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Bloody horrendous hell! It can't be more disappointing and disgusting

A taxi driver expecting good luck picks up a mysterious passenger who offers him a an extra fare to drive him to the port. Eventually the taxi driver learns the man is a psycho on the run after committing murder.
!!! Trigger warning: it's very very disturbing and gruesome! Not for faint hearted!

I was intrigued by the cast but it is really underwhelming once I've seen the first few episodes. Plot progression is super slow, i think around 6 episodes are spent for backstories, with the present day timeline was just going through one night full of incidents. The fight scenes are annoying, felt like they're just showing off psychopacy.

Towards the middle it took a dark turn and every episode makes me feel sick. I just finished it because I was hoping for any satisfying redemption by the finale (+ so that I'm entitled to write my rant!), but it turns out to be a waste of time. The main conflict was resolved poorly and anticlimactic. Hands down one of the worst dramas I've ever seen!

PS: Sorry Yeo Yoon Seok, your acting is always top-notch, I want to remember you only as Gu Dong Mae, not Hyuk Soo. Wish to see you in better dramas next year!

Dec 2023, Yovita
Find me on Instagram: @kdramajudge

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If you are looking for a heart-wrenching angsty long-drawn-out melodrama you will love this

The Red Sleeve has a promising premise. My favorite moment is Deok Im's childhood when she is so full of life! I also love the friendships between her and other palace maids last throughout the episodes. The casting is really fitting, I loved the couple's chemistry together, and I thought they were incredibly swoony. I loved that they're both adults and yet can be so innocent and giddy together, it makes me smile. The visuals are gorgeous, and the OST is so wonderful and gives me all the feels.

But around the midpoint way I kind of lost a little bit of interest because it started to veer into heavy melodrama territory, and that aspect lasted too long because they're constantly faced with inconvenient circumstances, misunderstandings, miscommunications, the male lead is sometimes really harsh and showing off his power. I know that is part of his character and part of his growth, but I found it annoying. And the slow pacing just stretched for the rest of the entire series and I just got so tired. The final episode is too jarring, there’s no build-up towards the ending. I couldn't fully enjoy it anymore. For me, It would have been perfect if this drama is 8 episodes.

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A fun take into the behind-the-scene-of a BL drama making while being BLs

A passionate rookie actor Shirasaki Yuki (Niihara Taisuke), lands a role to be the co-star of a famous actor he knew back in university days, Hayama Asami (Komagine Kiita). As the filming process starts, Shirasaki starts wrestling with his feelings of his character and in real life, as he confronts how he feels about himself while exploring how he really feel about Asami.

This is a delight, wonderful, and fun take into the behind-the-scene of a BL drama while also being a BL. It explores the opposing personal insecurities of Yuki & Asami who are in different stages of success, Yuki feels a burden to find authenticity in his role while Asami has the burden of being successful, Amidst unrequited love and burgeoning feelings, they unite beautifully well on screen. Lovely flirting moments and the instant chemistry really draw me in, and those are my two essentials when it comes to enjoying a romance.

There’s a moment of frustration, but it was endearing to realize the reason behind this twist is due to their own fear of failure, not only in love, but also in career. Both of them want to succeed as actors but afraid that they're not good enough to succeed in. I think this conflict was handled well compared to other dramas. The final episode was perfect and sexy, it had me blushing a lot, leaving me feeling so happy! Would recommend to anyone for the unique storyline, you get intimacy, shirtless caresses, yearning... all those goodies!

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They got me squealing, grinning, toe-curling the whole time they interact! (>᎑<๑)/♡

When Hiro (Kaneko Shunya) passes out on the sidewalk after a stressful workday, his childhood friend Kai (Nomura Kota) finds and helps him to get home. Kai’s presence drives Hiro flustered, the way he put himself in Hiro's home so sincerely as if he had always wanted to be there… and Hiro quickly like this change, as Kai brings comfort to his life, but Is there any room for them going from easygoing relationships to spouses?

Right of the bat, the story flows well. Those small acts before episode 1 ends are genuinely cute, heart-fluttering, and that part really got me on board with our two leads, Hiro and Kai. I love Hiro's "Huh?" & "Matte!" so anime-like and attention-grabbing, hehe... Hiro is such a gullible young man and Kai's behave so kindly, slightly flirty, but never cross the line, so they both were comforting to watch.

There is almost no conflict here, but for this drama being only 6 episodes, I want it to focus on all their sweet moments, and they did. The more I'm watching the more I enjoyed. When they’re together at home, they really like husband and wife, aaah! so cute! The dinner, the bedroom, the bento scenes got me on dopamine high, cause I just felt chemistry! They got me squealing, grinning, toe-curling the whole time they interact! (>᎑<๑)/♡.

