A drama to some it may be a documentary to others it may be a comedy. What will it be to you?
'Birthcare Center' to me, a slice-of-life drama that I have been longing for in years! This drama has brought back my passion to write reviews (something I have lost long time ago!).‘Birthcare Center’ takes the viewers into a fun ride between detailed reality and a fresh comedy. The initiation to the world of motherhood can be pretty overwhelming to some. Unlike anything else in life, motherhood is a lifetime commitment! Far from what we have mostly seen on screens whether it’s a series or a movie, this drama surpasses anything you’ve seen when it comes to postpartum phase. It highlights the travails and triumphs of motherhood including conceiving a child, going through labour, and everything else that you can think of about a woman’s experience entering motherhood and it does all of that with short 8-episodes in comedic frame.
Speaking of myself as someone who never had the chance to experience motherhood/childbirth, this drama has been such an enlightening journey! It made it possible to witness that side of motherhood that we never actually get to see unless we go through it ourselves. For those of you who have experienced it or will experience it you will find that you can relate to so many aspects if not all and you’ll be surprised that you’ll enjoy it despite relating to the pain and struggle! (you might even find comfort). As an outsider to this experience I actually felt every emotion which is amazing for a TV series to accomplish! I've come to understand that there are probably times when the mother is unable to say that the newborn is beautiful when she first sees the baby attached to its amniotic fluid. Details like these and so much more that will have you falling in love with this drama in no time!
Dear reader, ‘Birthcare Center’ isn’t trying to take you to a ‘beautiful journey’ by making things look beautiful/graceful while disregarding the reality of it. ‘Birthcare Center’ is trying to capture each and every moment of a childbirth/postpartum/motherhood phase realistically and help you find the beauty in the reality of it. Most of the time, things that happen after birth can be things that we would never think of such as the aftereffects of birth, the challenges of breastfeeding, the pressure that comes with parenting, and so on. Just like everything in life, even motherhood things do not necessarily go according to plan. The drama has captured all of that in details while presenting it in the best comedic frame, so you as a viewer would actually enjoy every second of it without feeling daunted by the emotions and without feeling drained by the reality of it.
What impressed me the most about this drama is the narration. Narrations are done by women (the cast characters) and it takes you through this journey and helps you understand what the characters are going through. It made this drama vividly real. I must say I absolutely adored watching the mothers in the Centre bond despite their different perspectives. They all had different backgrounds, beliefs, jobs, personalities and priorities however they all had one common goal, to provide the best for their child. You will enjoy watching their relationship changes from enemies to friends and how their bond becomes a lifetime bond.
Finally ‘Birthcare Center’ is a Korean drama tells us that “A good mom is not a perfect mom. It’s a mom who is happy along with her child”. The most important thing this drama tells is that the mother is also as important as her child and that it’s okay to feel overwhelmed, confused, freaked, it’s okay if things is not under control… you will grow as a mother as your child grows… if the child is one month old the mother is one month old because a mother is born the moment her baby is born.
My most favorite quote in the drama - “Everyone says pregnancy is beautiful and pleasant, but it is exhausting, and labor is cruel. And the recovery process is miserable.” Kudos to the writer and the cast for presenting this in such a delicate, fun and fresh manner.
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"Until one has loved an animal, a part of one's soul remains UNAWAKENED" I wholeheartedly agree and believe in every word.
I cried myself to sleep every time I finished one ep of this drama it's been a wonderful but painful journey. I'm not someone who cries easily not in real life and not for movies or dramas. Imaginary Cat touches a personal issue for me and every ep it felt "bittersweet". I'd laugh while watching and cry while sleeping. The drama has brought back beautiful flashbacks (which I never forgot) but it has also torn my heart into pieces like no drama ever did.
I'm a pet owner who had her heart torn into pieces the moment she lost her beloved companion and it took me forever to collect the pieces. I knew if I start this drama it would kill me a thousand times every time I watch that beautiful friendship that wonderful inexplainable bond, though I knew it I couldn't stop myself from doing so. I didn't care how many times this will kill me I didn't care how long will it take me I to recover and move on after this I just had to watch it (Bok Gil is a Scottish Fold cat and my cat was a Scottish Fold how can I possibly not watch it?). This drama is a gift to all those who lost a beloved pet, it's a gift sent to me how can I not watch it...
Thank you Imaginary Cat Team for this priceless gift to me and to all animal lovers and pet owners in the dramaland. Finally a drama which speaks of the beautiful bond between a human and an animal. Finally This wonderful bond this amazing relationship this unconditional love this unexplained attachment is presented in K drama. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Imaginary Cat:
Story
Jong Hyun (Yoo Seung Hoo) is an orphan, he has problem socialising with people. He find it hard to express his feelings so he ends up isolating himself from others. He has lost someone he cared for in a tragic way and from that point on Jong Hyun has always been building up walls between him and any person who approaches him. He is cold and mean on the surface because he doesn't want to open up to anyone but his cat Bok Gil. Though Bok Gil is a cat in the drama they make it easy for you to understand her character through her thoughts (narrative voice).
This is a beautiful story between two abandoned friends/companions who found each other. Jong Hyun's love for Bok Gil and their relationship is something beyond words, words never could describe the bond between humans and pets it's forever a mystery only people who owns pets understands. Give this drama a chance and look beyond what the description is trying to say and maybe you can feel it and understand it too.
While watching Imaginary Cat eps I envied every moment and every scene between Jong Hyun and Bok Gil, watching them together was both happiness and despair it was a reminder that I no longer have those moments anymore all I have are flashbacks and an everlasting pain.
Acting
If you see the scenes between those two (Jong Hyun and Bok Gil) you will hardly believe its acting!! Those two were flawless!! You can act/fake out relationship between humans but how can you act fake out relationship with an animal? this isn't a just normal pet story the story is completely focused on the relationship between those two. As a pet owner myself I must say the chemistry The love displayed here didn't feel fake or acted out those two were so believably breathtaking.
You Seung Hoo: the more I watch him the more I'm proud of him. When this boy cries my heart truly aches he is the only actor that does that to me. YSH and the cat were perfect combination I don't think it would have felt the same without YSH I'm sincerely thankful and gratful to him for taking this role.
The cat owner should be very proud of her I know I am.
