I expected more
Now, at the beginning of 2026, having just finished Crash Landing on You, it can be said that since its release in 2019, the year it was produced, the series has become one of the iconic Korean dramas. An iconic series with high ratings, yet also a divisive one. Personally, I consider it fair to rate and form an opinion only after I have watched an entire series. I did manage to get through it, but I must say it was not easy. Sixteen ultra-marathon-length episodes with relatively little substantial development. Still, I will try to break down the pros and cons.In the series’ favor, it was very competently produced in terms of its visual world, atmospheric elements, and character portrayal. And for me, that is roughly where the list of pros ends.
As I mentioned, in my view the series was stretched out excessively, with an abundance of so-called filler mood-setting elements and scenes. I am fully aware that these are part of classic Korean drama conventions, and that in itself would not be a problem. However, here I did not feel there was a strong central narrative thread consistently pulling me in and sustaining my curiosity. In my opinion, while there is a basic storyline, it is embedded in a vast number of atmospheric details and side plots. In Hungary, we say, “Too many midwives and the child is lost,” meaning that too much surrounding activity obscures the core.
The chemistry between the two leads did not captivate me, despite the fact that I know they became a couple in real life. I never felt that inner anticipation or excitement about when they would finally grow closer. I could not genuinely root for them, although that certainly does not mean I was rooting against them.
As for the acting, the supporting cast delivered what was expected; it was evident that most of them could perform these familiar tropes with ease. Regarding the two leads, I do not wish to suggest that either of them lacks talent—far from it. Moreover, in a series of this type, it is difficult to fully showcase true acting range. However, one thing stood out to me and I did not particularly like it: Hyun Bin’s often mumbling, sulky-child-like intonation. Perhaps it is just me, but I have noticed something similar in other Korean dramas as well. Is this a directorial choice, or why do they do this?
Overall, I believe that for those who enjoy films and series filled with strong atmospheric elements, with a clear-cut distinction between good and evil, which often make you smile and allow you to step out of our own down-to-earth and not-so-positive world, this series can work very well.
It may also be that after a year of regularly watching Korean dramas, I have simply had my fill. Fewer and fewer series truly captivate me now, and I increasingly feel as though I am drowning in a sea of syrup when watching shows like CLOY. For me, it was simply too much. That is why I gave it a lower rating than many others.
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