This review may contain spoilers
"Hidden Love: A Heartfelt Journey of Love, Family, and Growing Pains"
Story: 9.5/10Hidden Love masterfully blends romance, familial bonds, and personal growth into a narrative that resonates deeply with its audience. The story follows Sang Zhi (Zhao Lusi), a bright, witty young woman who harbours a long-standing crush on Duan Jiaxu (Chen Zheyuan), her older brother's best friend. The series transitions seamlessly between Sang Zhi’s adolescence and adulthood, capturing her journey from infatuation to a mature, heartfelt love story with Duan Jiaxu.
What sets the drama apart is its layered storytelling. Duan Jiaxu’s backstory—marked by family struggles, personal loss, and his quiet resilience—adds depth and emotional weight. The exploration of his trauma, paired with Sang Zhi’s unwavering support and growing maturity, elevates the narrative beyond a simple romance. These complex emotional threads make the story relatable and profoundly moving, touching the hearts of viewers.
From Sang Zhi’s point of view, the story captures her journey from an innocent, spirited teenager doing her best to get into university to a strong, self-assured young woman. Her initial feelings for Duan Jiaxu are tinged with youthful admiration and curiosity. As she matures, her understanding of him deepens, and she sees not just the warm, teasing exterior but also the shadows of his past—the weight of family struggles and unresolved trauma that have shaped him. Her quiet determination to stand by his side, even when he pushes her away to protect her, is a testament to her emotional growth.
For Duan Jiaxu, the story unfolds as a bittersweet journey of healing. Initially, he sees Sang Zhi as his best friend’s younger sister, someone he wants to protect but not get too close to. His own pain, stemming from a tragic family past and years of loneliness, keeps him from considering love as a possibility. He has many responsibilities he shouldn't have to bear. But as Sang Zhi grows older, her unwavering kindness and support begin to break through his defences. Duan Jiaxu is a complex character and he doesn't see himself as a good person. However, Duan Jiaxu’s eventual acceptance of himself and his feelings for her is a beautifully crafted arc of vulnerability and self-forgiveness, showing how love can heal even the deepest wounds.
Growing Feelings and Age-Gap Romance:
The drama does an exceptional job of portraying the progression of their relationship. The age gap between Sang Zhi and Duan Jiaxu is handled with care and respect, emphasising the emotional maturity and mutual trust that form the foundation of their love. Their interactions are filled with subtle gestures and moments of unspoken understanding, creating a romance that feels genuine and heartfelt.
One of the standout elements is how the story contrasts their stages of life. Sang Zhi’s youthfulness brings light and hope into Duan Jiaxu’s world, while his steady presence becomes a source of comfort and guidance for her. Their love story grows organically, marked by milestones of mutual support—her helping him confront his painful past and him encouraging her to pursue her dreams.
The quote from Sang Zhi at the end of the drama encapsulates the essence of their journey:
“Our story began when he was 22 years old, and it ended when I was 22 years old. I healed the wounds of his youth, and he fulfilled my young first love.”
This poignant reflection underscores how their love story is not just about romance but also about growth, healing, and the profound impact they have on each other’s lives. IT WAS SO SWEET!!
Siblings and Side Characters:
Adding a layer of levity to the drama is the hilarious dynamic between Sang Zhi and her older brother, Sang Yan (Victor Ma). Their sibling banter is filled with comedic gold, providing a delightful counterbalance to the more emotional moments. Sang Yan’s protective but exasperated reactions to Sang Zhi’s growing closeness with Duan Jiaxu are particularly entertaining and relatable.
The supporting characters, including Duan Jiaxu’s loyal friends and Sang Zhi’s loving yet occasionally oblivious parents, enrich the narrative and make the world of Hidden Love feel lived-in and authentic.
Acting/Cast: 10/10
Zhao Lusi and Chen Zheyuan shine as the leads, delivering a chemistry that feels authentic and deeply heartfelt. Zhao Lusi perfectly captures Sang Zhi’s playful charm and emotional vulnerability, while Chen Zheyuan portrays Duan Jiaxu with a quiet strength and tenderness that make him an unforgettable male lead. Their relationship evolves naturally, and their romantic moments are both swoon-worthy and emotionally rich.
