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Legendary Start, Let Down Gently ? C-Drama Rookie’s Honest Review
This is my first historical C-drama, & probably my 4th or 5th attempt at C-dramas overall. I’ve been watching dramas for nearly a decade, usually leaning toward Korean & Japanese dramas or movies. I’ve had countless recommendations—both online & from friends—to try C-dramas, but other than RESET, none really grabbed me. Legend of Zang Hai changed that after a long drought, though only until around Episode 27–32.➥ PROS: I loved the beginning—it pulled me into a world of mystery surrounding the Gui Seal & Zang Hai’s personal mission of revenge. Watching him grow, outsmart enemies through intelligence, & form alliances under his mentor's guidance was fascinating. This buildup held strong until about Ep 31–32, as the mystery deepened around both the artifact & the true villains. I especially enjoyed the Ep 20–30 stretch with key battles. The suspense, clever characters, & the beautifully crafted world—scenic shots, costumes, direction, & music—all worked well.
➥ CONS: This might be personal, but I prefer fast-paced stories—ones that barely give you time to breathe. In that regard, this one moved painfully slow. I even paused midway to check out other dramas. That said, the pacing wasn’t a dealbreaker.
The bigger issues were (1) the romance subplot, (2) the predictable mystery antagonist, & (3) the main character acting against his established traits.
(1) Romance: Even as a subplot, it felt unnecessary & a bit forced. For political revenge stories, I prefer a romance-free arc—it just dilutes the intensity. The early banter was fine, but by the Ep 20s it got awkward enough for me to skip ahead. I liked the FL’s fighter persona & wish she’d stayed an ally—or let romance blossom after the mission. I get that it was meant to show a softer side of the ML, but it didn’t quite land for me.
(2) Mysterious Antagonist: Firstly, for me it was quite predictable early on who this person would be—so it lost points there. Secondly when the reveal was done—it is such a tried/tested formula that it did not leave me shocked/surprised—rather disappointed that for such a good drama build-up, the writers chose the usual path.
(3) ML Defying His Personality: The romance arc mainly caused this shift. He was advised (though not firmly) not to let anyone sway him. Yet he does—more than once. Despite having capable allies, he trusts the FL, reveals his identity, & even believes her mother—the Queen—who was a key suspect. If you’re on a mission this critical, shouldn’t doubt come before trust? This inconsistency, after so much character development, was hard to overlook.
➥ Overall Recommendation to Watch: MAYBE Since this is my first historical C-drama, maybe I’m being too harsh. I liked the lead actor, the performances overall, & the cinematography. But the slow pace & glaring issues dulled the impact for me. So—I wouldn’t recommend it if you share similar preferences. But if you’re into historical/political C-dramas & are okay with the slow burn & romance subplot, this might still work for you.
As I always say, drama time is precious—so choose wisely. I have shared my POV—but do read different rated reviews to see if this is your cup of tea or not—as this is an investment of 40 long episodes, so make it worth your while. Cheers!
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Violence, Vengeance & Victory – Action and Acting at Its Best
I’ve watched this movie countless times between 2023 and now (2025), and it never disappoints. I had high expectations from the start—how could I not, with Shin Hye Sun and Lee Jun Young, two incredible actors who’ve risen like phoenixes in their career. That alone should convince you to give this film a shot. If not, read on.Trigger Warning :
This film contains brutal violence, which may be distressing for some viewers. If that’s a concern, it’s best to skip it.
PROS:
➥ Masterfully directed action scenes
➥ Outstanding performances—especially from Shin Hye Sun and Lee Jun Young, as expected
➥ Social Message through the film: Don't Turn a Blind Eye, Stand up to your Bullies, Ask for Help
➥ [MILD SPOILER] Satisfying ending: The film explores bullying, a harsh reality. Watching justice unfold in the end as a gripping action scene is incredibly rewarding.!
CONS:
➥ The story isn’t groundbreaking—just another “good vs. evil” tale in a fresh setting.
➥The FL’s introduction felt over-the-top. The dark tone of the film clashed with her theatrics, creating a stark contrast that didn’t blend well (just a personal take, though).
FINAL VERDICT — BINGE!
Highly recommended—if you’re okay with violent themes. Watch it for the stellar acting and action sequences rather than any new storyline.
