My Royal Nemesis

Good Drama

I think the title Netflix gave it confused a lot of people; the nemesis thing doesn't last long because Segye falls in love quickly lol, since the literal Korean title is "Wonderful New World" (Meotjin Sinsegye)


I feel like it could have been 16 episodes long to give more development to certain things, like Seori's relationship with Segye's grandfather, why Dansim marries the king, why Seori's "friend" hates her, and a conversation between Jihyo and Seori.

But it was pretty good; I didn't feel so disappointed like some dramas do when they reach the end. The actors did a good job.

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Loved the Start, But Everything From Ep 3 Failed to Keep Me Hooked!

Well, talk about a plot twist! 😅 After hyping up the first two episodes, unfortunately Episode 3 completely changed my mind! I still think the chemistry between the leads in the beginning was great, but the comedy style in Episode 3 (like that over-the-top slap scene where I felt female and the other actress were too much) became a bit too silly and cartoonish for my personal taste...😶😐

I also struggled with how fast the female lead adapted to modern corporate life—it felt a bit too illogical for me to stay invested! I know the 8.6 rating is huge right now, and I’m glad so many people are loving the energy, but I think this one just isn't a good match for my watching style! Dropping it after 3 episodes... :/

Many may criticize my thoughts about these logical gaps but I am so SORRY, it turned out to be like this! I wished I would continue this till the end with the same passion I had in the first two episodes...

However, I can't forget how episode 1 was! The moment Shin Seo Ri is nearly crushed by a car, only for Cha Se Gye to anchor her to safety, was truly so impressive. Even that slap scene that snapped out of nowhere was totally hilarious, and Im Ji Yeon absolutely ate up her role as an unhinged and fearless woman. BUT as the story progressed, I realized her overly aggressive and violent personality just didn't live up to my expectations for the female lead. On the other hand, the male lead was ideal as a chaebol character, and I really liked how the script initially entangled them in those hilarious moments...

I also can't forget the spectacular laundry bat scene! I couldn't stop laughing over it, and it clearly showed that a Joseon woman like Shin Seo Rin is definitely not someone to play with because she will catch you easily! 😆

Another hilarious moment was the absolute pure shock, confusion, and horror she felt when seeing herself in a smartphone for the very first time—I just couldn't look away from her expressions! 😹

I really liked how Shin Seo Ri clung to Cha Se Gye’s mind from their very first funny encounter, making it impossible for him to forget her. Their fated story was so promising and captivating... so there is definitely a positive side to this drama that I simply cannot deny!

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I agree with the criticism about the wasted potential.

My jaw kept dropping while reading Maleesha Madubhashini's review because I understood exactly what she meant. I've been watching Korean dramas since I was ten, and honestly, a storyline like the one she described would have been incredibly unique. The premise had the potential to become one of those unforgettable dramas people talk about for years, even decades. I've been longing for a story like that too.

That said, this is where I disagree with her. While I also wish the drama had gone in a more ambitious and powerful direction, I still think the series itself is genuinely enjoyable. It's warm, charming, and entertaining in its own way. I completely understand the frustration because we could have witnessed something far more original and compelling, but I don't think that automatically makes the drama a disappointment.

The cast is doing an excellent job with the script they were given. The female lead may not have become the ruthless, politically savvy character some viewers hoped for, but she's far from boring. She approaches life with her own carefree spirit, and she's genuinely funny and endearing. The male lead is also refreshing because he's calm, straightforward, and unafraid to express what he thinks, which I appreciate.

The music is another highlight for me. It's heartwarming and fits the emotional tone of the drama beautifully. I also believe one of the singers is Filipina, which made the soundtrack even more special to me.

Ultimately, I agree that the drama missed the opportunity to become something truly extraordinary. The premise could have supported a much deeper and more memorable story. However, I still find it a lovely and enjoyable watch for what it is, and it's one of the few recent dramas I would happily rewatch.

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Phenomenal start, acceptable finish.

