the story. I really loved how by the end when he gose to the the new future, the main point is that is family is doing better in the way of having a more successful career's, but still being deaf. I like how that says to the audience that him going back in time was to create a better future for his family by healing old scars, not by undoing them being disabled. Saying something that you don't see a lot in k drams, shinig light on the disabled and CODA community is a unique experience for this show. Then seeing Ha I Chan change throughout the story and, being committed to his band and,Yun Cheong A was a great watch. How in the original timeline his accident that caused him to be deaf happening in the second timeline as well, but he triumphs through it both times, felt like adding a good amount of depth and realness to his charater. In addition Yun Cheong A's story was also very touching, where at the start of the story she couldn't stand up for herself, because she was born deaf and was in a abusive household but, by the end she learned sign language and stood her ground. With the help of Ha Eun Gyeol healing herself with finding a way to express herself through learning sign language and, her family wounds, was all a amazing part of the to watch (she is my favorite character so I'm biased towards her). Now to talk about the romance, I really loved both love stories. Ha Eun Gyeol and On Eun Yu 's relationship was a bickering and love type of story. At the start she had her own plans and it conflicted with his plans, was a interesting thing watching unfold. By the end their emotions for each other bloomed into a teen love. Next Ha I Chan and Yun Cheong A's love was a absolutely adorable high school lovers story. I loved how Ha I Chan learned sign language so he could communicate with Yun Cheong A, and how cutely awkward they were was to die for. Both version's of their older selves were both a cute married couple,which I love to see (out of both couples they are objectivity my favorite). My last section is the band/friendship was heartwarming to watch. I absolutely loved the connection between the bandmates. It felt like a genuine high school friendship, and I enjoyed watching it. One of the best parts of the show, in my opinion is the friendship of Ha Eun Gyeol and Ha I Chan. Thier bound was a charming point of the show. As well as the bands relationship with the two girls was a fun thing to watch. On this topic the friendship of Yun Cheong A and On Eun Yu wassuper sweet. I loved how in genral how Yun Cheong A becameless of a wallflower throughout the show and grew more socially. In a final conclusion I just highly recommended this show if you want a good watch. This is my definition of a modern classic if I've seen one. I loved almost every aspect of this show, this is turly a one of a kind k drama. 🌟
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Perfection
This story was incredible! I try to stay away from time travel stories because I usually don't care for them too much, but I loved what they did with this one so much! Everything is so thought out in this series and I love it! The characters all have great chemistry with each other as well, whether that platonic or romantic. Can't recommend it enough! I've watched it a few times now and still love it so much!It also has two actors I absolutely love in it, Hyun-Wook & Ryeoun!
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A touching comforting story without those typical overly dramatic annoying kdrama scenes
I’m the type of person who often skips a lot when watching kdramas that are overly dramatic. Reply 1988, Hospital playlists are amongst those I barely skip any scenes. Now Twinkling Watermelon is added to my top list of dramas that I watch through the whole thing. And Ryeoun, where do I even start… I fell in love with him, I admire his talents, from playing the guitar to portraying the complicated emotions and even the ability to use sign language comfortably and fluently. Watching him was such a joy to my heart. When I watch the behind the scenes series, it amazes me even more to find out how hard he’s been practising playing guitar. He’s going to make it big one day, hopefully very soon.Was this review helpful to you?
Twinkling Watermelon - A Heartfelt Symphony of Youth, Family, and Timeless Bonds
Twinkling Watermelon - ReviewTwinkling Watermelon (2023) is a heartwarming and unique blend of music, fantasy, and coming-of-age storytelling that leaves a deep emotional impact. Directed by Son Jung-hyun and featuring a talented cast led by Ryeoun, Choi Hyun-wook, Seol In-ah, and Shin Eun-soo, the drama captivates viewers with its originality, touching themes, and nostalgic charm.
Story and Themes
The drama revolves around Eun-gyeol (Ryeoun), a musically gifted teenager born to deaf parents. After a mysterious incident, he travels back in time to 1995, where he meets a younger version of his father, Lee Chan (Choi Hyun-wook), and other characters tied to his family’s past. Together, they form a band named Twinkling Watermelon, bringing their love of music to life while navigating their relationships, dreams, and hardships.
The story is a masterful exploration of family, love, identity, and the intergenerational connections that shape us. It beautifully portrays the struggles of the hearing-impaired community and the emotional complexities of growing up. The time-travel element adds depth, allowing viewers to see how past decisions ripple into the future, blending fantasy with real-world emotions seamlessly.
Performances
Ryeoun shines as Eun-gyeol, delivering a heartfelt performance that balances youthful energy and emotional maturity. Choi Hyun-wook impresses as Lee Chan, embodying a playful yet deeply vulnerable character with charm and depth. Shin Eun-soo and Seol In-ah also bring grace and emotional weight to their respective roles, particularly in their portrayal of complex relationships and unspoken emotions.
The chemistry among the cast is natural and engaging, making their individual struggles and shared moments feel authentic. The dynamic between Eun-gyeol and his father, both young and present-day versions, is particularly poignant and serves as the emotional core of the drama.
Visuals and Cinematography
The cinematography is visually striking, with vibrant and nostalgic scenes set in the 1990s. The juxtaposition of modern and retro aesthetics creates a visually compelling narrative. The use of lighting and symbolic imagery adds a layer of artistry, enhancing the drama’s emotional resonance.
Music and OST
As a music-centric drama, Twinkling Watermelon delivers an exceptional soundtrack. The band performances are electrifying, with a mix of rock, ballads, and heartwarming melodies that resonate deeply with the audience. The music not only enriches the story but also becomes a character in itself, symbolizing connection, healing, and self-expression.
Strengths
Unique and emotionally rich storyline that blends fantasy and reality.