♥️ SPECIAL MENTION — LEE JUN YOUNG ♥️
If you haven’t already, take note: this man is talented AF. As the antagonist, he’s despicable to the core—no tragic backstory, just pure evil. His performance is so intense, you’ll find yourself seething every time he’s on screen. That’s top-tier acting right there—so convincing it blurs the line between actor and character. Honestly, every time I watch one of his projects, I feel compelled to write a special mention. He’s just that good. I could go on and on, but I’ll stop myself now!
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Watch it as a Prequel to 2025 Drama & for Ji Chang Wook ❤️
Saw this movie & writing this review in 2024: This film is a pure blockbuster action-thriller, with focus on car chases, fight scenes, slow-motions, explosions etc. There is not much on the mystery (of the real killer - it revealed very early on), logic/reason behind their action is not impactful/suspensefully revealed, or any time given on any characters' development.I assumed it to be a psychological mystery/thriller given the synopsis of the drama but was disappointed on that front.
JCW is a treat to watch as always with his looks and acting as a game addict turned action hero. But my expectation were otherwise set - so this was an okay movie for me. I'm expecting things to be better now that the reboot will be out in 2025, played again by JCW. It will also have EXO's DO & other famous cast members, so hoping for the scale to be larger, more detailed and antagonist to be revealed with a twist (psycho character played by DO would be great too!)
VERDICT - Can Pass, unless one wants to know the original story like me, before watching the Fabricated City drama in 2025.
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Brilliantly acted, heart-tugging & transcendent love story of a Beauty & Beast!
An almost-silent film whose beauty lies in simple narration & brilliant acting making it a must-watch classic. The story is of star-crossed lovers overcoming their differences through a common bond with limited/no words exchanged but acts of kindness; helping them grow individually while falling in love. Outside forces threaten their union, forcing them to make hard emotional choices that tests their fates. The film's themes are Beauty meets the Beast, their love transcends time & leaves you with the lingering question of who truly is a monster? (yes, I am looking at us - humans!)Best Parts of the Movie:
+ emotionally gripping love story between two very different people (with elements of supernatural)
+ simple storytelling & pace (even when shifting between 2 timelines)
+ brilliant acting! (a lot is said with almost no/limited words)
+ feel good factors (comedy, good-triumphs-over-evil, nostalgic elements of childhood, warm family & neighbors relations)
Some Minor, Minor Flaws:
- Origin of the male lead/wolf-boy is only hinted, not explained in details
- Background of Antagonist's motives: he does evil stuff, but why?
- What became of a certain support character (Mr. Jeong) in the end?
(Not plot drivers nor do they impact the overall story. But had they been there, it would have made the film perfect)
Overall:
I maybe in the minority of people watching this film in 2023 but I highly recommend all to watch it at least once to experience the beautiful tale & brilliant acting. Just keep some tissues handy. Do not drop it thinking the picture quality would be bad. While it is not the best compared to the present works, I truly believe it is one of the gems of K-movies, deserving all the accolades it got.
SPECIAL NOTE: Acting by the main leads is class-apart!
+ Song Joong Ki's role IMO is his best acting till date as he solely expressed his character with his face & body, only.
+ Kudos to brilliant writing, cause when he finally spoke, the scene is poignant, piercing your heart.
+ Park Bo Young is amazing throughout, but steals the moment specifically in a gut-wrenching scene towards the end.
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Sublime Sensuality, Exciting Paced Drama but Mediocre Revenge Arc!
This Drama is for YOU - If You LIKE:----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
♥ Sublime Sensuality:
I love when romance is built up without excessive acts of service, nudity/sex scenes. To me this drama also was about second chance at love. The main characters are distrustful of being hurt again; hence their romance is built with less words, but rather care, understanding. The sensuality/sexual tension is palpable but not in your face. The leads did not even have a single kissing scene but their moments together were charming. Areumdaun/Beautiful (아름다운) to the core!
♥ Acting par Excellence:
As expected of actors in their caliber - all the characters irrespective of the script, played their characters to perfection.
Kim Hee Sun needs no words, she is flawless. Cha Ji Yeon, Park Hoon, Lee Hyun Wook - I have literally seen them in just one other drama respectively where even their minor roles they had left quite an impression. This drama was even better as they had more screentime to show their talent. I personally will now look up their other works & watch especially for - Lee Hyun Wook! Jung Eugene - I have seen her in many dramas, but she was not memorable until this antagonist role. She brings life to the character that is truly despicable. You'll want to pull her hair, bitch-slap her & hope karma hits her hard - which is only the result of her embodying the character to perfection. Kudos!
