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This review may contain spoilers
NAVIGATING LOVE AND CORPORATE AMBITION
After finishing *You Are My Secret*, I must say it was an emotional rollercoaster with lots of heartfelt moments, corporate drama, and character growth. The drama follows Tu Xiaoning and Ji Yuheng, two old schoolmates who reconnect at a matchmaking event. Xiaoning is a hardworking, persistent woman who's yet to land a permanent position. Yuheng, on the other hand, is already in a top position.The chemistry between Xiaoning and Yuheng is undeniable, and it was a joy watching Yuheng's quiet, caring nature unfold. The way he pays attention to Xiaoning is so intentional and sweet. Even though he’s her boss, they have a genuine partnership, supporting each other both at work and in their personal lives.
I loved how the story gave space for both characters to grow individually and together. Xiaoning’s struggles in a competitive work environment were relatable, and Yuheng’s emotional vulnerability, especially dealing with the loss of his mother and revealing his long-time love for Xiaoning, was touching. The subplot with Lu Sijing, Xiaoning’s ex, brought some tension, but Yuheng’s jealousy and boldness in protecting Xiaoning added a layer of excitement to their romance.
The office drama, particularly with antagonists like Zhao Fanggang and Tang Yuhui, added plenty of conflict. I found myself rooting for Xiaoning as she stood her ground against Tang Yuhui, and I enjoyed watching Fanggang’s transformation from a tough, resentful employee to a loyal and supportive friend. His slow-burn romance with Rao Jing was also adorable, despite the constant bickering.
However, the drama did have its frustrating moments, especially with Tang Yuhui’s obsession with Yuheng. Her constant attempts to sabotage Xiaoning and Yuheng’s relationship were annoying at times, and I felt her arc dragged a bit longer than necessary. Thankfully, Yuhui finally realized her obsession wasn’t love.
The ending tied everything up beautifully with Yuheng and Xiaoning finally getting married after so many ups and downs. It was heartwarming to see their journey culminate in a wedding, with Fanggang and Rao Jing’s relationship also blooming. The soundtrack complemented the emotional beats of the drama and I appreciated the blend of humour and drama throughout the series.
Overall, You Are My Secret was a delightful mix of romance, corporate politics, and personal growth. The characters felt real, and their relationships were both heartwarming and relatable. It’s definitely a drama I’d recommend if you’re looking for something light but with depth, especially if you enjoy office romances with a bit of intrigue!
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UNRAVELING FAMILY TIES
Wow, this drama was quite the emotional rollercoaster! From the get-go, I found myself rooting for Mai Chenghuan—a hardworking and diligent woman who seems to always be caught in the web of other people's schemes and manipulations.Her relationship with Xin Jialiang was so frustrating! Imagine dating someone for three years and not knowing he's the heir to a massive company, only for him to lie about it repeatedly. It’s hard to watch someone like Chenghuan, who gives so much of herself, constantly be let down by the people she loves. Jialiang's love for her is obvious, but his inability to stand up to his family and speak out for her was disappointing. And don’t get me started on his sister, Xin Jiali! The way she tried to sabotage their relationship just because Chenghuan didn’t meet their financial expectations was infuriating.
And then, there’s Yao Zhiming, her boss. From firing her unjustly to using her to his advantage, Zhiming is a complex character. At times, I couldn't tell if he genuinely cared for Chenghuan or was just manipulating her for his own gain. It’s exhausting to navigate his intentions. Still, I have to give him credit for his eventual growth. He goes from being this cold, calculating businessman to someone who genuinely starts to care for the people around him.
But let’s talk about Chenghuan’s family dynamics. Her mother, Liu Wanyu, was hands down one of the most frustrating characters! The constant pressure to marry into wealth, the way she bulldozes over Chenghuan’s desires, and her embarrassing behavior whenever she’s in fancy settings—it was almost unbearable. It’s like she couldn’t see how her actions were tearing Chenghuan apart. And where was Chenghuan's father, Mai Laitian, through all this? Just passively watching everything unfold, never stepping in to support his daughter or check his wife. It was beyond frustrating.