Music
Beautiful melodies
Rewatch
How can I not rewatch it I would gladly take all the pain of rewatching it again if I can enjoy watching those two again. Bittersweet.
Overall
To some this might be a silly drama and to some this might be cute drama, I know it's hard to sell a drama such as this one unless you are a pet owner yourself. I don't know if my review did this drama justice it may be a selfish emotional review (I apologise if it feels this way to you) I only know that it's only right to express my sincerest feelings for the drama. This review has been written with my tears all over it, I hope there is someone out there who loved this drama in the passionate way I did
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Story: It is a good family drama, it has all the elements you would want in a family drama "romance, betrayal, deception, family bounds, sacrifices, drama, comedy, greed, obsession, love triangle, evil doings... etc". I think the story developed nicely there weren't any draggy moments (as strange as that may sound because even a 16 ep drama becomes draggy somewhere but MLBMS didn't). The story reminded me of old Mexican Telenovas (even though it isn't copying any show) yet the atmosphere seemed familiar (so it's like watching those beautiful Mexican series but Korean and only 50 ep instead of 100+).
Acting: Well, as in every drama there are characters you like and others you hate but what matters is that ALL of them did a great job. As for me I loved Kim Mi Sook's character the most she was the mother that any girl would want(unlike other K drama mothers she was 100% supportive to her daughter and does everything she could to protect her) When Lee So Yeon is harassed Kim Mi Sook as her mother would always run out and stand up for her daughter she's the one whon eases your anger on the evil things that are happening. The characters I hated the most is Lee Hwi Hyang's and her son (they were extremely annoying) and the things that Lee Hwi Hyang does PISSES you off (she's been doing such characters all her life yet she never fails to piss me off).
Music: I don't think I liked the music cus if I did I would've remembered them but I don't so I gave it 5/10.
Rewatch: I don't rewacth dramas and even for ppl who do rewatch dramas I don't think this is a drama that can be rewatched (It's a one time drama).
Overall: I enjoyed this drama very much and it was definitely worth the wait and worth the time. For those of you who love family dramas I really recommend My Love By My side (pls don't let the No. of ep put you off). This is definitely not a waste of time if you can spare the time then watch it (especially if you’re looking for something to keep you busy while waiting for another drama) then this is your answer).
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Story: 2ND BEST MELODRAMA I HAVE EVER SEEN!! I agree with the other reviewer its 11/10 (yes it's that good!). In K dramas mostly the first 4 episodes tend to be very slow, yet in STH from the very 1st episode you're already excited, happy, sad, angry, pissed, curious, hooked and addicted !! You'll experience all those emotions from the 1st episode and that won't stop all through out the drama... Your feelings will not settle down and you won't get a break, the story brings out all your emotions in a very intense way that's why STH is not a drama that you'll forget you simply can't (those emotions will always be engraved in my heart).
Acting: 100/10 the acting part is what brought this story to life even though it's a super melodramatic story yet you'll still believe in every little detail and feel it deep inside your heart... The actors were the core of the story I felt each one of them, the good ones captured my heart and the bad ones kept me screaming and cursing all the time (I literarily wanted to go there and kill the stepmother and her daughter my anger towards them almost cost me a new screen). I loved Kwon Sang Woo before STH but I love him even more now (Man this guy can deliver such intense emotions he keeps your heart beating all the time and breathing becomes a difficult task) The only character that I didn't like Jung Su's father (he was annoying and useless).
Music: OMG I know now why everyone talks about STH's OST I loved every song every melody specially (Only Belong To Me) I just can't get enough of this song. The OSTs in STH are big contributors (along with the actors's performance) they both provoke your feelings extremely.
Rewatch: it might not be a rewatchable drama to most people but personally I would gladly watch it again some day cus this drama stole my heart.
Overall: As a K drama fan STH is a must watch drama... even if melodramas aren't you're type you still need to watch it. This drama is a MASTERPIECE and not watching it means you are missing out on one of the best K dramas that has ever been produced (it's now one of my top 5). 100% must watch !!
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Story: though the story is very simple yet it kept me entertained all the time! it's a 34 eps drama and yet it had me hooked up and entertained during the whole thing I wasn't even counting the eps (which is what I usually do when it comes to typical k drama)... I had so much fun watching each ep to the extent that I lost track of the number of episodes and found myself watching the last ep already!! This drama is a mixture of everything, comedy, romance, drama, family, dreams and hopes...etc I have to say the comedy part in this drama made me laugh like crazy and the romance part kept smiling at the screen, squeezing my pillow and even talking to myself like an idiot (yes it was that cute and lovable!!)... and finally the drama part at some point it even made me tear up (and I'm not a person who tears up so easily). The story isn't special but it was fun I really really had fun watching it.
Acting: LEE MIN KI!! I can't describe him in words it wouldn't be fair to him... I absolutely loved his character... there is no need to comment on his acting skills since he's the one who made my heart ache the most, smile the most, laugh the most and kept me wanting more of this drama more of Nam Bong Gi. Eugene did an amazing job I have seen her in 3 dramas she was good but here she's EXCELLENT I think Yuh Bong Soon's character is her best work specially the Satturi Accent I'm really impressed.
Music: though it's an old drama so the OSTs isn't exactly stylish, but I loved them all I really liked each and everyone of them specially the melodies they were really nice.
Rewatch: I don't really like rewatching dramas, but I think it's the kind of drama that doesn't die with time, you can go back and watch it again and still enjoy it like the first time.
Overall: "IRRLY" is very beautiful fun drama, so k drama fans out there please give this drama a chance... why not watch it while waiting for an airing drama? just give it a try it's really one of the most underrated dramas... I rarely give typical/simple k drama a 9 but this drama deserves it I enjoyed every minute of it.
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First I have to confess that it actually took me a couple of episodes to get completely absorbed, but when I did I just couldn’t stop anymore.
Story: I honestly don’t know what I was doing holding up this drama for all these years, and what was holding me back? I was worried that if I watch it now I won’t experience the same thrilling experience, which the viewers felt while watching this as it was freshly made. But fortunately it is one of those few dramas that, I believe, will hold on very tightly to its astonishing qualities even if much time passes. If I had to pinpoint one single thing that makes Nine different than all of the mystery/twist and turns type of dramas that I’ve seen, it would be the plot development and writing. The plot development takes the center-stage over character and relationship development. Allow me to say that in your average K drama, character and relationship developments are often given more prominence and importance over the plot development itself. In Nine however, the characters are the constant components of the show and the writing/plot developments is the thing that’s twisting around them instead. It was such an intriguing construct, which was really refreshing to watch and brilliantly set by Nine writers.
