Oh My Lady: Episode 16 (Final)
by javabeans
Ah, the end is here! I suspect this episode made most if not all fans very happy, as it tied up the plot in a light-hearted but satisfactory way that was in keeping with the tone of the drama. It’s too bad that things didn’t get really compelling until about Episode 10 (then stepped it up with Episode 12 on — incidentally when Yura took a big step backward — coincidence? I think not) — which is frankly rather late for me to be connecting with a drama.
It’s to the actors’ credit that their amusing and sweet interactions were able to carry the plot until the story finally managed to tap into that emotional place with Min-woo’s growth as a father and as a person. I’m just glad that this one ended on a high note, because so many finale episodes feel like a letdown — they’re either too rushed or dragged out as an extended epilogue.
SONG OF THE DAY
Daybreak – “Popcorn” [ Download ]
Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.
FINAL EPISODE RECAP
Min-woo asks Kae-hwa to be Ye-eun’s mother, explaining that he had purposely waited to ask her until after the musical premiered. Nobody could be as good a mother to Ye-eun as she is, “And I need you. Let’s marry.”
(Omo! Usually when episodes end on cliffhangers, the next episode drops the tension back down, but in this case they just upped the ante.)
Kae-hwa is stunned, but Min-woo adds, “I’m not saying this out of the blue. I’ve thought this over seriously for a long while. Think it over, then give me your answer. I can wait as long as you need.”
Min-woo is invited along for a celebratory drink with The Show Co. staff, and Jae-hee remarks that it feels like Min-woo’s a part of their office family now, seeing as he has come to all their gatherings. Min-woo smiles and, while looking at Kae-hwa, says pointedly, “I think so too. It feels like a family.”
He’s extra solicitous to her, offering little things like napkins and such, which Shi-joon finds amusing while Kae-hwa is exasperated. When the others urge her to drink more, Min-woo swoops in to play the “black knight,” i.e, drink for her.
Min-woo’s behavior is so noteworthy that Jae-hee asks teasingly if their fake scandal is actually real. Kae-hwa blurts, “No!” just as Min-woo answers, “Yes.” (Such a mixed reaction makes the others think there’s more to this relationship than they’re letting on, and they exchange knowing looks.) Kae-hwa rises to leave early because of the kids, and Min-woo hurriedly excuses himself too, accompanying her out.
Kae-hwa is impatient with his exaggerated attentiveness, and says that she’ll give her answer now: “I’m not going to marry again.” He asks her to think about it some more, but she replies that a lot of thought has already gone into making this decision (not to remarry).
A bit indignant, he says it’s cowardly to swear off marriage because her first one failed. Maybe she just met the wrong guy the first time — it’s always possible she’ll meet a good person the second time around.
Kae-hwa replies that she doesn’t want to entertain such an expectation, and besides, she has Min-ji. He counters that a daughter isn’t a husband — and once Min-ji grows up and gets married, will she be fine being alone? That makes her pause briefly, but she reasserts her stance.
Min-woo: “Are you that afraid?”
Kae-hwa: “Yes, I am! Do you know what marriage is?”
Min-woo: “‘What do you know when you have no life experience?’ Is that what you’re telling me?”
Kae-hwa: “You haven’t been hurt so you don’t know. You don’t know what that pain is of promising to love each other for the rest of your life and having that shattered. So please don’t talk to me about marriage again. I’m sorry to say it like this.”
She walks off, leaving him pondering her words.
Kae-hwa’s words make him look deeper into the cause of her resistance. Thus the next morning, he intercepts Byung-hak just as the latter is leaving his house (humming “Sorry Sorry” in a meta moment, lol).
Min-woo gets to the point, asking aggressively what the heck Byung-hak did to Kae-hwa to make her swear off marriage forever. Byung-hak returns that this is hardly his concern, but Min-woo says it matters “because it’s a hindrance to her marrying me.”
Byunk-hak’s reaction is pure confusion: “Why?” Why would he want a woman like Kae-hwa when he’s a star? Min-woo presses on with his question, which elicits a roundabout answer about how she’s a difficult and tiring woman to live with. Min-woo watches with narrowed eyes, reading between the lines — he cheated, huh?