The story also highlights the realistically stressful workplace situation, which, at some point, created just a slight tension just before it was resolved neatly at the end. Hiro's work colleagues are all nice people and their presence fit well to the story. All in all, a very lovely watch!

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I love opposite attracts and this drama really bring the best out of them!

Dali, who runs her family's art museum in Korea, was in Amsterdam as a visiting art curator. She met a successful businessman Moo Hak by accident, and he falls head over heels her at first sight. The two part ways, but he intends to meet her again. Shortly after, Dali needs to go back to Korea because of her family emergency, while he’s looking for her all over Amsterdam. When fates finally bring these two together again, they ended up as as a creditor and debtor over the art museum.

“Dali and the Cocky Prince” is an art-inspired rom-com. Normally I’m not immediately sold on romcom, but this was a surprisingly heart-fluttering watch! I love how this drama really highlights our lead couple’s personality and quirks. Their journey as a couple so sweet, from them being open to each other, trusting, to them relying on each other. At times when Moo Hak doesn’t reply Dali in sensible ways, she’s not belittling him, but she smiles and it’s so heartwarming. It’s comfortable watching their progression and was satisfied with many romantic moments. Episode 14 is my favorite, where there was a super dreamy and beautiful scene of them, and also a bit spicy, I love everything about them! Kudos to our leads’ perfect chemistry and acting. Kim Min Jae is genuinely cute as the silly undignified Moo Hak, Park Gyu Young is so charming, genius and beautiful.

There was a conflict which was not my favorite part, but it didn’t take a dramatic soapy turn and the romance kept its’ fun and airiness and beauty throughout the episodes so it was super satisfying and memorable! Later, I found out that the director was Lee Jung Sub. He was also the director of Healer, btw, one of my favorites of all time! This is probably why I love the romance so much!

-Feb 2024, Yovita
Find me on Instagram: @kdramajudge

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Gang Doo and Moon Soo shared traumatic experience when they were both young; They were trapped in the same area together when a mall collapsed on them. Thus, they both are severely traumatized and broken from this experience and later they reconnect as adults and this drama is about them working together to heal and pick up the pieces of their life. This drama has a gritty & grounded-in-reality tone to it. It's quite depressing but at the same time have a very uplifting hopeful vibe to it. The OSTs are gorgeous, they have such meaningful lyrics and give more depth and insight to the story.

Another thing I really loved about is the chemistry between the leads and their romance story. It was a beautiful slow burn, where two people grow individually and together. Acting is outstanding, the way the two portrayed their characters was so sincere and natural that it touched my heart. I think Junho as Gang Doo really carried the show. I liked the female lead, Moon Soo, a lot more in the beginning and as it went on I kind of lost a little bit of interest in her and really invested myself in Gang Doo. His story is also a little bit more interesting as he's definitely far more traumatized by the whole event. He's given so much character development. I also adored the other characters, especially the spunky grandmother, played by Na Moon Hee. She was such a wonderful and welcomed surprise. One thing I don’t like is the plot twist that happened around the finale, but the ending is fine.

Dec 2023, Yovita
Find me on Instagram: @kdramajudge

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It's an excellent drama with a balance mix of fun, seriousness, pace and depth.

Go Ah In (Lee Bo Young) is an ambitious woman whose only purpose is to do her job as a creative director in an advertising agency in the most perfect and flawless possible. She gets promoted as the executive director (Chief Creative Officer/CCO) at her company, which is her ultimate career goal. However, her superior, Choi Chang Soo (Jo Sung Ha), has another plan in mind. Furthermore, behind her obvious workaholic nature, she is also struggling with family and mental health issues.

I had a blast watching Agency. The story went all in on showing how a mental health problem can influences work performance negatively, and how challenging it is for someone with a position, like Go Ah In, to survive in a cut-throat work environment, where employees are exploited merely for profit. Despite handling the topic on mental health, it wasn't depressing at all. It is cool, fresh, fashionable and fast-paced. Each episode increases tension between the leads and the rivalry makes the plot interesting. The plot didn't go extreme, there's no makjang elements, but it's still engaging especially the last four episodes. The characters have strong personalities, showed good humour and teamwork. No romance as the main plot but there are great romantic tension between the second leads.

Agency cleverly delivered a feminism-sting through their female leads. I like how competent Go Ah In and her way in managing her team. Then, there is Kang Han Na as the privileged young woman who wanted to break free from her chaebol family expectations. I also enjoyed Jo Eun Jung, she is a working mom who is dedicated to do her job, despite her son's disapproval for her to work and resign instead. Her story showed the stigma against working mothers in a conservative yet competitive Korean society refreshingly.

