K-Dramas

The story itself was nothing much: One silly and cheerful lead, through convenient circumstances, weasels their way into the other lead's rather dreary existence, and, somewhere along the way, they fall in love. What stood out at points was the crazy chemistry, nice cinematography, and overall feel-good moments.

But, again, this had the same issue as Individual Circumstances: Unfulfilling and/or unconvincing kisses.

Like, I'm not asking for a full-on makeout. It can even be an awkward kiss as long as you intentionally frame it that way. But don't give me good build-up, palpable tension, intense eye contact, and great body language only to not deliver. That just stings.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki or GagaOOLala

It was really pleasant. I liked how it was shot and the way they told the story to us. Switching the perspectives was quite clever. It also helped that the acting was really good.

Side Note: SFL is really cute :)

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kj0UBNHC9Nw&list=PLfhwNvh_xGjg8fZx3jnZ4uwjAUTC1rXeB&index=1

Maybe here?

This was harsh but sometimes funny. I was generally invested throughout.

My criticisms:

I don't know why they made the FL so cold. It felt awkward a lot of the time. Also, her romantic interest left me feeling annoyed and confused. Like *sigh* "Okayyy, I guess."

Finally, the use of force by police. There were some points where an officer who had taken things too far was framed as being in the wrong, rightfully so. But there were many more instances where the violence was justified or excused, wasn't necessary and was obviously excessive, and/or the rights of the citizen were pushed aside.

The drama could have and should have used these instances as an opportunity to speak on/condemn police brutality. This aspect left me very disappointed.

Can be found on Netflix

I have no idea where to put it. Maybe here?

This, like His Man, is an important stepping stone for LGBT+ people in Korean media. Unlike that reality show, though, this had a lot of problems.

While I was ecstatic to hear about this show's release, I began feeling disappointed after watching a few episodes. The hosts wanted to open up the public's minds to Queer people, a noble goal. However, in the pursuit of this they often watered down vital concepts (like sexuality and gender) to the point of being incorrect and/or problematic, were more sympathetic toward parents of Queer children than the children themselves (they even said they were equally struggling), handled insults and dismissals from unaccepting parents with kiddie gloves, and failed to make a hard stand against bigotry.

I do get the sense that this was made with good intentions and that the hosts aren't bad people. But I feel like they cared so much about Straight people's perception of the show that they ended up catering to them to a fault. There was this sense that it was up to Queer people to keep trying to convince their family members and bend to make them more comfortable rather than the onus being on those being hateful and unaccepting.

All of this being said, I'm still glad this was made so I could see these Queer people's stories and so that, hopefully, Korea will portray more real Queer people on the screen.

Can be found on GagaOOLala (with a VPN) or free websites (they have atrocious subtitles though) 

Well, now, if this wasn't a fun short series! And the actors did great! They really sold their silliness as well as obliviousness.

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL-UjFgW8TJEcUdOB8eg1jUm9DgsI9vAcS&si=Dszs9IrD53M-mcE4

Man, do they capture ambiguity, having feelings for a friend, and blossoming feelings so well! I love this production company's understated style they have present in their works.

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL-UjFgW8TJEf0j62oTEJudvgjvIT1uTqc&si=28XLV6ZJYf_LC_hB 

Very warm in terms of lighting and color, as well as the characters themselves. It was very sweet in regards to the romance aspect as well and the chemistry was incredibly natural. I see this becoming a very refreshing drama for me to come back to on occasion when I want to improve my mood.

My heart says 9/10 and my mind says 8.5/10.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

This gave me Tasty Florida and a bit of To My Star vibes.

This was so delightfully smooth. The OST was gorgeous and the MLs felt very natural, had wonderful chemistry, and the romance was very easygoing. If not for the "conflict" being rushed this could have been a 9/10. I have a feeling there was a cut scene or two that would have easily fixed this.

Brownie Points: Side character Dad was such a comforting and openly emotional father.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

Definitely an 8.5/10. At the very least, an 8/10. I got into this series just as it was about to end.  The trailer didn't really intrigue me at first. But, boy am I glad I gave it a chance. There are some cringe comedy scenes early on, but later it just becomes part of the characters' charm. 

It's really beautiful and very funny. The music is great and the characters have very unique personalities. I loved the running gag with the eggs. A debtor and a collector falling in love? Who would have thought?

I also can't believe how intense the kisses were! We have only really just started getting some Korean Bl's. What a pleasant surprise.

Very funny, and just overall enjoyable. The guys were definitely the funniest part of it. I loved their cluelessness. Also, the fake swear words had me losing my mind!

I really liked the style of humor. The first episode legitimately made me laugh multiple times, and many moments after continued to make me chuckle.

