emberzmars

Letdown by this supernatural-romance series

I love supernatural series such as Lucifer, Angel, Buffy, iZombie so I had high hopes on 'My Demon'. This series felt like a Korean version of Twilight. So much potential not explored, I decided to drop this series halfway through.

What I like
1. The song by NewJeans
2. Do Do Hee's fashion
3. Episode 1 was beautifully shot.
4. Park Bok Kyu & Ms Shin's banter

What I dislike
1. Do Do Hee's characterisation - I want to scream out my frustrations. The character is written like a Harlequin romance novel from the 90s. She started off as a clear-headed, no-nonsense CEO but episode 2 onwards, she became easily distracted/influenced by Gu-Won. Wish she struck partnership with Gu-Won like a business deal - weigh the cost of benefits and risks. Negotiate a protection and a marriage deal that benefits you too - I don't like that Gu-Won dictated the terms and Do Hee easily agreed.
2. Gu-Won's characterisation - I don't like Jeong Gu-Won. I expected cockiness but his arrogance, solemn & cold demeanour irked me. I wish he enjoyed his demonic responsibility and had cheeky personality like Lucifer.
3. Too much push in the romance angle too. Not enough supernatural moments.
4. Ga Young's clinginess annoyed me.
5. Slapstick comedy is fine for some episodes but get tiresome after awhile.
6. Song Kang's acting - I feel that he's miscast in this series. I'd like to see Woo Do Hwan as Gu-Won because he was mighty fine in Divine Fury and he'd be up against Lee Sang Yi's character to win over Do Hee's heart.
7. Reincarnation/past lives trope - I am tired of this trope since it's also used in other dramas released around same time such as The Story of Park's Marriage Contract, Moon in the Day.

Favourite scene
When Do Hee first met Gu-Won. The cake!

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Superb acting & chemistry between the leads + heartfelt drama

It was early January 2026 and I missed watching Guo Yu Xin dramas. I remember this drama in my watchlist so I watched and OMG loved it! It was warm & heartfelt.

What I liked:
1. Acting - Guo Yu Xin and Liu Hao Qun were spectacular. They matched each other's acting prowess and intensity. Palpable chemistry between the two.
2. Romance - They took their time and once they kissed, damn they were on fire. I loved that they were affectionate with each other. I could "see" love for each other in their eyes. They had each other's back.
3. FL characterisation - She was victim of abuse & manipulation and later sought protection from ML. She grew strong and confident as she lived with ML and his family. Compassionate & kind.
4. ML characterisation - He seemed sketchy at first with his gang members but he was very kind towards FL, his brother and his best friend. I liked his protectiveness.
5. Supporting characters - I loved ML's younger siblings, best friend and his kid.
6. Kindness - Acts of kindness and compassion were demonstrated in a few scenes. Those were heartfelt.
7. Styling - I loved the outfits worn by FL & ML. The red cardigan /jacket was pretty.

What I liked:
1. Antagonists - I didn't like FL's relatives for their bad treatment towards FL. I also didn't like ML's stepmother at first but she redeemed herself.

Favourite scene
Morning after

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Hot kisses but I was letdown by Wang Xiao Yi's acting and the lack of chemistry

It had been awhile since I last watched Liang Si Wei and Wang Xiao Yi's dramas. A few members of subreddit CShortDramas mentioned this drama so I got curious and watched it last night. I didn't enjoy it as much as I had hoped for.

What I liked
1. Styling - That red dress worn by FL was gorgeous. Overall her clothes were beautiful & elevated her confidence and coolness level.
2. Romance - Plenty of kisses - this couple wasn't shy about physical touches. ML was really into FL from the get go - he offered a massive help without being asked.
3. ML characterisation - He cared for her from the start of their entanglement. He protected FL when she barged into her family home to reinstate her intentions.
4. The wedding - Beautiful scene.