Thoughts throughout the show: Two core questions,
Can We Humans Play God? And What’s The Price of Playing God?
No matter the timeline, we are essentially the same people. The character consistency across the timelines didn’t bow to human meddling. Although there is the possibility that some things within us may be re-shaped but the core will never change. It is such thought-provoking stuff indeed.
Acting:
Since Lee Jin Wook plays the lead and primary focal point of the show; from start to finish, Nine revolves around Sun Woo’s journey, all other characters exist in relation to him, and their importance is also mapped in relation to him, thus everyone else is mostly a supporting character so I will dedicate this section mostly to the actors who played Sun Woo (LJW & PHS).
Lee Jin Wook as Adult Sun Woo: Lee Jin Wook turns in a solid performance as Sun Woo, effectively portraying him with an almost impenetrable veneer that is at once intelligent, rational and tenacious, while giving us glimpses, in the quiet moments, of the uncertainty, fear and worry that he keeps to himself. This is by far the best performance I’v seen from LJW. I loved Sun Woo as a character very much!! I was so happy that I could love him so easily because he is the essence of the entire show. It’s really hard not to love Sun Woo, he is smart, quick on the uptake and cares about the people he loves even if it means putting his own life at stake. One of the most endearing qualities which is worth mentioning about Sun Woo, is his courage in the midst of confusion. Very admirable quality truly a hero in the making.
Park Hyung Sik as Young Sun Woo: This is my 4th drama for PHS and I have always admired him, moreso when I consider that he’s an idol. He did admirably well as young Sun Woo, it is possibly one of the best young portrayals I have come across in dramaland. He managed to give similar vibes to the adult Sun Woo and was a reasonably good echo of the adult Sun Woo. I really loved his scenes the most of all.
Lee Seung Joon as Young Hoon: I freaking loved LSJ here!! Young Hoon is by far my favorite character of his! YH’s friendship with Sun Woo, seriously one of the best BFF demonstration in dramaland even though it wasn’t given enough time, attention nor space but it was beautifully demonstrated nonetheless. LSJ is the comic relief of the show as his expressions to the time travelling talk were priceless!! Young Hoon is such a sincere, dorky, grizzled and adorable grumpypants. His concern for his friend all throughout the entire show is the show’s best emotional treat, for me it beats the romance element by million times!!
Music: Nothing memorable to me, nothing special and the show didn’t need one tbh.
Overall:
Nine is a rollercoaster of a ride. I am rarely ever taken by dramas, which don't move me emotionally, but there is always an exception and Nine is one. This is one of the very very few dramas that doesn’t need your emotional consent and will make you appreciate the ride for the thrill and creativity factor alone. For those who are thinking thrill-seekers Nine is a must watch drama. For those who are wondering why is this drama so popular, the ending on its own is a mind-blowing sensation for your thoughts (if you are willing to accept what the writers tried to offer). The only reason this is not getting higher grade from me is the romance factor, which took from the story a lot more than it deserves and this has admittedly peeved me.
I will definitely not re-watch this for two reasons 1) I rarely re-watch dramas 2) This is a "mystery"drama and once that element is unfolded there is no point in watching the whole thing again.
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Don't Look Back: The Legend of Orpheus
9 people found this review helpful
Or the one who does?
Before I start I should mention that this is definitely “unpopular opinion” but that makes me all the more determined to write a review so here goes :)
I have been keeping this drama for the right time because I’m a revenge-themed drama LOVER and I have practically seen everything Korea has to offer in that category. Moreover, I especially have seen everything I want to watch for Kim Nam Gil… so I kept this one mainly because it doesn’t seem that he will be back to dramaland anytime soon. However my craving could no longer be suppressed anymore not after I realized that it is written by the same writer of The Devil, Memory and Resurrection.
Shark is not just a simple “revenge drama” with an obvious/repetitive plot, although I can’t say the plot is original but what strikes me here the most is the allegories that the story has offered in form of shark and Chagall’s painting “Orpheus”. The shark fish symbolizes that life must goes one as shark has to keep moving in order to live. The “Orpheus” painting features in some scene to remind us that this is a story between man and woman that cannot be together. The painting depicting the sad myth of Orpheus where he travels to the underworld to save his wife, only to lose her in the end because he looks back before they’ve both reached the upper world. An alternate title for this drama is actually "Don’t Look Back: the Legend of Orpheus". Shark is beautifully written and photographed, and it unfolds like a good book rather than just a television show. It has the depth of a Greek tragedy (references the story of Orpheus).
Story:
The story takes its time to establish the back-story of its hero and heroine, teenagers sincerely in love who are torn apart by a cruel turn of events that establish the revenge motivation. The plot reveals its layers like a good mystery novel, and has many eloquent scenes, the most powerful of which often feature no dialogue at all! This is what I call the perfect revenge drama, where there are so many victims, and yet the overall message is not really one of despair, but rather that love will triumph over revenge any day. It is the kind of revenge drama that haunts you with its inevitable tragedy. The origin of the revenge plot takes its time to reveal itself in exquisitely well written details. We get to know and care about major characters in their youth, and then follow them with interest into their adulthood. Shark had me hooked within its first few seconds, which reveal a teenage boy speaking directly into the camera, answering questions from an unseen young girl. That conversation replays over and over in Shark, and its poignancy becomes more and more touching when you see everything that happens.
The cinematography was lustrous and breathtaking on Shark, beyond beautiful! Many of the images were like classic paintings! I would freeze the images just to STARE at them in amazement! Images of beaches, lakes, woods, nighttime and daytime skies, gardens, picturesque streets and buildings, not to mention startling human facial close-ups on occasion, were all unforgettable.
