Update!

 Hello Hello!

It's been so long since I have posted anything on this precious blog. I was a bit surprised that every month there are still people who come across my post even though my last post was in 2019. I haven't stopped watching K-Drama's but in recent years I just haven't watched as many as I used to. However, there are dramas that I want to chat about. The year 2021 has been a pretty nice year for dramas and I want to share my thoughts. If there are any dramas that you'd recommend let me know and I would love to review them. I started this blog because I wanted a place to make friends and build a community around the joy that Korean dramas have brought me. My desire is still the same. I will also introduce Turkish dramas into my review because they gave me a great source of comfort at the beginning of 2020. I hope everyone that reads this is filled with the joy and satisfaction that comes from watching dramas.

Happy Watchings blissed ones. 

Man Crush Monday Zo In Sung

I know it's not Monday, ( I was on vacation) but since this is a day to speak about crushes anyways, I may as well talk about dreamboat, Zo In Sung.

Zo In Sung is undisputedly one of the hottest actors in South Korea. From the first drama I ever saw him in, I was completely smitten! I'm thrilled to let the gushing commence.

"It's Okay That's Love" is my number 1 drama of all time. The writing, the character development, the soundtrack, everything about this drama has been unmatched for me. It opened me in such a way that I was able to question prejudices that I hadn't even realized I carried. The most impactful component of this is Zo In Sung's performance as Jang Jae Yeol. The character of Jang Jae-Yeol was a breath of fresh air for me. I was completely sucked in and riveted by this character. The confidence, the vulnerability, the disability, and the overall triumph of this character made me see humanity in a completely different light. After I watched this drama, anything that had Zo In Sung's name on it I clicked on.

Fortunately for me, I didn't have to have the drama blues because I immediately started watching "That Winter, The Wind Blows". I'm not going to lie. This wasn't my favorite drama. However, the performances in this drama were superb. The character of Oh Soo is super sketchy! I was always side-eyeing his decisions. As a testament to Zo In Sung's acting ability, I find myself really not liking the character, even though I felt as though I understood him. It was strange to feel connected with a character and still not like them.

"Dear My Friends" is on the same level as "It's Okay, That's Love". It's written by the same writer, and it really peels the layers between the complications in all of our relationships. Seo Yeon-Ha was one the best characters in this drama. Even though he isn't the main character, his very presence add something magnificent to the lead's performance. We mostly see him through a computer screen, and the sheer love and compassion this character has in him, it was marvelous to see. This drama is amazing as well, definitely go watch it!

I still need to catch up on some of his movie projects. To anyone curious about whether you should give this beautiful face a try... I say, Go For It!
Happy Drama Watching!!!

Woman Crush Wednesday Kim So Yeon

 Today I get to talk about my Woman Crush cause it's Wednesday!! Let's talk about Kim So Yeon!

The very first drama I ever saw this stunning woman in, was "I Need Romance 3". I didn't enjoy the first "I Need Romance", so I don't remember why I chose to watch the 3rd installment. As usual, I am glad that I gave it a chance. Kim So Yeon portrays a woman in her 30's who has navigated a difficult career as a high achiever/performer. Though her work life is successful, the same can't be said for her love myself being portrayed in a K-drama. I also loved watching her learn how to speak candidly about what she wants and needs. It was also a noona drama... which are some of my favorites so it was a perfect watch!

The character of Shin Joo-Yeon reminded me so much of myself. I related as she dissected love with calculating eyes. I subscribed to the same philosophy of not allowing yourself to feel too deeply in case things don't work out. It was also like looking at the mirror watching her choose carefully how to act after her break-up. Every word and action was precisely calculated and it was similar to my life.

The next drama I watched her in was "Beating Again". This drama made me feel like my whole insides were changing. This drama should've been cheesy and obvious, but for some reason, it was unique, interesting, and it kept me on the edge of my seat. I loved watching Kim Soon-Jung navigate the heartbreak of her fiance's death. The beautiful partnership between her and Jung Kyung-Ho shone throughout the series. Kim Soon-Jung maintained a special kind of purity throughout the series, even though she endures betrayal and multiple losses.