For the most part, I found the acting convincing and the emotional scenes impactful.

But, not gonna lie, the reason I'm not rating this higher is because of the last episode. It didn't feel like they wrapped things up properly.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

It was a fun watch for me. I get why most people don't seem to like it, though. It can be a bit slow at times. I think they could have played even more with the stereotypical parts of K-Dramas to make it funnier.

Can be found on Netflix

Well, this was fun while it lasted!

I had been wanting to see a foreign drama with vampires. This was new for me and I enjoyed it quite a bit. I did like the male vampire's makeup, unlike most people. It gave him a very aesthetically pleasing and mysterious look. Also, he's Bisexual. Nice!

*Modest clap for some representation*

At least a 7/10 in quality. I'm giving it a 7.5/10 for the added enjoyment I got from it and just overall fun weird parts of it. This will be an easy multiple rewatch for me in the future.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

Pretty cute. I like the small twists with the ML as well. Also, their chemistry is good.

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7oVo4XvjD-g&list=PLiu31ZGKsu1ohMeABTrom3QwPCFnz_Skz

Some gorgeous shots! Even though it's quite short the ML's acting really makes you feel his complex emotions. He is so soft, peaceful, and introspective. I wish we had more screen time from him though. That would be my main criticism.

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ptLZXc5cR1c&list=PLH-SXxGRMYLeB8Ac1-uIqL5pBvoZkibwo

I like how they tried to show a bit of the darker side of being an idol. Stalker fans are a thing and idols can be and most likely are uncomfortable with being hunted by the press trying to take photos.

Aside from that, the chemistry came very easily. It helped that the ML was very outwardly kind, which I am a big fan of. I would have liked one more episode, but maybe that would be me being too greedy. Lol.

I also have to note just how much I appreciated and adored the fact that the ML having a stalker girl fan wasn't played as some joke to be laughed off but was framed in a serious light and was also taken very seriously by the FL herself. She didn't laugh when he told her or ridicule him in the slightest. Men can feel threatened and be harassed by women. It IS a thing. A man being afraid because of a stalker should be taken as seriously as a woman being in that same situation.

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WvQmPZpHx_8&list=PLrJVlJbrWSOylMeDBfQUMAvKgOWnInnC-

This was pretty darn good. It managed to balance the comedy and serious aspects well. I felt it dragged once it got near the end though.

Regarding Representation: We had a Transgender SFL, Jennifer. I liked how over the drama it was shown how the ML, Do Yong Shik, while already having accepted her was working on remembering to call her by her new name.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki 

This felt like a slower and more awkward take on Carmen San Diego. Don't get me wrong, it was still enjoyable. It was kooky (in a good way) and well-acted. And, honestly, it was just incredibly refreshing to see a drama where both the antagonist and protagonist were women. The LGBT+ rep certainly didn't hurt either . . . *cough* *cough* It's actually the reason I started watching it in the first place *cough* *cough*

Would I recommend it? Hmmm . . . Depends on the person.

Can be found on Netflix (with a VPN in Korea) 

For the most part, I really enjoyed this. Its high point and its low point though is that it's very soap opera. It's loud, repetitive, and overly extravagant with just about everything. I feel like this is what you'd get if you combined Knives Out with As The World Turns.

You will undoubtedly get irritated at some point but also find yourself chuckling at the ridiculousness of it all. In other words, it's some—not everyone's—cup of tea.

Can be found on Netflix (with a VPN in Korea)

What a pleasant and "quirky" watch. Lots of dry humor and this sense that the drama was just taking its time, saying whatever it felt like saying at that moment.

Honestly, finishing this felt weird. I almost expected 12 more episodes as it felt so . . . Reliable and peaceful—like next week it would still be there.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki or Netflix

It's like they looked at classic Romance K-Dramas and were like, "What if we took all that and did mostly the opposite and turned the dial up to 11?"

Despite Mad for Each Other making me "mad" at times, somehow they managed to put some genuine emotion into this rather odd drama and made me root for this couple to boot.

All in all, I'm glad I watched it.

Can be found on Netflix

Dry comedy with some meaningful moments.

Regarding Representation: 

Had a Gay SML, Han Yang (otherwise called Looney). Han Yang is loopy for the majority of the drama so I can understand if some found/find the representation problematic.

As for me, personally, I could understand it since he was going through extreme withdrawal symptoms while trying to quit drugs as well as the fact that this drama is comedic in nature meaning most of the characters act off the hook. So I would say the rep here is positive, or, at the very least, well-meaning.

Can be found on Netflix (with a VPN in Korea)

Light-hearted and typical start at first, but then took a dark twist.

It still maintains a fairly light atmosphere but adds some heavy moments throughout. If not for the very solid acting I'm not sure if they would be able to sell me on this drama. But, they did.