The tension reached its peak during that disastrous engagement banquet. Honestly, I was proud of Chenghuan for finally standing up to both Jialiang’s family and her own. It was a long time coming, and seeing her take control of her life felt empowering. The fact that she was tricked into an engagement she didn’t even know about was outrageous. I was livid alongside her! And Liu Wanyu threatening to disown her—what mother does that? It’s clear that Chenghuan’s breaking point had arrived, and I was so glad when she finally moved out.
Chenghuan’s professional life was just as messy. The constant scheming at Botticelli, the backstabbing from Wu You, and the setups by Zhiming were too much. But watching Chenghuan persist, despite everything, was inspiring. She’s got this quiet strength, even when everyone around her is trying to use her. I particularly loved how she handled Wu You’s framing, standing firm even when the odds were against her. Her eventual decision to leave Botticelli and work elsewhere, only for Zhiming to follow her and try to make amends, showed just how deeply he regretted his actions.
The drama didn’t shy away from the harsh realities of societal expectations either, especially with Chenghuan’s brother Chengzao. His struggles as a law graduate from a non-prestigious school and the way his family’s issues overshadowed his own dreams hit close to home. I admired his quiet resilience, even when he took up a food delivery job just to make ends meet. The love story between him and Mao Yongxin was subtle, but I appreciated how it slowly grew over time, despite the challenges they faced.
By the end of the drama, I felt like I’d been through the wringer. Chenghuan’s journey from a people-pleaser who constantly bent to the wills of others to a strong, independent woman was truly satisfying. And while Zhiming finally learned to treat people with respect, it took a lot of pain and heartache to get there. Their relationship was one that I grew to appreciate, especially since it didn’t feel rushed or forced—they both needed time to grow individually.
But Liu Wanyu… I never really warmed up to her, even with her illness arc. The way she wallowed in self-pity and tried to control everything until the end was just too much. It was frustrating to see her drag her sickness out as a plot device when, frankly, I was more interested in Chenghuan’s development and her work with Xing’anli.
In the end, this drama was a whirlwind of emotions. It dealt with class struggles, family obligations, love, and betrayal. While some characters tested my patience (I’m looking at you, Liu Wanyu), the heart of the story—Chenghuan’s resilience—made it all worth it. The soundtrack was fine, though nothing particularly memorable for me. Overall, the drama was a solid ride, full of twists and heartfelt moments, but also plenty of frustration with the meddling and manipulation that Chenghuan had to endure.
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SMALL TOWN CHARM: A HEARTWARMING JOURNEY OF HEALING AND LOVE
"When the Weather Is Fine" was slow and calm, like a peaceful meditation. It was nice to see what life is like in a small town that feels like home, a place where everyone knows each other and looks out for one another. People are always there to greet you with a warm smile and a familiar story. The story in this drama unfolded naturally, too. It's a story about love, regret, and healing. It brought to the forefront that life isn't just about what's obvious but also about what's going on under the surface that we don't always see or talk about.Mok Hae Won, a cello teacher, decides to leave the big city of Seoul and move to a quiet town to live with her aunt. Her arrival rekindles old flames and unresolved emotions, especially for Lim Eun Seop, who has quietly loved her from afar for years. Mok Hae Won is a character I couldn’t help but root for, especially when she was dealing with the tough stuff from her past. Her mom just got out of jail for killing her abusive husband, and they don't get along, so there's a lot of tension there. The drama shows their complicated mother-daughter relationship. It's honest and true to life and talks about how hard forgiveness can be and how past trauma affects the present.
Lim Eun Seop, on the other hand, is a character who keeps to himself. He really likes Hae Won but doesn't tell her how he feels, even when he has the chance. It was sweet to see how much he cared, but it was also annoying that he wasn't saying anything. The drama does a great job of showing us what was really going on inside his head. It slowly revealed his hidden fears and insecurities—fear of losing anything that brings him warmth and happiness because of the abandonment and loss in his past, which explained why he was the way he was.