I was so ecstatic when I watched her in "We Got Married" She was partnered with Kwang Si Yang. They are one of my favorite couples from this series. They were so cute. All of their interaction and ideas made my heart melt. I hope to experience a love in which they portrayed.

Kim So Yeon also makes a brief appearance in the drama "20th Century Boy and Girl"! It's nice because she makes a play for her real-life husband Lee Sang-Woo. It was nice to watch her complete the series so nicely.

Overall, Kim So Yeon is a class act. I love her, and even though  I haven't watched all of her drama's, I know that every performance has been delivered with elegant perfection!

Woman Crush Wednesday Park Min-Young

Hey! Hey! Hey! Today is Woman Crush Wednesday! I am excited to announce that today we are going to be talking about my girl crush Park Min Young!

                                                                                                            

Now, to be honest, I didn't realize that the first drama that I'd seen her in was City Hunter. I'd watched that drama in my early K-drama exploration phase and I don't remember Kim Na Na very well. While 

I remember liking this drama, it's not something I can recommend because I only have vague images of this drama floating in my head... So On To The Next!

For years, "Healer", was my 2nd favorite K-drama of all time! It's been demoted to number 4, but it's still in my top 5! This drama was incredible, and I was so sucked into the performance that I hadn't realized that I'd just watched Park Min Young in City Hunters 3 months prior lol! She plays spunky investigative reporter Chae Young-Shin. This character is hilarious, courageous, brash, nosey and just an overall pleasure to watch. I was mesmerized by the chemistry between Park Min Young and Jin Chang-Wook. Episode 15 was spectacular. The first 5 minutes fills me with so much feels, it's so sweet it can make your teeth rot! I haven't ever seen a negative review on this drama, and for me, this is where my crush with Park Min Young began.

It took me a while to give "Queen For Seven Days" a chance. I read the reviews and everyone wrote about how sad it was... but there was something about the poster that sucked me in. Boy am I glad that I gave it a try. Warning! It made me cry so hard! I love this drama so much. The storytelling of this drama was executed masterfully. Shin Chae-Kyung was a masterful character. The sheer love, loyalty, and insight this character possessed were so beautiful. I believe Park Min Young could have chemistry with a rock because I shipped her with both Yeon Woo-Jin, and Lee Dong-Gun. It was amazing how she navigated through two brothers in love with her. Despite being in such a precarious situation, Shin Chae-Kyung handled every aspect of her life with utter class.

"What's Wrong With Secretary Kim" is hands down one of the best comedies I've ever seen. Fiesty and naive Kim Mi-So was so refreshing to see. Kim Mi-So had a no-nonsense approach to life, and though I felt she was incredibly exploited by her family, she knew how to execute with perfection. This screwball comedy highlighted the thick chemistry between Park Seo Joon and Kim Mi So. They were able to bounce back and forth between each other and it was fascinating to watch. The way the audio highlighted certain facial expressions was amazing to see. 

Add some joy to your day by watching a drama by Park Min-Young!

Happy Drama Watching. 

Man Crush Mondays Lee Jin Wook

Hi! It's Monday, so it's time to chat about my Man Crush! This week's MCM is Lee Jin Wook!

This tall glass of fresh water has been on my drama radar since the first year I started watching dramas.

Even though I didn't finish it, "I Need Romance 2" was the drama that I first laid my eyes on Mr. Lee. Ever since then, any new project he was in, I tried to watch.

The Three Musketeers was the first time I saw a full performance from Lee Jin Wook. He played the role of Crown Prince Sohyeon. This character was oozing charm and charisma! Not only did he have wit, but he was also incredibly kind. He was the kind of prince who wanted to be a good King. This drama was way too short, but the cast was impeccable, and the journey was amazing!

Nine: 9 Times Time Travel was one of the best drama's I've ever seen. The writing was brilliant. Park

Sun-Woo was such an enjoyable character to watch. It was such a clever script to watch. The chemistry between Jo Yoon-Hee and Lee Jin Wook was palpable. This drama had so many genres in one, and it made me want to go to Nepal! Grab a seat and eat popcorn because it's a wonderful ride!

The Time We Were Not In Love was a really cute drama. Choi Won is a lovely person. Seeing how smitten this man was over the female lead was endearing to watch. His story of unrequited love, abandonment, and loyalty was so pleasurable to

watch. This drama made me feel warm and fuzzy, but I don't think it was the greatest work. Still, I truly enjoyed it.





