A Red Thread You Won’t Forget
I really enjoyed watching S Line. It’s a fresh, daring take on privacy and human connection wrapped in a dark thriller. The core concept is striking: people’s past sexual partners appear as glowing red lines above their heads, visible through special glasses. The show uses this premise to explore how society reacts when intimacy is suddenly public, and how obsession and judgment spiral into violence.Hyun-heup (played by A Rin), who can naturally see these red lines without glasses, offers a unique perspective. Lee Soo-hyuk’s Han Ji-wook, a calm and emotionally restrained detective, grounds the narrative as the chaos intensifies. The production is visually compelling, especially with the symbolic use of the red lines and a haunting soundtrack that builds suspense throughout.
That said, the series struggles with pacing, especially from Episode 3 onwards. The suspense and momentum dip noticeably, and I found myself watching at 1.5x speed just to maintain the thriller’s intensity. This mid-series slowdown makes the story feel uneven, even though the tension returns toward the end.
One common criticism I’ve seen is disbelief that so many people in the story would resort to murder over the red lines. But in the show, it’s clear that the violence isn’t a spontaneous societal breakdown. It happens because Lee Da-hee’s character is handing these glasses to people who are already unstable or dangerous—those who would kill to protect their secrets or gain control. This explains the high death toll and violent conflicts, making it a story less about universal chaos and more about how dangerous tools fall into dangerous hands.
The finale divides viewers. Some felt it shifted too suddenly toward a dystopian, almost cult-like tone, which didn’t sit well with the build-up. This tonal shift felt jarring and left some narrative threads unresolved, leaving fans frustrated. It also felt like the final episode was less about wrapping up the story and more about setting up a possible second season.
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Started Strong, Ended Awkwardly
I don’t usually write reviews for youth dramas because most of them follow the same formula and rarely leave a lasting impression. But The River Flows Through It stood out, at least in the beginning. It had something special until it peaked too early and left me wondering, “Then what?”From the start, I was hooked. The story felt fresh, and I was genuinely curious to see how the relationships would develop. It was clear from the beginning that the leads were heading toward an enemies-to-lovers arc, but that predictability did not take away from the fun. Their chemistry felt real, and their growth as characters was believable.
The high school segment, which focused on their senior year, was especially well-paced. It allowed just enough time to connect with the characters and watch their friendships deepen. Moments like the summer trip were thoughtful and well-developed. But after they graduated, the story started to unravel.
Around episode 30, things lost momentum. The pacing became noticeably rushed. While their freshman year in college still had some decent moments, like Xia Xiaoju’s two-day trip and the group competition, everything after that felt increasingly hurried. Summer breaks, which previously felt like meaningful pauses in the story, suddenly passed in a blink.
Each college year flew by faster than the last. By the time senior year ended, I found myself thinking, “Wait, what just happened?” The story continued moving forward, but the emotional depth was gone.
Some viewers have criticized the writing, but I actually thought it was decent until graduation. Even with the faster pace, the writing held up for a while. But once Lu Shiyi left and Xiaoju tried to reach out to him, things started to feel off. It didn’t make sense that he would ignore her completely. Based on everything we had seen of his character, he would have responded. His silence felt out of character.
Then there was the whole situation with Shen Dou. It did not make sense for Lu Shiyi to be dating her when he clearly still had feelings for Xiaoju. That just wasn’t who he was. Yet, when he returned, he was still with Shen Dou and teasing Xiaoju as if nothing had changed. It felt inconsistent and, honestly, disappointing.
Another odd moment was when Cheng Lang saw Lin You with a random white guy. Given her backstory, it seemed far more likely she would have ended up with Yuan An Cheng instead. That sudden shift felt forced and left me wondering if the writer was trying to manufacture drama without respecting the characters’ established relationships.
Finally, the ending scene where Shiyi and Xiaoju kissed at their friend’s wedding felt completely out of place. It wasn’t romantic or satisfying; it just felt rude.
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Conflicted.
NOTE: I haven't watched Go Ahead prior to writing this review.-
This drama starts off strong with its first two episodes, grabbing your attention with engaging characters and a plot that promises an emotional and meaningful story. The chemistry between the cast is great, and the relationships they build feel real and relatable at times. It looked as though the series was going to explore what family really means and how love and support can create strong bonds, even without blood ties.
However, things take a dip in episodes 3 through 9. The pacing varies, and the story starts to drag especially when San Ha's mother and Hae Jun's father begin to try and re-enter their lives. The way the producers executed their returns felt rushed and disjointed. Instead of building up emotional weight of their return, their parents came into the picture almost consecutively. There's never a time where Hae Jun's father crosses path with San Ha's mother which is very unrealistic considering how many times they all went back to convince them. This pacing made the emotional moments feel shallow, as I didn’t have enough time to truly feel the impact of their return. When the emotional parts finally came, they didn't have the same impact they could have had because the buildup felt so slow and tedious. The pacing made it hard to stay engaged, and I found myself losing interest in what could have been a really touching story.
