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The actor and the journalist
There's an actor who becomes famous after a difficult start. He's tired of playing the same role and the same character and wants a breakthrough.On the other hand, there's a journalist who was transferred from the "political" department to the "entertainment" department without knowing the field.
They meet for an interview and can't stand each other.
For her career, she decides to get to know him better and starts watching all of his series. She becomes his fan.
As they continue to meet, they end up together and manage to shed light on an old murder case.
Lee Jung Jae can act really well, but I've often wondered what it would have been like with another actor playing this role. In fact, I found him and her to be unbelievable as a couple. I missed the chemistry between the two.
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A Gentle Slow-Burn Romance Drama
I just finished watching all 16 episodes of Nice to Not Meet You, and I must say—it was a truly satisfying rom-com experience.This Korean romantic comedy stars my favorite actor Lee Jung-jae alongside Lim Ji-yeon. The story revolves around a top-class TV actor and a political reporter whose relationship begins with clashes, misunderstandings, and friction, slowly evolving into affection and love.
It’s a slow-burn romance—there are no steamy kisses or over-the-top romantic scenes. Instead, the drama focuses on subtle emotions, meaningful interactions, and quiet moments. The few romantic scenes we do get are simple yet lovely. The drama within a drama ( Kang Pil Gu ) was just amazing. I loved it so much. It was making drama more interesting. The hug scene in the last episode was especially adorable, and the final few minutes of the drama were undoubtedly the best part.
Many viewers criticized the drama due to Lee Jung-jae’s age and the noticeable age gap between the leads. Personally, I didn’t mind it at all. After a long time, seeing Lee Jung-jae return to K-drama as a romantic lead felt refreshing and nostalgic. As a rom-com lover, I truly appreciated his performance. The chemistry between the leads worked well despite the age difference.
Yes, some people found the story boring or slow, but for me, it was calm, mature, and emotionally satisfying. I loved the entire cast, the chemistry, the storyline, and especially the background music and OST, which beautifully complemented the mood of the drama.
Overall, I really enjoyed this drama. For me, it stands out as one of the best rom-com K-dramas of 2025. If you enjoy soft romances, mature love stories, and slow-burn narratives, this one is definitely worth watching 💕😍
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An Enjoyable Drama That Unfortunately Lacks
I decided to watch this show to see what Lee Jung-jae would do outside of Squid Game, and I can’t lie when I say I liked it! The unfortunate thing about it is that nothing here really stands out as amazing.The story is enjoyable, and I liked the Kang Pil-gu sequences as well. You find yourself rooting for these characters and their happy endings. One of the things I disliked was how Jeong-sin was really dismissive and almost clueless a lot of the time. She likes him, but fails to show it a lot of the time.
I think the last few episodes are definitely the strongest. Things become more solidified and you understand what’s really going on. The first half was a bit of a drag. Hyun-jun isn’t the most lovable character out there. But in the end, I think their chemistry works nicely, aswell as the other couple between the CEO and the main lady. I really enjoyed Hyun-jun’s sidekick, Ji-sun, too. He was probably my favorite.
Overall, a nice watch that fails to stick out as anything truly meaningful. No heavy complaints, but not anything to write home about.
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Clean, fun, funny, enjoyable
I enjoyed every moment and all scenes of this series. There was an even balance between maturity and the immaturity of our humanity. Scenes that were relatable in living life seriously as each of the characters pursued their careers and the fun scenes where life was lived playfully and comically.Thank you to the screenwriter(s) and director(s) for keeping the series flawlessly clean and awesome...I also commend all the actors on being refreshing and incredible.
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Great performance of Lee Jung Jae.
Nice to Not Meet You is a refreshing and engaging series that stands out its charming tone and well-balanced storytelling. One of the strongest elements of the production is Lee Jung Jae performance in the leading role. He presents a completely different side of himself compared to his previous works, portraying a warm, gentle, and genuinely lovable character. This transformation adds depth to the series and makes his performance especially memorable.The storyline is captivating from the start and maintains a steady pace that keeps the viewer interested throughout. While the narrative explores emotional and relational themes, it skillfully incorporates lighthearted and humorous moments that prevent the series from becoming overly heavy. These comedic elements feel natural and enhance the overall viewing experience. The series is visually pleasing and well-directed, which further supports its comfortable, enjoyable atmosphere.
Overall, Nice to Not Meet You is a well-crafted series that combines romance, humor, and emotional depth.