This is not a romantic drama and certainly not a drama you’d watch for the romance. I’m very happy that the romance element was kept at its minimal and that it did not distract the core story. However it is fair to mention that the tension between Yi Soo and Hae Woo was indeed a bonus to the revenge line. It was astonishing well crafted and well acted. The tension between them was amplified by the fact that she is representing the law, and he is determined to be a criminal. It made the story all the more intense than it already is and looking back at all the revenge-themed dramas that I have watched I must say it is very rare that the level of intensity and romance is kept as subtle as it is in the case with Shark.
Acting:
Suffice it to say that every character in Shark is carefully drawn to reveal genuine human beings with their own emotions and agenda. However KNG’s Yi Soo/ Kim Joon is the heartthrob of Shark! You will be entirely captivated by the dark-eyed grace, gentleness and menace of Nam Gil in this complex role (even though he does bad things, my heart broke for him). His facial expression switch from cruel cold revenge seeking man, to a broken lonely soul who is inside desperately calling to be saved. When it comes to acting through facial expressions and even without many dialogues it’s always KNG who leaves me breathless. Yi-soo’s revenge is a well thought out and carefully executed. His desire to seek revenge is perfectly understandable, yet because it is so easy to feel for his character’s plight, it is difficult to watch him move further and further into the dark side.
Son Ye Jin: Her portrayal of a compassionate, righteous prosecutor and a true friend/lover was very much convincing. Hae Woo serves as the moral conscience of the drama. I can’t say that I love her character and I can see why most didn’t but I understand her character giving the circumstances and tests she is put through the entire time.
Music:
The soundtrack was lovely and haunting, just perfect for this poignant story of two people caught up in a web of intrigue, murder, and revenge. When the drama had aired in 2013 I was already in love with BoA’s "Between Heaven And Hell" before I even get to watch the drama! It caught my ears and heart when my friend sang it and I couldn’t help but fall in love so imagine how I felt while finally watching it through the eyes of the story.
Overall:
Shark is about revenge, about how there are consequences and reactions for every action, it’s about love but it’s not a love story, and it’s about finding those truths and then facing them. Shark is very good at being this well-oiled machine. It’s thought out and there is a strategy and enough metaphors (sharks! Orpheus!) to make it interesting. It has twists and turns that don’t feel forced and very little slip ups even though there are more characters in this than one would have thought. The ending may not be the best way to wrap up things but it certainly isn’t the worst way, I embraced the ending here (with its flaws) and appreciated it much more than some of the many other revenge-themed dramas that I’ve seen.
If you are a revenge-themed drama fan or a melodrama fan don’t let this one slip away from you! In the end we might like some "gems" that other people may have considered "waste", you never know.
Kim Nam Gil has once said, “I experienced a slump when KBS2’s ‘Shark’ didn’t receive a lot of love.” I would like to tell him that just as there are people who didn’t appreciate Shark there are those who did and even watching it in 2017 this is such a wonderful revenge drama, so thank you for making it happen and thank you for being part of it.
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Parents are God's precious gift to us, so never take them for granted. Feel blessed for having them in your life and feel blessed if you had them at some point in your life. There are so many people that don't know that kind of love. It's an emptiness beyond compare, don't take them for granted and let them know you love them because you never know when they'll be gone. Don't let life keep you busy from them, life will always be busy this won't change, don't forget as we grow up they grow old too.
I started this drama expecting it to be an average enjoyable family drama, I did not expect to learn so much and feel the way I felt while watching it. This is such a beautiful realistic story about family, parents, mothers.. I doubt anyone can't relate to the mother daughter relationship, or son father relationship, or daughter father, son mother, bother sister and finally husband and wife. The way family bonds were portrayed here allowed me to connect on the personal level with how the characters were behaving and those relationships. I have seen many family dramas, All About My Mom is the 2nd family drama that I consider a masterpiece and an outstanding one.
Story: Your regular family, with issues of favouritism and conflicts between siblings and between kids and parents. The family bond is pretty much the core story of this drama. It's about those people's daily life and how they learn to live with each other. Siblings feeling inferior to each other because of favouritism. Parents feeling guilty for mistakes they've done in their life while raising the kids. A mother who loves her kids equally but shows it differently. A daughter who feels left out all the time, A son who feels burdened by his mother's over love and special treatment. It's almost impossible that you won't relate with any issue in this drama because this is life, and this is what family is all about. What can I possibly say about mothers? What words would do them justice? Mother: the only person who wishes you to be a better person than her and have a better life, the only person who will not love herself over you, the angel who will always give and give without expecting a return. No love in this world can be compared to parents love, no love in this world can be compared to a mother's love. This is the story that gives this beautiful angel the credit and regards she deserves. Nothing I can say in words that would describe what is a mother, but this story is more than qualified to do so.
Acting: 100/10. An award winning performance.
Here we come for the best part, the acting. The acting here in this drama makes other dramas with an outstanding performance look like nothing in comparison, and no I'm not exaggerating. What made this drama so popular with high ratings? what makes it special? Nothing about the story new or special. It's the way those wonderful, amazing, incredible cast have performed it. Brace yourselves this part will be long!
Go Doo Shim: as San Ok. Man, I need to stay away from you faaaaar away! I can't believe this wonderful woman brought tears to my eyes several times during the whole journey! I can't believe I cried like a little baby. I'm far from someone who can cry for her own problems in life, let alone for a drama. I loved it but also hated it, I loved that she melted my iced heart and broke me from the inside but also hated seeing myself cry for a drama. She made me reflect on myself many times and slapped me in the face with every lesson I learn on how you should appreciate your parents. We are not angels and we tend to think that just because we are humans and just because they are our parents they'll love us no matter what. Stressful life, upsetting things, depressing issues, having the hardest time in your life, does not excuse any selfish behaviour towards your parents. Go Doo Shim's acting wasn't acting, she was a true mother, a real mother image to the point where I felt the need to hug her so tight. She broke my heart several times as if she was really my mother. She won the Daesang award for her role here (2nd time winning). Her performance is what makes this drama a 10/10! She is officially my second favourite actress. My favourite sentence of her "Shut da mouse" aka "shut the mouth".
