wished for more...
this show has been quite confusing,without spoilers:
-i did not enjoy how the director decided to reveal the past in between the present.
-nor did i find it convincing to see a photographer leave her 20years career as if it never happened. making the whole quest of the main character empty
- i was unable to enjoy the rest even with nice visuals... the story was not cohesive for me.
-and character development was lacking as the past 'reveals' make us falsely believe the characters changed, when in fact, its only our perception of them.
don't get me wrong, i usually love slice of life and healing stories....
i tried to keep watching because i didn't know what bothered me or bored me: it was the lack of substance/emotion & glue to the main characters.
i am still neutral on the acting as i normally love these actors!
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This review may contain spoilers
First Episode you made FL dislikableshe not only leave him, but also moved on from him dating random cheaters while he is still waiting, its just UNFAIR.
it not just leaving her boyfriend but looking down on him.
she would have never return to him if she wasn't catching abusing her own people
because she look down on others which make her most dislikable
Ji Chang Wook will portray very humble kind man while FL will be shown as someone who should not be with at all.
we all know that in the end girl who try to commit suicide will tell the world how Great this FL is and how she is wrong for getting bullied and look down upon by GREAT FL and then our Fl will get all her fame back like there is no other photographer in Korea to fulfil her left space.
JI CHANG WOOK why are you taking this kind of dumb roles, do you like playing Dumb roles because it takes no effort and will make easy Money ?
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"Welcome to Samdal-ri" is too overrated drama
The story is very lame. I was quite fed up with Samdal always saying she's embarrassed and her being prideful and egotistic. Also, I can't understand the love situationship that is happening between FL/ML, it's just too all over the place and full of flashbacks. The bond of 5 childhood friends seems forced too, and they don't have that "vibe" as Reply 1988 Sangmundong kids the author wanted to imitate. SHS is one of my top fave Korean actress and I like all of her previous works, but this drama is just LAME. Sorry for the term but the story is very very LAME.Was this review helpful to you?
HIGHLY RECOMMEND 10000000000
"Welcome to Samdal-ri" stands out as a gem in the realm of Romance Comedy Korean Dramas, earning a well-deserved perfect score of 10/10 across all aspects, including Story, Acting, Music, and Overall execution. This captivating series successfully weaves a tale that not only tugs at the heartstrings but also leaves a lasting impression on the audience.At the core of its excellence is the compelling storyline that unfolds in the picturesque backdrop of Samdal-ri. The narrative is a delightful blend of romance and comedy, skillfully crafted to keep viewers hooked from the first episode to the last. The scriptwriters have managed to strike a perfect balance, introducing heartwarming moments intertwined with humor, making it a rollercoaster of emotions.
The character development in "Welcome to Samdal-ri" is praiseworthy. Each character is meticulously crafted, bringing depth and authenticity to the narrative. The protagonists' journey is not just a love story; it's a journey of self-discovery and growth. The chemistry between the lead characters is palpable, adding a layer of believability to their relationship that resonates with the audience.
The acting in this Korean Drama is nothing short of exceptional. The cast delivers stellar performances, portraying their characters with nuance and sincerity. The lead actors not only share fantastic on-screen chemistry but also breathe life into their respective roles. The supporting cast contributes significantly to the overall charm, injecting humor and emotion into the storyline.
A noteworthy aspect of "Welcome to Samdal-ri" is its enchanting music. The soundtrack complements the scenes perfectly, enhancing the emotional impact of key moments. Whether it's a poignant romantic scene or a lighthearted comedic moment, the music serves as a powerful accompaniment, elevating the viewer's experience. The well-curated soundtrack becomes a memorable element, leaving a lasting imprint on the audience.
The overall execution of the series is commendable. The cinematography captures the beauty of Samdal-ri, providing a visual treat for the viewers. The pacing is well-managed, ensuring a smooth flow of the narrative without unnecessary drag or haste. The production values are high, contributing to the immersive experience that "Welcome to Samdal-ri" offers.
What makes this Korean Drama stand out is its ability to resonate with a wide audience. While it delivers on the romantic and comedic fronts, it also explores themes of friendship, family, and personal growth. This multifaceted approach adds layers of depth to the storyline, making it a fulfilling watch for viewers looking for more than just a typical romantic comedy.
In conclusion, "Welcome to Samdal-ri" is a masterpiece in the world of Korean Dramas. Its flawless storytelling, exceptional acting, enchanting music, and overall execution make it a standout in the genre. With a perfect 10/10 rating in every category, this series is a must-watch for anyone seeking a heartwarming and entertaining experience. "Welcome to Samdal-ri" leaves an indelible mark, reminding us of the enduring power of love and laughter in storytelling.