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"I just can't wait to be king" Ta Gon and "I just can't wait to be queen" Tae Al Ha^^

Two tribes live in a mythical land called Arth; the red-blooded humans who can't dream and the blue-blooded humanoids who can dream, and who are also faster and stronger than humans. A war for resources breaks out between the two and the humans end up winning the war through some trickery. Years later, the struggles and greed of power continues...

This drama is unique, it brings you to the bronze age. There's a lot of knowledge on anthropology, evolutionary biology, politics, civilization stages, farming, domestication, religion/mysticism. More than just entertainment, they kept me occupied intellectually. I appreciate them to realize this daring concept into a drama. The story itself is using the common fantasy trope; like a prophecy, a mysterious barrier between two tribes, and it's very plot-driven.

The characters are a lot of fun, especially Tagon, the human leader, he's morally ambiguous and dignified, at the same time he hides a dark secret which is a real high stake. I have to say his younger self gave me chills more than the adult version, he had a very cool charisma; great job Moon Woojin, I always admire you, also in It's Okay to Not be Okay, The Devil Judge, yeah). This is also my only favorite Song Jong Ki drama so far, he's magical in his dual twin roles, together with the irreplaceable Kim Ji Won. There's a lot to enjoy within their relationships and dynamics.

Overall,I think it's a really darn good fantasy. I wanted to know more, the characters surprisingly got stuck with me personally, like I think about them when i'm not watching. The first season is laying a wonderful groundwork for the 2nd season.

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A promising premise but unfortunately the romance overwhelmed the mainplot.

After watching Extracurricular, I was intrigued to find a drama with a similar vibe. So I was excited to see this drama.
The first scene of episode 1 got me intrigued and I was ready to see more. However, when we got to investigate the lingering mystery and back story of our characters, I quickly got bored by the mundane fighting scenes or high schoolers' interactions.
There were a few beautifully shot scenes and warming family time that our male lead spent, which reminds me of Reply 1988 moments, but the execution of the main storyline is not as exciting to watch (for me). It doesn't build up properly toward the climax. The ending was also underwhelming and I finished the drama feeling so unsatisfied.
I'm sorry, but I just can't like it. The quality and character portrayals were not hitting me at all. If you know any shows with similar vibes that are executed very well, please let me know!
Have a nice day!

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A gritty thriller with friendships involved.

Hyun Tae (Ji Sung), In Chul (Ju Ji Hoon), and Min Soo (Lee Kwang Soo) were three longtime best friends. One day, they teamed up to stage a robbery for an insurance settlement. A mishap in their actions lead their friendships to turn sour.

This is a pretty dark and gloomy watch. It didn't really deliver for me. When I think about the plot, I had a hard time filling in the missing pieces. Also, the friendship was not stressed enough and there was not enough character development. What went down among them felt jarring to me.

However, I love how it makes me feel. The action is great and the performance shows a lot of depth. All three leads did amazing, they really pulled my heartstrings especially at the second half. I know Ji Sung is great but so do Lee Kwang Soo and Ju Ji Hoon, well done, everyone! This movie left a mark, the ending was unexpected and it remains in my memory. I would recommend if you are in the mood for a serious, dark, rather noir-themed movie.

Fun fact: The three leads did spin-off in Runningman episode 202 – 203, it was smart and funny, watch this one anytime! I guarantee you’ll be entertained! I laughed so hard and actually was impressed with the teamwork. It was one of my fave Runningman episodes!^^

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A refreshing slice-of-life take on high school romance!

When Chinzhilla band is threatened to get disbanded by the student body president, Tinn (Gemini Norawit Titicharoenrak), the lead singer of the band, Gun (Fourth Nattawat Jirochtikul) is desperate to save his band. Unknown to Gun, Tinn has a secret crush on him and Tinn soon learns that Chinzhilla has a rule that the band members aren't permitted to date until they win the Hot Wave Music Contest – so Tinn becomes supportive of the band and will do whatever it takes to make Gun fall for him!

This show gave me all sort of entertaining jokes. It was funny, slap-stick, silly, cute, swoony, and just a bit of cringy. The plot is simple but the execution is refreshing that it's surprisingly hooking. The whole cast were so expressive and lively, some of the scenes were them imagining, dreaming or reenacting some situation, these scenes were ha ha hilarious! XD. It got a bit mundane in some serious aspects but for the most part was still very entertaining and fun.

Despite the premise hinting enemies to lovers, the enemies part were very mild and brief... The relationship progression of Tinn and Gun was healthy and innocent. They embrace first loves awkwardly, but always support each other through all their ups and downs. Their flirting was so cute and making me wish they went a bit spicier. Yes, this drama is not spicy, not that I mind it as I'm satisfied with their romance. Also, they have the most adorable wingman, Thiu! That's another plus point about this series, that each character was appreciated and wholesome.