Oh Min Suk: as Hyeong Gyu. My most hateful character but my 2nd favourite actor in the cast! I hated him so much, I really hated him from the bottom of my heart. The amount of hate I had for him I thought for sure even if the dramas ends his character will have no redemption from me, but the writer proved me wrong. Oh Min Suk as an actor I've seen him before but never like this! Even as a villain in KMHM he did not stand out, an yet he is not even playing a villain here but that performance, man that performance...made me speechless! He is such a great actor, those scenes will forever be engraved in my memory I will never forget his scenes because I learned from him so much. The way he managed to make people hate him so much even though he wasn't a villian but at the same time appreciate his acting skills. All the comments all the reviews about this drama is regarding the cast and how emotionally flawless their performance is. While watching I'd always see such comments and reactions from people "I hate him so much I hope karma gets him, but the actor deserves an award". Officially fan.
Kim Kap Su: as Dong Chul. My 3rd favourite character and actor in the cast. I never really bothered feeling anything about any of the old couples I've seen in previous dramas. I never cared about parents relationship as husband and wife in previous dramas. I never paid attention to that aspect, but here it was totally different. Instead of the kid's love life and the kid's romance I cared more about the mother father relationship as husband and wife. I loved how this part of the story was written because based on real life experience it's very relatable and real. I loved the relationship and though his character is not the lovable character I still couldn't help but love him! He wasn't the perfect husband he wasn't what you'd want for someone like San Ok but he wasn't hateful person too. It is impossible to hate him! Though he has his selfish moments and carefree moments he also have his sweet moments. To me Dong Chul wasn't a bad husband, but he falls short in comparison to San Ok. San Ok is too wonderful of a person that people think she is too good for him. The way I saw it those true truly and sincerely portrayed what a husband wife relationship is, how it is when you have you companion with you all these years. I adored the way Kim Kap Su played his character! He is the cutest, sweetest, adorable father/ahjussi I have ever seen and the way he talks, the way he laughs, the way he calls his wife "Okaaa" aka his wifes name is the sweetest thing ever. I find it really cute that he calls his wife by her name and not "honey" like most married couples do in K dramas.
Eugene: as Jin Ae. Well, Eugene is forever one of my favourite actresses and I never skip any drama of hers. One of the reasons I started this is her. Jin Ae is the first surprise for me, because I wasn't expecting to relate and understand a character as much as I did with her. Her frustration, her feelings of being left out I can relate to it all. Her conflict with her brothers, her mother.. very relatable and her character the hard working person who always tries her best to win her moms favour. I'm sure many of you can identify her and relate to her. Eugene once again proved herself as a worthy actress, specially her scenes with her mom, the thought that this is all "acting" won't cross your mind. Jin Ae is the sweetest daughter a mother could ever wish for and you can learn so much from her.
The rest of the cast I loved them all, I may not liked all the characters but I loved the actors.
Music:
I loved all the OSTs, but the reason I'm giving this 10/10 is because of one song, "To My Wife" by Tae Jin Ah. The only song that actually manages to make my eyes tear, I still can't believe it but it had such an impact on me. The song was used perfectly in the drama, in the perfect scenes which stimulates all your emotions and you find yourself tearing up. I have a friend who cried without watching the drama, only from listening to this song. The singer has such a powerful husky voice and he feels so much in pain while he sings it. The lyrics are simply beautiful, from a husband to his wife.
Rewatch:
I don't rewatch dramas, I have very few special ones that I might rewatch. However family dramas in general are rewatchable and this one I think belongs to that list.
Overall:
Though this drama has romance but if you came here only for the romance then this drama is not for you. Yes it has romance, and more than one couple but the essential element here isn't the romance, it's the family bonds. If you came here hoping for makjang, plot twists, melodramatic events, things happening all the time...etc then this is also not for you. As I already mentioned this is purely family drama, it's all about mothers. A daily life of a regular family with normal daily issues nothing out of the ordinary. However if you want to watch something that hold such great values, something that could teach you valuable lesson and remind you of things you love and value, a drama that hold such beautiful meaning and carries a noble message about a creature we call angel, about mothers...Then yes I most definitely recommend it. I will miss this drama dearly.
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Story:
it was a good melodrama not the best but it's good, at the beginning you would "think" the story will take on a certain path but then BAM everything changes the whole story change !! and that's what I loved the most not the story itself but the way it changed.
Acting: IT'S THE REASON I KEPT WATCHING
It was BEYOND WORDS !! I was amazed/stunned by their level of acting hmmm let's see who shall I begin with... definitely Yoo Seung Ho !! I already liked this guy but I never knew his talent could extend to that level I can't even find words good enough to praise his performance he is the BEST THING in this drama without "Harry" this drama wouldn't have been as intense and interesting. Harry is one of the best characters I have ever seen I'll never forget those expressions of his. My 2nd surprise was Micky I was never a fan of him and I never liked his acting (to those of you who think the same of him as me I think you should watch this drama cus you'll change your mind like I did) he was really amazing he showed me some really good acting skills and I enjoyed his character enjoyed watching him and I look forward to his upcoming dramas. Last but not least Yoon Eun Hye she proved that she's a talented actress she's not just good in romcom only she can pull off such a complex sad agonist character like Lee Su Yeon I praise her for that and I'm so happy she chose melo (as a first timer in this genre she did good very proud of her).
Music:
The OST's were good the songs went well with the story... my favorite one was (Just Look at You) I can't stop listening to it's a very beautiful song with beautiful lyrics.
Rewatch:
It's not a re-watchable drama even for those who re-watch stuff but I might go back and watch Harry's scenes (Yoo Seung Ho's character) yes !! that's how good he was.
Overall:
Missing You is a sad heavy drama that's true and it's not one of the best melodramas out there but it's certainly is the best in terms of acting/performance and that alone is more than enough reason for you to watch. There are many good stories out there but not so many with OUTSTANDING performance like this one not so many with unforgettable characters such as Harry he's the reason I gave this drama 8 (Can you believe the whole drama turned out to be so good solely because of Yoo Seung Ho (Harry)??) AMAZING really.
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Mother is not a drama, it’s slice-of-life and is in no way made for entertainment purposes but rather to move every shred of humanity in you. So why watch when a drama's primary purpose is to entertain? The answer is simple, Japan is the best in human dramas like Mother, which stay with you long after the glowing warmth of a sappy romantic comedy drama has faded.
“I am not trying to justify what I’m doing, I am an observer who became a criminal that’s all“ Suzuhara Nao.