Goodbye Mr. Black, this drama was action packed! Cha Ji Won was a smooth military dude from a rich family with everything going for him. The death of his father changes everything, and the life that he once knew has disappeared. This drama was a simple pleasure for me. I can't say I was ever too invested but I liked
how everything turned out. Mix reviews withstanding, I liked how everything concluded.

Voice 2 is hands down the best drama I've ever seen Lee Jin Wook in. I fell in love with this drama so hard. I watched this with bated breath. Do Kang-Woo was the best thing to happen to this series. Go Watch This NOW! This drama was so smart. We go through the episodes trying to see if Do Kang-Woo is a psychopath. Each episode is intertwined beautifully. It left off on a cliffhanger... so I'm keeping my finger crossed for Voice 3.

Woman Crush Wednesday

Ya'll, I am stoked because today is Wednesday!!!! Today means I get to talk about one of my all-time girl crushes HA JI WON!!!!!!!

I love this actress so much! I love her tomboy style mixed with her classic feminity. This woman is a pure force of talent! I love her so much and I am glad that I get to gush on about this beautiful woman.

I first saw Ha Ji Won in the classic drama "Secret Garden". I must say it took me a while to start this drama but once I gave it a chance, it was amazing! One of the best things about this drama was Ha Ji Won. I was so impressed with her ability to switch between Gil Im-Ra and Kim Joo-Woon. The way she was able to take on different facial expressions and physical characteristics were stunning. I was sucked into her performance. When the drama ended I wanted to watch more of her!

So it lead me to the drama "The King 2 Hearts"! The role Kim Hang Ah... that role was straight gangster! No lie, I loved the sheer physicality of this role. She was incredibly athletic and mentally strong. I wanted to workout, shoot guns, and do military drills because of this role. I was impressed by Ha Ji Won's ability to add such warmth and vulnerability to this character as well. This drama solidified Ha Ji Won's place in my heart.

So as soon as I'd finished "The King 2 Hearts"... I found "Empress Ki". This drama was the best saguek I'd ever watched until "Six Flying Dragons". So as it stands, this is my number 2 drama in the historical drama department. Ki Seung-Nyang was a sheer delight to watch. Every role that I'd seen Ha Ji Won play was a strong woman, but Ki Seung-Nyang was the strongest woman I'd seen portrayed in a K-drama. This character could hold her own with any soldier, and once she became Empress Ki, she could hold her own with the best minds of Joseon. I binged this drama in one week. I was dead tired by the last episode, but my heart was so full. My eyes were also really swollen by the last episode as well.

When the "Time We Were Not In Love" was advertised to come out, I was ecstatic! I'd watched the Taiwanese version and I was curious to see how Ha Ji Won would take on the role. It was the first time I'd seen her in a role that didn't require her to be athletic. At first, the character of Oh Ha-Na was a bit too cutesy for me, but as the series went on I fell hard for this character. I loved the chemistry between Lee Jin Wook and Ha Ji Won. The energy between them was incredibly intimate and sweet, even when they were fighting.

My favorite role that Ha Ji Won has played in is "Chronicles of a Blood Merchant". This movie is simply riveting. I was floored by Ha Ji Won's portrayal of Heo Ok-Ran. This beautiful woman who likes being a wife, and finds her world turned upside down when she has to confess that her eldest son isn't her husbands. I loved the ferocity in which she came at her husband when he tried to make differences. I loved I could see a mothers love pulsating through her. I don't think the actress has children, but she managed to tap into something palpable.

I haven't seen all of Ha Ji Won's works, but every role I've seen her in has given me such pleasure that I would love to recommend everything she stars in lol.

To all the Drama Lovers out there... Happy Drama Watching!

Mr. Sunshine Review

Well, I have just finished binge-watching Mr.Sunshine. I have so many emotions, feelings and this particular post may feel like emotional vomit.