The other characters, like the bubbly and extroverted Lee Jang Woo and the manipulative but pitiable Kim Bo Yeong, make the story even more interesting. Jang Woo’s cheerful and outgoing personality is the opposite of Eun Seop’s reserved and quiet nature. Bo Yeong’s complicated emotions toward Hae Won and Eun Seop also add tension to the story. She's a complicated character who feels really sorry for what she's done. She wants to be forgiven so badly, and that makes her story really interesting, even though she's not always easy to like.
One of the standout aspects of this series is the book club that the characters participate in. The drama was full of book references that made it even more engaging. The book club meetings were like a mirror for the characters. When they read from the books, it was like they were seeing themselves in the stories. It helped them understand their own lives better.
The drama did have its ups and downs, though. Lim Eun Seop’s reluctance to confess his feelings and his hot-and-cold behavior toward Hae Won was really frustrating. Just when you think he’s finally ready to open up, he pulls back. Even though he was acting weird and making me frustrated, we start to understand why when we learn more about his past. It turns out he has a really bad memory from the past that's making him scared, which explains his behavior.
Hae Won and Eun Seop's relationship took its time to develop, but it was definitely amazing when it did. Their love story, when it finally started, was really cute and sweet. However, there was always a little bit of sadness in the back of Eun Seop's mind, especially because Hae Won's time to return to Seoul was drawing near. It starts out as a love story, but there’s a lot more going on. It’s about letting go of old hurts, forgiving people, and realizing how much love is actually around us.
Eun Seop's sad story starts to feel really hopeful. He used to be scared and alone, but now he's starting to realize that his family loves him very much, even though they adopted him. It was great to see him finally feel loved and accepted. In the end, the story is really about people and their emotions. It's a nice, calm story that shows us what it means to be human. It's a story about the hurt we hold onto, the barriers we put up, and how love can make things better, even when we're scared to trust it. If you like stories that take their time and focus on the characters, you’ll really enjoy this one. Expect a few bumps in the road, though.
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THE TOXIC DANCE OF LOVE
So, I’ll just go straight into the positives and negatives of Soundtrack 2.Positives:
1. Character Development: I’ve really appreciated how the drama delves into the flaws and emotional struggles of its characters. Suho’s unwavering love and Hyeonseo’s complicated personality give us a lot to unpack and connect with on an emotional level.
2. Complex Relationships: The love triangle between Suho, Hyeonseo, and K definitely adds an intriguing layer to the story. It explores jealousy, emotional baggage, and personal growth in a way that feels both relatable and thought-provoking.
3. Emotional Depth: The drama does a great job tackling themes like self-worth, communication issues, and the fallout from unresolved emotions. Those emotional scenes, especially towards the end, are really powerful and impactful.
Negatives:
1. Frustrating Clichés: One thing that can be really annoying is how the drama leans on clichés, like characters keeping secrets and causing unnecessary heartbreak. It makes the plot feel predictable and pretty frustrating at times.
2. Unlikeable Characters: Hyeonseo’s actions and attitudes make her a tough character to root for. While everyone’s flawed, her lack of communication and treatment of Suho might make it hard to sympathize with her, which took away from my overall enjoyment.
3. Imbalanced Progression: The story dragged with repetitive issues between the characters, only for Hyeonseo to suddenly have a change of heart at the last minute. This messed with the pacing and left me feeling a bit unsatisfied with how everything was resolved.
Conclusion:
Overall, the drama does well with emotional depth and character exploration, but the overused tropes and the unlikable traits of key characters dampened the experience for me. While it ends on a beautiful note, the journey to get there was a bit too taxing for.
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HEART-WRENCHING TALE OF ABUSE AND REDEMPTION
I just finished watching this amazing drama, and I'm still processing the intense emotions it stirred in me. From the very first episode, I was hooked, and I knew I was in for a treat. Castaway Diva is one with well-developed characters, unexpected twists, and a story that will keep you on the edge of your seat.The drama follows the lives of two middle school classmates, Mok Ha and Jung Ki Ho, who are both victims of physical abuse at the hands of their fathers. Their story was incredibly heartbreaking.