Fortunately, the drama picks back up in the final episodes. The pacing improves, the plot becomes more interesting again, and the characters finally start to get back on track. The themes are explored more deeply, and by the end, it feels like the story comes full circle with a satisfying conclusion.
Overall, if you can push through the slow and frustrating parts, the emotional payoff in the final episodes makes it all worth it. The cast was well chosen, the rest of the plot was done well and the script was the best it could've been…it's just those 6 episodes that just make me want to rip my hair out.
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Disappointing Ending
This drama seemed to reach the perfect ending by episode 15, when Lin Yujing returned to Puicheng for Shen Juan. It felt like the characters had finally grown and were ready to be together. The moment seemed like the ideal conclusion, leaving us hopeful for their future.But then the drama continued, and it just didn't live up to expectations. The extra episodes added unnecessary drama and conflict that didn't really improve the story. Instead of focusing on their growth, the main couple went through more problems that felt repetitive and forced. They just kept dragging the story along, and the ending wasn't even a fulfilling one.
With all that said, I would've given this drama a 10/10 had it ended on episode 15, with a more satisfying and complete feeling. Adding more episodes in this drama only took away from what could've been a perfect conclusion.
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Definitely original?
Long D definitely has an original concept, but it doesn't stand out much. The story is about a couple in a long-distance relationship, which is interesting. It shows the ups and downs of being far away from someone you love and shows how technology can both help and also complicate relationships.The characters are decent, but their chemistry feels a little flat. The main characters don't feel as connected or as deep as you might hope for in a romance drama. While the themes of love and personal growth are important, the show doesn't explore them in an exciting way. The pacing can also feel slow, and some parts of the story is predictable.
Overall, Long D is a good option if you're looking for something simple, or slow paced, but it may not be the most memorable or exciting drama. It's okay, but if someone asks me if it was good, I wouldn't say it was.
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True Beauty, Real Glow
True Beauty is a standout coming-of-age drama that blends comedy, romance, and emotional depth in a way that feels both entertaining and meaningful. It follows Lim Ju-kyung, a high school girl who becomes skilled at makeup to escape years of bullying over her appearance. What begins as a lighthearted makeover story evolves into a touching exploration of self-acceptance and identity.Moon Ga-young shines in the lead role, bringing warmth and sincerity to Ju-kyung’s journey. Her performance makes you root for her from the start, whether she’s struggling with insecurity or finding joy in new friendships. The chemistry between her and the two leads, played by Cha Eun-woo and Hwang In-yeop, is engaging without ever feeling overly dramatic. Their love triangle is filled with tension and tenderness, but it never overshadows Ju-kyung’s personal growth.
The drama is visually appealing, with clean cinematography and colorful styling that reflect the vibrant, youthful tone of the story. Every episode is backed by a catchy and emotional soundtrack that enhances the mood without being overbearing.
What really sets True Beauty apart is its heart. It doesn’t shy away from the emotional struggles teens face, whether it’s self-esteem, peer pressure, or family dynamics. Yet it keeps the narrative hopeful, focusing on friendship, love, and the courage to be yourself.
By the end, True Beauty leaves a lasting impression. It’s funny, heartfelt, and thoughtful in all the right ways, making it an unforgettable experience for anyone who’s ever felt like they had to hide who they really are.
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A Sweet Slice of Healing
When Life Gives You Tangerines completely surprised me in the best way. The story feels so genuine and the characters are really easy to connect with. They don’t come across as typical drama roles but as real people going through real experiences. The chemistry between the leads is natural and makes you genuinely root for them.What I really enjoyed is how the show balances everything. It’s emotional and heartfelt without becoming too dramatic, and there’s just enough humor to keep things light. The side characters have their own stories that add depth without distracting from the main plot.
Visually, the show is gorgeous. The warm colors and cozy settings make it feel inviting, and the music fits the mood perfectly without being overwhelming.
Overall, it’s one of those dramas that stays with you after you finish it. It’s about growth, healing, and finding small moments of happiness even when life gets tough. Definitely worth watching if you want something sweet, real, and comforting.
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Reading Between the Lines
Twelve Letters is a drama with a touching story and characters that are easy to care about. I really liked the main plot, and I enjoyed the show as a whole. The emotional moments are strong, and the relationships between the characters kept me interested from start to finish.However, not everything in the story feels natural. There are many moments where things happen only to move the plot forward, and it sometimes takes away from the realism of the drama. Even so, the acting and the main storyline are good enough to keep the show enjoyable.