What I disliked
1. Acting - WXY’s acting was one-note. She delivered her lines like a bored housewife. There wasn't much chemistry between her and LSW. Their Intimate scenes felt stiff / performative - they lacked warmth despite the hot kisses.
2. FL characterisation - She frustrated me. She agreed to a marriage of convenience to achieve her goal but she didn't tap into her big resource (ML). Her constant "Wen Zong" annoyed me.
3. Antagonists - FL's half sister was like a petulant child with her scheming. FL's father was biased while her step-mother was annoying. There was also ML's childhood friend who just couldn't handle the rejection.

Favourite scene
The wedding

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Fun drama about transmigration, shared connection & codependency

I was in the mood for Sun Qian Xun's dramas so I decided to watch her historical drama for a change. The comments were generally positive so I had some expectations. Thankfully they were met.

What I liked:
1. Codependency - I liked that they were bound to each other because of their shared connection. It led to alliance / partnership.
2. Romance - I was surprised by their first intimate scene. It was the first time I saw Sun Qian Xun doing an intimate scene. Anyway the couple was affectionate and I liked the spicy, sweet and hilarious moments. The role play was amusing.
3. FL characterisation - It was cool that FL transmigrated during an internal meeting when discussing drama script. I liked that she used her knowledge to ensure her host wasn't bullied. Loved her bold attitude.
4. Acting - Good chemistry between two leads and it was evident that they had fun onscreen. However SQX was stiff during steamy scenes.
5. ML characterisation - It was great to see different sides of ML. Stern prince, concerned partner & affectionate lover.
6. Plot twist - The last 20 minutes was thrilling!

What I disliked:
1. Antagonists - FL's half-sister was manipulative. She even framed her mother to save herself from difficult situation. ML's aunt was freaky & possessive for lusting over ML. FL's father was a scumbag- stupid enough to let his daughter played him.

Favourite scene
When FL saved ML from being assaulted by his aunt

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Enjoyable jiejie romance from ML's perspective

I was checking newly released dramas when I saw the drama poster. The translated title said the wife chases the guy so I was intrigued. The drama was enjoyable despite the unfamiliar cast & specific shot framing.

What I liked:
1. Romance - This is a jiejie romance. Despite the odd reason for ML's unemployment by FL's aunt, the romance was sweet. They took time to cultivate their relationship (no one-night stand) and there were some spicy scenes.
2. Rivalry - There was business rivalry between FL and antagonist and I enjoyed this arc. I think the antagonist was formidable - thank gawd for no jealous sister / childhood sweetheart.
3. ML characterisation - This story was mostly told from ML's perspective. He was a young man who was easily persuaded by quick money gain. His character grew to become responsible adult and I liked that he took lead in one of the companies' initiatives to defeat their rivals.
4. FL characterisation - She was smart & nice. She didn't take advantage of ML's employement, I liked that.
5. Supporting characters - FL's aunt was nice.

What I disliked:
1. Male gaze - The amount of cleavage shots are too many. There was also a scene that shocked me. I thought this drama must be targeted towards male viewers.
2. Ending - I didn't understand why that scene was included.

Favourite scene
When FL agreed to be intimate with ML

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Inner thought drama that lacked spark & wow factor

I got to know about this drama from subreddit CShortDramas. I enjoyed some of Wei Lin dramas and that Wang Bing Xiang drama with Liu Yi Fan / Tian Tian Yi. I watched this drama within 2 days of its release. It was alright but I expected more.

What I liked:
1. Tone - There was good mix of comedy and drama, making it lighthearted.
2. Acting - Wei Lin excels in comedy. She made her character likeable even though FL seemed silly at times. Wang Bing Xiang was alright as a domineering CEO.
3. Styling - Loved ML's outfits. I also liked the pastel outfits worn by the female colleagues in one gossip session.
4. Inner thought arc - It was entertaining to see ML's reactions to FL's inner thoughts.
5. Hug - I liked that hugging scene.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonist - Wow, her husband was gullible to be fooled by his secretary. Disliked both of them, ML's stepmother & FL's family.
2. Cheating - I am not a fan of cheating stories. So I didn't like that they initiated a relationship before FL was divorced.
3. Chemistry - I couldn't sense any chemistry between Wei Lin and Wang Bing Xiang. Their kissing scenes lacked intensity.
4. Lifespan - The lifespan countdown was an interesting concept that drew me to this drama. However this plot device was underdeveloped, which was a shame.