Outstanding performances by the cast, especially Ryeoun and Choi Hyun-wook.
Beautifully crafted visuals and nostalgic 1990s setting.
A memorable and emotionally impactful soundtrack.
Weaknesses
The pacing can feel uneven at times, with certain subplots either rushed or underdeveloped. Additionally, the time-travel logic may not satisfy viewers seeking a strictly coherent explanation, but this doesn’t detract from the emotional journey of the story.
Final Thoughts
Twinkling Watermelon is a gem of a drama that combines heart, humor, and music to create an unforgettable experience. It’s a celebration of youth, family, and the bonds that transcend time, making it a must-watch for fans of coming-of-age tales with a touch of fantasy.
Rating: 9.5/10
A moving and beautifully crafted story that will leave your heart full and your playlist enriched.
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JUST BEAUTIFUL!!!!!!
This, I think is if not the best drama, it is way up there!!!!! It is DEFINITELY the very best i have watched in a while. A few of the recent releases have either been so evil that I've pretty much clawed my way through the drama, or theyve been soooo corny!!!!!!! But this one was just TOOOOO beautiful!!!!!!!! My eyes kept leaking 🙈😅😅😅 The cast was awesome!!!!!!! My favourite, of course (i say of course juat because i dont see how he wouldnt be anyones favourite 😅) was Choi Hyun-Wook. His voice and.....juat his whole vibe was BRILLIANT!!!!!!!! I've never seen Yoon Jae-chan, and will definitely be adding him to my list. But the characters, the story (and when Choi Hyun-wook was singing, the music).....it was juat SUCH a heartwarming, funny and sometimes sad, story. Thank you for this!!!!!!!!!Was this review helpful to you?
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The Momen You Give Up, It's Game Over
This show is not my cup of tea, but it ends up in my top 5 kdramas of all time! WHAT THE HELL! This show is, despite has a heavy theme, packed in a very lighweight way. It's really fun and easy to enjoy, like living our highschool life again. A very well pictured students life, full of joy, tears, hardships and pain. The message about living your life and keep fighting to overcome your difficulties hit so hard. Thanks to Ha I Chan comedy is very very hilarious here. They were able to keep the comedy for like 11 episodes, and it was getting heartwarming after that. They didn't even need to add any cliche, just use a simple premise of highschool life (and a little absurd situation of triangle love, watch it yourself and you'll understand). In conclusion, they've successfully shift my laugh into tears and vice versa, in a quick time. It also brings awareness towards people with hearing imparment and their hardships. The soundtracks are excellent too. It very rare to find a complete package like this.Shout out to all the main leads, what an outstanding performance! I won't believe if Choi Hyun Wook says he was acting, he was basically reliving his old school days. Shin Eun Soo didn't even need to speak, her expression were enough to talk for her and made us understand how she feels. Character developments were really really good here. The chemistry between them is another level, even with the other Watermelon Sugar member! Another good additions to the package!
Now into the things that are off. I don't like the fashion job on this show. Between 1995 and 2023, there should be a big difference in fashion. In this show, everything looks the same, especially the girls. Looks like they were all having the latest hairstyle. The first two episodes are very slow and heavy, I can understand why a lot of audience dropped this early. The final episode is very underwhelming. I wish we could see more about the present reunion, and let them talk about the "missing" story. Also how come almost everyone forgot about Ha Eun Gyeol being in the part of their 1995, when that could be the best part of their life?
Should you watch it? Yes. Should you rewatch it? I rarely recommend a rewatch BUT THIS IS A MASSIVE YES! I solely think the reason why Eun Gyeol and Eun Yu returned to the past was to "relive their missing highschool moments", so you should too!
VIVA LA VIDA, LONG LIVE LIFE!
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A bit of a modern "Back to the Future"
The music alone makes this show a 10. I love that music is such a central theme to the show. I love how they brought the 90s to life and think they did a fantastic job of capturing the vibe of decades gone by. Normally time travel shows can be pretty bogged down by technical science fiction details but I think they had a clever work around to make sure the viewer doesn't overthink it. I will keep this review short as I tend to do, Just watch this show if you haven't already. It's a great journey, the writing is excellent.Was this review helpful to you?
A Symphony of Youth, Family, and Second Chances
“Twinkling Watermelon” is a rare coming-of-age gem — a series that glows with warmth, humor, and unexpected emotional power. It weaves music, time travel, and family into a beautifully resonant story about self-discovery and love across generations. More than just a fantasy, it’s a heartfelt reflection on communication, understanding, and the bonds that define us.Ryeoun shines as Ha Eun-gyeol, a hearing child born to deaf parents, whose passion for music becomes both his gift and his burden. When a mysterious event sends him back in time, he meets his teenage father — not as a son, but as a bandmate. Through this surreal encounter, the series explores the beauty of empathy: how truly listening to someone often has nothing to do with sound.
The performances are exquisite. Ryeoun carries both youthful energy and emotional depth, while Choi Hyun-wook, Seol In-ah, and Shin Eun-soo add charm, humor, and complexity. Every relationship — whether romantic, familial, or friendship — feels organic and tenderly developed.
The writing is sharp yet sentimental, blending time-loop mystery with grounded human emotion. The pacing never drags; each episode adds new layers of nostalgia and catharsis. The music — vibrant rock performances and gentle acoustic scores — is the heartbeat of the story, expressing what words often cannot.
Visually, the drama is gorgeous: sunlit classrooms, glowing night concerts, and soft hues that echo memory and hope.
What truly makes “Twinkling Watermelon” unforgettable is its sincerity. It’s about dreams, regrets, and the courage to connect — even across time.
Funny, moving, and full of melody, this drama doesn’t just sparkle — it sings.
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