THIS KDRAMA ATE AND LEFT NO CRUMBS
Friendly Rivalry is literally everything I’ve been waiting for in a KDrama. As a reader of the original manhwa, I was skeptical about how the adaptation would turn out, especially given the distinct nuances of the source material. The plot, centered around the evolving connection between Seulgi and Jay, showcases an intense tension, or we say, chemistry. Idk about how it would turn out in the Drama, but I so so love how the story’s slow burn pays off, especially with its deep dive into GL themes that offer fresh perspectives within the genre. For someone familiar with the manhwa (again) as well, I appreciated how the adaptation made subtle but effective changes to enhance the pacing and emotional depth, all while keeping the core themes intact.I literally love everything about it from the acting/casting, OST, story and all of it. Lol. This Kdrama is a dream come true for fans of both the manhwa and the genre. It really is a refreshing and powerful addition to the GL genre, showcasing a compelling mix of heart, intrigue, and intensity. It sets a new standard for queer representation in Korean drama, and with its incredible storytelling and unforgettable characters, it's a must-watch for fans of romance, mystery, and GL narratives. I REALLY do HOPE THIS AINT A BAIT NO MORE AND THEY WOULD CONTINUE PRODUCING SUCH AWESOME KDRAMA WITH THE KIND OF GENRE. PLS PRODUCE MORE GL THEMED KDRAMA, KOREA!!!
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Topnotch
This Thai GL series isn't your typical highschool girl-meets-girl setup — it's business rivalry, tension-fueled dialogue, and somehow, slow-burning attraction wrapped in sleek production and top-tier performances. What we have here is a sapphic drama that understands chemistry — the kind that doesn’t need to be exaggerated to be unforgettable.I know The Handmaiden is the usual benchmark for sapphic storytelling — and for good reason — but LMSY in Harmony Secret, and we’re only at Episode 2, is already giving cinema. I knew LMSY could act, but this series is on another tier. Sensual, charged, and rich in detail, the performances are rooted in something far deeper, ofcourse, rooted in romance, or hidden love. Every glance, every breath, and every line between Aiwarin and Mewika carries so much chemistry and weight. It’s a subtle kind of intensity that demands your attention.
Love scene-wise and authenticity-wise? I can tell, I could put this beside Handmaiden. It doesn’t feel staged or out of place; it feels raw and honest. You can hear their breathing, their hesitation, their surrender. It’s stunning. LMSY never disappoints.
My only real critique so far is the poor translation on iQIYI’s end. The misgendering, awkward pronoun usage, and even the inappropriate choice of the R-word (the assisstants restroom scene) when they meant “harassment” — all of that really needs to be addressed, especially for international audiences who want to give this series the attention it deserves.
Still, Harmony Secret delivers where it matters most. If Korea allowed their "friendly rivalry" to fully bloom into actual queer romance, this would be the result. Full representation which actually tackles the lived experience of sapphics; from exploring sexuality to coming out. And I truly believe this series deserves to be in those same conversations.
The production is stunning, the acting is masterful, and the chemistry is electric. LMSY is giving a career-defining performance — and if there’s any justice, this series will become a benchmark for modern GL storytelling. I’m excited for what’s next.
They deserve more eyes. They deserve more recognition.
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