Retour à Samdal-ri (2023)

A healing story taking place in Jeju-do, a haven for the exhausted dragons.

“I’m going to become a dragon that rises from a small stream.” – Cho Samdal

A hometown (고향) is not just a place, it's a root, an identity, an experience, an memory. A hometown allows somebody to feel a sense of community and belonging. The story primarily unfolds in a hometown called Samdalri, nestled in the enchanting destination of Jeju-do.

“Yong-pil once told me no dragon can rise from a small stream by themselves. They get help from the loaches, mandarin fish, and frogs in the streams.” – Cho Samdal

This drama is about healing, forgiveness, family, friendship, love, and selflessness. Cho Samdal left behind her thriving career as a photographer in Seoul and moved back to Samdalri after 8 years of vacancy. By doing that, she also left behind her identity as Cho Eunhye, the workaholic tsundere, to find her true self as Cho Samdal.

“The migratory birds pursued their youthful dreams, but they eventually flew back to Jeju, their home.” – Cho Samdal

However, this drama doesn't only follow her path, but showcases the healing journey of all Samdalri's people.

- Ko Mija: A mainland lady who became the leader of the Haenyeo (해녀) mourns the loss of her old friend, Bu Mija.
- Cho Sangtae: A fool in love who saw his world shattered after the loss of his soulmate, Bu Mija. Since then, he is blinded by hatred towards Ko Mija, thinking everyone forgot the memory of his wife.
- Cho Haedal & Cha Hayul: Haedal was pregnant with Hayul at a young age and put a hold on her promising swimming career. She is also a widow. Hayul is a thoughtful and mature child who wants to protect her mother. The dynamics between them was my personal favourite.
- Cho Jindal: The eldest out of the three sisters. She married into a rich family and was mistreated. She always stands against unfairness and persecution, never failing to protect those weaker than her. At the price of her career, she denounced her family in law and their heinous actions.
- Cho Yongpil: The embodiment of selflessness. He always had a knack for helping and saving people. From decorating Ko Mija's buoy with a floral pattern, to pushing away his dream of joining the WMO in Switzerland, he always thought of his loved ones before himself.

“Your dream doesn’t always have to be a job. You two are my dream.” – Young Cho Yongpil

I mainly loved this drama because it tackles a topic that has rarely been addressed: Haenyeos.
Inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List since 2016, Haenyeos belong to the heritage of South Korea. The soaring Hallyu (한류) Wave is a great opportunity to showcase the culture of Haenyeos to the world through media like Korean Drama.

You won't see vengeance. The female lead is not a proactive character hungry for revenge. She is passive and doesn't want to retaliate against those people who wronged her. Whenever Bang Eunju looks for more ways to stain Samdal's reputation, Samdal chooses not to react. She tried to tell everyone that it's not true when she was in Seoul, but everyone turned their back on her already. Her friends and family, however, can't stand seeing Samdal be wronged when she didn't do anything and will do everything to free her from the dungeon of malicious articles and comments.

Throughout her journey in Samdalri, Cho Samdal realized that there are people who loved her. This is why it is important to go back to our roots, to remember where we came from and who we were before. Dwelling in the past isn't a good thing for sure, but it's unhealthy to completely erase it from our memory. Nostalgia isn't a toxic feeling when moderately consumed; it is a proof that we have accomplished beautiful things in the past that should inspire us to accomplish beautiful things in the future.

This story moves us, much like the azure waves of Jeju Island, and reminds us that it's okay to not be okay.

“The sea is the best place to be when you’re troubled. It’s peaceful and no one bothers you there.” – Ko Mija

“As always, we’re going for only as long as our breath allows without being greedy. And whenever we’re out of breath, we’ll come back to that place. Our small stream, Samdal-ri. Having a place to return to is an incredible relief.” - Cho Yongpil and Cho Samdal.