Mr.Sunshine is a historical drama that illustrates the turbulent times of Korea during the early 1900's. Captain Eugene Choi, a former Korean slave, is posted at the American Legation in Korea. Navigating being an American coming from Korea we see Eugene's past is equal parts pain and grace. Under the wing of an American missionary, and the structure of the U.S Military, Eugene grows up to be a compassionate, honorable soldier, who is always doing the right thing. This drama is a layer of many different Korean experiences and perspectives. We see the corruption of the upper echelon of their society.  We see the frustrations of the lower class who are simply trying to survive. We also get insight into the people who exploit the weakness' of a government that doesn't protect its people. This drama is brilliantly written. It evokes a wide range of emotions that are reflective of real life. The insight of each character's motivation is exquisitely displayed. Each character makes profound sacrifices, and as a viewer if left me bereft.

The legendary Lee Byung Hun plays Captain Eugene Choi. To be honest I've never watched any of his Korean dramas before. I knew he was incredibly famous mostly due to variety shows that spoke very highly of him. His performance was utterly sensational. He exuded a military man, who has a deep sense of composure. Byung-Hun portrayed a man who has deep-seated rage and pain but has learned to channel that energy positively. Despite his cold demeanor we get to see a mischievous side to this character. Quick smiles, flashed across his face, and it gave some insight of how Eugene Choi could've been if he'd been born in better circumstances. The story centers around the love that draws Eugene Choi and Lady Ae-Shin. Despite their differences, they end up falling in love with each other, and they make keen sacrifices for one another.



                                            Kim Tae-Ri is a certified powerhouse.

This is the first drama that I've seen her in, but I was mesmerized by her performance. She's one of those actresses who pulsates with verisimilitude. I found myself completely sucked into the world of Lady Ae Shin. While this young woman is an aristocrat, she joins the rebel army to help liberate Korea from its oppression. Despite having access to everything a young woman could possibly want, her blood boils at injustice and she is unable to simply sit back and embroider while everything around her crumbles. Lady Ae Shin has many layers, and it's hard to box her into one kind of character. What made me adore her, was that she wasn't a damsel in distress. The level of courage she displays throughout this drama was amazing to see. More than love, more than family and friends, her absolute priority was Korea. I loved how she was able to deal with all of the crushing blows and still be a loving and compassionate woman.

Byun Yo-han plays the lackadaisical fiance of Lady Ae Shin. To be honest he was my favorite character. The light attitude he had about the world was refreshing. His simple observations made me laugh all the time. Despite his seemingly carefree life, I loved seeing how astute and insightful he was. I really wanted him and Lady Ae Shin to be together but the dramagods didn't grant my wish hahaha I hope to see a character like this as a lead of another drama.

Gu Dong Mae...this character probably deserves a post of his own. Yoo Yeon-Seok shone in this role. Engulfed in unadulterated rage, Gu Dong Mae has no qualms about taking someone's life. Growing up with the stigma of being a butchers child, he's dealt a poor hand. Escaping Korea due to the murder of his parents and with the help of Lady Ae Shin, he comes back to Korea as a Yakuza boss. I LOVED IT. I don't know why I enjoyed the bloodthirsty satisfaction of him cutting down his enemies, but I enjoyed it. The character broke my heart a little bit because the poor guy was so dysfunctional with his love of Lady Ae Shin. He never had a chance, and whatever scrap of negative attention he got from her, he lapped up and cherished.

The ACE of this show for me was Hina. Kim Min Jung was jaw-dropping in this series. Hina was sexy, intelligent, and deadly. The writer hinted at jealousy, and perhaps creating a nasty second lead, but Hina stayed classy. Everything about her was quick and astute. By far one of my favorite female characters ever. I loved how she hustled fools out of their money. I liked how she corrected injustices. The blurred lines of this character were amazing. The juxtaposition of a woman who is graceful, conniving, and strong was incredibly attractive. I would not mind seeing all K-drama leads similar to this character.









Anyways, if you want to know if this drama is worth your time.... It absolutely is!
Happy Drama Watching!

Hit Dramas of 2018

It's the end of the year and I would like to express my gratitude to all the people around the world who read my blog. This year was special because of you.
Special THANK YOU to: Thailand, Japan, Belgium, Germany, Czechia, Philipines, France, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, Australia, Ukraine, Russia, Canada, United States, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Unknown Regions.