The supporting cast also deserves high praise. Victor Ma, as Sang Zhi’s overprotective yet hilariously petty older brother Sang Yan, adds a comedic flair to the series. The sibling dynamic between Victor Ma and Zhao Lusi is a highlight, brimming with playful banter and heartfelt moments that feel genuine. Meanwhile, the side characters, including Sang Zhi’s parents and Duan Jiaxu’s friends, contribute depth and humour, creating a well-rounded world that enhances the central story.
Music: 10/10
The soundtrack of Hidden Love is a perfect companion to the story, amplifying its emotional beats. Songs like “Silently” by Zhao Lusi herself and “One Hundred Ways to Say I Like You” capture the tender, bittersweet essence of young love, while instrumental tracks underscore the poignant moments with subtlety and grace. The music enhances every scene, ensuring that the emotions linger with the audience long after the episode ends.
Rewatch Value: 10/10
Hidden Love is a drama that invites repeat viewings. Its multi-layered plot, strong emotional resonance, and endearing characters ensure that each rewatch reveals new details to appreciate. Whether it’s revisiting the sparkling chemistry between the leads, reliving the comedic sibling moments, or uncovering the deeper nuances of Duan Jiaxu’s backstory, the drama holds up beautifully to multiple viewings.
Overall Value: 9.5/10
Hidden Love is a standout in the world of C-dramas, offering a perfect balance of romance, humour, and emotional depth. Its well-crafted plot, exceptional performances, and heartfelt music make it a story that lingers in the hearts of viewers long after the final episode. For anyone seeking a drama that delivers both laughter and tears while exploring the complexities of love and family, Hidden Love is an unmissable gem.
Whether you’re a fan of slow-burn romances or meaningful character development, this series will undoubtedly win you over. It’s not just a story—it’s an experience that resonates on a deeply personal level.
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This review may contain spoilers
Lovely Runner: A Sprint That Stumbled at the Finish Line
Story: 7.5/10
Lovely Runner embarks on an emotional voyage, intertwining themes of love, regret, and second chances. The narrative follows Im Sol (Kim Hye-yoon), a devoted fan of the illustrious singer-actor Ryu Sun-jae (Byeon Woo-seok). Trapped in a wheelchair due to a childhood accident, Sol's life takes an unexpected turn when she is transported back to 2008, finding herself as a high school student alongside a younger Sun-jae. Armed with the knowledge of future tragedies, Sol endeavours to alter their intertwined destinies. The series adeptly balances the complexities of time travel with heartfelt character development, though the latter episodes introduce convoluted subplots that slightly hinder the story's momentum.
Acting/Cast: 10/10
The cast delivers stellar performances that breathe life into the narrative. Kim Hye-yoon embodies Im Sol with a blend of vulnerability and determination, capturing the essence of a woman yearning to rewrite her fate. Byeon Woo-seok portrays Ryu Sun-jae with depth, seamlessly transitioning between the charm of a rising star and the turmoil of personal struggles. Their on-screen chemistry anchors the series, making their journey compelling. Their kiss scenes were phenomenal too. Supporting actors, including Song Geon-hee as Kim Tae-seong and Lee Seung-hyub as Baek In-hyuk, enrich the storyline with nuanced portrayals, adding layers to the central plot, although don't have much of their own stories, rather just being background characters to the main leads.
Music: 10/10
The original soundtrack (OST) of Lovely Runner is a standout element, enhancing the emotional resonance of the series.
These were my favourites:
"Sudden Shower" by ECLIPSE: An evocative piece with heartwarming lyrics (if you understand Korean) that mirrors the protagonists' unforeseen challenges.
"Run Run" by ECLIPSE: An energetic track encapsulating the relentless pursuit of dreams.
"Spring Snow" by 10cm: A romantic, soft ballad that reminds you of falling snow.
Rewatch Value: 6.0/10
The series' intricate plot and profound character arcs make it suitable for multiple viewings. Viewers may find new insights and appreciate subtle nuances upon revisiting the episodes. However, the pacing issues in the latter part may deter some from a full rewatch, (I got a little bored and it felt draggy towards the end).