General thoughts on the show:
First 8 episodes were spectacular, I was very invested in the plot and direction of the drama. However the rest of the show was generally downhill with each consecutive episode. Does that mean everything sucked in between 9-14 sucked? Absolutely not, there were still good moments and scenes in between the bad and 'meh' parts.
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Character thoughts:
1 ML was the best character in the show, he was a walking green flag with some flaws that he openly talks about.
1 FL was the second best character in my opinion. She was loud, brash, and unapologetic which contrasted nicely with the 1 ML.
The 'villian' was mediocre, from my point of view. He kept dancing on the line of true evil and potentially redeemable villain. He spent most of the show throwing verbal threats and assaults but his ending didn't seem satisfying.
'2 ML and 2 FL' The manager and other actress seemed to be setting up early in the show but were left as an after thought, receiving an open ended ending.
'The love triangle' The 2nd love interest for 1 ML was just fine. She played the could be couldn't be villain at times and got an okay ending.
'2 Aunties & Grandpa' I seriously don't know what was the point of the 2 aunts in the show other than to take up screen time. The grand father on the other hand was the most unsatisfying character in the show. He was tough on 1 ML, why? We have no idea. At one point he begins to talk about it only to get interrupted and it never is brought up again.
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Why I gave it a 9?
The chemistry and scenes between the two leads was absolutely amazing. Seriously I was even surprised how much I was smiling at the two of them just interacting.
I enjoy light hearted rom-coms and this is one of them. While there are a few 'deaths' and some 'bloody' scenes they were not too heavy. With a generally happy endings for most characters, I can say I was pretty content with the show overall.
Will I re-watch the entire show? Probably not. Will I re-watch scenes regularly? You better believe it.
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TLDR - Lighthearted Rom-Com with great scenes between the lead. You don't need a PHD to follow along, just enjoy it for it's simplicity.

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A Beautiful Time-Travel Story with Flawless Performances

As a huge fan of the genre, my expectations were high, and honestly, the story was absolutely beautiful. The time-travel element is incredibly well-crafted, but what truly elevates this drama and keeps you hooked is its phenomenal cast.

Without a doubt, the lead actors were the absolute highlight. Their chemistry and dedication are flawless; they have a brutal ability to reach through the screen and make you feel every single ounce of emotion, nostalgia, or pain. A special and mandatory shoutout goes to Heo Nam-jun, his performance was spectacular. He possesses a magnetism and talent that practically scream that the industry is long overdue in giving him more main lead roles.

On the antagonist side, Jang Seung-jo definitely understood the assignment. He managed to evoke a genuine anger in me; he’s one of those villains who is so well-acted that you feel pure hatred every single time he steps into a scene.

If I had to find one flaw in the script, it’s that the subplot with the two aunts felt pretty unnecessary. They seemed to be there more as filler than for any actual narrative purpose, though fortunately, they don't ruin the overall experience.

All in all, a gorgeous fantasy story driven by perfect lead performances. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a great time-travel journey with a lot of heart.

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Three syllables: Cha Se Gye

Look... say what you will about the story, plot, execution whatever, because none of that matters. You only need one reason to watch this show, and his name is Cha Se Gye. I haven't enjoyed a character this much in a long time. So colorful, so expressive, so neurotic, so funny, so charming, and such an absolute loser in love. I could watch Heo Nam Jun raise his eyebrow or curl his lip or swallow for 14 more hours. I have never rewound so many scenes just to re-watch the way a line was delivered. Ever. I already miss him.

But there's more! You also get the bold and hilarious Shin Seori, who is so full of heart and brings so much brightness and fun to the show. She was impeccably brought to life by Im Ji Yeon. There is no Se Gye without Shin Seori.

The third gift: their chemistry. It was magical, passionate, and on a cosmic soul-mate level. You will want them to be together so badly, and cackle at their petty bickering and antics, you will feel all the longing every time they're in the same room, all the heartache when they're apart. I am low key high key convinced Im Ji Yeon and Heo Nam Jun actually fell in love on set while filming this, it's that good.

