Please watch him in Pump Up The Healthy Love. It finishes airing this week (Wed/Thu) so you can binge it - am…
If you like slapstick-ish comedy and hints of romance. then it is VERY VERY GOOD! It literally brightened up my day/week and you can trust the cast to deliver - especially - LJY!
In fact you can start it now and binge half today and half tomorrow. The final episode airs tomorrow so you can pace it accordingly. It is really entertaining - but then again everyone's choice is different and hence I gave you the above context of themes!
Hope you start it and enjoy it! 💖💪🏼
P.S. I also read your comment that you have recently got introduced to Lee Jun Young in Weak Class Hero 2. Given that was a negative swag role, watch him in this now. You will be amazed and love the contrast. Pretty sure you will end up checking out his other works too then - I highly recommend: Love and Leashes and Brave Citizen as two movies to see his diverse range. I recommend movies as they are shorter and enough to enjoy this man's acting prowess!
It's completely natural for opinions to differ on any drama—everyone has their own tastes and perspectives,…
The ambiguity of the silhouette was likely intentional, serving as a narrative device to keep the audience guessing. There were no distinct features to confirm gender—just a tall, lean figure in a cap/hoodie, shrouded in mystery. This uncertainty plays into the psychological nature of the drama, where assumptions are challenged.
Given the severity of the crimes, many instinctively associated the silhouette with a male perpetrator, reinforced by the predominantly male suspects in the story. However, the lack of clear identifiers suggests that the shadowy figure is more of a symbolic placeholder—an unknown entity whose identity remains elusive until revealed. The drama might have deliberately leaned into these biases, making viewers question their own perceptions.
In fact, I personally thought that when the final reveal is done, the killer emerges from the same shadows/silhouettes -so I found it good. In essence, the silhouette represents the idea of an unseen threat rather than a specific individual—a clever storytelling choice that keeps the mystery alive, IMHO.
I'm pretty sure that the silhouettes I saw in the first murder, Yoon Ina's uncle's death, and Oh Cheoljin's death…
It's completely natural for opinions to differ on any drama—everyone has their own tastes and perspectives, and that’s what makes discussions so engaging. However, dismissing those who enjoy it by questioning their intelligence is unfair and unkind.
Imagine loving a drama and wanting to share your enthusiasm, only to be met with harsh, dismissive comments. That wouldn't feel great, right? Respectful conversations allow room for different viewpoints without belittling others.
So, let’s keep discussions open and thoughtful—express your opinions freely, but also appreciate that others may see things differently. A little kindness goes a long way 🙏🏼💖
With that said, I’ve shared my thoughts on the silhouettes in a comment below under spoiler tag. It’s an intriguing topic, and I have shared my take on it.
So Seungjoo was a suspect, but never arrested and as she killed herself and I Na and Curry Kim had nothing to…
Regarding Suspects: Even I had high doubts on both the psychiatrists, more so after the Jeju incidence. I had shared it while watching Ep 2: https://kisskh.at/752975-nine-puzzle#comment-22158248 so as an audience I was quite happy that I was right. Somewhat but yeah :)
Though the reveal was definitely sad - I feel like the Chief, she was a victim too and her means to avenge her mother were questionable but not sure where the moral compass points at given when we know what we know what really happened in the past. It was unfortunate - one of those situations that led to evil being done as a cycle.
Regarding Unresolved Case: Am with you, in terms of Korean laws even am not sure. But then this a drama and hence open to multiple interpretations and so we can leave it at that. At the end of the day we know what happened, maybe the police force also knows what happened - they are intelligent folks so it is not difficult to put the puzzle pieces together. It is a situation that everyone knows of but cannot speak or document it. It was a cycle of evil that ended with the killer punishing the others and themselves.
It is an iconic phrase that will be spoken and used for times to come! 😂😂😂We are blessed generation to…
Oh he was undeniably cute and adorable in that film! I have seen him since his maknae/idol days as Jun of U-Kiss, so imagine my surprise when I saw him taking roles that were completely psycho or pookie ones like this and L&L! I was hyperventilating in a new way 🤣
Easily one of the best actors out there Definitely the best of idol-turned-actors
He is so talented and I hope his run only continues upwards and we get to see and appreciate him in more projects that get talked about for ages! WHAT THE ICON!
So Seungjoo was a suspect, but never arrested and as she killed herself and I Na and Curry Kim had nothing to…
My take is that - it goes unpunished, not unresolved - but open to interpretation.
