When the Phone Rings

Korean screenwriters and ending writing problems

First of all, we should accept this: Baek Sa Eon has a lot of problems. He kidnapped the girl. he didn’t talk with her. he never look the girl. yes he loves her he tried to protect… Guys this is not acceptable.

but story is good . very complicated. you want to wait what happen next. its good I like it…. but why argan? this soldier scene, kidnapping but then bed scene. it isn’t realistic. they already lived very bad things. she can find him when he just sat near the lake. why action. overdose action. then bed scene unrealistic.

My favorite character is sister. I thought she will be crazy bad evil girl but she is very kind and good. she care of Hye Joo and stay for her against to her father. I want to understand Hye Joo’s mom but no. I can’t she is the bad character in the story . same as level of Sa Ein’s mother in the story.

At the end, I didn’t watch last episode properly . I didn’t realize countries name. When I read other comments I understand the situation and I don’t like it. Writer did /something silly.

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Unnecessary ending

I have mixed feelings. I really enjoyed the start of this drama. In the halfway I was a bit lost but still it was entertaining. BUT these two last episodes were so messy and the Argan plot was so unnecessary. Who even made that plot? It didn't make any sense and I felt like watching a completely different drama. Why did they have to ruin a good drama with a floppy ending???

Instead of the bad Argan plot, they should have given us the crumbs of Sang U and Yu Ri!!! They build up a great relationship between them just to randomly announce their marriage in the last episode... like c'mon that was so badly written. The actors had great chemistry together and they were very cute but the writers still wasted their potential. How sad :((

One thing I did really like was Yoo Yeon Seok and Chae Soo Bin's chemistry. They acted so well together and looked so cute together. Great chemistry!! Even the intimate scenes were good and didn't seem awkward. They're good kissers xD I'm glad they got the happy ending they deserved.

This drama would have gotten a better rating from me if they had focused on Sa Eon and Hui Ju and the phone. I really loved the conversations between Sa Eon and 406 (Hui ju). Instead they made it messy and added that ridiculous Argan plot, therefore I have to lower my rating. But because I still enjoyed the drama, I will give it an 8.

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A drama with a LOT of emotions and mostly just precious love

This drama. Was. AMAZING. Honestly like every character has so much depth and it felt like you could see from everyone's POV like hating them but also understanding their cruelty. It just had so much emotional depth I think. The story is essentially revolving around how things aren't always what they seem really but it's also about discovering true love, learning about love and honestly just cherishing it. It's definitely wholesome. It's how two people that are lying to each other in a marriage are finally learning to overcome these scandals and learn to truly love each other. It's incredible. The acting was absolutely mind blowing, every scene had me hooked, it felt like the scenes came ryt out of a book lol if was fantastic. The cast have done an impeccable job with this one. The music too was very touching and sweet and melodious and just perfect. Each scene was just perfection. And the OST had me melting.. Overall, This was a really emotionally well played drama with lots of mind-blowing twists and soulmates that share such a precious love it makes me want to bottle it up and just admire it T-T 📳👐🏻👰🏻‍♀️💖🧑🏻‍💼🗣️📢🪪

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There was a lot of hype about this drama, so I was curious to see how good it was and if it was really worth it. I was hooked from the start and really enjoyed it, as well as the gradual unraveling of the secrets and mysteries that appear in the series. But as we slowly approached the end, I just couldn't get into it. I found it unnecessarily long and I honestly think that 12 episodes are more than enough. Most people complained that they wanted it longer, but I think 12 is okay. There's no need to prolong it unnecessarily. The idea was great, the actors did a great job, but I was just bored by the approaching end. Of course, there were moments of action that we couldn't skip and that wasn't possible because you just had to sit through it, but otherwise I found it unnecessarily long and the last episode left me with a huge question mark from the beginning: why? Of course, I rate the ending 10/10 because it was really nice, but before we got to it, it was like x million years...

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a cracktastically fun show that loses its way and lands in disbelief

this show had one of the BEST opening episodes i have ever seen. it was an overdramatic soapy ride, carried by simmering intensity and masterful acting, backed by fine direction and beautiful camerawork, then driven home by the unapologetically dramatic music score. the buildup that ended in that big twist? i was hooked and screaming and scrambling for more.