Other parts of this show that you don't want to miss:
- Jang Seung Jo is way more interesting and alluring than he had a right to be as a villain. He was truly chilling, truly fascinating, and at times even heartbreaking. I loved every one of his scenes.
- A performance that really pulls at the heartstrings by Kim Hae Sook as Seori's grandmother, and two brilliant comedic performances by Kim Min Seok as Seori's manager and Yoon Byung Hee as Se Gye's assistant.
- The love story itself is at times very touching and moving with a good resolution, and definitely the strongest plot element by far.

I'mma be real, the main cheabol and time travel plots fall apart in the second half and kinda just devolve by the end with some gaping plot holes and rushed conclusions to story lines. There are a handful of side characters that don't really serve a purpose and feel like empty space. But man, even knowing all that, I already want to rewatch it again because what it does well it does exceptionally well. Totally worth a watch despite its flaws.

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Kinda obsessed with this couple ngl: watch this for the romance you will not be disappointed!

Objectively, I can’t say this drama was perfect from beginning to end. The pacing was weird at times, especially during the second half, and I feel like the whole reincarnation/time travel plot wasn’t very well executed and quite confusing at times. But more on that later.

For me, the biggest selling point of this drama is the sparkling chemistry between the two leads. Honestly, I was convinced it would be great giving the main actors, but I didn’t expect it to be THIS good omg. Sparks were flying between them, from ep 1 to the end. The enemies to lovers trope and the reincarnation/tragic lovers are exactly my jam, I only wished the “enemies” part lasted longer (since they kiss at the end of ep 5 if I remember correctly). Nevertheless, I was giggling like a fool during each of their scenes together, and I’m so glad I waited until almost all the episodes were out, it would have been torture otherwise! I also think the comedic aspect of this drama was very well executed (the second half is more serious, so the change was jarring at first but understandable). The secondary characters didn’t get as much development as the leads, but still they were quite enjoyable to watch, especially the ML’s secretary and the FL’s “manager”. I wish we could see more of the Fl’s rival, since she turned good in the end, it would have been awesome to see a friendship develop between them.

Simply put, I adored their interactions, from their bickering/suspicious phases to their full-on heart eyes/tension filled scenes. Well, the bickering stayed until the end, so they really didn’t change THAT much haha. Despite the ML’s seemingly ruthless and better-than-you attitude, he sure fell hard (and fast!) for the FL. It made way for some pretty funny scenes because his antics gave him so much personality, it was endearing! (sidenote: his dark suits were so striking, in comparison with the FL's colorful and eclectic wardrobe, he truly is a very good-looking man!). The FL was a little more reserved (understandably so, given her past and her situation). However, she slowly but surely allowed him to take a little piece of her heart, and ultimately, the whole thing was in his palms. Outspoken, fierce and caring, she was truly a delight to watch. I only regret that the second half of the show dimmed her light a little. Of course, tragedy stiked a few times so the circonstances weren't the best but it was a stark contrast to her character in the beginning. Still, her character development was the best among all other characters, it was slow, and sometimes she fell back into her old ways, but she was never annoying to watch. I also think the contradiction between the ML’s “full business” persona and his “lovesick” one was very well done, it felt like watching two different individuals at times, the same goes for the FL: she was simply stunning and imposing as a royal consort whereas her younger self as a court servant was certainly more subdued. I just wish we had a little more story on the time between her court servant days and her following status as a consort… Honestly, I think 16 episodes for this one would have been fine, their chemistry alone was enough to justify two more episodes! Add to this a little more insight on Dan sim and the Grand Prince’s story and it would have been perfect!

The acting was phenomenal, especially our two main actors, I was just so glad to watch actors with so many emotions on their faces! Their facial expressions are so lively and “human”, they work so well with their characters, a perfect symbiosis! They also complemented each other very well, during humorous scenes, sad scenes, romantic scenes, I honestly don’t have a single bad thing to say about the characters and their actors. Well, I guess some people can view the ML as quite toxic and overbearing, I can’t say it’s not the case obviously, but it’s just fiction. Personally, I don’t want to watch perfect and “green flags” characters all the time, a little “red flag” here and there can be very entertaining and exciting hehe.