Favourite scene
When ML first discovered that he could hear FL's inner thoughts

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Fast-paced & lighthearted romcom about business rivalry & flirty ML

This drama piqued my interest the day it was released. I liked Nie Bo Xuan's secret child drama with Wei Fan Shu. The English translation of the the title implies a coquettish ML. I watched it today and I liked it!

What I liked:
1. FL characterisation - I adored her for being physically strong. She fought her rival's goons.
2. ML characterisation - I liked the flirty nature of ML. He called her jiejie and I loved it because jiejie romance is my favourite. I also liked that he had serious side - he was protective over FL.
3. Styling - I loved FL's outfits! Great styling for a girlboss.
4. Supporting characters - I really liked ML's right hand man - he's hilarious! I also liked FL's male friend, her mother & brother.
5. Antagonist - I liked the arc given to the antagonist - he was FL and ML's business rival. It's great that there was no green tea FL in this drama.
6. Duration - This drama is just slightly over 90 minutes. Well-paced and lighthearted drama.
7. Tactic - FL used a smart tactic to lure ML out of hiding. I liked it!

What I disliked:
1. Hidden identity - I wish ML had confessed his actual identity when FL confronted him.

Favourite scene
When ML interrupted FL's meeting with his right hand man

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FL sought revenge for her daughter & seducing ML was part of her plans.

I first noticed this drama when I browsed new vertical drama releases. I liked FL with short hair (length above shoulder) and since this drama was talked about a little in a subreddit that I joined, I decided to watch it. I must say this drama exceeded my expectations and in my opinion, Nanny Don't Flee is better than Revenge Maid starring Wen Mo Yan, Ye Hao Ran & Wang Dao Tie.

What I liked:
1. Acting - Zhao Shuai, the actress who played antagonist & Zhao Ting Yi were excellent in their roles. I was captivated by their performances.
2. FL characterisation - FL carefully planned & executed her revenge against her daughter's bully. She was focused and smart.
3. Romance - Part of FL's revenge plan is to seduce ML and this plot device was way more satisfying than Revenge Maid. There was great push & pull dynamics and their scenes together were hot. I felt that ML was genuinely falling for her. I wanted more from them! I was even surprised by the other love interest.
4. Supporting characters - I liked the maid who was loyal to FL. I also liked, to some extent, FL's second love interest.
5. ML characterisation - I liked him despite him being a terrible father for not noticing his daughter's mean streak. He caught FL's scheming but was curious and followed along her plan.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonist - Wow, she was mean even when she was a teenager. Rich kid who never took accountability for her actions.
2. FL's action - I was dismayed when FL had a miscarriage. I thought she would and could carry her pregnancy to full term.

Favourite scene
When FL seduced ML

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Poignant tale about second chance at love and in life

This drama was recommended to me by a reddit member as we discussed second chance romance dramas. I wasn't aware of this story but the given synopsis was intriguing that I watched it 2 days after the recommendation. It was emotional & thought-provoking - I enjoyed this drama immensely.

What I liked:
1. Writing - Wow, just incredible writing that led me to question life choices. I loved the mature handling of second chance, not just in romance but also at life. I empathised with FL for the tough decisions she had to make regarding her relationship with ML. I liked that fantasy seeped into the story.
2. Acting - Sublime performance by Zhang Xin Yi. I cried a few times because I felt FL's pain. Li Meng Yuan was great too although I wish he had cried when he found out about FL's struggles.
3. ML characterisation - I liked him for genuinely wanting to work on their relationship. He was a confident young man who was inept at expressing his feelings and concerns for FL.
4. Romance - The drama started with a spicy scene which later made me emotional. Post-reborn FL was hesitant in following what had been done before and I understand those feelings. ML seemed genuine in pursulng FL (he's not about chasing the unattainable) and slowly they build trust & confidence in their relationship. I must say the kissing scenes were hot - Li Meng Yuan demonstrated desire & lust very well. Oh and I liked the supporting characters' romance even though it was super short.
5. Supporting characters - Wow I am impressed with the little arcs given to FL's mother, her senior and ML's mother. I also liked the open-minded grandpa of FL.