While Ena and Hansaem decided not to say anything, we had Hwang In Chan's statements on who commissioned the puzzle art and also the living area of Seungjoo. She was already being chased on suspicion to murder - so I guess from a technical point of view - if the police wanted they could have closed the case basis the suspicion. They must have also figured out the motive - so up to them how they wanted to close the case, just submit all they know and close it - or mention nothing and keep it a cold case.
In fact that is the beauty and tragedy of the whole thing - was Seungjoo really wrong or were the victims evil?
Not sure if it gives you any answer or makes much sense, but guess this is what poetic justice is in a way. Seungjoo in fact makes herself the 9th Puzzle piece so - and her question in the end is haunting "why would someone kill people to build a place where others can live?" - Evil breeds Evil, situation is one way to look at it.
What a thrilling ride this was - absolutely sensational, a masterpiece that everyone should watch.
⭐ NEW WATCHERS: If you are here and debating if you should start this - take this as a YES! It is short and binge-worthy, and one of the rare dramas that have scored 10/10 on all aspect and I am very strict with my rankings, so this even surprised me!
⭐ Those who have COMPLETED the drama - how many were of you were right in guessing? I was somewhat right amongst my list of suspects that I drew after Ep 2 - feels kind of rewarding hehehe! Spoiler Comment on Suspects: https://kisskh.at/752975-nine-puzzle#comment-22158248
filler, wtf?? it's literally the sequence of season 1 events, it works perfectly fine as a continuation
Sigh - happy that you enjoyed it, but like many others (and yes I have discussed this on multiple forums and offline with friends and other viewers) we felt it seemed like a single sequel was cut into 2 parts and labelled S2 and S3. Which is okay - I understand from a business perspective for Netflix and makers - but as a curious viewer I needed more - especially after waiting for YEARS!
For me - it did progress as a story, we got new characters/viewpoints but I did not get enough answers and the events were not as shocking as S1.
I am still waiting for the main questions to be answered - they gave us a new fresh perspectives, but no definite answers. They gave us guess/hints but not concrete answers. (1) who all are involved in the games? (2) why did the brother join the games and is so into it? (3) how do the guards join/are recruited? These are some of the main questions that are still open.
Hence I want full closure in S3 and hence my above comment - and am sure we will get it given it is the final season. That's all - again what may be perfect to some, may not be for others. Dramas are open to various interpretation and we need to respect all views :)
What the end?? 🤣But seriously, I use the "what the...?" frase all the time and English isn't even my 1st language…
It is an iconic phrase that will be spoken and used for times to come! 😂😂😂 We are blessed generation to have come across stuff like: "Gwenchana" "What The" "Disgushting Sh#t" etc
"What the" is extra special given the diverse uses it has - it can be applied to any situation. Examples: What the Soju? What the Exam? What the Traffic? What the Ex-girlfriend? What the Drama! What the Actor!
It diversity is very similar to the actor who uses this line - Lee Jun Young. I mean we all know how diverse his character/roles are - and in this half year itself. No surprises why even his phrase fits every situation and so well-loved 💖
I am waiting for the finale and I know will terribly miss it once it is over. Hence all we can do is use this iconic phrase and rewatch the drama to remember it by.
I will stop my monologue here - as it is probably evident how crazy I have been for this drama and actor! WHAT THE SIMP (I am) 😅
'Squid Game Season 3' will be darker and more brutal than Season 2, says director Hwang
Please just give us all answers and closure - Season 2 felt almost like a filler to me. I can take the darkness and brutality - but not filler like storyline PLISHH DIRECTOR NIM!
Technically, I have seen Gong Myung in Bride of Haebak - but I don't remember it because that was one of my most disliked dramas. Really like to forget it - it was that bad for me.
I have recently seen and loved Gong Myung in "Way Back Love" and post that it seems like I am seeing and reading about him everywhere. It is a good sign, as it means he has cast a good impression on me and therefore I love everytime they are seen/written about. Thought sometimes I confuse his looks with "Jang Seung Jo" especially in the "Second Shot at Love" main poster.
Shin Hye Sun is one of my beloved actresses - I have loved her growth journey and therefore super-excited for this pairing!
I watched her play the villainous 2FL in The Real has Come - she was good in that role because i yelled at her…
A good convincing villainess is also good - you can hate them but never ignore them. And if they make your blood boil that means they are doing a great job as an actress. I was interested to see more of her works - so while this "Who Are You" gets planned - I will check out The Real has Come.