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?index=3&list=PLyZmutCYcba7ptHJUJxnYzITMOfjdQRvC&v=2eK3Km4QdCw

I'm not sure where to put it.

It was fascinatingly uncomfortable.

I haven't seen a romance drama contain so little romance. The couple did have their moments, and I didn't get SLS (surprisingly), but their love for each other felt more like a side plot. I didn't dislike it; I just found it strange.

This was unlike any K-Drama I've seen. There was this constant weird feeling in every scene. Everything felt . . . Off. From the music, facial expressions, and inner thoughts to the reactions and manipulative acts to get revenge.

I'm not sure how else to describe it.

Do I recommend it? Not if you're looking for something to "Awww" at. Yes, if you're looking for something different and don't mind a slow pace.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

I needed this bit of classic K-Drama with, of course, traumatic past meets comedic and sweet romance.

I surprised myself with just how much I enjoyed this. This cast of characters really grows on you. And the ML's feelings for the FL were just precious. I even found myself so attached to AG 3 (the robot), that I was close to tearing up when I saw her perspective.

Another win for my dear MDLers!

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

An interesting concept, that's for certain. 

I feel like they threw in too much the closer they got to the end. What I really wanted more of wasn't twists. I wanted to see more moments from the ML's past. I craved those. Seeing when he truly loved music was very touching.

To be honest, I found the devil's potential romance to be uninteresting. It could have been cut and I wouldn't have missed it.

I liked parts of this. Other aspects needed work.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

A pretty engaging crime drama that just got messy near the end and could have been so much more.

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOsWS9tKqJMfZ8-ha2oQiDwFLSoPMk2D3

I will confess that I was moved, torn, and invested. However, a big however, it took quite a few episodes for me to get into it. Too many, in my opinion.

Can be found on free websites

For the most part, I liked it. However, it took a very long time for the ML to be compelling for me. The actor just didn't seem very convincing in this role for some reason. I don't know what it was exactly. 

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

For the most part, I enjoyed this. It was moderately entertaining, featured FLs with nuanced stories and clear growth, and had a pretty impactful resolution.

The big let-down was it taking me until more than halfway through to see the chemistry between the main ML and FL.

Regarding Representation: While not memorable, it certainly didn't do a disservice to the community.

Can be found on free websites or Rakuten Viki (with a VPN)

It was really fun. I had a good time :)

The characters all had their quirks and there were some genuinely heartfelt moments. The comedy wasn't the best, but when I wasn't actually laughing I at least had a smile on my face.

Can be found on Netflix

I don't know . . . It felt like it was attempting to naturally convey dark humor, but couldn't quite master it. I didn't really feel the balance between comedic and serious. It did get better as it went on, though.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

This was peak trash, as well as misery porn. No other way to put it. Our FL guts put through the fucking wringer, starting with her going to jail on behalf of her jack-ass would-be fiance. And just when you think it couldn't possibly get any worse for her, it does! And then it gets even worse! And she lets people walk over her, use her, and demean her for what? Because of an old flame? I say because she lost so much of her spirit. 

Thank God for the ML because, toxic and arrogant as a bastard he could be, Ji Sung sold it so well that when he did see the light/had his good moments, you couldn't help liking him.

Things got more ridiculous with each passing episode to the point I stopped asking why and just shrugged and said, "Why not?"

I was entertained, but at what cost?

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

This second season with these characters continued with the same themes but brought up a few new topics such as homophobia and expectations/worries about future career paths. I was impressed with the way they called out judging what is "easy" or "hard." Art is not something you can just do half-heartedly and succeed at. Everything takes effort. 

Biggest critique: I'll admit that Yu Mi was not a character I would be able to forgive given her actions, though Gong Soo Rin has the right to do what she wants.

Biggest praise: We had a Gay SML, Seon Ho, whose story was told incredibly well. They did a great job at giving a few hints that added up later about him having unrequited feelings for Ju Hyeok, as well showing the way he was treated and what it's like to be outed (they also used the term "outing"). I ended up in tears when his past was shown.

One thing I think that's of note is that the the Straight guy over-the-top sweetly in love with his girlfriend, Ju Hyeok, was more feminine while Seon Ho was more masculine. Just thought it was a bit of a clever and neat reversal of a trope.

Brownie Points: Ju Hyeok was such a supportive and sweet friend reassuring Seon Ho several times that even when he realized he liked him he never felt any discomfort at all.

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4IATtTMc-18&list=PLQ0f_g2mQlLeB8lVtS1zjj7t2gusqbCE-&index=2

Really fun and funny. And it was shown in a format that is really different. It's kind of like a choose your own adventure.

