The drama begin's on an awkwardly shot episode filled with poorly acted foreigners and even worse English-speaking scenes. I don't think Korea will ever work out the kinks of English-speaking scenes so they're less awkward and unnatural. I'll give the production crew credit for filming on set in Cuba; it's a beautiful location that allowed the poorly strung scenes to immerse me in the story.

Once our CP met in Korea, I fell in love. The plot structure is organized from start to finish and surprisingly well-crafted for a chaebol family drama. I was invested in our CEO's plight and, for a while, even pitied her ex-husband after learning his back story. As we watch our CP's romance blossom, it's both elevated and tested through a sweeping and turbulent "sea monster" that threatens to overtake their sails (as gorgeously depicted in the whimsically illustrated intro/outro imagery).

I remember encountering (heheh) this drama a few years ago and having difficulty pressing the play button. I think it was because I was unimpressed with Song Hye-Kyo's facial acting and thought I was in for a wooden ride. After watching her latest drama, The Glory, I knew the power of her acting and the nuance of her performance. This drama did not disappoint.

I'm still surprised with myself for watching 16 episodes of a drama that isn't Chinese wuxia/xianxia, or fantasy-related, as is my usual schtick. I was hoping for some gorgeous Park Bo Gum scenes and angst, and I got it all and more. Also, thank you, drama Gods, for giving me beautiful kiss scenes. Their chemistry, albeit surprising, warms on me, and I found myself cheesily smiling and crying along with them.

If you're considering watching this drama, give it a shot. Don't let the first episode or two fool you; it'll quickly hit its flow and charm you with its fairy-tale-like romance.