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Such a short & charming drama, surprisingly educational

Dan Bi (Kim Seul Gi), a senior high school student who is losing her motivation to study ends up time-travelling to the Joseon period at the day of her college test. She appears right in front of the palace royalties who were desperately calling for the rain. The King (Yoon Doo Joon) gets intrigued by her presence and knowledge, so they made a deal in order to make it possible for her to go back.

It's an easy drama to get through. Perfect for days when you don't feel like watching anything or don't know what to watch next. I enjoyed the comedy, the romance and character arcs, it's very satisfying and made me so happy, lol ^-^ The time travelling aspect is simple, the couple get to know each other naturally, it happens exactly how I want it; strong chemistry, fun banter, with cute classic cliché scenes. No palace intrigue as there's no time for that, but it's surprisingly educational. There was a hint of history woven holistically and that's a high-quality storytelling not to miss. Like I mentioned, it's short, only two episodes, so practically a movie. In case you're curious, it's really worth checking out!

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Recommended if you like action, good acting and good villains

To execute his revenge, Bong Sang Pil (Lee Joon Gi) becomes a lawyer. With the cunning and skills from his gangster upbringing, he arises to become one of the highest winning rate attorneys of the country. A disbarred attorney Ha Jae Yi joins him and together, they are involved in the dangerous game of trying to expose the corrupt people in power.

Lawless Lawyer has a lot of action, comedy, and a hint of romance that developed quite fast. The premise about underdog heroes who have tragic pasts caused by corrupt people in power is quite familiar and there was not much unpredictable plot twists. While the story may not be entirely new; the non-stop action scenes were very entertaining, sometimes very funny. It has enough suspenseful moments and sweet romantic moments to keep me watching.

Every cast did a really good job, Lee Joon Gi gave a boost to Bong Sang Pil not only through his amazing action but also the micro gestures, his acting is just brilliant. And although I think Seo Yea Ji's character was too exaggerated, she perfectly embodied Ha Jae Yi that she disappeared into her role. Choi Min Soo was another highlight, as the slimy-underworld-crime-boss-turned-politician, he brought Ahn Oh Joo character to life, whose actions you both love and hate. Overall, I enjoyed it, this one is not a disappointment.

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Just relax and enjoy it

Yeo Mi Ran (Kim Ok Bin) is a lawyer by day and a street fighter. She has no interest in dating and is very competitive among men. Nam Kang Ho (Yoo Teo) is a movie star who doesn't have much faith in women. In his new role, he needs coaching to fight naturally, and Mi Ran gets to train him through them agreeing on a fake dating relationships. Despite their shared disbelief in love, their relationships grow as they spend more time together.

This is short, light, and has a lot of funny scenes throughout the ten episodes! A fake dating plot that fit perfectly with the enemies-to-lovers trope. The romance was nicely developed and gave a lot sweet and swoon-worthy moments. The friendships are fun to watch. Good job to all actor for their natural acting. They carried the show together, no one is more dominant than the others.

It’s nice that the drama also focused on some problems in society regarding the patriarchal beliefs about women. Even though Mi Ran was a feminist, the story was not at all anti women/men, they made it entertaining while still delivering their messages. Overall, delightful from beginning to end, filled with chemistry with some cute and sexy moments, and just a tiny bit of angst.

Mar 2024, Yovita
me on Instagram: @kdramajudge

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I recommend! an intense, fast-paced, revenge drama with a lot of scheming and backstabbing XD

Despite being the daughter-in-law of a chaebol family, Kim In Seok (Yeom Jung Ah) leads a sad life being tormented by her family members for 18 years. After her husband’s passing, she decides to fight back with the help of prosecutor Han Ji Hoon (Ji Sung), who was an orphan whom she adopted and nurtured into the man he is today. However, a mysterious incident leads Han Ji Hoon to become a murder suspect…

Royal Family is a revenge story full of treasons, confronted feelings, and satisfying twists & resolutions. It has a solid writing, fast-paced and superb acting. From the first episode, they showed enough plot happenings and questions that kept me hooked all the way. Was Han Ji hoon really a murderer? How is Kim In Sook going to have her revenge? Note that it’s a serious drama and the business long-talk were not always exciting to follow, but there were enough actions and plot twists to break the monotony. Also, despite hinting at noona romance, it was not the focus here.

As with many dramas, there is a mysterious past. With this one, it did not feel forced into the narrative; it made sense and helped to understand the character’s viewpoints and motivations. When it was revealed, I really enjoyed the emotional climaxes, it was beautifully acted. If it’s Ji Sung, performance is unquestionable. All the veteran actors also delivered a top-notch performance! Finally, the ending left me with mixed feelings, but it felt somewhat justified.

thanks for reading :)
Find me on Instagram: @kdramajudge

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