♥ Beautiful Cinematography, Screenplay & OST:
Costumes, locations, make-up - everything was minimalist but luxurious & the music is hauntingly beautiful & hypnotic. Both interweave with the scenes & characters perfectly enhancing the viewing experience. The screenplay/pace of drama - is not neck-breaking, but you cannot help but end up watching just one more episode. Inconspicuously, all these factors aid in making this makjang drama keeping it thrilling & (almost)-unpredictable.
What MIGHT BOTHER You:
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✘ The Revenge Served is Very Cold. Almost Frozen.
Given the initial build-up & despicable antagonist(s), I thought the revenge was average. Not unsatisfactory, but neither leaving me with a triumphant feeling as a viewer. I blame the script for weakening it, even though I appreciate that it was not draggy & the 8-episode format is a satisfactory timeframe for this story to conclude.
P.S. I do not want to detail the ending, cause that will spoil it - but it came quite unannounced with no preamble to the twist they gave. Again it is satisfactory cause everyone is hoping for it but an explanation would have been nicer, even if it had been in form of a flashback between the characters.
✘ Some Support Characters felt unfinished
Not sure if there will be a Season 2, but there were some characters like the SML & the owner of Rex whose stories felt rather unfinished. I say rather, cause you can be contend with their ending, but personally I had questions on what will happen to them now that the main plot is resolved.
OVERALL: almost Perfect, succinct thrilling makjang! 8/10
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✦ The above negatives are not deal breakers, but it would have made it a perfect 10/10 drama had they been there.
✦ I am slowly getting into makjang dramas, this being my 3rd after Penthouse & Perfect Marriage Revenge. I did not know I would enjoy this genre as much as I do, but if the quality/story is anything like this one- I cannot help but keep binging!
✦ Remarriage & Desires is special cause it is short & beautifully executed. I even rewatched some episodes, as soon as I finished the drama for pleasure viewing (Scenes like the masquerade, yacht, initial tension between the main leads)
✦ For those who enjoy this genre, or want to explore it (like I did) you should not miss this one.
✦ Will recommend watching the drama first to like the OST more, but here is YT link. Memorable piece as is the drama!
Seori - Wicked: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FcKMeqRej1g
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A mild thriller - Not an on-the-edge-of-your-seat/nail-biting drama
Why I Started this drama?→ Interested in Crime/Mystery/Thriller
→ This drama is highly rated across sites, and on lists of must-watch series
My humble Opinion: Expectations Unmet
→ Usually crime dramas, have a sense of urgency - mystery of who-did-it?
→ It is more preachy rather than something like stories of Sherlock/or gripping like Signal (2016)
What Works: The Acting
→ Jo Seung Woo - as an apathetic prosecutor is the first role I am seeing him in, and after this series and a little wiki info on him, I know I will see all his work soon.
→ Lee Joon Hyuk - probably the best, showing signs of a corrupt official, trying to come on the right track - but till the end we don't know whether he is actually good/bad? He is in my opinion, a survivor trying to be on the winning side to live.
→ Yoon Se Ah - she played a small support character, but delivered her twisted personality well (and her arc of mystery probably kept audiences guessing - whether she murdered someone or no?)
What Does Not Work: The Story (and pace)
→ The story was average, nothing unseen/unexpected and like a web was slowly revealed to us but we know from the get-go who is the final culprit.
→ This drama is slow paced, building out the characters and storyline but without any cliffhangers, unexpected reveals that would make you stay up all night to watch just one more episode to know what is the end.
Summary:
Forest of Secrets in an apt title - as this drama slowly showcases how deeply rooted the corruption becomes - instigated by people in power and when justice system turn a blind out to it, making the common folks suffer. Like a seed of injustice once laid, becomes a forest overtime, and ultimately harsh measures are needed to cut it down - but then again, can it be fully uprooted?
It is more suited for regular seasons, where the team tries to solve different cases than the usual single-season-wonder. (Maybe that's why there is a season 2 which I will watch).
Also in case you're wondering how I rate dramas since this is an unpopular opinion - please see my profile: https://kisskh.at/profile/omo-omo-omo (am always up for a healthy discussion on dramas as well!)