Defensively, Byung-hak turns it around on Kae-hwa, saying she doesn’t know how to make herself pretty; it felt like he was living with a housekeeper. In fact, he never bought even her flowers — not because he forgot or anything, but simply because he never felt inspired to buy them for her. You know, since looks are the only reason for loving a woman and all. (I’m not even offended by this comment, because Byung-hak is such a silly idiot that the sentiment has no sting coming from him.)
Min-woo asks if he ever apologized for hurting her. Byung-hak laughs, saying it’s embarrassing to do that. Min-woo tells him firmly, “Apologize to her. Ask her officially for her forgiveness.” Byung-hak finds this an odd demand coming from Min-woo, who replies, “I’m asking as the man who loves her.”
Now that Min-woo has made up his mind to woo Kae-hwa, he gets busy trying to win her over. For instance, he waits outside her apartment to give the girls a ride to school, and reacts in concern to hear Kae-hwa hasn’t eaten breakfast. After dropping off the girls, he takes her to a fancy buffet, where he even serves her.
Kae-hwa worries over the pricy food, trying to convince him to watch his spending because he must have lost a lot of money in the cancelled endorsement deals. Min-woo answers matter-of-factly that they probably add up to about 3 billion won ($2.5 million), but is unfazed. He’s got money in the bank and is confident he can get more work; he’ll consider this a luxurious hiatus from work.
Unimpressed, Kae-hwa urges him to adopt a frugal attitude and says she’s better off than he is, since at least she has a regular salary.
At work, a huge arrangement of red roses is delivered, addressed to Kae-hwa from Min-woo. While the other employees all smile at her knowingly, Kae-hwa tries to explain it away in innocent terms: “Can’t this be a thank-you?” They don’t buy it for a second.
Min-woo sends her a text, which is totally over-the-top and ridiculous (“More beautiful than a flower… Kae-hwa”). Embarrassed and uncomfortable, Kae-hwa says she’ll clear the flowers out of the office and takes them to the stairwell, thinking Min-woo is being shameless. But they do bring a smile to her face, as it’s been ages since she’s received flowers from anyone (which is why Min-woo made the gesture in the first place, in reaction to Byung-hak’s remark).
Next, Min-woo takes a cake to Bok-nim in thanks for treating Ye-eun, then asks for a favor, as she is a friend to Kae-hwa. His statement that “I’m intending to marry Yoon Kae-hwa” so shocks her that Bok-nim drops her coffee and stares at him incredulously.
Bok-nim rushes to ask Kae-hwa about it, wanting to know when the wedding is. She dismisses Kae-hwa’s grumbling that he’s just a kid — 28 is plenty grown-up, and the seven-year age difference is nothing. How can she let a guy like him slip through her fingers?
Kae-hwa grumbles that Min-woo’s proposal asked her to be Ye-eun’s mother, not his wife. Bok-nim sees through Kae-hwa’s complaining and smiles: “You really do like Min-woo.” That’s why she’s disappointed over the wording of his proposal, right? Bok-nim waves aside her resistance, saying that if they like each other, what’s the big deal? In her eyes, Min-woo is serious about her.
Min-woo takes the family out to a nice restaurant. Kae-hwa is self-conscious about coming to a place like this where they’ll be watched, but Min-ji enjoys eating out for once, and Min-woo tells her that it doesn’t matter to him. He pats Ye-eun on the head, saying, “I’m going to raise her proudly, since she’s my daughter.” Which is probably the most effective thing he could have said to impress her, and she allows herself to look at him with moony eyes (but only when he’s not looking back at her).
When Kae-hwa takes Ye-eun to the bathroom, Min-woo tries to make conversation with Min-ji. He sees this as a chance to suss out her thoughts and asks if she’d like having a sister like Ye-eun. Min-ji is pretty sharp and asks point-blank, “Are you going to marry my mother?” Her bluntness takes him by surprise, but he confides that he wants to. Still, he has to first hear out Min-ji’s opinion and wait for her mother’s answer.
She asks, “If you end up marrying my mother and then a prettier lady comes along, are you going to divorce my mom?” Min-woo gapes incredulously, but Min-ji points out that he works with beautiful actresses all the time: “If you betray my mother, it’ll be so sad for her.”