What I disliked:
1. FL's father - There isn't an obvious antagonist for this drama but I guess FL's father could be called a baddie. He was selfish and that meeting with ML's mother was extremely embarrassing. He didn't care about saving face.
2. Bai Yingluo - This "white moonlight" tried to ruin FL & ML's relationship but good thing she had very little screentime.

Favourite scene
When FL told ML why she was hesitant about being in a romantic relationship with him

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Shameless FL, Smitten ML and fun sibling dynamics are the reasons I love this drama

I watched this drama as it was highly recommended by a reddit user. This is my second drama that has both Zhao Guan Yu and Lin Zi Rong. I freaking love this drama! I watch this drama on repeat.

What I liked:
1. FL characterisation - OMG Lu Shi Man is shameless and I LOVE IT! She is smart and unintentionally funny. She's not a spoilt , annoying heiress. Lin Zi Rong totally owned this role.
2. Comedy - I laughed out loud too many times.
3. Romance - FL met ML by chance, and girl was thirsty and forthcoming hahaha. ThenML was smitten and wanted to be in a relationship with her, which I found quite endearing. Because of the existing rapport between Lin Zi Rong and Zhao Guan Yu (they collaborated together too many times that I lost count), their intimate scenes were hot and believable. There were also sweet gestures for example ML backed her up when her mother was criticising her.
4. Sibling dynamic - The interactions between Lu Shi Man and her brothers were especially fun to watch. Despite the bickering and slight misunderstandings, it was clear that the brothers genuinely love and are protective of their sister. Out of the 3 brothers, I liked the eldest the most because he had opposite personality from Lu Shi Man.
5. Styling - FL got a cool style - the music lover outfit, the black & white schoolgirl-like outfit, the blush dress she wore when she accompanied her eldest brother to a social event. I also liked the outfits worn by ML and FL's third brother.
6. Supporting characters - I loved the three brothers, FL's best friend & ML's assistant.

What I disliked:
1. FL's mother - I disliked her for being biased.
2. Ending - Since this is a transmigration story, I'd like to know what happens to Lu Shi Man in real life.

Favourite scene
FL's cousin tried to frame FL but that backfired

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Well-written comedy-drama about self-worth & pursuit of happiness

I saw the poster when this drama was newly released. I thought it was cute but didn't plan on watching it until I saw a poster of a new Li Ke Yi-Wang Pei Yan collaboration today. So I thought "Why not watch Love Yourself More first?" Glad I did because this drama brought a lot of joy!

What I liked:
1. FL characterisation - I don't usually like university student FL because they tend to be immature but I liked Li Chao Chao a lot! She is smart & comical and most importantly I saw character growth. Wonderfully played by Li Ke Yi.
2. ML characterisation - What I liked the most about Chen Chi is that he was a good friend to FL. It's great that he listened to his mum's advice about giving FL room to make her own decisions and learn from that experience. This is my first time watching Wang Pei Yan and he excelled in this role.
3. Messaging - I loved that this drama explored a few concepts such as self-worth, pursuit of happiness. You can see these themes experienced by characters other than FL & ML. I liked that there is depth in this light & bright drama.
4. Comedy - I laughed out loud in some scenes. Good blend of comedic and dramatic moments.
5. Romance - Super sweet with some good kisses. Oh it's quite rare to see dramas with FL that has 2 boyfriends at different stages of her life.
6. Supporting characters - I liked FL's parents, FL's bestie. It's great to see SML as a character with substance facing life challenges.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonists - FL's mother was haughty and horrible but she learned her lesson at the end. Even though I didn't like green tea & her mother, I enjoyed their arc because yes in real life there are people who chase status and wealth.

Favourite scene
When FL & ML took a taxi ride

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Coming of age tale that looks into perception of beauty, self-worth & finding love

I watched this series in December 2023 during year end break. A hilarious clip that featured the water splash scene led to me watch this series. I expected a light, fluffy tale of college romance but oh boy, I was shocked. 'Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok-Joo is a coming of age tale that tackles issues such as perception of beauty, self-worth and finding love.