Final Thoughts
Lovely Runner presents a poignant tale that melds the allure of time travel with the raw emotions of love and loss. While the narrative occasionally stumbles with pacing, the exceptional performances and a mesmerizing soundtrack ensure it remains a memorable addition to the K-drama landscape.
While Lovely Runner starts with a gripping premise and maintains a strong emotional pull for most of its run, the final few episodes falter. As the story approaches its climax, the pacing slows considerably, with prolonged scenes and unnecessary subplots that feel repetitive. The tension that once kept viewers on the edge of their seats dissipates, replaced by overly drawn-out conflicts and melodramatic resolutions that could have been handled more succinctly.
Key moments that should have packed an emotional punch are stretched thin, losing their impact. Instead of building on the earlier momentum, the series meanders, leaving viewers impatient for closure. This shift in tone and pacing not only undermines the narrative’s initial strengths but also risks disengaging the audience during what should be its most memorable moments.
Despite the stellar acting and soundtrack that continue to shine throughout, the draggy conclusion leaves Lovely Runner crossing the finish line with less enthusiasm than it began. A tighter edit and more focused storytelling in the later episodes could have elevated the drama to greater heights.
Overall Rating: 8.5/10
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This review may contain spoilers
First Frost (Nan Hong): A Slowburn Masterpiece of Healing and Second Chances
𝗜 𝗷𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗲𝗱 𝘄𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗱𝗿𝗮𝗺𝗮 𝘁𝗵𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗸𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗼𝗻 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗸𝘂 𝘀𝗼 𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲'𝘀 𝗮𝗻 𝗵𝗼𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄, 𝘂𝗻𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗹𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄𝘀 𝘄𝗿𝗶𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗯𝗲𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗱𝗿𝗮𝗺𝗮 𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗱 𝗮𝗶𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴.First Frost is a deeply emotional and beautifully crafted drama that tells the story of Wen Yifan (played by Zhang Ruonan), a reserved and introverted news reporter who carries the weight of past trauma, and Sang Yan (played by Bai Jingting), her first love who re-enters her life after years of separation. The drama explores themes of healing, second chances, and the quiet strength it takes to confront one’s past.
𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆: 𝟵.𝟱/𝟭𝟬
Wen Yifan’s life is marked by pain—her father’s death, her mother’s abandonment, and the trauma of sexual assault inflicted by a family member. These experiences have shaped her into someone who keeps to herself, living a simple yet lonely life. When Sang Yan reappears, their reconnection sparks her journey toward healing. The slow-burn romance is tender and realistic, with Sang Yan patiently navigating Yifan’s walls while grappling with his unresolved feelings.
The pacing is deliberate, allowing the characters’ emotions and growth to unfold naturally. While some viewers may find the slower moments challenging, the payoff is deeply rewarding. The drama also handles sensitive topics like trauma and sexual assault with care, showing Yifan’s struggles and gradual healing in a way that feels authentic and respectful.
𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀: 𝟵.𝟬/𝟭𝟬
Wen Yifan is the heart of the story, and Zhang Ruonan delivers a breathtaking performance. She perfectly captures Yifan’s quiet strength, social awkwardness, and the emotional scars she carries. Her portrayal is nuanced, from her guarded demeanour to the subtle shifts in her expressions as she begins to open up. Yifan’s journey is relatable and heartbreaking, making her a character you root for from the very beginning.
Sang Yan, played by Bai Jingting, is a green-flag male lead who balances stoicism with unwavering devotion. His love for Yifan is patient and selfless, and Bai Jingting portrays this with a quiet intensity that makes Sang Yan unforgettable. The chemistry between the two leads is electric, with every glance and interaction brimming with unspoken emotions.
The supporting cast, including Yifan’s close friend, Qiao Qiao, and Sang Yan’s loyal friend, Haoan, adds depth to the story through Haoan's family background and the development of his grandparents opening up to each other.
𝗡𝗼𝘁𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗱𝗶𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝗕𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗗𝗿𝗮𝗺𝗮 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗡𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗹:
One of the most significant changes in First Frost from the novel is the handling of Wen Yifan’s confrontation with her abuser. In the novel, Yifan demonstrates remarkable growth by facing her uncle head-on, symbolising her strength and resilience after years of trauma. However, in the drama, she runs away to Hong Kong when her uncle reappears, leading to a more prolonged arc of her hiding and struggling to confront her past. This change has sparked mixed reactions among viewers.
