what even goes on in dramas with more than 50 episodes. like what can happen. most dramas with 16 episodes are…
A story is as long as it needs to be. Honestly i'm not sure I even understand the question - consider novels? Look at the Harry Potter series or The Dark Tower or Lord of the Rings vs any of the millions of standalone novels? Did they have problems in making things happen? No.
Several long sageuks tell stories far bigger, far wider in scope, than what you'll see in these 16 episode dramas. In fact, the whole time-capping thing of so many dramas at specifically 16 episodes is precisely what leads to so many of them having uneven pacing and haphazard storytelling, seeing as the production is forced to apply their vision to a predetermined block of time, rather than letting the story play out organically and for however long is required, whether it be 9, 13, 17, 25 episodes etc. etc.
When dramas feel too long, it's not because of the episode count, but a flaw in the storytelling.
h_ttps://x.com/translatingsk/status/1902345625838219549Chinese netizens already debunking the call recording and…
It's an analysis of the audio waveform and not an analysis on the authenticity of the content. Analysis shows that the audio was edited, though how much so and to what extent of deceit is unclear.
There's something so classy, impeccable and measured about this drama. I hope it doesn't go downhill after episode 60 seeing as they tagged on 21 episodes due to its popularity.
I'd have liked a more convincing and connected transition from young Jung Yi to adult Jung Yi. Moon Geun Young was perfectly suited for Painter in the Wind but lacks some presence here, maybe because I'm too coloured by the incredible first four episodes and Jin Ji Hee's portrayal of Jung Yi. Even without the comparison though, MGY's performance just lacks (ironically) some fire.
As for the drama overall... I'm constantly captivated.
K-Drama 
Several long sageuks tell stories far bigger, far wider in scope, than what you'll see in these 16 episode dramas. In fact, the whole time-capping thing of so many dramas at specifically 16 episodes is precisely what leads to so many of them having uneven pacing and haphazard storytelling, seeing as the production is forced to apply their vision to a predetermined block of time, rather than letting the story play out organically and for however long is required, whether it be 9, 13, 17, 25 episodes etc. etc.
When dramas feel too long, it's not because of the episode count, but a flaw in the storytelling.
In a word: No.
As for the drama overall... I'm constantly captivated.