What I liked:
1) Friendship - This drama shows the start of a friendship between Kim Bok Joo and Joon Jung Hyeong in first 2 episodes. I like how the series show the growth of their relationship from friends to best friends then lovers. When one was facing hardships, the other person was there for him/her. A true friend.
2) The romance - Because we see the grow in their friendship, the change of their relationship trajectory, from friends to lovers, was believable. I like that after ML realised that he had feelings for Bok Joo, he acknowledged them and took action.
3) Perception of beauty - I love this drama for showing the perception of beauty and for featuring a female lead in an unconvetional setting. She is a weightlifter & was raised by a single father so some perceived her femininity as "lacking". That scene when her crush (Jung Jae Yi) saw her in her "least feminine" form truly broke my heart. I couldn't stop crying because I felt her anguish.
4) Sports - I love watching massive sports events such as Olympics and FIFA World Cup and always fascinated with sports drama. I love that this series was set in a sports university and as vieweres, we were exposed to several sports discipline such as weightlifting, swimming, artistic gymnastics. I also appreciate that this drama demonstrated performance slump and post-tournament depression.
5) Writing - This is one of the best written tv series I have watched. Both Bok Joo and Joon Hyeong experience tremendous character growth in this series.
6) Acting - Brilliant acting by Lee Sung Kyung & Nam Joo Hyuk. This drama is the first work of them that I have watched. Definitely keen to watch their other work.

What I disliked:
1) Selfishness - I find Bok Joo's best friends were selfish at times. They were self-absorbed with their own feelings that they could not see that Bok-Joo was actually suffering mental block.
2) Fat-shaming - Joon Hyeong fat-shaming Bok Joo at the start of the series is not cool.

Favourite scene
When Jung Jae Yi saw Bok Joo weightlifting

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I enjoyed this series despite its flaws

Never planned to watch Strong Girl Nam-soon but yourdramachingu's clip on YouTube convinced me to give this series a go. I watched Strong Woman Do Bong Soon after this series so I had no expectation of Strong Girl Nam-soon. I see a lot of negative reviews for this series before writing this review. Here are my thoughts.

What I liked:
1) Family - This is the central theme of the show, which sets this series apart from its prequel. The FL had different upbringing because she went missing when she was a child but lucky for her, her adoptive parents were kind people whom raised her well. I also liked that Hwang Geum Joo felt secure of her role as biological mother of Namsoon. That scene when she brought Namsoon's adoptive mother to meet Namsoon was really touching - I cried.
2) The romance - I enjoyed watching the relationship of Namsoon and Kang Hee Shik. They got off the wrong foot the first time they met but later they became allies and eventually lovers. Despite Namsoon's childlike mannerisms at the start of the series, she didn't act like a child or played coy when it comes to romantic relationship. I like her take charge behaviour!
3) Kang Hee Shik - I like his character and as a romantic interest, I am more team Hee Shik. This is my first time watching Ong Seung Wu's drama. I think he did well in his role.
4) Homeless friends - I like both Ji Hyun Soo and Teacher No because of their kindness towards Namsoon when she was struggling in her environment. They also had story arcs.
5) Byeon Woo-seok - His visuals are insane, his high cheekbones and height amazes me. He is very handsome with that styling.
6) Music - I like Itzy's song for this drama.

What I disliked:
1) Comedy - There are too many slapstick comedy scenes in this series. I think this drama would rate better if the writer had focused more on the origin/genetic side of superstrength power in the format of drama rather than the use of the superstrength power in the format of comedy.
2) Characterisation of main female characters - There was so much potential with the developments of side characters such as Hwang Geum Joo, Gil Joong Gan but then they became bland. A lot people were turned off by Namsoon's characteristics which is the writer's fault. Perhaps the writer wanted Namsoon to exhibit similar characteristics as Bong Soon (childlike) but I think this is the wrong move because it led stronger comparisons and harsher comments.
3) Gil Joong Gan's love story - I don't have problem watching a love story of aged individuals. However given that this series focused too much on comedy, the love story of FL's grandma did not add any value to this series. Well other than creating suspicion of that guy's intentions.
4) Hwang Geum Joo - I hate that she fat-shamed her son. It was obvious that she favoured Namsoon because Namsoon was welcomed with open arms. Good thing Kang Nam In didn't harbour any negative feelings towards his twin sister. I also disliked the way Geum Joo treated her husband and brother.
5) Ryu Shi Oh - He's a clear cut baddie from the start but there was too much screen time for his character that people romanticised him. He did not fall in love with Namsoon, he was obsessed with her powers which is a total red flag. He has a fitting ending.

