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A plot that's missing its backstory
I found myself lost throughout the series. We didn't get a clear exposition of what Il Jo back story was about to drive the plot. We only go small snippets about a redevelopment and Il Jo not wanting to sell his adopted father's house. Why the other cousin had it out for him so bad but still wanted to sleep with him. I don't know if I missed it in the show or just simply done. So if anyone cares enough to explain, please send me a message.It felt like the script was written by an amateur and it wasn't proofread when it was being sold to be made into a series. However, I do think it was created by a well developed production. The director worked well with what they were given and if it wasn't for the director and production team this show would have been a disaster. I also, strongly believe that Jeong Ri U carried this show. I feel like the writer was biased towards this character, gave the character a lot of thought and was consistent but forgot about Il Jo character and missing the entire plot completely.
Il Jo character really annoyed me too. He was a bit of wimp. Kept coming and going as he pleased. They didn't write it in a way that made you feel sorry him.
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He Treated Me Like a Habit Before I Became His Weakness !
At first , it was so seductive and heartwarming. For instance, there is nothing brainstorming in this drama. The obsession and passion between this couple was intense!Their acting skill was on another level . It is also healthy to watch. The way they looked each other in the drama I can literally feel all the emotions they were holding . Their chemistry was out of the world . I am so much happy that it was worth watching. I am literally very satisfied to the Korean BL industry. They just raised their pride by producing such a fierce BL ! It is probably my first time ever that I am feeling so much relaxed and pleased after watching a drama.
It is indeed a mind blowing and outstanding bl drama so far!
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Strong Start, frustrating finish
I enjoyed most of the show, but the last two to three episodes were disappointing and rushed.I started the series really liking Il-Jo, but in the final episodes his character became increasingly frustrating. Being submissive doesn’t mean letting everyone walk all over you and acting helpless all the time. By the end, it felt like Jeong Han was the only one putting real effort into fixing their relationship.
The drug storyline was another issue: both male leads knew about Jeong In’s drug use, yet the decision to report it to the police only happened ages later, while he could have done that 2 episodes ago... the main target was IIJo but of course he wasn't the one who reported him nor thought of reporting him for the drugs and the assault.
Overall, it felt like many things could have been handled better in those last 3 eps. That said, the chemistry between the male leads was strong, and the earlier episodes were much better written and more engaging. Despite its flaws, I’d still recommend giving it a watch
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A little better than mid
This was fine. I definitely liked the first half of the show better than the second half. The second half of the show got really repetitive and a little annoying with all the back and forth of their relationship. Iljo especially was just annoying me a lot of the decisions he was making. I think the actors did great and I think they had pretty good chemistry with each other as well. There was also more kissing in this than most Korean bl's which was nice. Overall, it was not bad, but not great.Was this review helpful to you?
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Waste of good actors
This story is simply terrible. Almost dropped it and threw up about 10 times and I only finished because I wanted to complete this review.The writers tried to create some character development but it was awful, characters switched personalities overnight with no explanation so there is no way to understand or relate to any of them in the slightest.
The trope of cousin love (yes, even when they’re not blood related) is disgusting and should never be normalised. Especially since Jeonghan used and manipulated Iljo in the first three episodes, just to switch personalities overnight in the 4th episode with no realistic character development.
Even through the awful writing, you can clearly see how good these actors are and it’s a true shame that they had to taint their reputations with this horrible series instead of using their potential well.
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Why so serious!?
I don't really know how to rate or describe this, it's not a bad drama per se, I've seen much worse KBLs and this is even on par with the good ones.But whatever happens in the story, it Takes itself too seriously, unnecessarily...
Like they are creating problems out of very simple matters, make these problems look bigger and bigger, then pop it like a balloon in a second, so at the end you be like, well, that's it??? All this build up and struggle for it to end up solved like that!?
Why getting too invested if everything is going to be gone in 30 seconds, give me back my emotions, please!!
Also the two main characters have a very odd relationship, specially Jeong Han, he is borderline obsessive, but in the very early episodes he treat IlJo like trash, being too harsh on him for no reason and saying a lot of degrading things as if he is his slave, yet he is this hopeless lover who is destroyed when IlJo even think about leaving him...
IlJo on the other hand has no backbone, he just love to struggle and be a drama queen for absolutely no reason, not to mention the very intrusive coffeeshop owner, like you only hire a part time guy to strongly intervene in his life, you only knew the guy for what? A month or so~~ who are you even to get involved and have an opinion!!