As a tea lover this was like gold for me. The drinks were so creative and gorgeous! Not to mention that the lighting and camerawork was beautiful and complimented the shots of the beverages.

This wasn't some deep romance, it was more sweet and showed the beginnings of flirting.

She's really only present there, but I would feel I was being a bit secretive and odd if I didn't mention how cute I found Dan. I believe I've mentioned before how I like women with short hair cuts and/or women who look handsome. And, she happens to fit one of those types. Score for me! I don't get to see many women who I actually find personally attractive in dramas, so I was quite glad.

7.5/10

The added .5 is just because of the tea. Lol.

Link to YouTube playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=orVUVWOXIa4&list=PLTwpl5IWgPSF8Erl1COAhk-qqPY_U6yOJ

Warm, flirty, and easy. I don't think it had as much charm as Tasty Florida but it did remind me of it and gave me a similarly pleasant feeling.

I enjoyed my time with this drama though I felt some parts could have been handled better. But, the chemistry was good and they felt like a realistic and "grown-up" couple. Plus, it was very relaxing overall.

I'd rate it almost an 8/10. I feel like a 7.5/10 would almost be mean though so I won't give it that.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

I feel like this is between a 7.5/10 and an 8/10 for me. It has charm to it, the characters did have some depth, they didn't try to romanticize or glamorize a forced scene, the couple was legitimately sweet together, and I liked that they didn't play into my expectations as to how Haebom would act and what his dynamic between him and Taesung would be like.

But, I don't know. I just didn't feel like this had a lot of character to it.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

Short, but sweet. The couple was fun to watch. Thanks Viki for making this available to me!

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

Was it warm and healing as advertised?

Not really, no.

This drama was at its best when it had this just-go-with-the wind vibe. But, for some reason, they decided to throw in a bunch of out-of-nowhere tragedies and drama that eventually took over and left warmth and healing on the backburner.

And while the ML was being sweet and thoughtful the FL was letting herself be walked over by others to an annoying degree. I can take slow growth in a drama, that's fine. But she actually didn't change in that respect. Also, the prominent excusing/dismissal of abuse left a bad taste in my mouth, tainting a lot of my attempts to enjoy Summer Strike.

I don't know, I guess I just expected more; which is funny because I started this drama on whim.

Do I recommend watching it? If you're looking for more kind MLs, sure. Otherwise, this might be one to skip.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

Something easy and silly. Not as enjoyable or intriguing as, say, Roommates of Poongduck 304, but something fun to pass the time. I did find the "misunderstanding" more annoying than others, though. It was too easily solved!

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

The two leads felt like a true couple, with lovely, passionate moments as well as outbursts. But while the story was cohesive, for the most part, the ending felt rushed and thrown together. Which was a shame, as I thought their final conflict had room for exploration.

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYfaogVGCvwQgk4qhMZnLYkrPNSK5ntsr&si=wVtXvwLNHxMW6bF7

*cries in only four episodes*

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL-eVDVGRk5oRC9Kn0rgvQhfbGF3dRW7RY 

Link to Review: https://kisskh.at/profile/8835865/reviews/280663 

Can be found on iQiyi

This was apparently an interactive series when it came out where fans got to vote on who the girl's love interest would ultimately be. I wonder if there are multiple endings or if there is just the one fans picked? Guess I will have to see!

Update after completing:

This was SO fun. I found myself smiling and laughing constantly. There wasn't really any drama or sad moments which was very refreshing. I also really liked the effects they used for certain scenes. I wanted her to get with a different guy, but I was still happy at the end. I can't think of anything truly wrong with it. I'll give it a very solid 8.5/10

Ep 1: https://youtu.be/2l5Kz1RJLRg
Ep 2: https://youtu.be/-pC_czjG00U
Ep 3: https://youtu.be/V-FL2QzcDB0
EP 4: https://youtu.be/Vrigk2QBEK8
Ep 5: https://youtu.be/qbxHDLpqk30
Ep 6: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lsq46HuVfAs

As a woman in her early twenties, this FL's life spoke to me. Dealing with cramps at work, having a catty female coworker you don't get along with, taking care when out late at night, early periods, and just trying to save what you can on a budget.

At the end of the day it helps to have someone who notices what you're going through and tries to give you a bit of help. Ji Eun found a great guy like that :)

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KgEQBfLjqmM&list=PLJ8tSVdIuzBYocZ1o5u6OPkyIvPcok73-

A really enjoyable drama with some legitimate teaching moments.