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Must watch for Unique, Crisp Story & Flawless Acting | Mixed feels for Ending
This drama blends superheroes, con-artists, and time travel in a rom-com—a unique mix that works surprisingly well. Weekly episodes kept me intrigued with their perfect balance of plot, acting, short format, and music. Rated 8 (Great with Few Flaws) because the ending, while fitting the "atypical" theme, left mixed feelings.➥ Strengths:
✦ Unique Story: Fantasy, romance, suspense, comedy, and heavy topics (trauma, depression, death, school bullying, body image) are all given proper attention with satisfying conclusions or hints for the future.
✦ Pace: Loving the short formats. Initial episodes build the foundation, then the plot picks up, giving answers and introducing new suspense/twists.
✦ Acting: Flawless. Main leads have natural chemistry. Supporting characters also shine, offering insights into their own stories/challenges/motives.
✦ Music: "Lee Sora’s I See You" is haunting and perfectly placed, adding to the drama's mysterious and atypical nature (Link Below)
✦ Cinematography: Aesthetically pleasing with well-blended fantasy effects. Visuals of characters' clothes, make-up, and settings are balanced and fitting.
➥ Weak Points:
Ending 5 Minutes: True to the atypical theme, but the implied conclusion leaves mixed feelings. Some may want a more detailed explanation, though the time jump is lovely to watch.
➥ Overall:
Highly recommend binge-watching this drama—a neat package of romance, suspense, superpowers, family/friend support, scams, comedy, time travel, and action. The cinematography and music enhance the viewing experience, making it a delight to watch!
➥ Links:
Main Theme Song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zazbv65uEVo
My Rating System: https://kisskh.at/profile/omo-omo-omo
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Average, Over-Hyped Drama: Recycling Fantasy/Makjang Storylines
Being a Netflix production, this drama already had created a buzz even before airing. Now at the end, the only thing that worked for it were the stunning visuals, addicting main OST & chemistry of the main leads. It had created a great build-up of the mystical element but loses it with the lackluster revenge plot, unnecessary past life stories and conclusion that was just there cause happy ending is needed. Had already posted about it but this drama should have just kept with the modern story and wrapped up in 10-12 episodes. But alas - they stretched it so much that what was initially exciting became super boring & you just fast forward to finish it out of frustration than eagerness.What Worked:
• Stunning visuals & chemistry of the main leads
• Initial, good build up of mystery around Demon & FL (power-exchange) and family fighting for power
• Cha Chung Hwa as Noh Sook Nyeo- just because she is a fantastic actress!
What Did Not Work:
• Unnecessary inclusion of past lives (the historical era of the main leads).
• Antagonists were not written well. Felt they cropped up randomly only to be beaten up by an OP character & just lost with no conclusion.
• What was the SML doing? What was his need - unnecessary love triangle to be written off easily?
• Comedic elements that just don't work & were not needed (the office workers, the gangsters, the secretaries & ML/FL's futile attempt at it)
The show borrowed a lot from fantasy and makjang dramas given it was centered around a mystical character & family fighting for power. But rather than taking it to another level or giving its own flavor/twist, it fails to bring anything unique and becomes dragged+ boring. What initially excited me: Love story of Demon & Human amidst Family Feud, gets stretched to a point that it breaks and is not digestible. It would have been better to end in the modern setting with his powers returning & discovering the identity of the antagonist(s). Extremely disappointing - especially since I had high hopes with the premise & this is my first drama of Song Kang.
My verdict to Binge or Skip? SKIP IT!
It is an average drama - so my advice is to skip it and use your time to rewatch your favorite fantasy dramas or something else with a better story.
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Medical Drama with Comedy, Action, Satire & Emotions | Best Start to 2025
It has been quite sometime, since I have pulled an all-nighter to binge a drama. Probably as most new dramas are released weekly or have multiple seasons, but this is short, crisp medical drama packed with comedy, action, and emotions—no dull moments. I love that each episode has its own story/cases while maintaining an overarching plot.Story Summary:
At the heart of Trauma Code: Heroes to the Call is Baek Kang-hyuk (played by Ju Ji Hoon), the quintessential hero who navigates life-and-death situations with remarkable skill and charm, all while challenging the hospital’s profit-driven priorities. Initially met with resistance from seasoned doctors, Kang-hyuk's idealism gradually influences and transforms their perspectives. It’s not just a one-man show; Kang-hyuk also fosters the personal growth of his aides, Jae-won and nurse Cheon Jang-mi.