Its ability to address weighty issues like domestic abuse, trauma and complex family relationships with sensitivity and skillfulness is what truly stands out for me. The writers did an excellent job of creating characters that are multi-dimensional and relatable, even in the face of what they had to go through. The actors who play the middle school versions of Mok Ha and Jung Ki Ho are phenomenal. They brought a level of depth and emotion to their acting that is truly remarkable.
You’ll be drawn into a world filled with secrets, complicated relationships, and surprising partnerships. It had a perfect pacing with just the right amount of tension and release to keep me invested in the characters' journeys.
Another standout aspect of this drama is the music. The soundtrack is incredible. It deepened my emotional connection to the story and made it more engaging and powerful.
If you're looking for a drama that will make you feel all the feels, then this is the one for you. Prepare to be deeply invested in the lives of these characters as they face their challenges and overcome them.
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A Complex Tale of Misunderstandings and Hidden Truths
This kdrama is a murder mystery story with a complex misunderstanding at its core. The protagonist, Eun Dae Goo, is out for his team leader Seo Pan Seok, believing him to be responsible for his mother's death.The drama keeps you guessing with twists and turns as Dae Goo gets closer to the truth. There's a good mix of action, suspense, and emotional moments. The acting is a bit uneven, but the story is interesting enough to keep you watching.
Here are some key points to consider:
Be prepared for frustration with the misunderstandings between the characters.
The pacing can be slow at times, but there are some truly thrilling moments.
The romance is a minor subplot, so don't expect a lot of focus on it.
If you enjoy a good mystery with a complex web of secrets, this drama is worth checking out.
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A Review of "Love Through a Millennium"
This Chinese remake of the Korean drama Queen In Hyun's Man puts a fresh spin on the original with its own unique twists and improvements. The historical setting is engaging, building a strong foundation for the story and making it stand out with its well-crafted plot.The romance and political drama in this one are told in a way that's easier to follow and more engaging than the Korean version. There was a love pentagon dynamic added here that made the relationships more complicated than they were in the Korean version. The initial development of the relationship between the main leads felt a bit rushed.
The soundtrack really stands out and captures the drama's emotions well. The historical elements are well executed, making this adaptation enjoyable for fans of period dramas.
However, there are some areas where the drama flopped a little. The fight scenes and certain dramatic moments weren't very believable or exciting. The acting was mostly good, but the main actress could have shown a wider range of feelings in her acting. Some of the supporting actors also seemed a bit too exaggerated in their roles.
Despite these issues, I still consider this Chinese remake a success and believe it's worth watching because it tells a fresh story and goes into the historical details in a thoughtful way. The complex web of relationships and the deeply felt emotions in the story make the drama very engaging. I also appreciated the fresh perspective.
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A Journey Through Love and Friendship
"Meeting You" is a Chinese drama that starts off as a typical high school romance but develops into a story about friendship, hard work, and following your dreams.The main characters are Nan Xi, a boy with social anxiety, and Xia Rui, a loud and outgoing girl. They meet by chance in high school and discover they were childhood friends.
What makes this drama special:
Healthy relationships: The drama portrays supportive friendships and a sweet romance that develops naturally.
Positive vibes: The story focuses on overcoming challenges, working hard, and achieving goals.
Realistic portrayal of youth: It captures the fun and challenges of being a teenager without resorting to negativity or excessive drama.
A few minor drawbacks:
Predictable plot points: Some aspects of the story, like love triangles and misunderstandings, are predictable.
Unrealistic aspects: The drama depicts all the main characters ending up in the same college, which feels unrealistic.
Overall:
"Meeting You" is a heartwarming drama with a strong focus on friendship and personal growth. It's a perfect watch for those looking for a light and positive story with relatable characters.
Recommendation: If you enjoy wholesome high school dramas with a touch of romance, this is a good option for you.
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GREAT WATCH!!!