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Lim Ji-yeon plays her role so convincingly, completely transforming from one character to the next. Here, she's clumsy, uncomfortable in her own skin, yet unstoppable,a fighter for justice. And Lee Jung-jae is hilarious as an actor who can’t handle his fame, which he feels he never deserved. He's the kind of guy who’s nice to everyone but doesn't want anyone to know it.
Their romance works surprisingly well. People who hate each other in real life but adore each other online. The rice cooker idea... incredible, so good. Even if it leads to a situation we'd call somewhat questionable. They make it into something funny, but it’s really a bit of emotional manipulation…
Anyway, we can't say it enough : there are two things that are essential in this world. Rice cookers and umbrellas.
On the other hand, an 18-year age gap… and diametrically opposed levels of income and fame. Just pretend I didn't say anything.
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lack of chemistry but great meta plot
The entire concept of the Kang Pil-gu drama-within-a-drama was genuinely entertaining and added an interesting layer to the storytelling. Watching the behind-the-scenes filming of a kdrama unfold within another kdrama was quite a feat, how we got to see the ins and outs of how shows are filmed but also got to see the show as it was. The action scenes that played out during the filming were surprisingly captivating, showcasing adrenaline-pumping choreography. How we got to see the action and also the behind the scenes action was a delightful change of pace. I don't normally watch shows where there's shows in the show, so this was a fresh breeze for me. Although, that wouldn't be for everyone and I do know that. These dynamic segments made the overall show, elevating it beyond the conventions of a typical romantic comedy. As a result, the series felt more multi-dimensional, drawing me deeper into the tangled world of its characters and their creative pursuits.Though, this show also had its shortcomings when it came to chemistry between the two mail leads I didn't quite feel anything from them and actually had a long break from the show because I needed something where there was more. I can definitely say that if you are someone who NEEDS there to be a lot of chemistry between the leads in a RomCom then maybe skip this one.
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Nice to not meet you is a true gem in a sea of cliche rom-coms
I think that "Nice to Not Meet You" is a true hidden gem in a world of cheesy, formulaic romantic comedies.While many popular romcoms feel like "fast food", predictable, over-the-top, and full of cliches, this drama is the exact opposite.
The love story here doesn't happen in a heartbeat.
It’s not flashy or loud. Instead, it is simple, quiet, mature, and deeply authentic. It’s a witty and intelligent show that challenging the viewer’s brain.
For example, look at the "sock scene" (where the hero puts a sock she forgot at his house up for sale on a second-hand app). It’s not just about a sock, it’s a brilliant metaphor for their relationship. It’s his way of saying: "I have your heart, and if you want it back, you have to stop hiding and come get it." this kind of subtext is what makes the show so deep and witty, and you find yourself thinking about those scenes long after they end.
The relationship between the leads is complex and sometimes frustrating, especially because of wi Jeong-sin’s coldness and high walls. both, lim hyung jun and wi jeoung shin, are not perfect, they have their own difficulties and problems and that's life! It doesn't follow the usual rules of tv romance, and that’s why it feels so real.
I think some fans of "typical" K-dramas might lack the patience for such a slow-burn, mature story, but it’s a shame it didn't get the huge success it deserves. It is honestly the best romcom I’ve ever seen.
The aesthetics, the cinematography, and the music were outstanding. The soundtrack is so beautiful and touching, it stays with you.
As for the acting-Lee Jung-jae and Lim Ji-yeon are a total masterclass. their natural chemistry is so charming and great that the age gap didn't matter at all. Lee Jung-jae is such an amazing actor who can be hilarious even in "silly" scenes with so much charisma, and yet be so moving. Lim Ji-yeon portrayed the complex, guarded, and cute "nerdy" wi Jeong-sin perfectly.
If you are looking for a typical, flashy romance with lots of physical scenes, this might not be it. The romance here is subtle and delicate. but it compensates for it with depth and emotion that you have to see for yourself.
To anyone hesitating: give it a chance! especially if you love the lead actors.
Spoilers ahead:
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The only reason i gave it 9 and not 10, is because they didn't kiss. that was a huge disappointment! and despite that , i love that romcom so much!
I wish they could shoot a second season so we can see the marriage proposal that didn't happened and a lot of romantic moment between lim hyung jun and wi jeoung, now that they are couple.
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It has its moments - the funny ones were the best part
This was funny and chaotic (not swoony). I loved his little tantrums.The investigative storyline was weak and fizzled quickly. The last minute break-up was unnecessary and the second lead storyline was fumbled.