He tells her solemnly, “That’ll never happen. I’ll promise that to you.” They pinky-swear on it.
The musical continues its run and after another of Min-woo’s performances, he calls Kae-hwa, who is working late — or at least, she lies that she is. He offers to pick her up from the office, but for whatever reasons (fear, insecurity, nerves), Kae-hwa rejects the offer.
Reporter Han overhears Min-woo muttering to himself after the call, and says knowingly that he must be stuck in an unrequited love. Min-woo is wary, but Reporter Han has some insights about the situation, and his comments pique Min-woo’s curiosity. Wanting to hear more thoughts on his situation, Min-woo goes along with the reporter’s suggestion to grab a drink.
Kae-hwa works late, keeping herself busy to avoid going home right away. Finding her still in the office, Shi-joon offers her a ride home, and they pause for a break to talk. Tentatively, Kae-hwa says she hopes that he and his wife can give things another try, as it seems they still care for each other. Although Shi-joon doesn’t respond, he’s not offended by her statement and in fact seems to consider her words.
He turns the topic to Min-woo, asking how things are between them. Kae-hwa can’t feign ignorance since Shi-joon knows too much, but first she asks how much he knows. He answers, “One person is sending flowers, but the other person doesn’t seem ready to receive them.”
She confirms that Min-woo seems to be serious about a relationship but she’s not sure; she doesn’t feel confident that she can be seen “as a woman” to anybody. Shi-joon tells her she can — enough that he felt something for her for a short while. This stuns her, as he had never given any hint of his interest, but Shi-joon assures her that there is no cause for alarm. He has dealt with his feelings, and things won’t get awkward between them.
Liquor loosens Min-woo’s reserve (and his tongue) enough that he starts to talk freely about his woes, wondering how Kae-hwa can reject his proposal. Grabbing his laptop, the reporter starts to take notes, asking questions about why she rejected him and how long he’s had feelings for her. And I love Min-woo’s answer:
Min-woo: “Since we went looking for Ye-eun. No — since she had to go to the sauna because of me. No — since she fought with Mr. Jung [Yoon-seok]. Or was it from the beginning?”
Reporter Han says he must like her quite a lot, and Min-woo answers, “Yes, an awful lot. She’s different from the women I dated in the past. She’s beautiful. That’s why I think, ‘This is my woman.'” With that, he falls asleep, his head coming to rest on the tabletop.
Huh — well, this is a new side to Min-woo, and the reporter finds him pretty pure-hearted after all. It’s nothing like the partying image he’d had earlier. He starts typing a story about Min-woo’s “heartfelt love story” and uses words like “rebirth as a real actor.”
Han’s article spawns a wave of press, which now portrays Min-woo in a much more down-to-earth, humanistic light. They even declare that he has now washed off the disgrace of his former image as a lousy actor.
Yoon-seok is dissatisfied — I guess this good press does him no good, since he has lost his hold on Min-woo — but everyone else’s opinion of Min-woo makes a drastic upswing. He presents himself modestly in interviews, and even producer Eom is impressed with him. In fact, Eom gives himself credit for having recognized Min-woo’s talents early on, but Byung-hak scoffs since he didn’t do anything about them. Eom counters that he’ll get Min-woo for his next production.
Eom isn’t the only one wanting to cast Min-woo, and Shi-joon conveys an offer to Min-woo from a Japanese producer colleague, who has sent a proposal for Min-woo to take a role in a Japanese drama. Min-woo is pleased with the news, but as soon as he sees that he’d have to live in Japan for a year, he declines. Shi-joon thinks it’s a great opportunity, but Min-woo answers that he has somebody to watch over here.
And that’s not all: Jae-hee hands Kae-hwa some documents to give to Min-woo, which are papers for a new advertising contract offer worth 1 billion won (nearly $1 million). Apparently advertisers love his new image as a dedicated young single father.
Kae-hwa takes the documents to Min-woo’s photo shoot, where he takes a break from posing for a makeup touchup. The makeup artist tells him that his “scandal partner” (Kae-hwa) is really below his level, and offers to introduce him to a younger model friend. She describes the girl as one of those innocent-looking beauties, to which Min-woo answers, “I like sexy women.”