Regarding Representation: We had a Gay ML, Tae Jin. We get a few minor hints but it doesn't really become clear until the end. I feel his story is best watched rather than explained by me. I will say that they did a great job at subtly conveying his feelings and realization, and I loved how they focused on the relationship with him and his father. To have a parent be the one to apologize and reflect on their actions was heartwarming and refreshing. Parents in real life and parents in dramas more often than not don't see any problem with their own behavior and rarely if ever say, "I'm sorry." Let alone do they act sensitively and respectfully if their child is LGBT+.

This is the kind of dad everyone deserves. Someone who listens, learns, and is there for their child.

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VBBHcLeFDm8&list=PLQ0f_g2mQlLcayB3SSQhzqnAj1O_9Dg7e&index=21

It was cheesy but, damn, if it wasn't fun! The budget wasn't really budgeting, but the dramatics were dramaticing, and the vampires were vampiring. And you know what? Sometimes, you just say, 'Who cares?' and enjoy it!

It's not a must-watch. But I won't plead with you to not waste your time.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

This started so well, with our new couple quickly becoming a couple but then slowly, consciously moving forward in their relationship. They were tender and understanding of each other, turning toward comfort and forgiveness over letting misunderstandings and jealousy fester. I truly believed they deeply cared for each other. 

Then, the "big conflict" hit.

The last couple of episodes just felt so rushed and incomplete in comparison to the rest of the drama. It was as if the creators couldn't come up with an easier/better way to wrap it all up, so they went for the most cliché option that would promise both drama and a quick, happy resolution.

What were supposed to be touching, romantic moments between Woohyun and Doha in the finale ultimately felt insincere (not due to the actors' performances at all—they did great—but the writing).

I WANT to say I recommend it, especially as we've had so few K-BLs in 2025, and I want some quality ones, but I'm so disappointed by its conclusion that I don't know if I can.

Can be found on iQiyi or GagaOOLala (with a VPN in Taiwan/Philippines)

It was sweet, but I felt it was lacking that signature magical spark Strongberry seems to bring to every production.

Also, with that kind of ending, I need a second season.

Can be found on iQiyi or GagaOOLala

I enjoyed this. I do wish they had done even more with the vampire concept though. However, for what it was, I liked watching it when it came out. And I sometimes rewatch episodes of it.

I kind of cheated with this one. I just watched one of the couples' scenes in a compilation. I'd rate them a 8/10.

I'll get to the rest of it eventually though.

It's refreshingly different to see a guy-disguised-as-a-girl drama. This is one is quite entertaining  and has some real heart to it. Also, the disguise actually looks believable unlike some girl-disguised-as-a-guy dramas.

I think they pretty much got the pacing right for this. The finale was not quite what I expected, but I was pretty okay with it. The "reveal" flipped my expectations which was also pretty refreshing.

I think it's a pretty alright 7/10.

It was a bit awkward in terms of pacing/line delivery from the side characters, but when they focused on just the two leads bouncing off of each other, it was quite natural. I could buy that they were not only incredibly close friends, but so close they were edging toward the line.

And for a co-production between Thailand and Korea, it wasn't half bad. Compared to past offerings, it was leagues above them. Sure, Jay's entire circle of friends/acquaintances conveniently understood Thai perfectly while he understood Korean, so they almost never spoke the other's language, and thus, conversations were never a hassle for him. But it was honestly SO easy for him to communicate with everyone that it felt like the drama was aware of how ridiculous it was and was playing on it.

As for the "murder mystery," it was pretty ridiculous. But this drama was never meant to be some cinematic masterpiece or truly balance surprising darkness in an otherwise light story like either season of Love Class. No, it was created to be something silly and entertaining. And, you know what? I'm okay with that. Overall, I had a decent time.

I wouldn't go out of my way to recommend it. But I won't yell, "You're making a mistake!" if you decide to spend your time watching this instead of something else.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

I find this resolution . . . Fairly acceptable, considering what happened and didn't happen with regard to the final conflict. Jae Min took accountability for his actions and even where his emotions were heading. And Nam Yi was rightly harsh in his honesty about why he was hurt and what Jae Min did wrong. They're going to need to work together to stay strong in their relationship.

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYfaogVGCvwTczUW4K1YELu_cWQfUQ21a&si=eaWXzNJGoxizFhF_

While the chemistry and natural intimacy between the two leads was nothing short of insane, the ending made it all feel pointless for me. I needed something more enthralling or moving to close this drama with. Ultimately, it felt unfinished.

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYfaogVGCvwTczUW4K1YELu_cWQfUQ21a&si=qqVtESTPU5lb2xdL

I did find Tae Ha's character rather compelling. The actor contributed a lot to this. But, again, this production seems to have trouble smoothing out the finer details of a story.

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYfaogVGCvwRtjaJ9-6V6InWnPJxR5z5U&si=k-na9S9844AX_6E5

It was pretty fun and cute.