Favourite scene
When Hwang Geum Joo reunited Namsoon and her adoptive mother

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Enjoyable revenge drama marred by poor acting

I enjoyed Undercover Affair and wanted to check out Leo Yang's other work. So I watched this drama and was disappointed in particular the acting of main actress.

What I liked:
1. Story - Revenge seems to be a popular theme for mini dramas. Female lead's parents were killed by a group of 4 friends and the surviving daughter sought justice. I like how the story unfolded though there were some noticeable plot holes e.g. how did FL get that scar.
2. Romance - Wow, there are many kissing scenes in this mini drama and most of them were hot. Too bad Chen Su Jun was stiff & emotionless.

What I disliked:
1. Acting - I noticed that actresses in mini drama tend to overact but Chen Su Jun's acting is underwhelming. She didn't have range of facial expressions. She seemed bored or zoned out most of the time. It'd be great if she could express conflicted feelings when Zhu Guan Wen confided in her or express desire when she gave in to Guan Wen's kisses.
2. Bao Er's adopted brother - I don't understand the purpose of having adopted brother appearing in Lianghe Town. Perhaps his purpose to make Guan Wen insecure but it'd be better if director & writer could show his role in Xue Tong's vengeance plan.
3. Last love scene - I find it disturbing because Guan Wen was drunk & aggressive. So that scene looked like a coercion. I wish Leo Yang gave a different spin to the scene by expressing self-loathing and love for Bao Er at the same time.

Favourite scene
The conversation and make out session in episode 16.

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Had potential but poor execution

I was curious about this series because of the title and synopsis. Was looking forward to a refreshing tale of Cinderella but oh boy, what a disppointment. I got bored mid-way through the series but persisted because I want to mark this series as 'Complete',

What I liked:
1) Lee Jun Young - This is the second work of his that I've watched (The Impossible Heir being the first one). Lee Jun Young did well in a role that's been assigned to him - flawed & a little eccentric but charming chaebol/CEO. He is handsome and has a nice build and height, which are important traits for a male lead.
2) Supporting characters - It's great that the stepmom and stepsisters were nice people (unlike the classic Cinderella story) and were given some backstory so their characters were not just 2D. I also like Baek Dong Ho and Youngbae though I wish writer developed a better friendship arc for Dong Ho and Jae Rim.

What I disliked:
1) Shin Jae Rim characterisation - It's hard to like her because she was ungrateful brat and shallow even till the end. I wish there was more character growth because it's frustrating that female lead was still in self-pity mode in second last episode. Gosh she should have taken the opportunity to travel to Berlin and self-discover. There were very few scenes of Jae Rim as a person, as opposed to her as a stepsis and stepdaughter, a employee, a love interest.
2) Pyo Ye Jin - She is miscast unfortunately. I expected female lead to be wholesome and charming even when being a damsel in distress (best example is Giselle of Disney's Enchanted). However Pyo Ye Jin couldn't demonstrate these traits though the seduction scenes were a nice attempt).
3) Romance - The most frustrating part in a romance story is when a couple hardly communicates. This happens in the series - there are too many mixed signals from Cha Min, it's tiring. Plus there is no chemistry between Pyo Ye Jin and Lee Jun Young.
4) Fantasy elements - I'd say the fantasy scenes put a damper in my enjoyment of the series. The seduction scenes were fine because they tell viewers that Cha Min was falling for Jae Rim. But for example the "homeless Cha Min". They feel like a filler.

Favourite scene
When Jae Rim had too much drinks and had to pee.

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