Naturally this is hardly thrilling for Kae-hwa to hear, even though Min-woo is actually making that quip as a way to reject the date. (Rather than saying no outright, saying that he prefers sexy women is a way of declining her friend, who is the opposite.)
Feeling dispirited, Kae-hwa decides not to approach and starts to leave. She runs into Yura, who congratulates her on her relationship and assures her that she has decided to move on.
Kae-hwa hands the envelope to Yura and asks for her to give it to Min-woo, making up the excuse that she’s busy and has to leave. Yura does, and when Min-woo hears the reason, he hurries out and tries to call Kae-hwa. Alas she isn’t answering the phone, so he goes to the theater, where he is told she is still back at the office.
Shi-joon finds her on the roof ignoring Min-woo’s phone call, and offers her a beer. In her melancholy mood, Kae-hwa offers to tell Shi-joon a “really funny story” and confides that Min-woo proposed to her. Even funnier is the fact that her heart thrilled to hear it. It was exciting to be seen as a woman again — but today, that feeling was shattered.
I’d assumed she was hurt by the makeup stylist’s dismissive comments about her, but I’m actually relieved that those words weren’t the cause of her mood. In actuality, it was the sight of him in action, looking like a star, that made her feel like they were completely unsuited for each other: “He seemed like someone from another land.”
Shi-joon points out that Min-woo was a star from the start — it’s not like she didn’t know. Kae-hwa answers that at the beginning, he had nothing to do with her so that wasn’t an issue. But as they got to know each other, she saw him struggling and felt sorry for him, and nagged him when he said silly things — and those things felt comfortable and manageable. Now that he’s doing better… it’s like he’s back to being a lofty star and the chasm is growing between them.
Shi-joon tells her that Min-woo likes her very much — enough to give up a drama opportunity for her. “Min-woo has changed this much — shouldn’t you recognize his feelings?”
Min-woo arrives at the office to find it empty, then recalls the roof. He arrives outside just in time to see Kae-hwa wiping away some tears. So much about this situation upsets him, and he strides up to her, grabs her wrist (urg!), and takes her downstairs.
He feels hurt that she has been ignoring his calls and avoiding him, particularly when she knew he was waiting for her — and now she’s here crying in front of Shi-joon — and raises his voice to a yell. Kae-hwa tells him levelly that she has already given him her reply, but he ignored it. No matter how she thinks about it, they don’t suit.
He argues that if he cared about those things — age, status — he would never have liked her from the start. She returns that this is just proof that he’s young, and they should quit while they’re ahead. And he should go to Japan.
That gets his attention: “Is that why?” He explains that he didn’t tell her about the Japan offer because he never intended to go. She takes issue with his high-handedness in dragging her away, saying that she’s ashamed of him when he does that, and gets angry and starts fights out of misunderstandings.
Min-woo asks, “So are you saying you can’t marry me? Are you saying I won’t do because I’m immature and young?” Kae-hwa answers yes. She can’t marry someone who reacts in such unpredictable ways — it makes her feel uneasy. She storms off, leaving him to shout her name in frustration.
You know, I’m actually relieved that they had this fight. They’ve never fought for real, and this addresses issues that they’ve been skirting thus far. It’s also nice to see some real conflict — genuine emotional clashing and hurt feelings — rather than the glib, fluffy sort of conflict that has characterized most of this show.
That night, Byung-hak calls Kae-hwa, who finds him drunk and in a thoughtful mood. To her surprise, he tells her, “I’m sorry.” He acknowledges that he never apologized properly, so he’s doing it now. She did nothing wrong — he’s the bad guy — and they divorced because he wronged her. But he felt too embarrassed to apologize, so he couldn’t do it: “But after listening to Sung Min-woo, I felt I was really wrong, and that I had to apologize. So I came here.”
That surprises her — he met Min-woo? Byung-hak gives Min-woo some credit for the way he had insisted he apologize, admitting that the kid was pretty impressive with the way he said, “As the man who loves Yoon Kae-hwa, please apologize.”
He says it one more time: “Kae-hwa, I’m sorry. I was wrong. I pushed you aside and hurt your feelings — forgive me for everything. Forget that all, and make a new start. And if he upsets you, come and tell me right away, and I’ll give him a scolding.”