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Looking for a Comfort Show? You've Found It

Welcome to Samdal-ri is a show that I couldn't help to look forward to every week. The story didn't have grappling cliff hangers or an intense conflict, but it was a drama that I could sit down, watch, and feel healed.

Story:
Welcome to Samdal-ri's storyline was nothing I haven't seen before. City girl goes back to small town and reunites with first love. Family conflict provides tension and drama. Side character storylines are short, but relevant. Did I think that all the conflict was necessary? No. However, I understand the need to drag things out to fit the 16 episode time frame. Overall, everything felt natural and concluded nicely.

Acting/Cast:
This drama has two of my favorite actors in it, so I am a little biased. Firstly, Ji Changwook did a great job. He's an especially emotive actor and really draws me into the story and world that he creates. Shin Hyesun continuously does a terrific job at making any character relatable and charismatic. Her performance is no less than what I thought it would be. I was not a fan of Yoo Ohsung's acting, but that could be blamed on his role.

Music:
My opinions for a soundtrack is that if you notice it, it's either terrible or terrific. Welcome to Samdal-ri's sountrack was for the most part unnoticeable, so I would consider it pretty good. The intro was so cute and cheerful, and the music in the last episode especially was a fantastic choice. If I ever rewatch this show, the music would be the number one thing to bring nostalgia.

Rewatch Value:
As a light and fluffy show, Welcome to Samdal-ri has a very high rewatch value for me. Nothing about this show stressed me out, if anything it did the opposite. It's the perfect drama to watch when you're feeling down. I'll definitely come back and watch this again.

Overall, I would suggest this drama to anyone who needs a little bit of happiness and bliss.

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It is a truly beautiful drama.

This was one of the dramas that make it feel close to real life.
-The casting is amazing, like literally the best. The actors did not dissapoint at all. They deliverd all the emotions that was needed.
-The story is pretty good. It is not bad, but could have been better. Especially with the time travel. but despite this it was was a very heartfelt and emotional story. I cried a lot bcos the characters were either relatable or had a very sad story. Especially the main character they had such a sad yet heart-touching romance.
~ Every actor and actresses did a very good job especilly Kim Mi-Kyung. I always love her characters. and Ji Chang-Wook. I
have yet any other dramas with the FL.
~ The only character I despised but ended forgiving is Young-Pil's father. Like it was just annoying seeing him hate everyone
becouse of his pain and grief. Like no one told not to mourn for his late wife, but dening others to mourn was just wrong. But at
the end of it all I was glad that he came around.
~ Don't even get me started with that b*tch Eun-Ju, I hate the character . The actor is good to portray the character for me to
despise this much. But to some extent I feel like she complemented the story, bcos without her Sam-Dal and Young-pil won't
have met each other that soon.
- The ost's were all so good. I particularly love the scene where there were fights and everything would be in slow motion and a song would be playing in the backgroung. It made so entertaining.

Overall this drama was one of the best releases of last yr.
I fell in love with the show. I also enjoyed it.
I would really recommend to others.

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A heartwarming and beautiful story that sadly isn't for everyone to enjoy!

I'll start my review off with a a line quoted from the series.....

“ keep your head below the water only for as long as you can breathe and when you feel like you can't do it anymore then get out of the water and catch your breath "
- Samdari hanyeos.

This drama has been a pleasant journey, it managed to mix up different genres and tags and still made things work some how, we had family friend romance an ex lovers troupe childhood friends to lovers troupe and many more.

What I loved about this drama?