the first four episodes were in a similar manner, very soapy and intense, flattered by the chemistry between the actors, and without a doubt greatly elevated by the spectacular performance from yoo yeon sook. the only complaint i would raise would be that of the fml's character - the first episode promised more bite but she was ultimately very overmatched. however, the show still delivered its fair share of twists and emotional punches and high voltage spicy moments. every episode had at least one highlight scene (i have written episode reviews for every single episode 1-4, which i have not done for any other show):
- ep2: 'will you take it off, or should i?' / the epilogue phone call reveal of how the ml & fl's marriage came about.
- ep3: the motorcade scene
- ep4: the rooftop scene / (which is amplified by) the epilogue reveal of what happened in the police car
every single scene with the score 'breakthrough pt. 2 (oh hee joon)' was so emotional and intense and iconic. i've replayed those scenes for more times than i'd care to admit, especially during the wait for new episodes (no thanks to yoon suk yeol).

but.. the show loses that spark. for 5 through 8, the show was still reasonably good, though increasingly cliche, and threatens to snap the suspense of disbelief with totally unconvincing scenarios that cannot be excused with dramatic dressing. then the show just loses its footing and ends with, well, shitting the bed. it's a shame that the show went out with a whimper, especially with the unfortunate circumstances surrounding the last episode. however, the first 4 episodes were so good, i'll allow nothing less than a 8.5.

to summarize:
- breakthrough pt.2 is now one of my ringtones.
- yoo yeon suk, you have earned yourself a fan in this one!

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i forgot the actual plot

It was so beautiful at the beginning, but I don’t even know what happened later on.
Honestly, it was shaping up to be a perfect dark romance—arranged marriage, the man secretly loving the girl from the start, him arranging his own marriage, and so on. Everything was going so well until it turned into a game of cat and mouse.

For the last, what, seven episodes? It was just one of them being kidnapped, and the other searching for them. Nothing else happened. And those last two episodes… THEY WERE SO RIDICULOUS. Why did Baek Saeon run away with some nonsensical guilt and become a soldier in some imaginary country? Bro, what happened to the actual plot? I seriously couldn’t understand anymore.

Other than that, the cast and everyone else were amazing. But why did they give so little screen time to Na Yu-ri and Ji Sang-woo? Their chemistry was so good! I wish they had more scenes together. Their relationship was rushed way too much.

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A Tale of Passion and Familiar Tropes

When the Phone Rings is a captivating drama that caters splendidly to aficionados of the romance genre. The sizzling chemistry between the protagonists, portrayed by Yoo Yeon-seok (YYS) and Chae Soo-bin (CSB), is palpable and undeniably a major contributor to the show's widespread acclaim. Their intense emotional connection and palpable yearning for one another follow a well-trodden path that audiences often find irresistible, which has undoubtedly propelled this drama to its considerable success.

Yoo Yeon-seok and Chae Soo-bin deliver stellar performances, breathing life into their characters with an authenticity that makes their romance both relatable and compelling. Their on-screen rapport is nothing short of mesmerizing, a testament to their undeniable talent and synergy.

However, while the romance is undoubtedly the highlight, one cannot overlook the narrative's reliance on clichéd tropes. The storyline, though competently executed, lacks a certain depth and originality, often falling back on familiar romantic conventions. The plot twist involving the mysterious "Argan" subplot towards the conclusion felt overly contrived and, frankly, a tad exhausting to endure.

A recurring motif in romantic dramas—the protagonists' decision to distance themselves for the supposed betterment of their partner—resurfaces here. This well-worn trope, while intended to evoke pathos, often feels counterproductive. It raises the question: is it not more compelling to witness characters confronting and overcoming challenges together, rather than resorting to separation as a panacea?

Despite these narrative shortcomings, the production values of When the Phone Rings are commendable. The casting is impeccable, with each actor delivering performances that enhance the drama's overall appeal. The direction, cinematography, and soundtrack further elevate the viewing experience, adding layers of emotional resonance.

In summary, while the overarching plot may leave some viewers yearning for more innovation, the undeniable romantic tension and chemistry between the leads provide a "feel-good" quality that is difficult to resist. My rating of 8 reflects the enjoyment derived from these elements, even if the story itself falls short of expectations.

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Enjoyable but disconcerting.

There's a lot to enjoy about this drama. Both leads play their roles well, especially ML is compelling. FL is less compelling, especially in beginning episodes she just didn't look that terrified at being kidnapped - but playing the quietly submissive person who pleases everyone to survive - that was convincing - having large doe eyes helps, and there is a warmth to her role that draws you in. The chemistry between the pair is great, of course, it helps they're both good to look at. The age gap between the leads is a little distracting, as they are supposed to be similar in age, but they're both too cute together for me to be bothered that much. It kind of suits the drama that he looks quite a bit older as he is quite dominating and paternalistic.

There are quite a few times where we have to suspend judgement - especially around the FL being a sign language interpreter. As a person who cannot speak, she can only interpret one way - and yet there are many situations when two way interpreting is required, so another interpreter is bought along to support her. It's also odd that she signs to the British ambassador's wife in Korean sign language as the two sign languages are not mutually intelligible. Kudos to the actress though, she did look comfortable signing and learning those sequences would not have been easy. I use my country's sign as a second language, so it's comforting for me to see sign language taking a central role in a drama.

