This is one of my favorite K-dramas, I've watched it 3 times already. and each time added clarity to the complicated story. Will probably watch it again to figure out a few more characters. This is the first time I watch actor Lee Min Ho, and he is captivating. His portrayal of a King is eloquent and perfectly measured. A King's face may be taught to be stoic, but his feelings can't hide from his eyes. I ended up searching all his works on Netflix, Prime, Viki and YouTube and seem to watch him grow up from the time he was a teenager. What a delightful performer and actor he is. I look forward to seeing all his future work. The leading lady, Kim Go Eun, is naturally beautiful, she can show such strong raw emotions. I had delayed watching TKEM due to seeing some poor reviews, but I'm totally fascinated by this powerful fantasy movie. I saw many reviews saying the love between the King and plain Detective to be rushed and not believable. But I can understand why she would have developed caring and protective feelings for a King who had been orphaned from childhood. She, herself, having lost a Mother at age 5, would definitely have soft feelings for another soul who lost a parent at an early age. Perhaps some viewers just saw a powerful King living in a rich palace, but she would’ve seen a sad soul who had to appear strong, but had all the hurts and loneliness of being an orphaned child, as only those who have experienced it would know. Had you seen him from that angle, you would’ve given him a loving hug and understanding as well. She Immediately loved him, because they understood each other’s pain behind their masks. As a King, he must hide his feelings. As detective, she chose to be brave to hide her inner hurt as well.

For me, the concept of parallel worlds and existences was fascinating. Imagine if Korea fought off its aggressors in the 1800’s, avoided being colonized, and maintained its Kingdom till modern times. How different a world that may be. Why was it even compared to real world as we know? Who is to say how this fantasy world should be like?

We all think of other worlds and existences in various forms. I found it fascinating !

I am a retired from the US, with plenty of time to rewatch this drama, and others that touch the heart !