(Aww. An unexpectedly touching moment from Byung-hak. As with the last time he defended Kae-hwa, this gives us a glimpse into why they were married in the first place while also showing us why they didn’t work. It’s rare to see ex-spouses in a drama ending on amicable terms, and it’s a nice change.)
Min-woo comes home feeling frustrated, and looks over his drama proposal documents. This gives him an idea, and he starts typing away. And when we see what he’s drafting — gahhh, Min-woo is so cute. I about died reading the title of his document: “Proposal On Living For Yoon Kae-hwa.”
In the morning, he comes to her apartment and gives her the envelope. He looks at her with puppy dog eyes and tells her to give her response after reading it.
Kae-hwa reads Min-woo’s proposal, which is formatted like a business document. In keeping with the theme of the drama proposal packet, he has drawn up Kae-hwa’s resumé, only it’s more like a life resumé than a professional one, outlining her traits and skills such as “she has a loud voice,” “makes killer ddukbokki and kimbap,” and “she likes Kim Myung-min better than Sung Min-woo, but I want to forgive her anyway.” Also of note: she has become a mother to Ye-eun, “and now is the woman in my heart.”
Under the “future plans” column, he has scheduled marriage in a month, a vacation cruise to celebrate their one-year anniversary, and so forth. Byung-hak’s apology had started to melt her resolve, and now she has to smile a teeny bit at Min-woo’s document.
Jung-ah has been offered a job in Daejeon, which is located in central Korea and about a two-hour drive from Seoul. She asks Shi-joon for his approval, suggesting that they need some space between them. As she leaves, she tells him that she realizes she hasn’t been the best wife to him either (I presume she means before the adultery, since otherwise that statement would be met with a resounding DUH).
But the door isn’t closed on them forever — with Shi-joon now opening up more to Jung-ah and realizing his part in driving his wife away, it looks like they’re leaving room for a reconciliation later, after they’ve both healed. Shi-joon even says he’ll go down to visit her on the weekend.
Min-woo performs another show, after which he checks his phone and tries to contain his disappointment that Kae-hwa hasn’t called. To his (happy) surprise, Kae-hwa finds him sitting in the empty theater, here with a much more conciliatory attitude than the last time they saw each other.
As we know, important conversations must always relocate to prettier environs (can you imagine that car ride over to the waterside? Most awkward silence ever).
Kae-hwa apologizes for her harsh words, telling Min-woo that she didn’t mean it when she pushed him away. She asks for his understanding and also thanks him for thinking of her life and her future (i.e., in his proposal) in such a serious way.
Min-woo has been looking pensive and tense throughout her speech, like he’s bracing himself, sensing that she’s ready to deliver her final decision. So it takes a moment for her next words to really sink in, as she tells him:”So I’m thinking of being courageous now. Thanks to you, I think I can do that now.”
She adds that she’d always thought she would just focus on being a solid support for Min-ji’s benefit, “But if things get hard, it’s okay if lean on someone now.” Min-woo smiles and steps forward to hug her gently, thanking her for her answer. Kae-hwa thanks him back for letting her be courageous again.
Min-woo then thanks her for watching over him and Ye-eun all this while. He promises that from now on, he’ll protect her.
And then they get the swirly-camera kiss — which is a nice way to bookend the drama, considering that this is very similar to how we started. Only, now it actually means something.
The end!
COMMENTS
I picked up Oh My Lady because (1) when it started I had the time, as none of the current Wednesday-Thursday shows had premiered yet and I had no other recap commitments, (2) I had just finished its timeslot predecessor Wish Upon a Star, which was a happy surprise, and therefore anticipated a similar tone for this one, and (3) I wanted to keep up the watching and recapping momentum. There’s also (4) the matter of loving Chae Rim (and wanting her to pick a more enjoyable project than her last, Good Job, Good Job) and (5) the fact that I had pegged Choi Siwon as an idol-star-turned-actor to watch out for after Story of Hyang Dan back in ’07. (See? There IS some thought that goes into these decisions, however random the choices may ultimately seem!)