As in many Korean dramas, the inequality of the sexes in terms of influence and power stands out starkly to an outside observer. Often older women are portrayed as malicious and vain, and you wonder if that's because it's the only way they ever get to exert any influence. This particular dynamic is on clear display in this drama, and although it's there to add tension and not to make any kind of social commentary, it's such a force in this show that it's hard to ignore.

I am often struck too by how often the male lead tells the female lead to stand up for herself and in the next breath he orders her around under the guise that she doesn't know how to take care of herself. It seems like this is all the usual romantic trope of the powerful and commanding male lead and on screen it works a charm, but in real life it would be regarded as toxic masculinity.

So I find myself regularly suspending judgement and going a long for the ride. It's an enjoyable ride, as long as you don't think about it too much.

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When the phone rings - block the number !

Ok you all can call oppa the plot and be very happy with all the juicy scenes that were put forth but what in the world was this "LOGIC LEFT THE CALL" !! There are already 125 people giving out cents on this one so why did I decide to engage in the chatter bec - I am not okay unlike you all ! I can not accept this as it was !

Okay look at me in the eyes and say (only for people who care about what's being served to them) is this what you wanted to see ? Is this how you imagined things would go? (Enny things will not go how you want them to - it's not a drama for you , Enny if you have that much talent write one yourself ) I might as well ...and trust me I'd do a much better job ! Bec for me the whole show was - I might just throw my phone in the same pond where they throw kids - no loss bec everything gets recovered ... does that not sound sensible ? I thought it very much was a 10/10 pitch!

Okay okay initial eps - banger ! Drop dead gorgeous people making me drop dead and crave for more !
Oppa as Hot, Possesive, Toxic and Domineering husband - just hit all the notes that somehow felt untouched through all the kdrama journey !
The whole calling aspect - nailed down very well.

Until !

Hi my cute "perfect husband material straight out of a fairytale romance male lead"- Why were you pretending to be something that you are not, for no good reason - just be the childhood bestie you are and say I love hong hee joo I am a fool in love and otherwise too, and trust me I would perfectly love you for that ! I swear I will !
Because the way you led me into believing that "not all kdrama men are the same" - I mean I love green flags I just hate being misled !

There are just so many things that are fucked up about this that I don't think I will ever be possibly able to curate a list but for the sake of saying it ...
I wish they would do something like - "REACTING" when they find out something - like hong hee joo is the blackmailer - oh my god I love her so much more - bruh hee joo can talk - yeah she's been wining singing competitions ever since she was a kid did you not know - Like seriously ??? - I am so pissed off at the way 90% of the ep is a filler ...and at how they choose the worst way possible to reveal anything ....and when it is revealed ...they do "nothing" ....oh wait 3 eps later they discuss this and sort it out ! - "sensible people" ...but did I sign up to watch sensible people ? NO
Wasn't this about angst and thrill and planning plotting??

also ...when the "phone" rings - the phone is out of picture ...we ain't even half way and the phone just doesn't matter ...! At this point I am really concerned -- what matters ?? jagganim ? They be going on field trips with the blackmailer out lose ...and quite frankly for someone who killed when he was a kid ...the villain was just for tomfoolery no offence but he could do way better than that ! I am to buy that this lunatic "kid murderer" as a grown up adult couldn't murder a mute girl who mostly has no protection and the one ep she does they don't seem to be working very hard - Like are they even for real !?

Also let alone the consequences of the calls - hee joo doesn't even have any consequences of THE FALL ! Let me see the dramatic fake blood and unreal bandages all over ...come on what the fuck !

Trust me I hate it , even tho I am keeping aside how pissed off I'd be if I also turn on my moral compass and realize that Hong hee joo deserves not a sorry but a good bye from all the people in her life - literally every one bec all of them have wronged her - she can talk and they let her pretend to be mute ! - she's neglected for 3 yrs straight in her marriage and he's been in love with her for 20 yrs and I am to buy that the girl just chooses to die for him instead of killing him - thriller where ?
Okay the girl got no spine but like literally just everyone treated her like trash - even at work

- in the initial eps - the sfl paid no heed to her and one day she suddenly starts crying -
I don't exactly remember when they became besties ...have I missed a few eps of them going on shopping spree and bitching about men ? - Like why make two characters be dead concerned when it could just be - okay I know you, I have spare time, I can look for you ?