I also wish the drama had a special episode. The ending leaves a lot of questions open, especially about the main couple. Do they ever get married? What happens to the daughter and the son? Does Tang Yixun ever take care of the daughter? Does the son ever get born? The drama brings up these important questions, but it never fully answers them, which feels a little disappointing.
Overall, Twelve Letters is a good drama with a touching story. It has some flaws, but it is still worth watching. I would be excited if a special episode came out to give the characters the closure they deserve.
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High School Hell Begins
All of Us Are Dead is a gripping and emotionally charged series that breathes new life into the zombie genre. Set within the walls of a high school overrun by a sudden outbreak, the show wastes no time in building tension, throwing viewers into a world that’s both terrifying and heartbreakingly human.The young cast delivers standout performances that carry real emotional weight. Park Ji-hu and Yoon Chan-young bring honesty and vulnerability to their roles, making the characters’ fears, decisions, and growth feel real and immediate. Their chemistry and depth add layers to the chaos unfolding around them.
Visually, the show is outstanding. The camera work and direction heighten the suspense, while the zombie choreography is both frantic and precise. The makeup and effects are top-notch, enhancing the realism without distracting from the story.
Beyond the action, the series explores themes that resonate deeply—friendship under pressure, class divisions, institutional failure, and what it means to protect others when everything falls apart. It’s this emotional and thematic weight that sets the show apart from typical thrillers.
The pacing never drags. Each episode builds momentum, introducing new dilemmas and character arcs that raise the stakes without feeling forced. Just when you think the show has peaked, it finds another way to surprise you or hit you emotionally.
All of Us Are Dead is more than just a survival story. It’s a bold, emotionally charged drama that blends horror with heart in a way few shows manage. It demands your attention—and more than earns it. This is an unforgettable drama.
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A Slow Burn That Pays Off
When this drama first came out, I discovered Hidden Love and decided to watch them in order of release since they’re set in the same universe. I absolutely adored Hidden Love, which made me really excited to watch The First Frost. No one warned me, though, that it would be such a different kind of drama.Before starting The First Frost, it’s important to understand how much perspective shapes the story. In Hidden Love, we see Sang Yan through Sang Zhi’s eyes—her annoying, "ugly" older brother who’s always teasing her. The tone is playful and lighthearted because it reflects her youthful point of view. In contrast, The First Frost is told from Wen Yifan’s perspective, which gives us a completely different view of Sang Yan. From her side, he comes across as more distant, quiet, and emotionally guarded. But as the story unfolds, we begin to see his soft side and the quiet ways he cares for her. It’s not that Sang Yan has changed; it’s that we’re finally seeing the parts of him that were hidden in Hidden Love.
I went into The First Frost expecting the same cute, heartwarming vibe as Hidden Love and When I Fly Towards You, especially since all three dramas are based on novels by the same author. But this one carried a lot more emotional depth and complexity.
At first, I honestly wasn’t enjoying it and even thought about dropping it around episode 6. But I’m really glad I didn’t. While the pacing felt slow and the story dragged at times, everything eventually came full circle. In the end, it was unexpectedly satisfying and meaningful, even if not everything made perfect sense.
One of the most rewarding parts of the drama is watching the characters grow. Both Wen Yifan and Sang Yan face personal struggles and insecurities, but over time, they learn to open up and trust each other. Their growth feels genuine, showing how love and understanding can help heal past wounds. Even the side characters have their own arcs, which adds layers to the story and makes the world feel more real.
(Be warned—this drama may make you cry.)
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Hidden First Love
Hidden Love is a sweet romance that captures the magic and vulnerability of falling in love for the first time. With its soft atmosphere, lovable leads, and heartfelt storytelling, this drama feels like a comforting memory you want to hold on to.The story follows Sang Zhi, a bright and somewhat awkward high school girl, and Duan Jiaxu, her older brother’s friend. What starts as a quiet crush gradually grows into something deeper, and the drama carefully traces their relationship over several years. It’s not rushed, not overly dramatic, but instead focused on small moments—glances, shared silences, and emotional growth.
One of the drama’s biggest strengths is its atmosphere. The cinematography is warm and nostalgic, almost dreamlike at times. The pacing is relaxed, which might feel slow to some, but it works beautifully for a story built on unspoken feelings and growing trust. The OST (original soundtrack) also adds to the overall feeling, matching the tone perfectly.