About halfway through the drama, however, I found my interest flagging, but not enough to drop the show. Even the less interesting episodes were easy to watch, and it wasn’t a challenging show in either theme or plot, so keeping up wasn’t too much of a hardship. I did, however, start thinking that if the actual plot development got any SLOWER, I would seriously consider dropping it.
Ultimately I’m glad I stuck with the show, and the last four episodes in particular gave me a sense of satisfaction about the drama as a whole. It turned into a different drama than the one it originally seemed — which pointed at the hijinks of a star falling for his ajumma maid/manager — and focused much more on Min-woo’s development as a father than as a romantic partner. I don’t think the romance came out of nowhere, but it wasn’t a priority, and that was actually refreshing.
I won’t call Choi Siwon a brilliant actor — he’s pretty decent, but he’s still got a long way to go if he’s going to keep pursuing an acting career, and I think he should — so rather than pure acting skills, it’s his personal charm that carries the character. I mean, just look at that smile, right?
It doesn’t hurt that he’s perfectly cast — image isn’t everything, but it’s a pretty significant part of how we approach a character. And when you cast a star to play a star, you’ve always got that benefit of the audience’s meta awareness of the actor’s real-life fame. (Also see: Choi Ji-woo in A Star’s Lover, Rain in Full House, Jang Geun-seok in You’re Beautiful, Kim Ah-joong in Accidental Couple.)
It was a leetle disappointing to have so little screentime for the two girls in the last episode, but we’ve seen enough of the Cute in previous episodes that I was content to let this finale be Min-woo and Kae-hwa’s exclusively. (Well, there were a few Shi-joon and Jung-ah moments, but I choose to skip right over them in my mind. Yawn. I’m satisfied, story-wise, with where they ended, but don’t need to dwell any longer on them.)
And then there’s Chae Rim. To be honest, I don’t think this is the best vehicle for her, even though the drama really benefits from having her in it. Therefore I’m glad for the drama’s sake, but she’s an actress whose talents weren’t fully used here — particularly since her character was less developed than Min-woo’s, and hardly changed at all. She made the most of it, tapping into a vulnerable side of Kae-hwa that gave the character a hint of depth. But I hope to see her tackling something more challenging in the future, and something out of the ajumma mold, as she’s done two in a row.
All in all, Oh My Lady was a sweet, cute series that could be a fun way to spend a breezy weekend with some unchallenging but personable characters, and that will leave you smiling at the end.
RELATED POSTS
- Oh My Lady: Episode 15
- Oh My Lady: Episode 14
- Oh My Lady: Episode 13
- Oh My Lady: Episode 12
- Oh My Lady: Episode 11
- Oh My Lady: Episode 10
- Oh My Lady: Episode 9
- Oh My Lady: Episode 8
- Oh My Lady: Episode 7
- Oh My Lady: Episode 6
- Oh My Lady: Episode 5
- Oh My Lady: Episode 4
- Oh My Lady: Episode 3
- Oh My Lady: Episode 2
- Oh My Lady: Episode 1
Tags: Chae Rim, Choi Siwon, Lee Hyun-woo, Oh My Lady
Interview with Kim Yoo-jung
Hello Dramabeans series
![[2022 Year in Review] The Bean Count](https://www.dramabeans.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/beancount_2022.png)
Required fields are marked *
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
51 mimi
May 17, 2010 at 11:11 PM
I miss this drama already. : (
Required fields are marked *
52 grayzilay
May 17, 2010 at 11:32 PM
Yay! I loved reading the recaps a lot.. And now, it's time for me to watch the drama and fall in love with Choi Siwon.. Kkekeke.. Thanks a lot Javabeans! ^_^
Required fields are marked *
53 poo
May 17, 2010 at 11:32 PM
thanks a lot JB...loved dis series...but i hate it when they show all the nice scenes, like proposal, kiss, cute fights in d last ep...makes it like a sudden ending leaving us wanting more...btw JB loved d last pic of kae hwa...the best one!
Required fields are marked *
54 Drama Dazed
May 17, 2010 at 11:35 PM
With a smile like that, I bet Si Won can charm a bird off a tree! Love this drama for its sweet easy charm. Happy with the ending. I totally agree that Choi Si Won should continue with the acting path. He has potential indeed. Love Chae Rim in this drama and the 2 little girls are just adorable.