The sissy comes back to say I know you could talk but it made me feel better so I am just going to let you suffer ...Quite frankly I really do like her - cause she left when she realized what was going on, got herself fixed, came back to save her sister, asked her father to take action, and supported her sister when she was alone. GIRL -got brain ! I wish hee joo did too but nevermind!
Let's not even go about to how trash her mother's arc turned out ...

Also stop making a big deal for the bare min that the ML does - learning sign language he should have done that years ago - he did not need tell her - he could very well be secretive about it like he was about other things ...!

Also the sml arc - was good but so unnecessary !

Has the rant been too long ? No guys we haven't even reached to the no brainer messed up story of the decade -
What in the world ...his mom holding hee joo captive , the real villain working under someone else ... hee joo's brother killed by the oldiee oh my I have no words ! And he's the son of oldiee - Explain pls - with whom, where is his mom ? what the fuck happened ? why did the dna report show otherwise ??
instead what we get ...car accidents after car accidents and literally nothing happens - it's just so annoying and repetitive !

At this point I have no brain cells to spare
the only thing I liked was the angle of the secretary and nothing more.

Tho with all of that I was wondering what more could go wrong - until they did show me exactly what they are capable of -
When you have a serial killer on loose, out to kill you, following you since last 10 eps and you have a car in which the love of your life urgently requires hospitalization you don't go out negotiating with the killer - you run over him - too much to expect... I agree, but what can be said when he just out right disappears and is found in a war zone among the rebels !

boy you built a beach house for yourself there.... property rates????- and you got your girl from the rebels without a gun let alone a plan - make it believable at the very least - atleast act like you are putting efforts !
Not gonna lie - with how illogical it was - I couldn't care less about the treat that was put forth !
in short "They should’ve scrapped the unnecessary sociopathic serial killer mess and made the story about him, her and the phone."

If you found this (bec I can see a lot of downvotes and it being kicked to the last page of reviews) and are still reading - hugs and a lot of love from the bottom of my heart !

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This is my comfort kdrama<3

This kdrama is the best I have ever seen. Yes it has it's illogical moments BUT this drama just gets it in so many details.

Yoo Yeonseok and Chae Soobin gave their all for their characters and their chemistry is the best I have ever seen in a kdrama before. They were so natural with each other and conveyed Baek Saeon and Hong Heejoo's love story with just the right timing. They start off cold with each other and then the love progession is so seamless.

This kdrama is addicting. It doesn't have any unnecessary scenes (even though the finale can be discussed). Every scene feels important to the story and it managed to keep it intriguing and interesting til the end. The mystery, the villains, the side characters were all interesting and fun to watch as a viewer. I love the entire cast in this.

Yoo Yeonseok as Baek Saeon is phenomenal. As a viewer you could feel his presence in every scene he was in. He showed various sides of Baek Saeon and nailed it every single time. He's shown what an incredible actor he is. In every project he is in, he's completely different which is a testament to how versatile he is as an actor. I appreciate that he chooses completely different roles in every project he's in. Well done.

Chae Soobin as Hong Heejoo made the viewers feel with her from the first moment she enters the screen. She nailed the sign language scenes and without lines she still managed to convey exactly what Hong Heejoo was going through. Incredible hard work. Well done.

Baek Saeon and Hong Heejoo's love story touched my heart. They are aware of their "worst" sides and still fight to protect each other til the end. Again, they are my favorite kdrama couple without a doubt.

The OST's are INCREDIBLE. I have the album on repeat. The cherry on top is Yoo Yeonseok singing the last one. Incredible talent. It warms my heart how much care they have showed for this show. Them winning all their awards was so incredibly well deserved.

I never usually get stuck to a kdrama like I have for this one. This one is special. It felt different from the very first moment.

Well done to the entire cast and crew!!

When the Phone Rings in my heart forever. 💗

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A love so beautiful ❤️

Favorite drama I've ever watched. I was not going to watch it at first cause it looked like another one of Netflix's revenge and marriage messed up dramas but this was so FARRR from that. The way their love story is written, the way it comes full circle and that fact that we're not lingering on irellavent characters or prolonging short misunderstands and the balance between funny and serious was just everything.
I binged it in one go and just couldn't go to sleep without finishing it. And then I watched it again with my sister right after because of how much I praised it she had to watch it. And it doesn't disappoint. I don't care about all the policial stuff people are spuing. this was a masterpiece and it will remain that way whether they like the director and writer's views or not. The people talking inf this low did not watch the same thing I just watxhed. Cause how. 10/10 would recommend if you like dangerous situations, or He fell first and then fell harder. It's just amazing. I can't say enough to good things.
Flower of evil, healer, marry my husband, and what's wrong with secretary Kim were among my top all time favorites but they don't hold a candle to this in my opinion. I just love this so much.

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