Concerning the plot, I think the first half of the drama was very strong and consistent. It worked very well displaying the FL adapting to a new world, the push and pull of our main leads, ML’s complex familial ties, the whole business environment, etc. I don’t have much to say expect that it was a smooth ride, it was intriguing and fun, and sparks were flying like crazy already so overall a 10/10.

Now for the second half, I can’t say the sudden change in tones was well executed, it felt a little messy and the villain felt underdeveloped. I love a good villain, and while the actor did his best and portrayed a kinda crazy antagonist very well, his reasons for being so evil weren’t quite clear: From a young age, he manipulated the ML’s grandfather and initiated an obvious rivalry with him, but I don’t understand, it would have been way easier for him to become friends with the ML instead and still achieve his goal ? In the end, he was super rich and in charge of a good portion of the company, so I guess he did all that just to become the sole successor of his uncle… So, he was malicious just for the love of the game in my opinion. In any case, he felt quite one dimensional and didn’t get any development whatsoever.

Moreover, the time travel/reincarnation plot was confusing for me. I understand Seo ri and Dan sim first exchanged bodies during their accident in the lake when they were 10-12 yo (the original Seo ri in the car with her parents and Dan sim when she ran away from a tiger and fell in the water if I remember correctly) so it was indeed the original Seo ri that fell in love with the Grand Prince and later died by poison, and she returned in her original body when she awoke in the present time and vice versa. But then why didn’t she have any memories of her younger days in the present time when she first “went” to Joseon? I guess it was better for the plot… Also, it would mean that Dan sim awoke in the present time, and had to adapt to modern times (like Seo ri in the beginning of the drama)? But then, wouldn’t she have written about that in her diaries?? This is why she didn’t have the same acting talent as the original Seo ri, and was very meek and timid in comparison to her… Well maybe it kinda makes sense, I honestly don’t know anymore lol.

Another thing I found a little underdeveloped was their past selves in the Joseon period. The viewer understands that Seo Ri fell in love with the Grand Prince and was utilized as bait by the Crown Prince to keep his brother away from the crown. But then, why does she seem “happy” with the Crown Prince/his Highness during flashbacks scenes when she is in the palace as a consort? I guess she didn’t have much a choice because she wanted to survive and couldn’t refuse him, but she obviously knew that he was the cause of the Grand Prince’s exile, AND he also tricked her into eating the soup made with the dog she cared for?? Didn’t she hate him for that?? Maybe I’m nitpicking but it was a little confusing for me in the end.

Overall, the second half of the show felt a little repetitive: the villain had a billion tricks under his sleeve to take down the good guys, our leads were only pawns to his games until the last episode. And his downfall wasn’t very satisfying in my opinion. Also, some scenes between our leads were redundant: the FL is in danger/hurt, the ML screams at her because he’s worried, she’s hurt by his words and leaves, and so on.... There isn’t an actual “official” breakup per say, but their relationship has ups and downs that’s for sure! I’m not particularly mad about that, but I can understand why it would seem boring to other people, especially those who aren’t familiar with the genre.

In the end, most of the questions were answered (apart from my confusion regarding the time travel plot and the villain, also the FL's coworker what was her deal??? She did an 180 on the FL, without an ounce of explanation to her sudden change in attitude). To compare, I think this drama is a good mix between Destined with you and The Story of Park's Marriage Contract. I absolutely loved our leads, and the romance was nearly perfect: a lot of funny and swoon worthy moments, and a push and pull that was impossible to resist, I wouldn’t be surprised if they won an award! Overall, the ending was very satisfying regarding our couple, and most of the secondary characters. I only wished for an extra scene between the FL and the ML’s grandfather. But oh well, the last episode was already a rollercoaster of emotions and very gratifying, and I will miss these characters very much now. :')

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