Required fields are marked *
55 jun
May 17, 2010 at 11:35 PM
^ me too
Required fields are marked *
56 Choufy
May 17, 2010 at 11:37 PM
Thank you JB for your recaps
I wasn't interested in OML at all, but I was enjoying your recaps. And at some point : was it for Ye-Eun's cute face ? Was it for Min-woo's steps as a father ? Certainly NOT for Kae-Hwa's hairstyle I guess :) (Sorry but after a second attempt , I finally managed to go through Dalja's makeup and watch the drama... But my god her hair WHY do they seem to hold a grudge against Chae-Rim, why?!)
Anyway this father-daughter's relationship was just growing on me I guess so I started the drama with episode 14... Couldn't help but watch the 15th right after that... And I actually waited for the last episode to come lol
That's how your writing is good (even if sometimes your recaps is just better to enjoy than the actual drama).
It was funny that a lot of viewers weren't buying the Min-woo and Kae-Hwa's love relationship because of her lack of reaction to his gestures.
I couldn't see where it would come from either with so few episodes left... And then it hitted me : she was focused on her life and on her way to stand on her 2 feet again. Of course she wouldn't be all over him like he would be the only thing important in her life. It made totally sense all of a sudden.
And even if a part of me was statisfied with the happy ending (well the camera swirl kiss almost made me throw up not because it was cheesy but because of the dizziness), on the other hand my curiosity was triggered on Kae-Hwa's journey. So I wished that she would agree to their relationship but not necessarily said yes to the wedding... Yet.
Required fields are marked *
57 sajor
May 17, 2010 at 11:51 PM
i enjoyed this drama thoroughly, and i'm even surprised that i did...
thanks for recapping the series from start to finish, looking forward to the next one..
Required fields are marked *
58 jubilantia
May 18, 2010 at 12:09 AM
Man, I know the quality on this drama wasn't too high, but that didn't stop me from giggling like a loon throughout the entire last episode. I also got a charge out of Min-woo's life proposal with Kae-hwa. Still, I really thing we could have had some more cute moments with the kids. Minji was great, but you can never have too much Ye-eun. Anyway, thanks again for recapping these; I really enjoy reading them.
Required fields are marked *
59 mmmaggie
May 18, 2010 at 12:31 AM
Is it selfish that I was disappointed about the lack of Ye-eun screen time in the finale? I know Episode 15 was BEYOND cute and heartwarming (holding her cardboard cutout daddy's hand -- so much awww!), but I still wanted more. I guess that's also the mark of a good show? I would've loved if Ye-eun spoke more to Min-woo.
@19 Sobia - Love that Roger Ebert P&P reference! Definitely fitting.
Javabeans, thanks again for not only your time, but also the quality of your recaps. I also managed to find Hyang Dan which was a pleasant surprise. Now that I have nothing to look forward to on Mondays and Tuesdays after first Wish Upon a Star and then Oh My Lady, I'm totally bereft. I'm downloading Feelings to fill the void after you and girlfriday spoke so glowingly about it during your podcast, which was fantastic by the way!
Required fields are marked *
60 moonriver
May 18, 2010 at 12:34 AM
MY TOP 5 DRAMAS FROM JAN-MAY 2010
1. Creating Destiny
2. Star's Falling From The Sky
3. Oh! MY Lady
4. Personal Taste
5. Cinderella's Sister
Required fields are marked *
61 Doraemon
May 18, 2010 at 12:56 AM
Hey, did anyone notice that dance which Min-woo was practising in the drama is actually part of Super Junior's latest MV !!!
Required fields are marked *
62 chajjye
May 18, 2010 at 2:02 AM
@61: yeah, isn't it cool? siwon and sme managed to squeeze in his dance practice for suju's bonamana into OML. talking bout killing 2 birds with one stone!
totally cool gesture imo. at least siwon don't feel so burdened having to learn too many different dance steps. sneaky though.
Required fields are marked *
63 kat
May 18, 2010 at 2:10 AM
Thanks Javabeans for recapping OML up to its final episode. Your recaps are really enjoyable to read and your intelligent analysis made me see some scenes that I missed out.