A school-teacher who ‘kidnaps’ one of her pupils when she discovers she is being abused at home. Her desperate desire to save this little girl’s life she with no faith in authorities decides to take matters into her own hands.
This is one of those few dramas that will have you emotionally invested by episode one. I personally have shed tears towards the end.The slow building relationship between Nao and Tsugumi, as little by little Nao learns what it really is to be a mother, is wonderful to watch.
I am not afraid to say that despite the fact that “kidnapping” is illegal in the eyes of the law, I was wholeheartedly supporting Nao all the way. She wants to save this little girl, whatever it takes and she is willing to take the penalty. You can’t help but admire her strength.
Another gift which this show bring to you and which rightfully could be the most important reason if not the only enough reason I’d tell you to watch this show for is Ashida Mana as Rena. This little girl was only 6 years old when she starred in this show and yet her acting skills by far surpass her age. Her emotional scenes just breaks your heart into pieces and leaves you uncontrollably sobbing. There are two scenes for her that left me emotionally vulnerable and heart broken from the heartbreakingly raw sincerity she has shown. I had to remind myself over and over she is just "playing" the part she’s not really going through this, I had to remind myself that so I too can move on with my life. Yes that's how powerful her performance is.
You might read the synopsis and think to yourself there’s no way that this story can have a happy, feel-good ending. Without spoiling anything away, the drama ends in the best most fitting way possible. Personally I’d say the ending is one of the most wonderful things about this show and has left me speechlessly sobbing.
Overall, I think by looking at the synopsis it is pretty much clear that if you are looking for something feel-good and entertaining then you most definitely should look elsewhere. But if you want to see a drama at its best, acting at its best, story at its best and finally Japan at its best then I suggest to have this one on your-must-watch-top-priorities.
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As a an old drama fan it is a shame that I have only seen this almost 14 years later when it should have been one of my first dramas. Nonetheless it is better now than never. Once again old dramas never seize to amaze me, watching them 10-14 years later and they win my heart like no recent drama ever does which is why they are special to me. Normally people would think after all that time have passed and after watching so many great dramas, old dramas which are usually full of cliches will never stand a chance but the thing is that is exactly why they win me over and capture my heart because even with all that time they can get my heart fluttering in a way no recent drama will ever do. This rating is nothing compared to how I feel about this drama and how it made me feel, this number is nothing when I think that I actually watched this now in 2016 and it won me over just like that (I'm very tough for a drama to win me over).
4 eps long drama which gave me that depth and that beautiful warm classy feelings that I've missed and longed for such a long long time. Only 4 eps but to me it has accomplished what other dramas with recent filmography could never do, at least not to me.
Friends is a South Korean-Japanese short drama it was the first time in drama history that the two countries collaborated to co-produce the show in both South Korea and Japan. Which makes it even more special. Allow me to say, what a beautiful collaboration! It doesn't get any more beautiful than this.
The story is very simple, about a man and woman from two different worlds met in one place and due to certain circumstances they got to know each other while none of them could speak the other language so communication was a tough mission and yet as a viewer I could see that they were communicating very well through their eyes, I can feel it. I did not feel that they had issues with delivering the way they feel it's like they've clicked the moment they've met and I have clicked with them.
In case some of you don't know about Korea-Japan relationship, this relationship has always been sensitive and still is. Even though things have gotten much better now but there is still that tension between the two countries. This drama was trying to teach us what kind of complications a Korean person and Japanese person could face not just in falling in love with each other but also as people. What it takes for a Korean person at that time to travel to Japan and vice versa. Also culture wise, society, language and most of all family complications. Can love really overcome all that? Considering that both countries value these aspects a lot.
Personally even though I watched this knowing pretty much everything I could know about Korea-Japan history but Friends 2002 still taught me things I wasn't aware of. The most important thing that I got to feel which I never did pay attention to before is the fact that there must have been people from those two countries who actually fell in love with each other despite all these complications, which makes me wonder did they ever get their happily ever after ending?
I loved both main leads here character wise and acting wise I really loved them. I have seen Won Bin before and he is one of the best actors but all I had for him is respect as an actor I never really did warm up to him or fall in love with him. This is the first time I warm up so much to him and I felt I saw something in him here which I never saw in his other projects and that made me happy. However my absolute favourite one and the one who stole my heart RIGHT AWAY is Fukada Kyoko. I can not believe this beautiful lady stole my heart the moment I laid my eyes on her from the very first scene. She was the one who made me feel "I don't know why but I think I'm going to fall in love with this drama" (I watched the drama without reading the synopsis because I simply love to discover things on my own). Fukada Kyoko's way of playing Tomoko forced me to believe her pure innocent way of falling in love (which is very hard to pull off since in real life we always ask ourselves "can there really be such a pure innocent naive love?"). To be honest I really believed her, I believed her feelings, I believed her tears, I believed her innocence, I felt that it was her first love and she was overwhelmed, I felt her confusion and lostness and most of all I really did believe her love as naive as it was. I've never seen an actress who can pull this image so perfectly and so raw and real. Now I can only see her as Tomoko.
Music: Classic, one of those OSTs that I will never forget (it is a given since it belongs to the year 2002). I fell in love with every melody and song here but my favourite is One by Lee So Jung.
I don't rewatch dramas, I have very few that belong to my rewatchable list and this one definitely makes it to the list. It made it to my all time favourite :)
This is a must watch drama only for those who appreciate simple but carries deep meaning kind of story, those who appreciate classics and classic vibes, those who like dramas for the "feels" it delivers and finally those who like to see love overcoming boundaries and to see the bonds that bind people together.
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Story
Definitely unique and original! it really is different in every aspect!! It has romance but not the kind that we are used to see in dramas. Though the main point of the story is the romance it's not the kind that comes into your mind when you 1st read the word romance. The story does not cover the process of them falling in love but the consequnces of that love. Therefore it does not have romantic scenes but memories and flashbacks of what they had and this is one of it's uniqueness. A love like no other a devoted man that is torn between resentment and hate and love and yearning. The story also does not address "revenge" in the way it is usually addressed in K dramas. Finally, it is the only drama that addressed the "slaves" side of the story in those times (Maids is also another drama that talked about slaves but it is in no way can be compared to this one).