Zhao Lusi as Sang Zhi is incredibly charming, capturing the innocence and uncertainty of young love. Chen Zheyuan plays Duan Jiaxu with a calm, steady presence that slowly reveals more emotional depth as the story unfolds. Their chemistry feels natural, never forced, and the age gap is handled with sensitivity and care.
Beyond the romance, Hidden Love also explores themes like family relationships, personal growth, and emotional healing. It doesn’t rely on dramatic twists, but instead lets the characters grow organically. It’s a story about timing, patience, and the quiet ways people come to care for each other.
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A tasty watch.
What got me hooked onto this drama was the use of food. To Chinese people, meals are very important. However, it's not just about the food, it's about the time spent eating together with family, which Su Ke Lan brings up a lot. By sharing a meal, you can have a better understanding of the people around you. Music, visual arts and culinary art is a mean of communication, love and happiness.The plot is very straightforward: a girl meets a nasty boss and eventually falls in love with him. The boss becomes attracted to her because of her talents and wisdom. Both characters have flaws, and they grow together to become better people.
The best part of the show was episode 14, after that I think the writers were trying to focus more on the relationships of the side characters, but the things that happened between Yu Hao and Su Ke Lan were rather predictable.
Overall, if you were to ask me, I would definitely recommend this drama to someone, especially if they're a foodie. This drama makes me eager to learn how to cook properly and become more thankful for the home cooked meals my parents can provide for me.
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A complete waste of time!
There was basically no chemistry and an awful ending.The reason for him to keep chasing her was outright stupid. She left him for a reason he didn't even know. Yet, as soon as he saw her in a school magazine, he changed all his goals for a girl he hadn't spoken to in years. He should've stopped after finding out she had a boyfriend at the time.
There was also way too much mentions of p*rn, condoms and masturbation, it was disgusting.🤢🤮
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Extremely long, poorly paced, and quite boring. DO NOT WATCH IT.
The script could be improved and the acting could be a LOT better. It’s a complete waste of Cha Eun-woo and Park Yoo-na’s talents.I think the main message of this drama is to stop comparing yourself to other people and to stop caring about what other people think but it wasn’t done well.
It's about a girl named Kang Mi-rae who underwent multiple plastic surgeries to become unrecognizable right before university to get a fresh start because she had to endure bullying throughout middle school. She hoped that she'd be able to get new friends and more opportunities. But she ended up getting bullied for having plastic surgery.
The drama was really good for the first few episodes but it started going no where. They dragged out the fact Mi-rae had plastic surgery for so long. This drama would NOT be 16 episodes if they hadn't done so. There are also a lot of long pauses particularly with Mi-rae and Kyung-seok. Mi-rae takes a lot of time to think of what to say and I don’t remember for sure but it’s kinda like the camera is panning towards something very slowly. Kyung-seok is mostly only like that when Mi-rae is around though.
The fact Kyung-seok liked her since middle school is not very realistic because why hadn’t he said anything or tried to make friends with her? What if they didn’t end up going to the same university? It’s just a matter of luck that he got a second chance to let his feelings known, and he still manages to almost fuck it up. Mi-rae is so blind for not noticing it earlier because Kyung-seok makes it so obvious that he likes her.
I tried my hardest to like it but I couldn’t.😭
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Go Ahead... and Lose Me
I really liked Go Ahead at the start. The found-family dynamic was super warm and believable, and the relationship between Li Jian Jian and Ling Xiao was one of the highlights early on. They felt close in a way that was comforting but also layered—you could tell there was more going on beneath the surface.When the show started shifting toward romance, I know a lot of people felt like it came out of nowhere because of the sibling-like dynamic. But honestly, I didn’t think it was that sudden. It was pretty clear that Ling Xiao liked Li Jian Jian from early on—there’s even a scene where they talk about a childhood betrothal, which hints at deeper feelings. And while Li Jian Jian didn’t show her feelings as openly, I don’t think she saw him purely as a brother either. Her feelings felt more under the surface, like she hadn’t fully realized them yet. That’s probably why she seemed so awkward around him once the dynamic started to shift—it wasn’t that she didn’t like him, just that she wasn’t ready to confront it.
That said, the pacing started to drag for me after a while, and I ended up dropping it at episode 15—not because it got bad, but because it lost some of the momentum that made the beginning so engaging.
I did watch the Korean remake, Family by Choice, all the way through, and based on what I saw from both versions, they each have their own flaws. In Family by Choice, the pacing was way too fast when the two guys came back from abroad—it felt like things jumped ahead without enough emotional buildup. In Go Ahead, the comeback was a little rushed too, but then the story slowed down a lot, and it lost some of its energy.
Both dramas have their strong points, especially when it comes to the emotional moments and family bonds, but I think they both struggled a bit once the focus shifted toward romance.
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