While the novel portrays Yifan as someone who has grown strong enough to stand up to her abusers, the drama takes a different approach, emphasising her vulnerability and the ongoing impact of her trauma. Some viewers feel this shift undermines her character development, making her seem more like a damsel in distress reliant on Sang Yan to “save” her. In the novel, Yifan’s ability to confront her uncle directly is a pivotal moment of empowerment, whereas the drama’s version leans more heavily on Sang Yan’s role as her protector.
Additionally, the drama alters the setting of the confrontation. In the novel, Yifan’s uncle waits for her outside her workplace like a stalker, while in the drama, he becomes a security guard at her office, adding a layer of tension and intrusion into her daily life. While this change heightens the drama’s stakes, it also shifts the focus away from Yifan’s agency, which is a defining trait in the novel.
Despite these changes, the drama still captures the emotional core of Yifan’s journey. Her struggles with trauma from SA, her gradual healing, and her reliance on Sang Yan’s unwavering support are portrayed with sensitivity and depth. However, for fans of the novel, the drama’s decision to deviate from Yifan’s empowered confrontation may feel like a missed opportunity to fully showcase her growth.
𝗔𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗦𝗮𝗻𝗴 𝗬𝗮𝗻:
Sang Yan has been a point of discussion among viewers, with some labelling him as “unrealistic” or a “simp” for his unwavering devotion to Wen Yifan. However, this criticism overlooks the depth of his character and the emotional intelligence he displays throughout the story. Sang Yan is not just a love-struck romantic; he is a man who understands the weight of Yifan’s trauma and chooses to stand by her, offering patience and support without expecting anything in return.
In Episode 28, Sang Yan reflects on his younger self, acknowledging how his pride and immaturity once clouded his judgment. He admits to misunderstanding Yifan’s actions in the past and expresses regret for not being there for her when she needed him most. This moment of vulnerability highlights his growth and underscores his commitment to making amends.
Sang Yan’s love for Yifan is selfless and rooted in a desire to see her live a happy, fulfilling life. He doesn’t see himself as a saviour but as someone who wants to ensure she knows she’s not alone. His actions—whether it’s searching for her tirelessly when she runs away or quietly supporting her as she heals—are driven by a deep sense of care and responsibility.
While some viewers have criticized the dynamic between Sang Yan and Yifan, arguing that she doesn’t reciprocate his efforts enough, it’s important to remember that Yifan’s journey is one of healing. Her reserved nature and struggles with trust make it difficult for her to express her feelings openly. However, her love for Sang Yan is evident in subtle ways, such as cooking for him or standing by him during difficult times.
Sang Yan’s character is a refreshing departure from the stereotypical male leads often seen in dramas. He is emotionally intelligent, patient, and devoted—a true green flag. Rather than being a “doormat,” he is a man who understands the complexities of love and trauma, making him one of the most compelling characters in the story.
𝗔𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴/𝗖𝗮𝘀𝘁: 𝟭𝟬/𝟭𝟬
Zhang Ruonan and Bai Jingting are the standout stars of First Frost. Zhang Ruonan embodies Wen Yifan’s vulnerability and resilience with such authenticity that it’s impossible not to feel deeply for her character. Bai Jingting, as Sang Yan, delivers a masterclass in subtle acting, conveying layers of emotion through his eyes and body language. Together, they create a love story that feels raw, real, and deeply moving. Their chemistry was off the charts!! Each romantic scene, each emotional and solemn scene was portrayed so well. You could see the gaze in their eyes, the micro-expressions and movements. It felt as if you were seeing it happen right in front of your eyes as a real moment.
The supporting cast also shines, with each actor bringing their characters to life in a way that enhances the story. The villains, particularly Yifan’s family members, are portrayed with such conviction that they evoke genuine disdain, further highlighting the emotional stakes of the drama.
𝗦𝗽𝗼𝗶𝗹𝗲𝗿...
The proposal and ending in EP 32 was the best I've seen among all proposal scenes... (I was in tears ㅠㅡㅠ) Bai Jingting and Zhang Ruonan delivered the emotions and micro-expressions so well SLHTKTLKHKGSKT (crying again).