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awesome drama
this drama is too good...we have seen the downfall of cho eun hye and rise of cho sam dal...the journey the friendship, the support she got from all the natives of jeju just perfect everything is good.....The acting of lead as well as supporting actors are good...i love you hanyeos☺️ got to know something new about korean culture...every single episode was good make me curious to watch next..now a days drama this much good are not there which is perfect in every aspect the ending was perfect tooo...thanks everyone for giving such a nice drama.Was this review helpful to you?

very wholesome and warm <3
the drama is perfect for the time when you are looking for nothing but a warm hug. It makes you laugh, it makes you cry, it makes you worry and most importantly it makes you value those around you. Def a 10/10 for me and i still rewatch bits of it when i need something to just enjoy without much thoughtWas this review helpful to you?
A heart-warming drama
From the first few episodes, it became clear that this wasn't the typical revenge drama. This meant that no matter how much I wanted Bang Eun-Ju to suffer in the worst way for her wicked deeds, Sam-Dal's journey would take center stage - and what a journey it was. It was one of healing, re-discovery, friendship, family, and community. The best part is, that it wasn't just Sam-dal's journey. All the characters, in one way or another, had something they needed to heal from. Decades-long grief and resentment, anger, heartbreak, unrequited love, guilt, and the shame that comes with failed dreams. It was a richly rewarding experience for our characters as individuals and as parts of the close-knit Samdal-Ri community.One of my favorite things about this drama is that it showcases the importance of a supportive community, a home to return to whenever one gets weary of the drudgery that living often requires. Home is where you can come up for air, take a rest, and when you are recharged, go out to face the world again.
Everyone got the ending they deserved, a second chance to go at shelved dreams, to mend broken relationships, to fall in love. It was so wonderful. Bang Eun-Ju also got the ending she deserved, of course. The actors were spectacular; all the characters were memorable and evoke warm memories even after it's over - except Bang Eun-Ju. (JCW moved me to tears more than once with his powerful, emotional scenes. Yong-Pil was my favorite).
Overall, a very enjoyable drama.
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the kind of show that makes you want to call home
This heartwarming and uplifting show will take you on a fun and chaotic ride back home and the people that know you best. The story follows three sisters as they return home to their small town in Jeju as they try to run from troubles and end up finding themselves again in the people they left behind.Their hometown is full of chaotic and sometimes frustrating people but they are also the ones that know them best. The togetherness and small town family is heartwarming to watch. You watch as the girls are forced to confront the problems they were trying to run away from and find their way back to themselves and happiness. The acting from the entire cast is superb. This show also showcases a bunch of green flag men in these women's lives which is so fun to watch. I especially love the friendship of the 5 best friends that grew up together.
I did find certain parts frustrating to watch, primarily the story line about Yoong-sil's father but I could also sympathize and see in his character a realistic portrayal of grief. I do wish there had been more of an ending for the main perpetrator of the series but you were still shown that her acts were exposed so I guess that is enough.
All in all this is a fun watch that had me laughing and smiling and ultimately wanting to make a trip back home.
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Best lighthearted show for the start of 2024
Welcome to Samdal-ri was so refreshing and, although there are some frustrating characters once in a while, we see the character development and how life really comes to play out. The story was not something seen super often and the love story wasn’t over the top the MUSIC was amazing shoutout to DK from seventeen for making the song cover sound so good. The story makes me realize that the meaning of home and love and I really liked that. I would give this show a 10 but it’s more of a light show which is not my favourite genre which is my own preference. So despite my biases this show would be a 10.Was this review helpful to you?

A SHOWSTOPPER! PURE GREATNESS!
As I’m being introduced to Korean actors, several have become favorites: Jang Gwang, Jeon Gook Hwan, Lee Min Ki, Yoo Ji Tae, Song Kang, Won Jin Ah, Lee Bo-Young, Ahn Eun Jin, Kim Ji-Won and many others, but the one I’ve come to adore, is Ji Chang-Wook. He has that wholesomeness of “boy next door,” charm and charisma! Above all, he’s a great actor-no matter the genre. Commanding my attention also, is Kim Mi Kyung. Whatever the role (generally a mom), she is captivating! After scrolling past “Welcome to Samdal-ri” numerous times, I decided to read its synopsis and noticed the list of actors. Chang-Wook and Mi-Kyung were listed! Although the title is not enthralling, it becomes apropos, as the show progresses. I give kudos to the screenwriter and director-a job well done; a bow to the casting agency that assembled this group of performers: SUPERB! Each role internalized and brilliantly delivered! Whether Lead, Support, or a Bit part, all were outstanding and deserving of awards! This show depicts camaraderie, friendship, fun, love, pain, loss, revival, and has a great OST. It is definitely worthy of your time, and must be considered for rewatching!Was this review helpful to you?