Acting
WONDERFULL, AMAZING, OUTSTANDING, INCREDIBLE!! Loved loved loved JH!! This is his best ultimates performance It does not get any better than that!! and the rest of the cast they all were amazing!! My only disappointment is LDH. I used to love her in (My Girl) which was 10 years ago I think and I remember very well that she used to be very a good actress but here she simply sucks. She's actually one of the things that irritated me in this drama (she was supposed to be a slave yet she's the only one who had clean face and full make up on!!) she cared so much about her appearance than making the character believable!! and to add to that her acting was really horrible I wish I can find even stronger word than just horrible. But on the bright side she wasn't given that much screen time or dialogue so THANK GOD. I can't believe this is the actress I used to adore. Nonetheless she did not matter the one who really matters here is JH and I'll say this again JH DID AN AMAZING JOB as
Lee Dae Gil (one of those characters that you will forever remember).
Music
One of the best OSTs I've heard in dramas, all of it no exceptions!! The kind of OSTs that is hard to forget.
Rewatch
Possible but not for me.
Overall:
If you are looking for originality, looking for something different, worthy of your time, and specially If you are sick of the recent ones and miss the old good stuff which made you fall for dramas in the 1at place (which is my case) then I suggest you give this a try. However if you are looking for romantic love story with romantic lovey dovey scenes, love triangles, dark revenge etc... then this is not the drama for you and one more thing I'll let you on Two small but essential tips:
1)One of the best endings ever made in dramas.
2)Hot guys everywhere with chocolate abs (6pack) exposure (all over the screen!! you will find it hard to focus at first) XD
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Story:
I finished this drama in one night one day!! from the very 1st ep I got the feeling that it's definitely a special one and it is!! My expectations weren't as close as right this is NOT a cliche story it is not just melo sad story Winter Sonata is more than that its a journey it takes you with it and makes you feel you are living every moment with them you feel their pain and sorrow together and that snow it really remains in your head that whiteness that coldness it's simply just beautiful.
Acting:
The best part of this drama is the acting performance!! all of the cast the main lead who wouldn't love them I really believed every pain, tear sorrow, touch, longing...etc I believed everything they felt and felt it together with them I actually think that now I won't be able to see those two as actors anymore to me they are Joon Sang and Yu Jin I think it will take time for me to see them as normal ppl again.
I understand now why Bae Yong Jun is considered a legendary actor, the character he portrayed the man he presented I've never seen like him. Kang Joon Sang /Lee Min Hyung was a very classy man a true gentleman. When he falls in love he cares for the girl he loves without forcing anything on her, I loved how gentle and understanding he was. If there is a true gentleman this is the man.
Music:
I fell in love with it from the very 1st ep, it takes so much for me to actually like OST let alone fall in love with it. I came to realise now that all the classic shows really do have different level of music unlike nowadays shows the old ones do remain in my head and I never grow tired of them. WS is no difference it has a BEAUTIFUL OSTs my favourite is From The Beginning Till Now (the song itself makes me tear and I'm really really hard to tear up).
Overall?
If you are really a true drama fan for the sole purpose of being a drama fan then you know just as much as I do that your list is never complete without watching WS, I doubt that there is anyone there who hasn't heard of it and let me just tell you it DESERVES all the recognition it got it's ONE of a kind. To me it's definitely a REWATCHABLE one I just truly wish that I was from that generation when all the beautiful shows were made.
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This review may contain spoilers
I am normally very hesitant when it comes to watching Chinese dramas because I’ve tried crossing the boarders many times over my drama-watching -years but I end up giving up each time. However, none of the dramas were historical/wuxia ones so a dear friend of mine has once jokingly said, “maybe you’ll like their historical dramas?” It was a joke but I seriously thought it through and all the praise I’ve heard about NIF has finally pushed my button. It was time to take the step, and boy am I glad that I did.I have to confess one thing before I start, the storyline is what drew me in considering I did not really care for most of the cast prior to watching. Nevertheless, their portrayal was so captivating that I was won over completely.
Nirvana in Fire is a smart show. All the characters are smart and act in rational ways it’s so mesmerizing! The political maneuvering by the various competing parties in the show is like watching a brilliant game of chess being played in front of you. The show is so smart that sometimes I feel like I’m getting smarter as I’m watching it! Every scene, every action, every word has a purpose. Everything counts! The story forces you to stay alerted to every little detail, because every little detail matters and might be introduced ahead many episodes before you could understand what is it aimed for. Although some may say it’s slow paced plot but for me I was constantly holding my breath eagerly watching how our leads will turn a potential defeat into a victory.
The high production value evident with the impressive cinematography of the imperial court and countryside, beautiful costumes, dazzling sword fights… not to forgot the breathtaking introduction which is very deeply related to the story if you watch you will understand the meaning behind a butterfly emerging from cocoon.The story unfold bit by delicious bit. The plot had all the elements you could think of.. greed, betrayal, loyalty, suspicion, love, revenge, lust for power, implications of genocide, jealousy, honor, integrity, murder, cruelty, kindness, generosity and mixtures of these qualities in conflict and contradiction.
Characters:
Hu Ge as Mei Chang Su: My absolute favorite actor and character! Considering that his character is the emotional heart and of the show, it was vital that Hu Ge’s performance be no less than phenomenal and indeed it was. He was a piece of art! Hu Ge eyes were so expressive! By only looking at his gaze I’d immediately feel the chill and fire at the same moment! The character of Mei Changsu is very dynamic and complex! It requires someone who has the ability to portray the character in a nuanced manner. Hu Ge managed to portray the varying components of his character from mischievousness to deviousness, cunning to kindness, unscrupulousness to tenderness, sorrow to longing, etc. I am mostly amazed by how Hu Ge has totally embodied the weariness of his character so well! Every little gesture was so unbelievably well mastered! What a gem of an actor
Wang Kai as Prince Jing: I heard that this drama escalated his status as an actor; it’s no surprise to me! If I had to describle Prince Jing I would say he is the idealistic form of power/authority that everybody dreams of living under which why it took me sometime (over half of the show) to warm up to him and accept his stubbornness and impulsive reactions. It’s not that I had a problem with his beliefs, I admired that he would stick to his guns and would never sacrifice his morals for power. But sometimes it got too naïve and idealistic for my taste. The world isn’t an ideal place, a price will always be paid for the greater cause… is what I believe so his character frustrated me (sometimes) but by the end I came to like him very much. For me to even like or dislike any of Prince Jing’s actions proves that Wang Kai is clearly a very talented actor.