But is the drama worth watching - I was initially interested in it cause I saw Ahn Jae Hyun cast in it and it was a long time since he made an appearance in a drama. I had dropped the idea cause I saw more negative reviews/ratings/comments than positive ... let me know your thoughts though?
Most of his co-actresses have been noonas - for example: Love and Leashes, When Life Give You Tangerine, May I Help You, Dreaming of a Freaking Fairytale, and currently Pump Up the Health Love!
I want him in a doctor role !! He played it just a little bit in may i help you, and i need more of it ahah !…
I actually was rewatching May I Help You - just now when this thought came in my head. Because of the whole concept of Working for a Dime, they take on any role - and I was like yes, why doesn't he take it in real life and taken on a medical drama! It would be amazing to see him as one 💖
Since Bro is everywhere, I wonder... is he the masked man in season 2 of The Devil's Plan? When I saw the stature…
I did not know about this show - but now am interested. Not sure who the masked man is but I get the drift. Not sure if he is in this season 2, since no one has shared anything on these lines or there was any news - but then he seems suitable for the role - so who knows maybe he would join in future season?
I have zero clue about the show - but look at me, recommending him for it - that the kind of talent he has, we have so much confidence as an audience that he can pull off any role. I love it 💖
Who else thinks that he and blackpink jisoo look so similar to each other...!?I'm reminded of blackpink jisoo…
Please watch him in Pump Up The Healthy Love. It finishes airing this week (Wed/Thu) so you can binge it - am sure you will love it, and the comedy is just LIT!
I think Jun has yet to take on the role of a doctor.
The idea popped into my head because, out of all his looks, my favorite is when he wears glasses—be it onscreen or real life. So, it would be incredible to see him as a bespectacled doctor. Considering the wide range of characters he has portrayed, it would add to his list of diverse roles if he stars in a medical drama.
In fact, when Trauma Code was released, I actually thought that Choo Young Woo bore quite a resemblance to Lee Jun Young in his sexy specsy looks. Here's my post about it: https://kisskh.at/profile/omo-omo-omo/feeds/lezkVie
As far as memory serves right he has not done a doctor yet so would love to see him as one and SWOON, I mean, SOON! 😍
Zang Hai can't fight, it was said since the first episodes, he has a weak body which isn't suited for martial…
I was not expecting Zang Hai to fight directly, but considering that his town had skilled defenders who managed to eliminate all enemies except Lu Jin, it’s clear they were capable. Additionally, Masked Man likely had fighters at his disposal, meaning Zang had options beyond seeking help from Zhen Tower.
If I were in his position, I’d prioritize relying on my own people rather than reaching out externally, especially given that his plan hinged on maintaining his cover as Zang Hai. By subtly revealing his hand, he’s allowed FL to suspect an ulterior motive or hidden identity—something that contradicts the most fundamental rule of his mission. Whether FL acts on her suspicions is another matter, but the risk remains. (On a light note - he did not complete his full training with the female master - so maybe that's why 😂)
A decade of covert training should have ingrained in him the instinct to rely on his closest allies first. His master had already laid out the intention to eliminate Lu Jin before he reached Mr. Cao, suggesting they had a pre-established strategy within their ranks. When Zang resisted the idea of killing Lu Jin immediately, though he still ended up doing so, using the theatrics with FL to divert suspicion in a different direction.
While the mission revolving around Mr. Cao and Lu Jin unfolded as planned, the narrative became somewhat diluted as elements of the story were repurposed to develop the ML/FL romance subplot. It was fine, but I personally felt it was an unnecessary detour that could have been avoided. That said, I’m not the writer, so I’ll just go with the flow—and share my thoughts here on MDL! 😅
Ep 14 - Okay, I understand that it is supposed to be romantic, but really was this necessary? For someone like Zang Hai, who has prepared for decade to fight his enemies and has a bunch load of supporters, they cannot kill a guy of Mr Cao in secret? And he needs help of the FL for it? Who has ridiculous demands of Zang Hai - bath scene, really?
I kind of dislike when the whole suspense/action drama is interrupted by these deliberate plot deviations and forced romance. Le Sigh!
Lee Jun Young either is a psychopath in his roles or (mostly) romancing noona actresses! I love it 💖 anyway I can get more of him on-screen, so hope he confirms for this.
Also Cha Joo Young - I have only seen her in The Glory, and though brief she had an impactful character/impression in terms of acting, cannot wait to see more of her too 😊
2 
10 
1 
1 
1 
1 
In fact you can start it now and binge half today and half tomorrow. The final episode airs tomorrow so you can pace it accordingly. It is really entertaining - but then again everyone's choice is different and hence I gave you the above context of themes!