- The consistent story telling...they stuck to what the story had to be from beginning to end..it had to be a healing drama filled with life lessons, rekindling relationships such as friendship and family and it did exactly that..I was sold to the way the story was being told in an engaging manner and with atmosg consistency.
- The acting..this was one of the dramas biggest strengths...every character in the series even the little girl could actually act or potray their feelings In the most believable way in a way that getting attached to the characters didn't feel like a problems because it happened naturally.
- The characters...Except for a few annoying ones most of the characters in the drama had personality...they could stand on their own because they had their own stories....one more thing is the flawed presentation of characters that was done absolutely well, these characters were hurt and flaws and imperfect but that was the charm they added to the series...their character development seemed natural and it happened along the way without feeling random or forced..the characters were given room to make mistakes and heal and make wrong decisions that they later learner from and that was another charm in the series.
- The couple's chemistry.. The main couples served longing and Agust and it was done really well....the other side couples were also cute and were the cherry on top of the drama either way all had amazing chemistry.
- The Samdarli community that I felt part of in these six weeks.

Overall there was plenty to like about this drama to be honest...I felt healed and warmed up and also heartbroken by the story..I was so emotionally invested.

Things I didn't like?

- The unnecessary love triangle that was trying to be created...it felt not needed in the progress of the story.

Other than that...this was a good watch....I mean what do I expect from putting together amazing actors and actresses...Shin Hye Sun's acting range and emotion potrayal got me so attached to her character and rooted for her...Ji Chang wook proved once again that he's a versatile actor and I support him trying out different roles because he's an amazing actor...the rest of the actors and actresses too did a good job with their roles.

Do I recommend this drama?

YES..it might seem like the type of drama that isn't for many but it's a nice watch if you want something healing relaxing yet heartbreaking at times..you will laugh and cry but it will all be worthwhile....so please don't mind the ratings and give it a chance yourself.....

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Not happy with the ending

Each aspect of the drama was impeccably executed. All the lingering questions were addressed in the final episodes, so I highly recommend watching it through. The acting from every character, including the leads and supporting cast, was truly remarkable. Whenever the male lead shed tears, I found myself deeply moved, mirroring the emotions of the female lead. Their performances truly touched my heart. However, the ending of the drama left me somewhat disappointed. I felt that not every character received a proper resolution, especially the one who harbored unrequited love for the female lead. Similarly, the female lead's sister deserved a fulfilling love story of her own. Ultimately, I yearned to witness the marriage of the main characters. Despite this, the drama was an overall enjoyable experience.

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A wholesome sometimes chaotic drama that shows the values of having family and friends

A good wholesome heartwarming story that shows you can withstand everything when your family is by your side.
A girl who loses everything in an instant unwillingly goes back to her hometown and slowly gains back her confidence and rises up again to face the world. In the process old scars are healed, broken relationships are fixed, the love that was once lost blooms up again.

Shin Hye Sun nails it again just like she has done in every drama she has starred in. Be it portraying a strong and ambitious photographer Eun Hye or the girl behind that strong persona who is just trying to run away from her painful past. She manages to show all the emotions spot on.

Ji Chang Wook is one hell of a versatile actor. From portraying a monstrous grey character in "The Worst Of Evil" to the sweet yet chaotic guy next door in this show, he shines brightly. Him as Yong Pil is one big green flag of a guy who is always there for his loved ones and is ready to sacrifice anytime for their happiness.

The chemistry between the leads as two childhood sweethearts turned ex is amazing. Be it their childish banter or making up for regrets, everything is done beautifully. It isn't just the leads but also the side characters that make it even more fun to watch. Each and every character is placed well in the story and are quite enjoyable to watch.

The show has plenty of cute, funny, chaotic, emotional and uplifting moments making it a really good watch and worth your time.

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One of the best kdrama out there !!

The whole story is absolutely amazing. Every episode is a chef's kiss, it's packed with comedy but after a few minutes, it will stab you with tearjerking scenes. When I was nearing the end of the show, I was feeling sad because I didn't want it to end, i really wish that they made it a long Kdrama ^^

At first, I thought this was another revenge story but I was wrong although taking revenge was part of the story, it wasn't the focus of this drama. This drama HEALS. The story portrays different lives along with our leads like the mc's family and friends, their story made me laugh because of their bond and also a heartwarming feeling to the point I cried. It made me wish I could also have someone like them by my side.