"Weak Hero Class 1" offers a refreshing take on the typically intense theme of school bullying in Korean dramas. Unlike many others in this genre that can be emotionally taxing, this drama manages to balance intensity with a sense of empowerment and justice. Yeon Shi Eun, the fearless male lead, stands out as a small but mighty protagonist who uses his wit to outsmart bullies, even when physically overpowered. His journey intertwines with Ahn Soo Ho, a skilled fighter, and Oh Beom Seok, a transfer student escaping bullying.However, Beom Seok's character takes a frustrating turn due to his deep-seated insecurities, causing rifts among friends and leading to serious consequences, particularly for Soo Ho. The story explores themes of loyalty, revenge, and the complexities of teenage relationships amidst adversity. It portrays Shi Eun's unyielding determination to protect his friends and confront injustice head-on, even in a new school where challenges await.
The drama captivates with its compelling characters and intense confrontations, though not without its heart-wrenching moments. Shi Eun's moral compass, while strong against bullies, raises questions about the limits of justice and forgiveness. The narrative builds anticipation for future developments, promising a continuation that fans eagerly await in the upcoming season.
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"Intriguing Twists and Masterful Strategies: A Deep Dive into a Riveting Revenge Drama"
This k-drama is a wild ride! It's full of suspense, twists, and complex characters. The story centers around revenge, family secrets, and the lengths people will go to for what they believe in.One of the things I loved most about this drama was the characters. They are all so well-developed and interesting, even the ones you love to hate. The main character, Pil Joo, is a genius strategist who is always a few steps ahead of everyone else. It's also interesting to see how the relationship between Mo Hyun and Boo Cheon develops as she starts to learn the truth.
The plot keeps you guessing until the very end. There are so many unexpected twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The pacing is also perfect, with just the right amount of action and emotional moments.
If you're looking for a k-drama that will keep you entertained from start to finish, this is definitely one to check out. However, be prepared for some frustration with some of the character's decisions! Overall, it's a great watch and I highly recommend it.
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Frustratingly Childish
This drama feels like a frustrating watch. Luo Yan's toxic and immature behavior, despite being in college, makes him hard to root for. His impulsive reactions are tiresome, and it's baffling what Fang Li sees in him. The lack of chemistry between the leads makes their relationship unconvincing, and I couldn't connect with the characters at all. The pervasive childishness among everyone in the show adds to the disconnect, leaving the story feeling pointless and unsatisfying. Even by the end, it’s unclear what the drama was trying to achieve.Was this review helpful to you?
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Unraveling the Tangled Tale of "The Story of Park's Marriage Contract"
"The Story of Park's Marriage Contract" has its charms and flaws. It has a unique premise and a lovely cast, but it also has a weak plot and poor execution. It's a drama that you can enjoy if you don't think too much about it and just focus on the romance and the comedy. It's not a masterpiece, but it's not a disaster either. It's a drama that you can watch for fun, but not for depth.First things first—that title. Yes, it's a mouthful, and I can't help but wonder if the writers were testing our commitment right from the start. But hey, don't judge a drama by its title, right?
Let's talk about the main couple. They are undeniably beautiful, and their romance is like a perfectly orchestrated symphony. The chemistry between them is palpable, and you can't help but root for their love to triumph against all odds. The journey of their relationship is a delightful mix of heart-fluttering moments and genuine emotional depth.
Then there's the second couple, whose comedic antics inject a hearty dose of laughter into the narrative, providing a much-needed break from the emotional rollercoaster of the main plot.
Joseon-era Tae Ha had it rough, and you can't help but feel a pang of sympathy for his predicament.
But then there's the reincarnation angle, which, let's face it, might be a bit of a stretch. The idea that almost everyone reincarnates in 2023, looking exactly like their past selves, might push the boundaries of believability. After all, reincarnation is not a mirror world where everyone is a doppelganger.
The drama might leave you with more questions than answers. The logic of how a descendant could emerge from Yun Woo's lineage when she and her parents all died in the Joseon era might require a suspension of disbelief. Did she have a secret child or something?
In the end, "The Story of Park's Marriage Contract" is a rollercoaster of emotions, with its fair share of highs and bewildering loops.
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A Deep Dive into the Complex World of Korean After-School Academies
"The Midnight Romance in Hagwon" is a captivating drama that portrays the intense pressure students face in South Korea's after-school study centers, along with the fierce competition and high expectations these kids endure daily. It also delves into the complex relationships and power struggles among the teachers.Seo Hye Jin and Lee Jun Ho's relationship, which evolves from a teacher-student dynamic into something deeper, is central to the story. Their realistic love story, marked by ups and downs, helps us understand them better as individuals. You can really feel the connection between them, which makes them interesting to watch.