The only thing that deserves praise is the performances, the two leads were good, great even, their chemistry is very good and they fit together and for a KBL, this had great kisses ~
I don't know if I would suggest it to anyone or recommend it in general, it's not the greatest story but the chemistry worth giving it a shot ~
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A gripping emotional ride, slightly rough around the edges but hard to ignore
Thundercloud Rainstorm arrives as one of those KBLs that immediately demand attention. From the outset, the series presents itself with a dense atmosphere, shadowed cinematography, and a promise of emotional intensity that, in its early episodes, is fulfilled with rare conviction. There is a clear aspiration toward narrative, aesthetic, and emotional maturity, one that lifts the drama above the ordinary and explains why so many viewers were quickly drawn in.The story revolves around Jeonghan and Iljo, two young men bound by ambiguous family ties, an unresolved past, and an attraction that never found room to exist openly. Its starting point, a relationship shaped by debt, shelter, and a visible imbalance of power, establishes a tense emotional game where affection and control stand dangerously close. This is a romance born out of line, fully aware of its own impropriety, and it turns that flaw into its central source of conflict.
The series’ greatest strength lies in its dialogue, particularly in the moments when outward silence gives way to inner turmoil. Jeonghan, a closed-off and emotionally repressed character, gains depth precisely when the narrative allows us access to his thoughts. Rather than relying on didactic explanations, Thundercloud Rainstorm trusts in words that carry weight, that reveal and sometimes wound. There are moments when a single confession, perhaps spoken too late, holds more power than any grand gesture.
Jeonghan, in fact, is the kind of protagonist who divides opinion, and that works in the drama’s favor. He begins as a harsh, possessive figure, at times frankly unpleasant, but gradually reveals himself as a true “loser in love,” someone incapable of handling his feelings without resorting to control. His journey from rigidity to emotional exposure is among the most carefully constructed arcs in the series. Iljo, by contrast, is more luminous but also more erratic. His passivity and poor decisions sustain much of the conflict, even if not always in the most organic way.
The chemistry between the leads is undeniable and keeps the drama afloat even when the script begins to stumble. Yoon Ji Sung and Jeong Ri U commit fully to their roles, delivering performances that balance vulnerability and desire without slipping into caricature. There is a constant sense of ease between them, an essential quality that makes their relationship, with all its excesses and gray areas, feel at least plausibly real. The result is an intensity that holds the viewer’s attention, even when narrative logic falters.
And falter it does. After an explosive beginning, Thundercloud Rainstorm seems to lose its sense of direction in the latter half. What was once focused anguish dissolves into repetitive misunderstandings, questionable choices, and subplots introduced without sufficient development. Some antagonists verge on the absurd, and certain conflicts are resolved too hastily, as if the series knows exactly where it wants to end up but lacks the time to properly build the road there.
There is also a deliberate discomfort in the way the series engages with unbalanced power dynamics. At times, this tension is provocative and narratively compelling. At others, the boundary of consent becomes too blurred to ignore. Thundercloud Rainstorm treats this moral ambiguity as an aesthetic choice, but it does not always manage to examine it critically, leaving part of its audience caught between fascination and unease.
The finale, while emotionally satisfying for many, carries the weight of revelations delivered too late. The clarification of the protagonists’ family connection, for instance, arrives as a narrative relief but also as a rushed solution to a dilemma that had sustained the entire story. Even so, the ending succeeds in seeking a circular closure, reframing earlier scenes and reaffirming the idea of a love that had always existed, even if misunderstood.
From a technical standpoint, the series stands out with confidence. The soundtrack is striking and carefully placed, the sound design is precise, and the direction shows a clear understanding of how to use bodies, glances, and silence as narrative tools. Visual composition and pacing work together to heighten emotional tension, often saying more through atmosphere than through dialogue. Even when the script feels excessive or unfocused, a consistent aesthetic care sustains interest and gives the drama a distinct, recognizable identity.
In the end, Thundercloud Rainstorm may not be as cohesive as it could have been, but it is difficult to overlook. Imperfect, provocative, and emotionally charged, it rests on the strength of its characters, the compelling chemistry of its central couple, and its willingness to take narrative risks. It is not a work meant to please everyone, and perhaps it does not want to, but it is undoubtedly one of the most talked-about and intriguing KBLs of 2025.
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I liked it at first but it got annoying at one point?