This review may contain spoilers
Yongpil's portrait description
This is not a proper review because I'm not very good with those, I'll just say I enjoyed this drama though I skimmed through some parts, the leads were amazing at their roles. Uri Dokyeom did amazing with the OST and Jeju is beautiful.Anyway I'm just writing this because I think Yongpil's portrait description in the last episode was really heartwarming and tied everything up so I hope everyone reads it, since it wasn't translated on Netflix:
Yongpil always looks up at the sky. The ever-changing nature of nature, invisible to others, seems to be visible to his eyes. Lenticular clouds are lens-shaped clouds that are aligned at right angles to the wind direction at high altitudes.
It is sure to catch your eye due to its unique shape, and it also gives the feeling of rising into the sky.
I always wanted to be a dragon in a war. A dragon leaving the stream and soaring high in the sky Paradoxically, the stream
It was only when I came back to this place and back to him that I realized that I was able to soar because of him. It was Yongpil who taught me how to protect myself and not get swept away in a world where everything changes rapidly every day.
Just as he was a catalyst for me, I want to be a catalyst for him and watch him rise high in the sky and make his dreams come true.
This photo, and this exhibition, is a sincere confession to him who now feels comfort, not longing.
I express my sincere feelings to him who accompanied me to the Korea Meteorological Administration photo exhibition, and to him who will continue to travel with me in the future
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This review may contain spoilers
WHAT A WAY TO START 2024.
Now, I might be slightly biased since I'm a huge fan of both main leads. Especially JCW...I Love the man, but this just maybe the best drama I've watched this year.Let me start with what I didn't like;
1. I like a good revenge story; I like seeing the tables turn on bullies and them getting a piece of their own pie; did it happen here? Yes, it did. Was it enough? No, it wasn't. I needed that woman to suffer a lot more, more backlash and hate from the same media she tried to manipulate.
The boyfriend too, I mean all the cheating ass got was vinegar and a spoiled kimchi bath...I needed more.
2. The ML's dad, the redemption arc was kinda fast and not deserved to some extent, but hey at least he gave his blessing.
3. Bu Sang Do...I don't know I just didn't like his entitlement; dude I know the heart wants what it wants but still...damn.
4. Why the hell didn't we get a Mansu side story???????????
5. Jin Dal's Inlaws...I know they got punished but I needed to see it.
6. With all this I think this drama was finished in haste and deserved a lot more than 16 episodes.
7. I needed all the people who turned their backs on Sam-Dal to quite frankly eat shit. Sorry excuses of humans.
What did I like? Buckle up, folks.
1. Ji Chang Wook; I don't know, I just love the guy. He could be the most macho man in a scene and still be cute and lovable. I like me a guy who can do both. I'm also obsessed with his walking style.
As for the acting, the guy never disappoints, we will take what he's dealt and serve it exceptionally, kudos to the casting team because if I were asked to describe JCW i'd point at Cho Yong-Pil...man owned that character, he delivered the best emotions. Who doesn't love a green flag who's a tad bit emotionally dramatic and while lot stubborn?
2. Shin Hye Sun; My first drama with her was Mr. Queen and I was excited about her character here and man ...did she deliver. Slightly unhinged; I mean who carries rotten kimchi just to fling it on someone? She played her character so well, too well that I believed her hometown was Jeju and that she was a real professional photographer.
3. KMK...any drama with this woman...I'm in. It was like a sequel to Healer watching her and JCW again. The woman puts her entire self into every character and I love to see it.
4. The supporting cast, the haenyos were for once nice ahjummas...some dramas just have annoying ones who meddle and create trouble. The Jeju friends was a nice add, I especially liked WKT who was a hoot; sure we needed him to shut up sometimes but the man was the best cupid if i ever saw one...he jumped the plot that would have otherwise dragged with a whole lot of secrets and miscommunications.
5. Sam-Dal and the relationship she has with her parents, her friends and especially her sisters who were a favourite. I can't believe i hated Jin-Dal in K2...that woman was mean! But here...i looked forward to every scene she was in esp with her 'husband' .The director said I want crazy and the woman was like hold my beer!
Lessons learnt;
1. Fear Knetz.
2. The Korean fanbase system has a whole lot of power than they should. Entire cooperations rely solely on public opinion which could be shifted at the drop of a hat.
3. It's sad and shocking to see how lives could be ruined by one person and their smartphone. How many people has this happened to and why does it continue to happen???????
Anyway, I'm giving this a couple of weeks before I come back to binge-watch it .
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