Kathryn_51

I - for one - simply cannot believe that this show is predictably headed toward a Kang-ho-is-the-dad resolution. What kind of s**t resolution is that? It would be the worst of the worst K-drama trope from 2015/2016 era.

I cannot even. . . . .I can't.

Who is the most intriguing, multi-layered, triple-dimensional character in this drama???

Answer: Shi-Yeol.

He is the one reason I watched beyond Ep. 2 and I didn't even realize the layers and dimensions that were to follow.

That is all I have to say at this moment.

I'm watching this drama because of the complete package: compelling characters, intriguing story (spies, double-crossing) and a variety of romance, then you might want to stay with it.

The romance that is tugging at Every One's heartstrings does not involve Ye Eun. If that's the only reason you want to watch, then stop now - totally meh.

If the drama still interests you because of other characters or the interesting plot - and if you have the time - I suggest you stay with it. It's the first Joseon/sageuk that I have ever watched beyond Ep. 2

Hint: the character of Shi-yeol (Kang Hoon)

Totally agree - script, directing, talented actors and. . . chemistry. This one hits on all bases.

I began watching this drama partly because of Park So Jin and frankly, I was sad for her character in Ep. 8 - she focuses totally on outward appearance - the designer handbag, her funky/handsome husband. Like all of the other messy relationships in this drama, I think they will stay together - perhaps w/a bit of insight of what each one wants/expects/hopes for.

I put this drama on my Watchlist because of Joo Sang Wook and Park So Jin (Alchemy of Souls!). Yoo In-ah has not been a favorite of mine but I gave it a try.

This is now one of my two Must Watch Drama As Soon As Released because the entire cast is great and the Main Couple is endearing.

Joo Sang Wook portrays a intriguing and loveable character, but he is not part of the primary romance. But very enjoyable whenever on screen. You decide.

You are probably correct that he didn't play around while married. He seemed rather stunned at court and afterwards.

I just hope he doesn't up with U-ri - she is my least favorite character.

Looks like there is more to learn about CEO Sang Jin. He's apparently from a wealthy family and wealthy on his own. Based on one of the PR videos, it seems like his character is "playboy" [Quote: "There are plenty of women in the world"].

Absolutely one of the best in terms of scripting and direction. It doesn't hurt that the two leads have terrific chemistry.

Deborah previously claimed she could seduce Soo Hyuk if she wished - and she was disappointed when he seemed immune. However, in the final scene, she wasn't using any of her usual tricks - it was all organic and she wanted that kiss as much as he did.

I think I'll go re-watch.

i agree. At its most basic level, this show is about messy, imperfect relationships. Every couple has issues - including our not-yet-a-couple. And I have anticipated that we will see how each relationship (including past relationships) will resolve itself.

Sang Jin and U-ri just don't fit because I don't ever want to see them as a couple. Worst of all is if Sang Jin were to actually go down that path because his ex-wife wished that he would be lonely for the rest of his life and he rebounds with U-ri to prove the ex wrong.

Meanwhile, I still can't get over the difference between Sang Jin and Jang Kang (Alchemyy of Souls) but I suppose that simply proves that Joo Sang Wook is one terrific actor.

I don't know what SVU means ("special victim unit" according to wiki??), but the actor actually sings an OST for this drama and they played it today during his scene with Bo-mi.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0jjNyDI1rXs

ML is my favorite character. Thanks to some fellow MDL'ers, I learned about "My Holo Love". I guess he frequently plays the prickly, silent stoic type of role, but I enjoy him in both. Maybe that's one of my preferences.

You might enjoy this video. The 4 main actors answer several questions (associated w/song lyrics?) but they answer for their CHARACTER and I think it makes it clear what two-sentence description the writers wrote for each character.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=luBZHeZk6og

Question: "Ever since we got into a big fight. . . .you and my friend became sweet lovers"

Joo-wan: "I remind myself I am a huge victim. [Note: I think this describe Yu-ri as well]

Bo-ra: "I will drink every day for a month."

Soo-hyuk: "I'm gong to cry alone at home in a pathetic way; I will take it as if it's nothing"

Sang Jin: "I don't care if you two are together or not. Ther are plenty of women in the world."

The rest of the video is equally revealing about the characters.

Yoo In Soo is the only reason this has been on my Watchlist - healing and/or revenge dramas not my thing. But I don't think he's a romantic psychopath. Kang Ho is the psychopath in this one (yeah, it's all his Mom's fault - NOT). Now that I'm watching, I also enjoy the eccentric villagers. That's about it.

Looking forward to In Soo i Uncanny Counter 2 as well.

"I was the first person to see you naked"

Love Bam-sik.

When she stops drinking.

Crazy speech in front of an audience - drinking
Visiting Ex and pleading with him to take her back - drinking
Today's episode (certainly a twist on the usual vomiting trope) - drinking

Perhaps the writers are simply using excessive drinking as a plot device. . . . but perhaps they are also doing a bit of public service. The girl who committed suicide (over brea-up and job loss) had been drinking as well.

This is the first "Joseon" type drama that I have watchedbeyond Ep. 2 and I only began to watch (when it was already at 10 eps] because I was sick w/flu and wanted to binge watch something lighthearted. I am really enjoying it and if there is a happy ending, then this will get my 2nd ever 10⭐ rating - primarily because my heart melts when the "2nd Lead Couple" is on screen. They are enchanting (to me) I find the Main Couple to be meh.

Lots of palace intrigue, double crossing, spies everywhere, etc. I like that type of story - if done well and if the dots are well-connected at the end.

I don't believe legitimacy had much to do with things back then. I only recently started to read about the Joseon dynasty (mainly because of this drama) and apparently a king could designate the heir/crown prince among many of his sons - or even grand-sons. The mother of the fake son is the ccurrent King's concubine (they never married).

I'm just saying that if Yu--ha is the eldest son (of the deposed Crown Prince), then it makes it a bit easier to justify - or a reason for Kang San to give up his claim to the throne.

Sometimes, I feel like we should start a "betting bracket" - who will survive and who will die. I'm rather surprised that most of the main/supporting cast is still alive, so I anticipate that lots of blood will flow by the end. 😢😢

Nevertheless, I think that all of Ihwawon Inn family will survive because those are the light-hearted scenes in the drama and all of the characters are endearing. As for the Palace, Buyeonggak and assorted government ministers/officials I predict at least a 50% body count.

I'm enjoying it - but understand that it's 50 episodes and will not end until September. 😊