Regarding Representation: The FL was either Bi or Pan. She says, "I am not exactly only into... men." It isn't brought up again after that though.

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLbmL8PfuSrVne9Mao0YLQHDMsRe3mTp4n

Again, the acting was good. But this production company keeps going back to cheating/misunderstandings and ends up rushing to resolve things.

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYfaogVGCvwQ_32A8H9oWjdEtXVTWcrja&si=qNZ9T1qbVr5i5cxQ

My rating could and probably will change. I gave The Sweet Blood a 7.5/10 though and I enjoyed this about as much if not more.

The effects were interesting, the mutual interest and lack of confusion regarding sexuality was refreshing, there was some legitimate tension and acting, and the backstory was handled pretty well and added to the character. Also, the brother's disagreement only being about him being a vampire was hilarious. He's like, "No, it's not because he's a man. It's because he's a vampire!" I can't. Lol!

Something about this felt unsatisfying though.

And, I don't really know how I feel about the ending. I kind of like that it wasn't what I expected. But, I also don't quite feel like it fit. The ring for one thing was an anti-Chekhov's gun which annoyed me. Why show it so many times and treat it with such importance only for him to never pick it up? There really wasn't much point with it. If it was so he could find the photo that doesn't really fit well. The idea of having a picture of him was barely mentioned while the ring felt like it carried real weight.

Anyway, I enjoyed it for the most part, but it could have been better. 

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

It had its shining moments of good chemistry and tension and memorable lines. But, overall, it was kind of just there. Once I got to the end, my reaction was, "That's it?" I don't know; I felt it was missing something story-wise. It doesn't linger in my mind at all.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

This wasn't half bad. Not excellent. But not half bad.

The clash and chemistry between the leads could be appealing, and I enjoyed their back-and-forths.

Plot needed work, though, for sure.

Can be found on iQiyi

I'm sad to say that this is one of the weaker offerings from my darling production company, Strongberry.

Cute and charming as this short drama and its characters could be, major conflicts' resolutions weren't explained or executed properly.

The brother and his mini life crisis/disappearance? Practically swept under the rug!

And kind of criminally, I wanted to see more of our main couples' sweet, official dating era!

*sigh*

I'm . . . A bit disappointed, if you couldn't tell.

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNd7BhdAz80qWw5TVGLUlVThCJPKyvJ6X&si=9VMnrP0phnQjwY_8

Very sweet and serene. Overall, I had a pleasant time.

The audio wasn't the best quality at times which did sometimes affect how I took the more serious dialogue. Sometimes the acting was a bit unconvincing. Though part of that was also me needing to get used to the soft tone of this drama, which I did after about the first episode.

How is it compared to the first (at least I think so) historical BL, Nobleman Ryu's Wedding?

This was more intended to be something to go along watching with a gentle smile while Nobleman Ryu's Wedding was made to illicit laughter. If I had to pick which I preferred I think it would be Tinted With You. I have a soft spot for quiet and slow dramas and movies.

Brownie points:

The actor playing the ML, Jun, is from the K-Pop group A.C.E which is known for being supportive of the LGBT+ community and also providing music for Light On Me <3 

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

We have an actual Gay person playing a Gay ML!!! A.K.A. Holland playing Tommy. Real representation!

As far as the drama itself, it was nice. Nothing special or memorable though. I feel like it's between a 7/10 and a 7.5/10. It did make me laugh and smile a few times. And Han Ba Da was pretty convincing.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

I don't remember the details of this too much. I just remember laughing a lot while watching it.

Not quite sure how I feel about this one. I may have to rewatch it to see.

This was fun! A wacky nod to classic K-Dramas, but shorter and without the weak and naïve FL.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

This was very much a typical K-Drama shot in the same way with the same clichés and characters. But I hadn't seen an older K-Drama in a while (and the reviews looked good), so I thought I'd give it a shot. 

The ML was arrogant and eccentric rather than an unredeemable jackass, which was a relief. The FL had a lot more to her than I first thought and quietly grew throughout the drama. The SML was a pleasure to see on screen. He was kind and put the FL's feelings and thoughts before his own, never truly trying to pressure her into being with him.

All that being said, this did drag on longer than it needed to. Twelve or sixteen episodes would've sufficed instead of twenty.

My biggest problem, though, is what starts and ends the drama. The fact that two people were induced through drugs into having sex without their consent/knowledge, and it wasn't treated seriously at all. It was brushed aside/laughed off on both occasions. That's why I couldn't give this an 8/10 in good conscious.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

Simply put, this was a solid, non-filler drama with pretty damn good acting and some fun misunderstandings and conflicts that were dealt with by adults in an actual adult way: A.K.A. with a conversation.

Also, the chemistry? Fire!