The acting is phenomenon!! I already expected great outcomes because of the leads. After all it's THE Shin Hye Sun ( I absolutely love, respect, and simp for her ) and Ji Chang Wook. They exceed my expectations, honestly. The other cast was on the spot too, they did amazing!! So proud of you all. I want to make a special mention Kang Mi Na and the daughter, every time they manage to touch my heart and make me ugly cry. The friend's bond is so strong too!! I can't ask for more!

I would definitely rewatch this!! xoxo

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What is with this main character

Started off great, I always love a story where a female character goes to a small town/province because the vibe is always a pleasure. This one has the added bonus of the main character already growing up in said town and goes back home because of a scandal at work. She also has to face her old childhood friend turned ex boyfriend again, and I LOVE second chance romances.

But I am so confused with the main character. The show wants to portray her as your usual "strong independent woman" and yet she keeps crying and making stupid decisions? she's also such a big fat COWARD, breaking the ML's heart and never telling the reason why and not bothering to clear her name when her whole scandal was fake. Where was the urgency! She didnt even want to enter that photo contest at the island! I don't understand how her friends were so ride or die for her when she hasn't bothered to contact any of them for YEARS, and now she's back home because she needs help. Pathetic.

All in all, her sisters were so much more enjoyable to watch. I love the eldest sister's plotline the most. Their family dynamic was sweet too. The mom really stole the show in my opinion!

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it had potential but then...

the last three episodes felt excruciatingly long, unfortunately, I tried and tried to like this but I just couldn't, can't say it was terrible in itself, but it was definitely forgettable.

I couldn't feel like there was a decisive plot, it was simply moving in an ambiguous way and it was a bit unsettling to feel like there were so many important elements missing, the love triangle was absolutely unnecesary here and its resolution wasn't even satisfying, and there was a scene that solidified it to me when Yong Pil was sobbing, there were actually a few other moments like this, he was breaking down and there wasn't enough context, no enough clues, not enough of anything for us, the audience to build a bond, it just felt like another loose end, and it made me, at least, feel frustration... over the fact that there was nothing for me to hold on to in terms of the story, I think that if they actually tried to make this more about the haenyeos, it would've been more interesting to me, though the gossiping aspect, while may be true in these kind of communities, it felt a bit overbearing, it almost made me feel less interested in the island, sadly, it still held a lot of the comedy scenes, so it wasn't absolutely detrimental, that said the whole story and ending didn't feel like there was closure in any of the aspects, it was just shown visually but there wasn't a whole lot of evolution and growth in the characters, and subplots.

Production wise, it was incredible, visually it was lovely and the music really matched the energy of the show, acting wise it was really solid, there were some very credible moments in terms of the relationships, specially between the main characters, they had a really nice natural chemistry, and there was scene when Ji Chang Wook was angry, he was truly red, there was so much rage outpouring in that moment, it reminded me how good he is! to me, the best part of this show were the main actors and the beautiful production with the most outstanding scenery, made me yearn for a trip to the beach!

I really hoped for more it felt a bit inconclusive and ambiguous, there were many clichés that didn't feel like they were handled correctly, there were many missed opportunities here, with such a great cast and production, it lacked dynamics, it lacked a strong story, at least in my opinion.

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This is it. This is my comfort drama.

This is it. I found my comfort drama. Whenever people would say that "this was their comfort drama", I never understood what that meant. Sure, I had dramas that I loved, dramas that I would rewatch, and dramas that I thought were absolute masterpieces. But this is the only drama where I definitely felt "this is my comfort drama". This was such a feel good, slice of life, realistic drama. I absolutely loved it and I know I'll be coming back to watch this time and time again.
I don't think I have much else to say, sure the drama may have its flaws but this was such a heartwarming ride that I really don't mind. It was still such a beautiful portrayal of life, friendship, and family.

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