Acting:
The cast and crew deliver outstanding performances, each with meaningful character arcs. However, the three standout roles are Baek Kang Hyuk, Yang Jae Won, and Cheon Jang Mi. Ju Ji Hoon continues to impress since his Goong days, while this is my first drama of Choo Young Woo he captures attention with his remarkable acting - and am going to watch more of his works. The rest of the cast enhances the narrative, providing substantial support to the main leads as either allies or adversaries.
Overall:
If you haven’t started this drama yet, you’re missing out! This is not your typical medical drama; it's infused with unfiltered comedy, larger-than-life action sequences, and a satirical take on how money influences people. All this is wrapped up in an emotionally compelling story that’s sure to leave a lasting impression. ❤️ ❤️ ❤️
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Dopamine-inducing Cliched Rom-Com ❤️❤️❤️
❤️ INGREDIENTS USED in DRAMA♥ Contract Relationship ✓
♥ Loveable Characters ✓
♥ Cliched Plotline ✓
♥ Good Kissing scenes (non-cardboard stiff ones) ✓✓✓
♥ Hot Male Leads with a mysterious past ✓
♥ Pretty & Awkward - Getting into Embarrassing Situation Female Leads ✓
♥ Loud and Comedic Support Cast ✓
♥ Breezy Music to download in your playlist ✓
♥ Happy Ending ✓
❤️ PRE-REQUISITES:
• You love cliched love dramas/rom-coms, cause this is a tried and tested plot
• You don't mind silly illogical situations, cause you are here for the toe-curling, giddy romance
• You need a dose of dopamine
• You love pretty drama settings and of course, hot and beautiful leads ♥
❤️ FAQs
• Will I guess the plot? YES
• Will I end up laughing and snorting at the awkward situation? YES
• Is the Male Lead Swoon-worthy? YES (By all standards)
• Is the Female Lead Cringey? NO (Not by usual standards)
• Is the drama too cute to ignore? YES
• Does the second ML have the cutest puppy eyes/face? YES
• Will I have a goofy smile on face while watching this? YES
• Is this worth the watch? ABSOLUTELY YES
❤️ WHY I AM NOT BIASED? [okay maybe a little biased :P ]
• I prefer to binge-watch completed dramas ( I am a woman of little patience, and cannot handle suspense)
• The only 2 times I watched ongoing dramas - MR QUEEN & TRUE BEAUTY - both great in their own rights
• The drama spoilers/reels on Social Media compelled me to watch it while it is airing ♥ ♥ ♥ too cute to ignore ♥ ♥ ♥
• Just 7 episodes down - but this is breezy, light, will make you smile and fall in love with the fluffiness!
• Till now - 8-9 out of 10 (See my rating criteria on my profile: https://kisskh.at/profile/omo-omo-omo )
Personally very pleased that Ahn Hyo Seop & Kim Min Gue are getting the recognition as main cast they deserve.
Especially, Ahn Hyo Seop - been his fan since - Queen of the Ring, Abyss, Thirty but Seventeen, Splash Splash Love - and finally a deserving lead role!
Going to update it, when I complete the drama - but if this helps you or you like it - drop me a message or like
Would love to discuss this drama with fellow MDLers!
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Magical Story with a Poetic Ending - Prime Showtime!
SHORT REVIEW♥ Plot:
The show uses the background of past and present lives mixing in, as a haughty magician and honest policewomen join forces with ghosts to fight evils of society. With each episode you get to discover the main leads past lives, the ghosts' lives and how they overcome their regrets, deepest wishes and have a happy ending.
♥ Recommended:
Definitely worth a one-time watch if you like comedy, mystery, mythology, historical elements - all tied in a magical story and great acting!
LONG VERSION
♥ Notable Characters:
• Haughty magician ML who disregards his roots of being a shaman and employs ghosts as his apprentices for magic shows (also disregarding labor laws :P ). Over the course of the story, with help from people around him, especially the FL - he realizes his destiny, how he cannot live alone and must protect the ones he cares for.
• The FL is vivacious and honest policewoman, who is on her own revenge path, but meets the ML and his ghost apprentices - ultimately realizing how she is a part of the past life, falling in love with ML, avenging her father and continuing to help people around her. She is the moral compass which keeps this Magic Factory going in the right path.