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL-UjFgW8TJEcVMXRV63uoHXg7rXv7mwll&si=oXcjz9RaXp-injZc

It was looking pretty solid but then they just did too much. Why does everyone have to have a connection from before? It did not feel natural at all. I suspect it was just to increase the runtime. But it certainly didn't do this drama any favors.

It's not awful. Just, not something I would actively recommend to anyone.

Side note: I thought maybe there was going to be some very very brief rep. But, no.

Can be found on Netflix

This was a nice little series. FL was cute and all the characters were likeable.

The "twist" with one of the male leads, Joo In Hyuk, having feelings for ML Park Ji Hoo and not So Dam was really cool to see. It was a surprise but didn't necessarily come out of nowhere. Since we assume from the start he also likes the FL we never analyze his actions any further. We just assume, "Oh, he must be Straight." But, in hindsight, some looks show something different. Reminded me of K.will's "Please don't..." music video where we as the audience didn't realize because our minds were so closed to the possibility of the guy liking anyone other than the girl. 

I liked how he also confessed to Ji Hoo himself and revealed his feelings on his own terms. That scene was very well acted. There are no direct statements or indications that In Hyuk is "just Gay" and one of the tags says Bisexual Character so I am leaning toward him being Bi (could also be Pan of course but I don't think that's the case here), also he does mention showing interest in So Dam in order to figure out his feelings.

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bN_t-b2_e7A&list=PL_xCFqnGwSN2DdmhaOSoZ0DwkP2A3KkSu&index=1

They were going for whimsical, but it felt quite forced. And the CEO stuff felt very tired.

I did appreciate the discussions about trauma/PTSD though.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

*coughs in I-just-watched-it-for-the-representation* The rest of it was pretty cute. I liked how the guys chatted and speculated just as much as the girls.

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FrteJtcvuOA&list=PLS--ClexQbQ1nRw10u1lag8y9tFHC3lbE&index=4

I wanted to give it an 8/10 but the big conflict between the ML and FL left me with a bitter taste in my mouth.

For about 75% of the time watching this drama, I was having a fun time. The vibrant setting and colorful cast of characters melded into something soothing but also outlandish. Honestly, looking back, the FL was my least favorite part of this drama. I'm not saying I hated her, in fact, I liked her the majority of the time. But sometimes she could be so ridiculously callus or cold that I couldn't relate or sympathize with her to save my life.

The ML, on the other hand, was a real treat all around, with an optimistic outlook, kind nature, and thought-out pain and struggles that weren't unrealistic and actually added to his character.

Together, they had good chemistry and were the cheeseiest couple to ever cheese. Like, off the charts levels! I kinda liked it though. It was refreshing to have a ML and FL both be truly equally head-over-heels in love.

Overall, despite my grievances, I would recommend it.

Regarding Representation: Though very brief, I was quite pleased.

Can be found on Netflix (with a VPN) or free websites

This had a great start, for sure, but some rather disappointing twists and conclusions. For a fair bit of time, I found this to be an interesting modern romance with a stylish FL and slow but solid character-building. However, as time went on, I quickly was able to predict the drama's trajectory: Despite the chemistry with the 2nd ML, his growth, and his genuine character, the FL would dismiss him as a potential love interest without a second thought and things would never progress between them, the clear aiding of a parent's emotional abuse would be easily pushed aside, and the main ML and FL would only get together after a ridiculous breakup. This one kind of stung because the whole time I was watching it I kept hoping for better but knew for a fact that I wouldn't be getting it because the drama thought they were tying everything up in a perfect bow.

As far as what made me smile, I really liked how Sang Eun and Ji Ho decided to not have a wedding since that just wasn't for them, how Ji Ho respected Sang Eun's decision regarding her mother, as well as the allyship both Sang Eun and Hae Jin provided Gwang Nam.

At the end of the day, I'm left with these thoughts: #JusticeForKangHaeJin and #GetGwangNamAManPreferrablyJungHwanSinceTheyHaveSomeLegitimateChemistry

Can be found on Rakuten Viki or free websites

I liked the mysteries and the rather "bold" and nuanced way they brought up and discussed Queer people. However, as charming as I found the girls and the odd way they solved cases, I found they were too forgiving to many undeserving characters. Also, the drama itself didn't treat some topics with the seriousness they required, making me unable to take the drama seriously. Overall, a quirky and well-meaning watch that could have been a bit more.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

You know, for a good two-thirds of this drama, I found myself not intrigued but rather along for a generic crime-drama ride. The last third managed to pull me back in, though, with conflicting feelings.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

At first, I really enjoyed myself. It was gripping and entertaining. But then, I felt like they just tried to do too much, make the mystery/crimes more complicated than they needed to be, and wrap too many characters up in it. In my opinion, the first twist was already good and all they really needed.