I would love to talk about each and every character but the review would go on and on so for your sake I’m just mentioning the two most powerful characters. Nonetheless I have to give everyone in the cast a big round of applause for their wonderful performances. The whole cast is just so darn likeable and everyone portrayed their character so fantastically! From the very top to the very bottom, from the veterans to the younger actors, everyone did a great job.
Music:
I fell for the OST the instant I heard it before engaging into the story (and that has never happened before). To my surprised 3 songs were sung by the 3 main actors, Hu Ge, Wang Kai and Liu Tao so they aren’t only great actors but can sing this beautifully? Talk about perfection :)
My favorite song is Aging of a Beauty by Liu Tao
Lastly I will leave you with “some of the spoiler-free” favorite quotes of mine:
“You know, this pair of hands, used to bend bows and tame horses. But now it can only hide in the dark and stir the pot.”—Mei Changsu
“People can only be betrayed by friends, enemies will never have chance to do so” —Mei Changsu
“If not for the people, what need for an emperor?” —Mei Changsu
“If you did things for others to see, then it’s a problem of your moral character, but if no one knew of your good deeds, then it’s a failure on my part as your adviser”–Mei Changsu
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Queen Seondeok is mainly a historical/political melodrama depicting the struggle of opposing (good vs. evil) factions. The evil faction is led by a ruthless leader (Mishil) representing government control both of government officials and citizens, based on manipulating them with fear. The good faction has a good leader who wants power and freedom to shift from government to the people (control by their choice instead of governmental dictates, ownership of land by farmers instead of tenant farmers working for the rich), and who appeals to the hope and good nature of others.
Despite displaying inaccurate portrayal of the actual historical figures. Nonetheless, it did do an excellent job introducing the viewer to Korean, specifically, Sillan, history at a critical time. Whatever the artistic license taken, the fact is that this period in Silla saw first a major change in succession rules, and second the period of unification that would occupy the reigns of Sillan monarchs for a space of decades, and which Queen Seondeok started. In addition the story is so engagingly written that you really don't care if it's what "really happened" or not.
Another core theme is women's rights in a male dominated world, which I find the most appealing theme of this show. The power play between two very intelligent women (Deokman and Misil). Their chemistry was very much electrifying as many of the greatest hero/villain rivalries of literature and TV. The concept of the shadow self that makes for such a dynamic, two sides of the same coin, but rarely has it been done with both the characters being women. Misil and Deokman do have moments that prove they can fight; but it's really intelligence that marks these women as strong females.The conflict between duty and love is one Deokman has to tread throughout the show.
The marvelous thing about many characters in this show is the depth they all have. Bad guys have sympathetic moments. Characters you think are good doing something that suddenly makes you hate them, or vice versa. Every character, good or bad, has motives you can understand. The complexity of characters and the realism with which they are portrayed that gives the show it's nuances. It's really the quality of acting that also keeps things realistic that with actors of lesser experience could easily turn into melodrama. Equally nuanced is the writing. This show is great in what it chooses to reveal to the audience at certain points and what it doesn't allow the audience to know. My personal favorite of Deokman's boys though is Alchun (Lee Seung Hyo). There's something I love about his deep loyalty uncomplicated by romance, especially since he doesn't start off as one of Deokman's supporters. She has to earn his trust, but once she does, she has it for life.
Acting:
Deokman/ Queen Seondeok – Lee Yo Won: Amazing how well Lee Yo Won was able to portray this character. LYW’s performance as Princess Deokman, who later became the great Queen, was really stellar. The way she portrayed herself as a nangdo (a soldier trainee), to princess, to ruler was a compelling/convincing act. Her expressions were so clear, that I find myself “congratulating” her for overcoming every impossible feat that stood her way.
Mishil- Go Hyun Jung: GHJ is a brilliant actress who made the Mishil character stands out in this drama. She had the most audience attention actually in QSD. She played the controlling, power-hungry Mishil perfectly. She was as beautiful as she was terrifying in her quest to sit on the throne. Most times the ‘bad guy’ of the drama is detestable, in Mishil’s case I couldn’t detest her, in the end I understood her.
Bidam- Kim Nam Gil: FAWLESS! I was waiting for Kim Nam Gil to appear from the opening credits but I had to wait about 21 episodes for it to happen. But boy-o-boy when you came, he came with the thunder. Just as I was getting a little bored, Bidam came into the picture adding a whole new dynamic to the show. KNG really played the role of Bidam perfectly. I couldn’t imagine another actor playing his part very effectively. As Bidam, KNG was able to portray different emotions one after another that you would find him the charming, egoistic, and suddenly frightening individual. His character is a thin line between evil and good.
Yushin-Uhm Tae Woong He played the upright Yushin very well. Always steady and honest. That was the energy that he brought to this role. I was like with all the chaos, he was the one constant, the pillar for not only Deokman but for us viewers as well.
I should also mention the music of the show which has a great mix of character themes, sung love themes (both romantic and parental), and suspenseful background music.
Finally, the reason I could not give this drama any less than a perfect 10 despite its flaws is because at times the story offered some of brilliant psychological insights, such as Mishil saying "Humans can not live without believing in fantasy", as in liberal idealism (world peace, income equality without degrading the economy, big government that works efficiently, etc.) that can never be achieved. I am weak when it comes to brilliant/breathtaking psychological insights especially if portrayed so raw and wonderful as it is the case in QSD.
Some of my favorite quotes:
“Do not even think of possessing me, nobody can ever possess me as long as this crown adorns my pate”–Queen Seon Duk
“Why did you change?”-Bidam
“Because I have no name, crown prince crown princess and even the scoundrels parading in the market have a name but a ruler does not… All I am is Her Majesty”, “Because the moment I lost my name, you became nothing more but an influential subject of mine” –Queen Seon Duk
“I love you for loving me as woman”–Queen Seon Duk
“Earning people’s trust is hard, however what is even harder than that is abandoning them” – Queen Seon Duk
“I shall neither give up, nor abandon my people, not a thing not anyone” –Queen Seon Duk
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