• The Helping Ghosts & Spirits: Initially provide a comedic relief and bring the ML and FL closer, but overtime, we see their own stories, their own desires and the unfair hand they were dealt. But in spite of that they did not resent their fate, but chose to rise above it and truly attained Nirvana.
Special mention of Ah Reum - she herself was shown to be specially abled in her life, and so thought to help people around her as she got help when she was alive. Alas, her death was unfortunate, yet she does not resent any of it - instead chooses to help people as ghost and as her last wish!
♥ Random Notes:
• I always wanted to see PHJ in action, always knowing he is a good actor but dropped the idea after seeing him in Cheese in The Trap (blame the story execution). Finally glad that I watched this drama and saw his acting skills.
• Love Jin Ki Joo - beautiful and what an amazing actress. Other recommendation: The Secret Life of My Secretary, Midnight
• I saw Jung Joon Ho, first and last in True Beauty as father of the ML, and that was nothing in comparison the great actor he is.
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Learning to Love, Live and Letting Go!
Stories that intertwine life and death are never easy—they are hauntingly beautiful, carrying the weight of emotions that linger long after the final scene. From the start, the presence of second chances and grim reapers walking the living world sets the stage for an emotional rollercoaster. And this drama delivers, excelling in storytelling, performances, and an emotional depth that leaves you with both tears and smiles.I have always been drawn to narratives exploring life, death, and what comes after. In reality, I often find myself reflecting on existence—on my own life, those around me, and the inevitability of time passing. The memory of loved ones I have lost stays with me, making me wonder how life would have unfolded had they been here, how they would perceive the world today.
So when I saw this drama, I felt an immediate pull but tempered my expectations. The inclusion of high school romance gave me pause, as I have long outgrown such themes. Yet, it exceeded my expectations, not only in its narration and performances but in how it addressed the universal truth—embracing life, death, and everything in between. Every character played a meaningful role, much like in real life, where each person contributes to the unfolding of our own stories.
Special credit goes to the leads—the FL seamlessly transitions between the lively high-schooler and the sorrowful adult, while the ML embodies both warmth and wisdom, a kind soul turned grim reaper. Through their journey, the drama reminds us that life is never easy. There will always be highs and lows, moments where it feels unbearable, when giving up seems like the only option. But it teaches us that our story does not end there—there is more to live, more to love. As Master Oogway wisely said, “Life is a gift, and that’s why they call it the present.” — this drama beautifully echoes that sentiment!
This review might feel personal, but I believe that is the greatest testament to the drama’s emotional power—it makes you feel, reflect, and connect on a deeply personal level.
In essence, this drama is a poignant portrayal of friendship, family, second chances, forgiveness, and finding the courage to live while accepting death when the time comes. It is rare to find a drama that blends such profound themes so seamlessly and if you cherish stories that explore the raw truths of life and death, then this is a must-watch. 100% recommended!
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Korea's Clark Kent who is a studious One Punch Man | Best of 2025
High-school dramas about bullying and injustice are common, but "Study Group" stands out with its larger-than-life fights and overpowered (OP) character. Though I haven't read the webtoon, I love the shonen-style action and comedy. What sets it apart is the depth it offers through a larger universe, unique characters, and their motives, adding layers to the main story. These narratives are special because, while we can't be OP characters in real life, it's immensely satisfying to see underdogs win and just characters triumph over injustice.In Short: "Study Group" follows GaMin, who trains his body to enhance his brainpower. He forms a study group at his new school, constantly tested by a gangster-like student who runs the place. GaMin and his group showcase their resilience and win the respect of other students by "Creating Opportunities Even in Hellish Situations."
From acting and action sequences to comedy, deep emotional backstories, suspense, and the overall vibe of good vs. evil, this drama is entertaining from start to finish. I've seen Hwang Min-Hyun before, but this is his best role yet. The drama, while complete in itself, leaves us hoping for sequels, prequels, spin-offs, and more. If they maintain this style, I guarantee those would be masterpieces too.
Special shoutout to the main OST: Back Packer (https://youtu.be/7gb8xOAPX3Y?si=nUg8fw7fF7dkueqa) - an epic, un-skippable opening theme that I'll probably overuse in everything! 🎶
2025 has started great and is setting benchmarks one after the other. First came Truama Code which though a different story has the same vibe of action/larger than life characters, and now Study Group - both entertaining in every minute of its runtime & highly recommended for watch and rewatches!