Like, here were my literal notes for the last few episodes: Make it make sense. Because it makes NO sense.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

I was going to give this a 7.5/10, but I had to take away .5 due to the dub-con scene with the sister. That really bothered me.

Introverted Boss certainly leaned more into the classic K-Drama formula, with a misunderstood as cold, rich ML and an out-there, energetic FL.

I appreciated that the message here wasn't to force someone with severe social anxiety to conform to society's standard of normal and present themself as someone they aren't but, rather, to take manageable steps out of their comfort zone to connect with others as well as make necessary tasks in their own life easier to handle, with the understanding that they can still put up boundaries and step back when they need to. 

Also, I would be remiss not to mention the short but well-done Trans rep present in one episode. I was pleasantly surprised by how respectful it was.

All this being said, while I felt they handled the ML and his experiences well, I found many of the side characters to be inconsistent in their personalities, often flipping on a dime to conform to a "necessary" misunderstanding to push the story forward/make the audience have a certain reaction. Also, many plot points were confusing, made no sense, and/or could have been scrapped altogether without anything missing.

I wouldn't go out of my way to tell you to watch this one, but if you stumble across it on Netflix, I believe you'll have a decent time and get some laughs out of it, too.

Can be found on Netflix 

To put it simply, this felt clunky. It had the makings of what should be an engaging crime drama: an intriguing opening, a mystery that's revealed bit by bit, a heinous and tragic crime, twists, etc. However, the main ML was difficult to connect with, and overall, the story seemed to lack a clear focus. I felt like maybe if the drama was told through a certain ML's perspective, it would have been a lot better.

This is not one I would recommend when there are far better crime dramas out there.

Can be found on free websites

This had so much potential. It was really good until the middle of episode 5. But, then they had to go and ruin it. Watching the last few episodes was painful. Up until that point while watching it I had no idea why people disliked it so much. But, after then, I understood.

The FL flipped and the story went off the rails and made me stop caring about the main character and her life.

This could have been an 8.5/10 at the very least. But, ultimately, they ruined what they had going for them.

Can be found on Netflix

This was an uncomfortable, sensual, and interesting experiment. And I found IU's acting and the cinematography to be outstanding.

Can be found on Netflix

I did have fun, don't get me wrong. While rather classic K-Drama, this one just wasn't quite my cup of tea. Maybe if I had watched it when it was airing, I would have had a different impression.

My biggest problem was that they kept reusing the same conflicts over and over and magically resolving issues in an inconceivably convenient way. This left me feeling like the drama could have flowed much better if it was only ten forty-five-minute episodes or eight one-hour-long episodes. Also, while I didn't dislike the leads, I often found them rather bland, and so the side characters with boundless personalities ended up charming me more.

Can be found on Netflix

Simple and likeable. I enjoyed how they went around the table telling everyone's story and slowly connected each person together.

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sr4v_NtRJv8&list=PLS--ClexQbQ0XnezKfsboLYVOg7nfabmT&index=2

A bit predictable. But, a fun watch for the most part.

Can be found on Netflix

Bizarre, but somehow bizarrely pretty good. Lol.

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UgT7UBXSh54&list=PLdBvEUNP7RyeLcb8WCKDnRjOxqTW00fun&index=4

They're both pretty cute and sweet together.

Also, the music and sound clips from old movies blends quite nicely in the background.

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=obrhaNmTI0M&list=PLihMMFMYqK8HqLH1Pg0Bo-AN0Ay7ZssvJ&index=6

The bromance has the best comedic moments in this. Lol. It was overall a moderately humorous drama with some great gags at times.

Can be found on LineTV

Was I entertained? Sure. Would I watch it again, though? No.

My liver hurts! *sobs*

Regarding Representation: I was pretty satisfied with it.

Can be found on free websites

The casual fatphobia was so NOT it. The haircuts and stage outfits were indescribably bad. The characters themselves and the lines they said were so textbook I could predict nearly every interaction. And the dancing! Don't get me started on the dancing! Overall, this was a cringefest that threatened to grind my teeth down to nothing. My God, was it cringey. Dear God, was it cringey. IT. WAS. CRINGEY.

. . .

But, cards on the table, it was SO bad it was downright fun. I laughed at the cringe and laughed at how much it made me cringe. And, admittedly, there were times it was honestly rather charming in an incredibly cheesy way.

Do I recommend it, though? Yeah, no.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

This was a bit of a cheesy pick-me-up with some food for thought about holding on/letting go of a relationship. If you ask me, I think they had their time. I fear they'll fall into the same destructive patterns and sink once again after reuniting. But, of course, it's not my decision to make.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki