A decent mystery plot and family reconciliations

My Perfect Stranger is a well-grounded story told in a comfortable pace, the twist is unexpected but the reason for the twist is not so convincing. I appreciate that they tied all the loose ends in the end, no suspense in disbelief.

But for me it's really forgettable. I'm not thinking about it when I'm watching it because somehow it's not so exciting, so I didn't feel hooked to keep watching. i completely forget about it once I finished it. I don't buy the chemistry of the leads, and I wish they become good comrade.

I think it's a show worth to watch on the side of watching other shows, especially if you enjoy following a decent mystery plot and family reconciliations. But mind you that it has unexpectedly a lot of physical and verbal violence.

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Amazing scenes and acting; You tear up just from watching two people talking about rice.

"Pachinko" is a visually stunning family saga based on an American adaptation of a novel. It spans four generations as the characters struggle to survive and grapple with their identities.

What makes "Pachinko" attractive is its exploration of the characters' journeys across national boundaries. They start as ethnically Korean individuals born on the Korean Peninsula and end up in Japan due to various circumstances. This global perspective is reflected not only in the storyline but also in the show's production; Despite the way they're shot is very different from K-dramas, the quality and acting are great.

However, I'm not a fan with the alternating past-present short sequences because it took me out of the show. The shows also heavily spent time for telling another second-lead story which I wasn’t really invested in. I am more interested on our female lead’s past; the bitter life she suffered from the Japanese colonization and the aftermath of that.

Final remark, I don't feel closure of the stories told in season 1. I would not say the drama ends on a cliffhanger but maybe a somewhat open ending?

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Wonderful show which flopped its' ending

If you have seen your fair share of rom-coms, this is going to feel very typical especially in the first episode, while they're establishing the characters well. With all that said, there is magic in the script: I feel like the writers want to say about fandom culture or they at least want to touch on it because they represent the fandom culture not only positively, that it's a community, it's a way to bond with people in a way to support the artists you love, but also some of the negative sides which is obsessive tendencies and how those can lead to crossing the line and becoming a stalker. I really love how the writers are balancing the whole fandom culture exploring many different facets of it.

The show's big problem that really turned me off was near the end when the show started to focus primarily on the male lead's past and how that connects in such a dramatic way with the female lead. I thought the writers of the show really lost sight of what the show was about and I was hoping the show should have focused more on the fandom side of things because, in the end, the fact that she is a super fan doesn't contribute a lot to the main story, and I was quite disappointed because the portrayal of fandom culture and a commentary on fandom culture part is the thing that I was very excited to watch.

Overall, I really enjoyed Her Private Life, I think it has many wonderful qualities loved the characters, and I love the interactions between the characters. The romance is incredibly mature and I love how they support each other, it is wonderful. All the leads and the side characters, everybody is perfectly cast and doing a wonderful job. The leads have such strong chemistry together. This is a show you could very happily binge or at least I was very happy to binge.

I would recommend Her Private Life to you if you like shows like What's Wrong with Secretary Kim. They both have the same female lead, and she's great in both of them as well as The Liar and His Lover or Touch Your Heart. So if you liked any of those three shows I would give this one a chance.

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Park Eun Bin and Choi Myung Bin saved the ship!

During the Joseon dynasty, the crown princess consort secretly gives birth to a girl and boy twins. While the boy will eventually inherit the throne, Confucianism values really condemn twins especially if it was a boy and a girl because they just don't think a man who shared a womb with a woman will have legitimacy. Therefore to protect the prince's future legitimacy, the King orders that the girl and everyone involved with the childbearing be put to death so no one knows about this situation. To protect the girl, her mother fakes her death and cast her way to live out her life in the countryside. Many years later, this girl the female twin ended up taking her brother's identity as the young prince because an incident killed the prince. The only people who now know her secret are her chief servant and her personal eunuch.

I have quite a lot of pros and the first is the portrayal of every character, especially our female lead. Her charisma and deep voice make it very believable, she is just like a very pretty boy in her prince costume. Although her figure is very slim and her small arm is very obvious she gives a lot of confidence with only just a cold stare. The only thing that I think could have made it better is if they did something to hide how short she is she really is because the height difference between her and her male lead co-stars is really noticeable.

Next, the pacing because overall I think it's very good, I'm completely absorbed by every episode up until probably episode 8. The child actors and actresses are doing a great job to make me emotionally invested right from the first episode. The child actress who played the twins, Choi Myung Bin, really shines in her roles! She pulled out the duality between the different twins' characters very naturally. Another pro is the OSTs are hauntingly beautiful, my favorite is "The One and Only", and "Shadow of You".

My con is mostly on the romance plot dominates the middle part of the story. I am not as engaged and I think that's because of the romance. Even though the romance is beautiful and I ship the couple, it is very heavy-handed and slow-paced. I'm watching the show because I really like our female lead and I want to see her navigate situations and crises, like her dealing with the envoy from China, fighting her grandfather's dictatorship, and keeping her secret. I think they are the strength of this series not so much the romance. Lastly, the action scenes are done incredibly well, but they're so sparse so I wish they are less melodramatic and had more action scenes.

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Great characters, great moments, and a great story of Woo Young Woo

An autistic attorney Woo Young Woo works at one of the top law firms in the country. Her life is eccentric and weird, but meaningful and valuable. Despite having a disability to interact, she manages to defend her plaintiffs in court cases with her creative reasoning and wit. These cases are unique as they tackle a lot of really important social issues that are rarely discussed, such as false homicide, defamation, patent battle, North Korean defector issues, and heritage tax issue... and they're handled in a very organic and non-preachy way. There are a lot of character development moments that happen thanks to these cases. For example, our female lead is given a case with another autistic person who she's defending and she had some challenges dealing with that because some people said her thought process is not justifiable because they're both autistic but of course just because two people are on the autism spectrum does not mean that they're the same.

Each episode hinted at Woo Young Woo's parent's backstories and it doesn't end with suspenseful cliffhangers, yet I want to keep watching. Without giving away any spoilers, her mother's backstory is a bit of a mystery and all the clues we have throughout the episodes lead to some wonderful interactions and moments. The mother-daughter relationship is not what you think of and I love that it's a really refreshing part of the show and it's not following any stereotypical kdrama formula.

I love the subtle adorable romance because it's very rare to watch an autistic lead in a romantic relationship. But beyond the romance, what I enjoy most is the whole cast with great strong personalities. I really enjoyed her friend Dong Geu Ra Mi, the episode when she became friends with Woo Young Yoo is so cute. Woo Young Woo's colleagues, friends, and everybody else included got their own satisfying arcs on their work-life balance and dating. The most memorable one is her direct boss, he's just such a wonderful person. At first, he was a bit ignorant and pessimistic about Young Woo's autistic behavior, but quickly apologizes and makes adjustments to interact with her. It's like really nice to see that kind of character on screen, he's also had issues with work-life balance and his ex-wife later on in the series. Attorney Woo herself also learns to understand her coworkers' points of view and communicates her thought process.

The humor is very genuine and believable when characters interact together, because they introduced lots of little character quirks and mannerisms in episode one to look at that left a good impression on me and they use these details as a source of nitpicks and icebreakers. The fact that our female lead takes three counts before she walks into a new room and keeps organizing everything to be perfectly tidy. Later on, her boss also tries to do it at one point and he quickly gave up. It's really funny, it's such an inside joke moment.

Acting, I want to highlight our female lead. Without discrediting anybody because they are all great, Park Eun Bin deserves a standing ovation. She is Attorney Woo! I'm so happy the show waited for her because I can't think of anybody else who could be Woo Young Woo. She originally turned this role down because she wasn't confident to portray the role correctly and she didn't want to hurt anybody so she turned it down and then she went off and did The King's Affection (Btw, she's amazing here too!!). When she was done with that the offer was still valid and that's when she took it.

All of that said, even though I like the romance, there is a small miss I feel from our male lead's role. Don't get me wrong, I really like him 90% of the time, his love and care are very sincere, like when he's trying to care for our female lead or calm her down when she's having an episode or when she's over-stimulated, also when they're just hanging out on really unique dates. But there's a part that is missing is that he is sometimes quite stiff and his subtleness isn't coming across as perfectly. He just stands there and smiles at her it doesn't work for me but nevertheless super cute romance I love what it represents and overall I ship them wholeheartedly.

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It's a nice story but lacks external conflicts.

My strongest opinion being the OST ruins the mood. I was ready to feel sympathetic for Yeo Joon's pitiful backstory, but the problem is that these emotional scenes are presented with happy cheerful music. I wish they had put one more sad song to save this issue!

The story feels flat, it lacks external conflict. The fact that they're dealing with a group school assignment issue for more than 10 episodes is too long. Furthermore, there's no real character development despite their many screentime. I appreciate the friendship between Nam Soo Hyun and Yeo Joon, but it feels very lukewarm.

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I'm struggling to continue since there are so many filler scenes

Going in to this drama I was apprehensive. The first 2 episodes weren't the best. It's jarring, it's a bit icky... I think there's enough consensus to say that it's not the best. I completely agree. I wasn't sold on Rowoon as well. Then, I get to Ep 3, I started to see the fantasy rom-com tone, it's more cute and fun, although I can't believe the romance, it's only set up because of the curse, and the stake is not gripping anymore after they are together. I'm also a bit bitter because I think the second male lead really deserves the female lead much better than the male lead.

For the past two years, I think we've seen these law dramas with past lives connection, time travelling, time slips, too often already. I think we're done with this trope, right?

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Regardless of its' flaws, Adamas is cool, stylish, and it was fun to watch the twins!

The story of twin brothers (Ji Sung) tracking down the truth behind a murder 22 years ago. Prosecutor Song Soo Hyun searches for the real culprit to clear his father's name for killing his stepfather, and his younger brother, a writer Ha Woo Shin, searches for the evidence of the murder, Adamas.

Adamas has all the elements that makes it an intriguing mystery thriller; greed, lies, conspiracy, shady characters, etc. Though I was not sold with the lack of urgency in the premise, of why now after 22 years they need to investigate this case, I was curious to find out what’s behind the mysterious mansion people and about Adamas.

I had a great time watching the high-class cinematography, editing and Ji Sung. As always, he’s a captivating performer. Playing the twins, an angry-bird-but-soft-at-heart prosecutor Song Soo Hyun and a calm & collected novelist, Ha Woo Sin, who gains entry to the museum-like mansion of a CEO to write his biography, while carrying his own personal agenda; looking for the diamond-crafted weapon Adamas. Both of them have their own quirks and were really fun to watch! :)

The story unfolds slowly, but the twists maintain a good momentum. Unfortunately for me, it wasn’t satisfactory that the later part focuses too much on the villains. The ending could’ve been more conclusive as well. Regardless, Adamas is cool, stylish, plenty of ulterior motives and power play.

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The intro was hot! Yohan!! XD *out-of-context* title

Unable to feel pain within his own body but skilled at diagnosing others, an anesthesiologist doctor John (Ji Sung) consistently faces challenges of his philosophy on life and death. People acknowledge him for saving a lot of patients, but they also think he causes others deaths, so if the patient wants death, should the wish be granted?

The story of a doctor who can’t feel physical pain, with an anesthesiologist who is full of love and tries to reach his heart. It presents an interesting viewpoint of euthanasia. Thought-provoking debates, patient stories, emotional healing, complemented with very peaceful and calming OSTs. The depth of the storyline and characters played by Ji sung and See Young inspires us to never give up to life challenges. I got chills from Ji Sung’s intensity when delivering his dialogues. You will be awed by his performances! Plus, he looks very kind-looking & charming in this show, beautifully styled & very swoony.

I enjoyed how the stake gets higher during patients’ critical situations. When they’re discussing the symptoms, the doctors are like detectives, giving thriller vibes. What I less enjoyed was how the female lead’s trauma flashbacks were repetitive and I’m annoyed with her emotional breakdown when it happens during the patients’ emergency situations. I also didn't think the romance was a stand out, but it definitely didn't spoil the show.

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Yumi Cells 2 was a very cute watch and I will cherish all the sweet moments :)

After moving on from her heartbreak, we see Yumi (Kim Go Eun) and her colorful cells deal with the courage to step out on her own as a writer as her new romance blossoms with Yu Babi (Park Jin Young).

The arc that bridges Yumi Cells 1 and 2 felt natural. In season 1, Babi has been around as her coworker but he never was presented as another love interest option for Yumi. So after breaking up with Woong and we see her moving on, Babi’s presence just fits as someone who is there for Yumi. The flow of both relationships were just as refreshing because Woong and Babi’s personalities were very different. I also appreciate seeing a more dynamic journey of Yumi as a writer since it was always been her dream.

Although I think season 1's cells were more charming, there are still hilarious, emotional moments. Also, surprisingly naughty moments between Yumi and Babi's little cells, I love those! XD That's a testament to how vibrant Yumi and Babi's chemistry were. I love every time he convinces her in his blunt and swoony manner, and when he was so sincere when he takes care of her. What I don't understand is the annoying side characters and the conflicts that seem to stem from out-of-character decisions, which makes me upset till the ending. Other than that, Yumi Cells 2 was cute and I will cherish all the sweet moments! :)

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Tense & gripping, it kept me anxious all the time!

In the process of solving a suspicious suicide case, prosecutor Park Jung Woo (Ji Sung) gets charged for killing his wife and daughter. As he seeks to recollect his memory, will he succeed to prove his innocence and the truth before time is up?

Tense and gripping, Defendant is a drama that is dangerously emotional, but guaranteed satisfying plot twists. It’s one of my favorites because of the performances! Ji Sung went through a lot to his role as Park Jung Woo physically & mentally, and it really shows! He tapped into raw griefs and anguishes of emotions that horribly torn me apart… T.T Uhm Ki Joon as Cha Min Ho, perfect! His face-to-face arguments with Jung Woo, their fist-fights, chasing & scheming each other were so powerful! Another highlight is the entertaining cellmates. They were unassumingly funny and I think if they’re not there, the drama would have been too painful to watch.

In stories, when all hopes are lost and the dark tunnel seems too long, it can make me frustrated, especially with memory loss trope, but they're doing a great job to keep me guessing whether Jung Woo’s inner thoughts are reliable narratives, so any slightest hope keep me rooting for him. Finally, really enjoyed the energetic OST. I'm clapping excitedly whenever the song “To the End” plays in powerful scenes very fittingly. Brilliant!

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Not one of my most memorable shows but it's a meaningful and fun story after all

Shin Suk Ho was a music producer at a large entertainment agency, wanting to start his own company. However, this new journey starts on the wrong foot and his plan falls flat on his face. As he's finding his way back, he meets Ha Neul, who gave up dreams to become a singer after losing his parents and being wrongly convicted of a crime. Will he be able to regain confidence and realize his abandoned dream along with Suk Ho?

Entertainer is surprisingly bold in presenting the shady side of the entertainment and music industry. The best part of it was undoubtedly Suk Ho's storyline, from cunning to sincere and the show gave it as much attention as it did. I enjoyed his hijinks with the boys of the Entertainer Band, without all the stress but lots of laughs and tears. The bonding that developed as they went through obstacles in pursuing their passion for music was touching, especially between Suk Ho and Ha Neul. The whole cast made their characters relatable and lovable in their own right. However, I didn't enjoy Hyeri's whining and crying that were so over the top, and it doesn't help her character being naive and rather foolish.

While the show had parts where I get bored (mostly due to pacing), it still delivers a lovely life-lesson well, that no matter how hard life gets, your friends can help realize your dreams. Regarding the ending, it was a little too perfect and fairy-tale-like, but the story made me happy with the everyone's journey.

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Halfway and I lost interest, too much self-pity and crying

I wasn't loving part 1 as I found the dynamic between the lead is a bit childish and drags. Part 2 comes and first 4 episodes hit me with massive emotional train wreck, so painful yet so beautiful. What stands out to me compared to the previous season is this new dynamic among the hunter woman, Jang Hyun ang Gil Chae. She has so much passion and her motivation is interesting, so she elevate the stake. I'm in for their painful future stories.

Cinematography is just as stunning as the previous part. The shots are very captivating, that you can't help but admired. Trigger warning: the torture scenes realistically gruesome, comparable to few historicals Mr. Sunshine and Empress Ki. I guess it is to highlight the degradation that Joseon went through during this historical time. Great and emotional acting by all cast! Namkoong Min has rightly been receiving praise for his accolade and I enjoyed his chemistry with Lee Chung Ah. Honestly, they look great together in all situations.

Even if it won't happily ever after, at least I hope the struggles of our heroes come to an end soon because all of them goes through so much pain already. Every little hopeful moment counts, even though I don't know how it's going to end.

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A fun and weird experience, not necessarily a memorable one

Each member of the Bok family had a unique special power that they lost due to modern life crises. One day, the grandparents arrange a second marriage for their son/single father, Gwi Ju (Jang Ki Yong), with Da Hee (Chun Woo Hee) who might be able to bring their powers back. However, she and her family's true intention is to take them for all their worth.

Just like the title, the vibe and characters of Atypical Family are unique. Certain things gave me cringe, like the obesity portrayal throughout the story and the one-note annoying characters, but the plot’s unpredictability and the complex flawed characters managed to keep me tuned in each week.

Gwi Ju and Ina's father-daughter bonding were heartfelt, and I love the developing friendship between Da Hee and Gwi Ju’s sister, Dong Hee. The chemistry between Da Hee and Gwi Ju was great, although at first I wasn’t rooting for their romance. Sometimes the pacing was slow, but it is never boring because the hijinks were hilarious! XD

I didn’t like how they keep throwing-in angsty cliffhangers in many episodes towards the ending, which makes the story felt drawn-out, but in the end it was very heartwarming. Overall, it was quite a fun watch!

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