Overall, it was fun and entertaining and different. The casting and acting were amazing and helped to prop it up.
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? Nice to Meet You — So… What Was That About?
To be very honest… I’m just not feeling this one. 😅 I was genuinely confused about what this drama was trying to say or show. The storyline feels all over the place, and our two main leads? Honestly, they seemed just as confused as I was!There were moments that looked like they should be meaningful, but instead left me wondering: “Wait… what exactly is the point here?” 🤷♀️ It’s like the drama had something to say, but forgot to write the memo.
If you’re tight on time and want something that pulls you in, I’d honestly suggest skipping this one. There are so many other dramas with clearer direction and more satisfying emotional payoffs.
That said, I have seen online some viewers appreciating the visuals and music, and a few felt the pacing works once you get into the groove — it just didn’t click for me.
P.S. – Sometimes a show doesn’t land for you, and that’s totally okay! Different vibes for different people. 😄
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A delightful surprise
A fun story with two leads who were cast against type and absolutely crush it. The script is wonderful, but the only way it could possibly work is if the two leads embrace the zaniness of their characters completely. Lee Jun Jae is absolutely perfect as vain, vacuous action star with a heart of gold, and Im Ji Yeon trades in her fierce and sexy vibes for a long face and frumpy wardrobe. Their characters are wholly unsuited for each other, but somehow they manage to make it work.To address the elephant in the room: Before this drama was even released, the "netizens" were in a tizzy about the age difference between the two leads. Ignore every single bit of it. The writers of such nonsense obviously never bothered to watch any of the drama. The age difference was actually a part of why the two leads are unsuited for each other, and it is addressed in satisfying ways throughout the drama.
This isn't a perfect drama, but it is a very good one. The second leads' characters are not as well developed and their story arc is a bit rough around the edges. The villain's story arc needed a bit more work as well. But neither of these minor issues materially detracts from this unexpected and delightful surprise.
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pathetic Oldboy
This drama was honestly difficult to watch. The male lead, Lee Jung Jae, behaves like a teenager half the time — crying, whining, and even talking to himself in childish aegyo. It’s not cute or funny when a middle-aged ajusshi does that; it just feels awkward and forced.Lee Jung Jae is a skilled actor, but comedy clearly isn’t his zone. Watching him act overly youthful while playing a grown man only makes the scenes feel more cringe than comedic.
The 17-year age gap between him and Im Ji Yeon completely kills any romantic chemistry. Instead of a couple, they come across like a father–daughter or older brother–younger sister pairing. There’s no spark — just mismatched energy. Im Ji Yeon does her part well, but the imbalance between the leads makes the romance feel unnatural from the start.
Then comes Episode 5, and things go from childish to outright sexist. The male lead actually wonders whether calling the FL “hostess” — basically suggesting “prostitute” or “slut” in a more crude sense — was wrong. This isn’t just tone-deaf anymore; it’s a slap in the face to women. Calling a journalist a “hostess” and looking down on her profession is wildly disrespectful. And honestly, who is he to judge? He’s an actor — a profession constantly objectified too. If someone threw money at him to take off his clothes, would that make him any less respectable? The hypocrisy is insane.
By Episode 6, things hit rock bottom. The male lead falls to a new level of absolute trash — to the point where you stop considering him human. The way he acts and treats the FL is garbage. This 52-year-old man, who graduated college when the FL was basically five, is giving straight-up pedophilic vibes while behaving like a 15-year-old high schooler. His mannerisms? Horrible. Professionalism? Zero.
She literally protected him by not starting rumors or reporting what she saw. Instead of being grateful, he starts crying and acting in the most immature, embarrassing way possible. He chats like a teenage boy texting his crush after school. How is this how a grown man — someone who has already spent half his life — behaves?
What’s worse is the FL liking him unconditionally for absolutely no reason. He is a walking red flag. His behavior should have turned her off instantly unless she has no self-esteem and is written to accept any humiliating treatment just because she “loves” him. This is exactly how real toxic relationships start — where lovesick women end up in abusive dynamics, sometimes leading to violence, even murder, because they fall for unstable man-child boyfriends.
Whoever wrote this drama seems disconnected from reality, almost sadistic in how they portray women while glorifying an egotistical, immature male lead. Women in real life are far ahead of these outdated, patriarchal caricatures.
Overall: What should have been a fun rom-com turns into an awkward, cringey, wildly sexist mess. I’m dropping this garbage.
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