Hope you start it and enjoy it! 💖💪🏼
P.S. I also read your comment that you have recently got introduced to Lee Jun Young in Weak Class Hero 2. Given that was a negative swag role, watch him in this now. You will be amazed and love the contrast. Pretty sure you will end up checking out his other works too then - I highly recommend: Love and Leashes and Brave Citizen as two movies to see his diverse range. I recommend movies as they are shorter and enough to enjoy this man's acting prowess!
Given the severity of the crimes, many instinctively associated the silhouette with a male perpetrator, reinforced by the predominantly male suspects in the story. However, the lack of clear identifiers suggests that the shadowy figure is more of a symbolic placeholder—an unknown entity whose identity remains elusive until revealed. The drama might have deliberately leaned into these biases, making viewers question their own perceptions.
In fact, I personally thought that when the final reveal is done, the killer emerges from the same shadows/silhouettes -so I found it good. In essence, the silhouette represents the idea of an unseen threat rather than a specific individual—a clever storytelling choice that keeps the mystery alive, IMHO.
Imagine loving a drama and wanting to share your enthusiasm, only to be met with harsh, dismissive comments. That wouldn't feel great, right? Respectful conversations allow room for different viewpoints without belittling others.
So, let’s keep discussions open and thoughtful—express your opinions freely, but also appreciate that others may see things differently. A little kindness goes a long way 🙏🏼💖
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
With that said, I’ve shared my thoughts on the silhouettes in a comment below under spoiler tag. It’s an intriguing topic, and I have shared my take on it.
Even I had high doubts on both the psychiatrists, more so after the Jeju incidence. I had shared it while watching Ep 2: https://kisskh.at/752975-nine-puzzle#comment-22158248 so as an audience I was quite happy that I was right. Somewhat but yeah :)
Though the reveal was definitely sad - I feel like the Chief, she was a victim too and her means to avenge her mother were questionable but not sure where the moral compass points at given when we know what we know what really happened in the past. It was unfortunate - one of those situations that led to evil being done as a cycle.
Regarding Unresolved Case: Am with you, in terms of Korean laws even am not sure. But then this a drama and hence open to multiple interpretations and so we can leave it at that. At the end of the day we know what happened, maybe the police force also knows what happened - they are intelligent folks so it is not difficult to put the puzzle pieces together. It is a situation that everyone knows of but cannot speak or document it. It was a cycle of evil that ended with the killer punishing the others and themselves.
Which is what makes it a brilliant drama!
Easily one of the best actors out there
Definitely the best of idol-turned-actors
He is so talented and I hope his run only continues upwards and we get to see and appreciate him in more projects that get talked about for ages! WHAT THE ICON!
While Ena and Hansaem decided not to say anything, we had Hwang In Chan's statements on who commissioned the puzzle art and also the living area of Seungjoo. She was already being chased on suspicion to murder - so I guess from a technical point of view - if the police wanted they could have closed the case basis the suspicion. They must have also figured out the motive - so up to them how they wanted to close the case, just submit all they know and close it - or mention nothing and keep it a cold case.
In fact that is the beauty and tragedy of the whole thing - was Seungjoo really wrong or were the victims evil?
Not sure if it gives you any answer or makes much sense, but guess this is what poetic justice is in a way. Seungjoo in fact makes herself the 9th Puzzle piece so - and her question in the end is haunting "why would someone kill people to build a place where others can live?" - Evil breeds Evil, situation is one way to look at it.
⭐ NEW WATCHERS:
If you are here and debating if you should start this - take this as a YES!
It is short and binge-worthy, and one of the rare dramas that have scored 10/10 on all aspect and I am very strict with my rankings, so this even surprised me!
⭐ More details in my review, if it helps:
https://kisskh.at/profile/omo-omo-omo/review/460844
⭐ Those who have COMPLETED the drama - how many were of you were right in guessing?
I was somewhat right amongst my list of suspects that I drew after Ep 2 - feels kind of rewarding hehehe! Spoiler Comment on Suspects: https://kisskh.at/752975-nine-puzzle#comment-22158248
For me - it did progress as a story, we got new characters/viewpoints but I did not get enough answers and the events were not as shocking as S1.
I am still waiting for the main questions to be answered - they gave us a new fresh perspectives, but no definite answers. They gave us guess/hints but not concrete answers. (1) who all are involved in the games? (2) why did the brother join the games and is so into it? (3) how do the guards join/are recruited?
These are some of the main questions that are still open.