Other characters also shine, like Choi Hyung Sun, the formidable "White-Haired Witch," and Woo Sung Hee, whose scheming adds tension to the story. The well-developed characters and their motivations keep the story exciting and full of surprises.
The drama doesn't shy away from showing the harsh realities of the Korean education system and the sacrifices students make for academic success. Yet, it balances this with some funny and sweet moments between the characters.
The cinematography and soundtrack beautifully complement the story.
I really enjoyed "The Midnight Romance in Hagwon," but the ending felt incomplete. Still, it's a compelling watch with strong character development, offering a realistic look at the challenges within Korea's education sector. If you appreciate such stories, this drama is worth your time.
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FROM FRIENDS TO LOVERS
This drama beautifully balances humour, romance, and some deeply emotional moments. The story revolves around the lives of three childhood friends, Bae Seok-ryu, Choi Seung-hyo, and Jung Mo-eum, with their relationships and family dynamics at the heart of it all. Each character is compelling in their own way, especially Seok-ryu and Seung-hyo, whose chaotic but charming relationship drives much of the plot.What I really enjoyed about this drama is how naturally the characters interact with each other, whether it's the hilarious bickering between Seok-ryu and Seung-hyo or the quieter, more tender moments. Despite their teasing, you can feel the depth of their friendship, and it’s so heartwarming to see them always showing up for one another during tough times.
On the professional front, both Seok-ryu and Seung-hyo deal with challenges at work, and the way the drama portrays their struggles, along with their personal issues, makes everything feel grounded. There’s this recurring theme of facing one’s past, and it’s beautifully woven into the characters’ development.
The soundtrack isn’t overly catchy but complements the emotional undertones well, adding to the overall atmosphere of the drama. While there are plenty of heartfelt moments, the show doesn't shy away from humor, making it a joy to watch from start to finish.
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When a drama can't pick a lane
I'm just going to go straight to what hit the mark versus what left me scratching my head.What I Loved:
1. The layers to Paik Sa-eon's and Hee-joo's characters were incredible. From Hee-joo's selective mutism to the gradual unraveling of Sa-eon's childhood trauma, it was interesting to piece together their histories. The revelation about there being an original Paik Sa-eon.
2. Plot Twists: The Paik family’s dark secrets were a lot to unpack.
What Just Didn't Make Sense:
1. Sa-eon’s Sudden Transformation: For years, he treated Hee-joo with cruelty and indifference, only to flip into a lovesick, protective husband out of nowhere.
2. Hee-joo’s Forgiveness: I get that Hee-joo might have felt starved of love, but her eagerness to forgive Sa-eon’s years of emotional neglect and harshness felt frustrating. Girl, demand an apology at least!
3. Overloaded Subplots: Between the hostage marriage, political scheming, family feuds, orphan murders, and secret identities, the plot sometimes felt overcrowded. I had to pause just to process what was happening.
4. Inconsistencies in Tone: One minute, it's a high-stakes thriller; the next, it’s a romance with over-the-top accidental kisses and blanket struggles. I couldn’t quite figure out what the drama wanted to be.
5. The Love Justification: So, Sa-eon loved Hee-joo all along but acted like a jerk to “protect himself from getting attached”? Make it make sense. There’s no excuse for years of cruelty, especially when you supposedly "rescued" her from one prison only to trap her in another.
6. The whole "loving my fake wife secretly". Couldn't they have worked on the marriage without the childish games?
This drama had so much potential with its intricate web of secrets and layered characters. But the inconsistent pacing and the frustrating relationship between Sa-eon and Hee-joo sometimes made it feel like the drama was sabotaging itself. While I enjoyed the suspense and certain emotional moments, I can't get over the lack of accountability in Sa-eon's character development.
Would I recommend it? Yes, but only to those who enjoy unpacking messy, flawed relationships and don’t mind a plot that's a bit all over the place.
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