𝗠𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗰: 𝟭𝟬/𝟭𝟬
The soundtrack of First Frost is a perfect complement to the story, enhancing its emotional depth. The melancholic yet hopeful tones of the instrumental tracks mirror Yifan’s journey, while the lyrical songs add poignancy to key moments. Tracks like the opening theme and the ending song capture the bittersweet essence of the drama, making the music an integral part of the viewing experience. My favourites were the opening- 任性 (Willful) - 五月天 (Mayday), ending- 是你 (It’s You) - 李宇春 (Li Yuchun), My Dear - 张洢豪 (Zhang Yihao), 晚点 (Later) by Zhang Bichen. Bai Jingting also sang one of the OST tracks. So did Zhang Ruonan and Zhang Miaoyi as a duet and Chen Haosen did as well. The OST was lovely!
𝗖𝗶𝗻𝗲𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗽𝗵𝘆: 𝟭𝟬/𝟭𝟬
The cinematography in First Frost is stunning, with each frame thoughtfully composed to reflect the characters’ emotions. The use of lighting and colour palettes—cool tones for Yifan’s loneliness and warmer hues as she begins to heal—adds visual depth to the story. The flashbacks to their high school days are beautifully shot, creating a nostalgic contrast to their present lives. The attention to detail in the sets and locations further immerses viewers in the world of the drama.
𝗥𝗲𝘄𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵 𝗩𝗮𝗹𝘂𝗲: 𝟵.𝟬/𝟭𝟬
First Frost is a drama that rewards multiple viewings. Its layered storytelling, emotional depth, and standout performances ensure that each rewatch reveals new nuances to appreciate. While the heavier themes may make it a challenging rewatch for some, the tender romance and heartfelt moments make it a story worth revisiting.
𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗩𝗮𝗹𝘂𝗲: 𝟭𝟬/𝟭𝟬
First Frost is a poignant and beautifully executed drama that explores the complexities of love, trauma, and healing. Its strong performances, emotional storytelling, and stunning cinematography make it a standout in the world of C-dramas. While it may not be perfect, its ability to touch the heart and inspire reflection makes it a must-watch for fans of slow-burn romances and character-driven narratives.
For those seeking a drama that balances heartbreak with hope and offers a profound exploration of human resilience, First Frost is a gem worth experiencing. It’s not just a love story—it’s a journey of healing, growth, and the quiet strength it takes to find happiness.
Despite the changes from the novel, First Frost remains a beautifully crafted drama with strong performances, a compelling storyline, and stunning cinematography. Zhang Ruonan and Bai Jingting deliver standout performances, bringing depth and authenticity to their roles. The drama’s exploration of trauma, healing, and second-chance love is both poignant and relatable. It is a story about resilience, love, and the quiet strength it takes to heal. It’s a drama that lingers in your heart long after the final episode, making it a worthwhile addition to any watchlist.
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THE CUTE CHEMISTRY AND DYNAMIC BETWEEN THE TWO LEADS IS HEART FLUTTERING
I found this drama through Zhang Miaoyi (If you don't know her, her recent popular drama of hers is WIFTY.)I'm familiar with Jun from seventeen too (thanks carat best friend ^^)
So... OF COURSE I HAD TO WATCH THIS DRAMA FULL OF EYE-CANDY ACTORS AND ACTRESSES!
I found their chemistry to be appealing as siblings and lovers. The storyline slowly transitioned the two from the stage of 'childhood friends' to 'lovers' very well. I could notice the small changes in the facial expressions and ways the two leads acted around each other as their relationship progressed from being childhood friends/siblings to having a crush, to falling in love with each other.
The outfits fit the style/time the drama was told. You could tell when there was a time skip and how the two leads grew up together as the world changed around them.
For viewers of this review, the drama is a little slower for relationship progression in the first half until around episode 14. After episode 14, my goodness... There were a lot of kiss scenes... ("Carat friend who is Jun biased, how do you feel?")
They were sweet and the mood was present! The chemistry between the leads was especially prominent!
I'll leave it here since it's hard not to spoil the drama any further!
Viewers who are thinking of watching this drama, give it a go! It's very sweet and light-hearted! Although there are some cringy romantic moments, I found it enjoyable to watch!
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