The thing that bothered me the most was IIjo’s character, I mean everyone is talking about Jeong Han being a red flag, and I agree but why is no one talking about IIjo being so senseless at times. I mean first this guy is okay with Jeong Han treating him like this because he liked it, then suddenly he wanted to be in an “official" relationship with him, then when Jeong Han finally accepted his love, he doesn't reply and gives him a silent treatment, then when they're finally in a relationship he's scared now and then he wants to break up?? I mean WFH bro? Did you just realise he's your cousin and that everyone will have a problem with it?? Okay fine you were threatened but what was all the innocent act? Honestly I think even if they would've not rushed the ending like it may would've been better then this. I liked it at first but it got annoying at one point and the ending was really rushed.Was this review helpful to you?
Thoughtful, Abusive, Sadomasochistic
The is an astonishingly well-thought-out series. A bit weird, however, in its cryptic approach but entertaining from the beginning to its end. I felt manipulated but in a good way and interestingly I was not sure where the story was taking me. Therefore, I also found so much of it intellectually stimulating with a hint of kinkiness. It is hard to dislike this series, really. My only concern about it was its odd obtuseness; it felt at times flirting with abusiveness – like both protagonists were playing games with each other’s emotions, which heightened their veiled sadomasochistic tendencies toward each other. While I have nothing against algolagnia being explored in sexual behaviors as long as both parties agree to its rules and both are equal partners, in a few instances within this story, I was just not sure full consent was the case. The story became a gray zone of morality.You can read my full review of this interesting series at BLBliss.com.
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The usual toxic trope, but well produced and performed
I feel like this plot is a little borderline. Although there is an important revelation in the end, the relationship between Seo Jeong Han and Il Jo has a huge problem: the toxicity. Honestly, a part of me likes it, just because the sexual interactions are strong, passionate and well filmed. On the other hand, Seo Jeong Han’s behaviour towards Il Jo is not really acceptable. He wields power over his weaker cousin, not only sexual (that I consider okay if both parts are fine, some people like to have sex this way), but also emotional (that I consider the real matter), leading to easily evitable misunderstandings. One of the main issues is the absence of the bottom’s personality, he is completely dominated by the top. Furthermore, the other elements aren’t that original: the safe second lead, the half-brother who’s a jerk, the father and his plans for Seo Jeong Han’s career. Nothing that we haven’t already seen. Lastly, the end wasn’t exciting: I know I ask too much but it would have been nice to see them together starting their new life (or maybe have a second season? Impossible). In conclusion, this story isn’t that great and the toxicity decreases its value.The performances are on another level, though. Both main characters are fabulous! Jeong Ri U in so incisive: that almost sadistic grin that at one point turns into a genuine, spontaneous smile kind of melted me. Yoon Ji Sung’s puppy face is exceptional (the problem is the lack of personality of the character, not the actor’s performance). To sum up, both portraits their characters’ emotions in a marvellous way and the chemistry is enchanting, I could see right through their eyes, I felt their sentiments as well. Also, I need to mention Lee Dong Joo’s interpretation: his evil eyes, his smirks, his provocative behaviour. Lastly, great work everyone. Tear-jerking music is important in this type of series: it helps you connect with the characters’ sadness and feelings. in addition, I liked the audio during sex scenes. In my opinion, the filming is good and the grey atmosphere and colour-grade matches the story’s vibes (the perfect example is Seo Jeong Han's house). The countryside home, on the contrary, is the bright place: it seems a warm hug, a comfy and cozy place (my favourite location).
The relationship is toxic, nevertheless I recommend this series because basically I enjoyed it (the same thing happened with ‘Nevertheless’ few years ago – not bl though). Furthermore, I think I’m going to watch some scenes again (probably sex scenes).
Thank you for reading,
kisses <3
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Great acting, subpar story
Not a fan of the plot at all which is the main reason for the low rating. The pseudo-incest bit never sat particularly well with me, even after the reveal that they weren’t blood cousins, so it was hard to look past that majority of the show. Felt very much like traditional/old-school BL shows with the tropes and half-baked plot, but the acting and chemistry was great and I loved seeing Jisung! Wouldn’t mind watching another show with this pairing (and hopefully a better plot).Was this review helpful to you?
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Well... How to say.. Why the fck you would stare to flirt and have sex with your fcking cousin. "But we are cousin we can't date" and have sex???! wth?? Okay they are not blood related but they know it at the end. It's an odd thing to do..
Also the drama feel rush, like sometime I feel like I'm missing why the characters are acting the way they are all of sudden. Don't publish a 8 episodes drama if it need at least 12 episodes...
And If you wonder why I did watch it even thought I think the drama isn't great.... Jisung is made to bottom. He did a really great job being submissive and bottom. I hope he do it again (that the only reason I put a 7)
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