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Vengeance can give Justice, but real peace comes from forgiveness!
⭐PROS:The story's main theme is vengeance by a mother who lost a child and a child who lost a parent - who make questionable decisions while blinded by anger & grief, unaware that there is a bigger mastermind behind the injustice they are going through. As the drama progresses & unravels the mystery - it beautifully showcases characters coming to terms with their loss, grief, loneliness & finally peace - in varying degrees.
The latter is a great point shown in the drama - cause while the incident (loss of a dear one) may have been a common point for many characters involved, each of them has their own way of coping with it. And in doing so it shows the growth and strength of that character. Love the ending - I like how realistic they kept it without making it flowery in the end, cause such stories are raw emotions throughout which you cannot tie the ends with a flower and bow. Really likes how each character comes to together in the hour of need - in spite of the bad blood they had before.
⭐CONS:
The story is not new - and while the actors are all great names of the industry and deliver their role well, it was not remarkable/memorable for me. I have seen all the actors in other dramas and know how powerful they can be - here they felt weak in comparison. Not that they are bad - just that they are doing this for the sake of it - they are actors here, they did not live the characters - as per me.
Also, the pacing of this drama was a con for me, and this is a personal opinion. I'm someone who enjoys dramas having breakneck speed, but I believe while this drama maybe tagged as thriller, mystery - it was that but also healing and wholesome, hence for many the pacing would not be an issue but rather a very emotional ride.
⭐OVERALL:
Hence, rating this is a 7 - which in my books is a good drama. Not a masterpiece or something I'll watch again, or recommend greatly to anyone. But rather it is a good watch one time watch if these are the themes that interest you.
⭐ MILD SPOILER - to highlight some great work / small things but went a long way:
- Love how the son-in-law comes to take care of the mother-in-law. And even before that while his mother was earlier a cold character, it is amazing to see how in her heart she actually a warm person and is just looking out for her family - immediate and in-laws too.
- The sisters, tbh, it would not work the way it did in real life; but it was a beautiful relationship and very well done by both the actresses.
- The brother-in-law had a very minimal screentime, but still was so crucial at important change of scenes. Usually in dramas crucial information is lost because main characters "miss" each other and then cause a lot frustrating misunderstandings. I like how here the brother-in-law was the narrator in a way who kept the information flowing from one character to another. Eg: how he tells his sister-in-law about the reality of Cha Eun Woo's character. Also how in the end - he tells his sister-in-law about Eun Woo's mother etc. Also his mother acted as a conduit to relay the information to her elder son about his mother-in-law 's dementia.
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Compelling & HOT Side Stories, Weak Main Plot
This drama had an intriguing premise, but for me, the strongest storylines weren’t the ones centered on the main leads. Instead, I found the arcs of The Crown Prince, Crown Princess, and the Other Woman the most compelling, followed by the initial story of Prince #2 and his fiancée/wife.❤️ Best Part - Secondary Characters
➥ The Crown Prince and Princess’s story stood out due to its depiction of their struggles with privacy—reminding me of a similar theme in The Reign (Western, English drama). Historically, royal couples were often monitored as they were responsible for producing heirs, and this drama portrays their emotional turmoil effectively. Their decisions also highlight a refreshing take on women empowerment in the Joseon era. Their storyline felt far more cohesive and engaging than that of the main leads.
➥ The drama pushed some boundaries—it was a bit risqué compared to typical K-dramas, which might appeal to some viewers. Like expect bold scenes that are quite HOT!
PROS:
➥ The Crown Prince and Crown Princess's storyline is emotionally impactful and historically intriguing.
➥ Strong themes of women empowerment
➥ Some secondary characters had compelling arcs, though they had minimal screen time.
CONS:
➥ The main leads’ storyline wasn’t very engaging and took up most of the screentime.
➥ Slow pacing—can get boring quickly.
➥ The more interesting subplots were severely underdeveloped.
Final Recommendation: Watch or Skip? My take: DEPENDS
➥ SKIP — if you are keen on the main plot and leads. If you’re looking for historical dramas with richer storytelling, you’d be better off exploring other titles.
➥ WATCH - if you want to know the secondary characters story, hot scenes and are ok with fast-forwarding through dull moments
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