Hence I want full closure in S3 and hence my above comment - and am sure we will get it given it is the final season. That's all - again what may be perfect to some, may not be for others. Dramas are open to various interpretation and we need to respect all views :)
We are blessed generation to have come across stuff like: "Gwenchana" "What The" "Disgushting Sh#t" etc
"What the" is extra special given the diverse uses it has - it can be applied to any situation.
Examples: What the Soju? What the Exam? What the Traffic? What the Ex-girlfriend?
What the Drama! What the Actor!
It diversity is very similar to the actor who uses this line - Lee Jun Young. I mean we all know how diverse his character/roles are - and in this half year itself. No surprises why even his phrase fits every situation and so well-loved 💖
I am waiting for the finale and I know will terribly miss it once it is over. Hence all we can do is use this iconic phrase and rewatch the drama to remember it by.
I will stop my monologue here - as it is probably evident how crazy I have been for this drama and actor! WHAT THE SIMP (I am) 😅
Please just give us all answers and closure - Season 2 felt almost like a filler to me. I can take the darkness and brutality - but not filler like storyline PLISHH DIRECTOR NIM!
Technically, I have seen Gong Myung in Bride of Haebak - but I don't remember it because that was one of my most disliked dramas. Really like to forget it - it was that bad for me.
I have recently seen and loved Gong Myung in "Way Back Love" and post that it seems like I am seeing and reading about him everywhere. It is a good sign, as it means he has cast a good impression on me and therefore I love everytime they are seen/written about. Thought sometimes I confuse his looks with "Jang Seung Jo" especially in the "Second Shot at Love" main poster.
Shin Hye Sun is one of my beloved actresses - I have loved her growth journey and therefore super-excited for this pairing!
But is the drama worth watching - I was initially interested in it cause I saw Ahn Jae Hyun cast in it and it was a long time since he made an appearance in a drama. I had dropped the idea cause I saw more negative reviews/ratings/comments than positive ... let me know your thoughts though?
I have zero clue about the show - but look at me, recommending him for it - that the kind of talent he has, we have so much confidence as an audience that he can pull off any role. I love it 💖
It finishes airing this week (Wed/Thu) so you can binge it - am sure you will love it, and the comedy is just LIT!
The idea popped into my head because, out of all his looks, my favorite is when he wears glasses—be it onscreen or real life. So, it would be incredible to see him as a bespectacled doctor. Considering the wide range of characters he has portrayed, it would add to his list of diverse roles if he stars in a medical drama.
In fact, when Trauma Code was released, I actually thought that Choo Young Woo bore quite a resemblance to Lee Jun Young in his sexy specsy looks. Here's my post about it: https://kisskh.at/profile/omo-omo-omo/feeds/lezkVie
As far as memory serves right he has not done a doctor yet so would love to see him as one and SWOON, I mean, SOON! 😍
If I were in his position, I’d prioritize relying on my own people rather than reaching out externally, especially given that his plan hinged on maintaining his cover as Zang Hai. By subtly revealing his hand, he’s allowed FL to suspect an ulterior motive or hidden identity—something that contradicts the most fundamental rule of his mission. Whether FL acts on her suspicions is another matter, but the risk remains. (On a light note - he did not complete his full training with the female master - so maybe that's why 😂)
A decade of covert training should have ingrained in him the instinct to rely on his closest allies first. His master had already laid out the intention to eliminate Lu Jin before he reached Mr. Cao, suggesting they had a pre-established strategy within their ranks. When Zang resisted the idea of killing Lu Jin immediately, though he still ended up doing so, using the theatrics with FL to divert suspicion in a different direction.
While the mission revolving around Mr. Cao and Lu Jin unfolded as planned, the narrative became somewhat diluted as elements of the story were repurposed to develop the ML/FL romance subplot. It was fine, but I personally felt it was an unnecessary detour that could have been avoided. That said, I’m not the writer, so I’ll just go with the flow—and share my thoughts here on MDL! 😅
For someone like Zang Hai, who has prepared for decade to fight his enemies and has a bunch load of supporters, they cannot kill a guy of Mr Cao in secret? And he needs help of the FL for it? Who has ridiculous demands of Zang Hai - bath scene, really?
I kind of dislike when the whole suspense/action drama is interrupted by these deliberate plot deviations and forced romance. Le Sigh!
I love it 💖 anyway I can get more of him on-screen, so hope he confirms for this.
Also Cha Joo Young - I have only seen her in The Glory, and though brief she had an impactful character/impression in terms of acting, cannot wait to see more of her too 😊