Alrighty fellow drama addicts, it's time to review this year's dramas. To be honest, 2018 was a step above 2017. However, I frequently dropped dramas like hot potatoes. I had "episode 10 syndrome" it was hard to revive my interest after the tenth episode. I often wandered dramaless for weeks at a time.

However, there were some incredible gems in the drama world this year, and I want to spread the good cheer for anyone who is in a drama rut and may not have given these drama's a try!

HIT Drama's

Come and Hug Me:

Buy 7 boxes of tissues and wrap yourself in your blankie. From the first episode until the last episode I bawled my eyes out. The writing was amazing, the acting was brilliant, this drama took me places emotionally I had no idea existed. I recommend this drama 1,000x's over.

My Mister:

Another tear jerker that was brilliant. The synopsis for this drama mislead me, I'm glad I read the comment section of the last episode because this is a drama no one should miss. This drama is riveting poetry. There was never a dull moment, and it did a wonderful job of illustrating different kinds of relationships.





Live:

Noh Hee Kyung wrote another incredible drama. Everything I've watched of hers has been no less than excellent. This drama showcased every single actor's talent. It's a wonderful depiction of the dynamics a cop has to balance.

Eulachaha Waikiki:

If you need a laugh, watch this immediately! I laughed like a maniac throughout the entire series. Every episode is well written. There is physical comedy, wit, and a strong plot. This drama could turn your worst day into the best day.

Hand, The Guest:







If you're looking for something to make your relationship with Jesus stronger, if you want to connect to a higher power... watch this horror drama. Every night I was praying the demons away. This drama is truly terrifying and it's executed in the most powerful way.

Voice 2:

This drama is a kick-ass battle of the wits between detectives, and criminal mastermind. Voice season 1 was amazing, and season 2 for me is even better. It's a great action-packed ride. Every actor brought their A-game, and if you like psychological mind games, this drama serves it well.

My ID is Gangnam Beauty:

Endearing is the best word to describe this drama. Every single moment your heart kind of does an *AWW* sigh. This drama showcases the journey of a girl who learns to love herself and accept love from others. It's a great, light drama that makes you feel great at the end of the journey.

Life on Mars:

Talk about mind-bending, this drama is AH-MAHZING! I was hooked throughout this time-warp drama. It's a beautiful mix of cop-show, fantasy, and screwball comedy. It's intelligent, hilarious, and heartbreaking all at once.

What's Wrong With Secretary Kim:

This might have been my favourite drama of the year. I was terrified that it was going crumble in the middle, but it  was paunchy all the way through. This was the PERFECT rom-com I'd been looking for, and it was utterly satisfying.

Matrimonial Chaos:

Well now, there aren't enough ways to compliment this drama. The writing is emotionally intelligent, and the actors expressed incredible ranges of emotions with wonderful subtlety. I wish more shows had the kind of substance this drama showcased.








Just Between lovers: 

If you're binge-watching this drama, take your time, go through it slowly. This drama is amazing, but it's another one where my pillow became drenched in my tears. The story is simply magnificent, definitely watch it (I know this drama technically started in December of 2017, BUT it finished on January 30th 2018... and I waited until the last episode to binge watch it... so I'm counting it for 2018)

Bad Guys 2 Vile City:

This is a "Knuck if you Buck" kind of drama. Watching it made me want to fight crime, and join a vigilante gang. It's extremely violent, but man it's spectacular. I couldn't predict anything in this drama. It was like being on a rollercoaster ride that injects adrenaline into your system.  Best Action drama of the year. Possibly ever! (Again! It technically began in 2017, but it ended in February 2018, so I'm counting it.) 

Near Miss

 I recommend these drama's, but I skipped some episodes because of noble idiocy nonsense, or because a couple of episodes crumbled and made no sense. 

Most of these dramas have happy, lovey-dovey endings, which is something I value.

1) Misty
*this drama made some weird turn, but the intrigue and mystery was the best thing I'd seen in my life. This could've made it as the best drama of the year, or all time if the last two episodes hadn't taken a strange turn. 
2)The Beauty Inside
3) Devilish Joy
4)My husband Oh Jak Doo
5) Should We First Kiss
6) Radio Romance
7) Suits 2018

Comment below if you have a drama to recommend or if you liked any of these dramas!
As always, Happy Drama Watching and a Happy New Year