Honestly, I watched this series because of Chae Rim, I didn't know CSW and not so much interested about him. But after watching series, I fell in love with CSW's character and I started to watch vods related to him. I hope CSW will continue to act in the future.
I really enjoyed watching OML, a very sweet and light hearted drama. It's definitely one of the best dramas for me for 2010.
Required fields are marked *
64 Anon
May 18, 2010 at 2:42 AM
Thank you very much Javabeans for recapping this series. :) I'm a big CR fan, so I'm thankful to you for the recaps since I want to read your insight and the other viewers insight too about the drama.
The scene with Gae-hwa and Shi-joon when she was telling him the funny story is really heartfelt. CR is really good. The ending was really nice, how the writer made it something that is not rushed altho I also wish they've shown more of Gae-hwa's feelings or hints in the past episodes.
And oh, before I forgot, before Min-woo made his proposal to Gae-hwa (the one in th envelope), the one he pulled out from the drawer, wasn't really a drama proposal but was actually the proposal made by Gae-hwa at the beginning of the show to convince Min-woo to join the musical. She showed his weaknesses and strengths and the plan to go to Cannes and stuff after improving on his acting.
This is a flawed drama indeed but one that is quite enjoyable, thanks to its leads. Siwon and Yoobin are really charming. CR is a given already.
I wish CR will choose her next drama AND role well. This is better than her last drama but not that good compared to her other past dramas. But nevertheless, enjoyable. :)
Required fields are marked *
65 kappy
May 18, 2010 at 3:17 AM
JB, thank you for sticking to your guns with OML and providing us with great recaps to the end!
As someone mentioned, thank you for clearing up that part about how Min Woo responded to that make-up person at the photo shoot. That confused me, too. I just hadn't caught that that was what had transpired. I feel better about that!
I'm relatively new to kdramas, though I've seen enough to know favorite trends and plot devices used (and abused) that take us on a roller coaster ride of emotions and jerk us around, often to the point of nausea. Though it's been mentioned that there were "missed opportunities" in the way the story developed, I saw those as intentionally omitted plot devices/angles. It appears the makers of this show simply decided they didn't need to "go there." It was a light, safe, unpretentious, feel-good rom-com, and I loved it.
Admittedly, I did wish for more signs from KW that *sigh* he is the "cat's meow" and less of the motherly brand of attention. True, she had to get over her feelings of hurt and the doubts of her ever really being loved again as a woman/mate. Yes, the deeper love is the kind that lasts the longest as it is not built on outward appearance but rather on what's in the heart. The way he showed his love for her in this episode was simply adorable and had me wishing for that kind of romantic doting. Still, the lack of sexual tension on her part left me wanting.
@25umalily's P.S (Thank you. No, thank you. Nooo! Thank you! and the desired..."I love you, Min Woo. You had me at your choco abs.") That cracked me up. Okay, so, though I may sound disappointed, I really am happy for the happy ending we got. I would love a tie-up-loose-ends (okay, tighten tied ends, then) episode. For my Siwon fix, I shall have to continue watching and listening to SJ's Bonamana (catchy!) and looking out for him in more dramas. Chae Rim -- I am a new fan! And you kids are awesome. This has been a fun (though not jerky) ride!
Required fields are marked *
66 Helena
May 18, 2010 at 4:48 AM
Thank you for the recaps. I followed them religiously, although I had moments when I was about to stop watching this drama.
I must say, I'm a little disappointed by the last episode. This is not love on Min Woo's side, it's the need for a nanny for his daughter and even a kind of mother to keep him on the right way. He kind of likes her he feels thankful, but not much more. I'm also sorry that Chae Rim hadn't the chance to get a little makeover. They kept her till the end in the housemaid style, although a small change could have done wonders.May be it sounds frivolous, but seeing her differently attired, would have made Min Woo to see her like an attractive woman and not only his child's keeper.
And that limp kiss in the end? Chae Rim looks as if she's taking a nap and waiting for the boring event to pass. For God's sake, she 's 35, was married and he is no innocent lamb.They could take a few kissing lessons from Lee Min Ho! Or Joo Ji Hoon. Thank you again for your great work.
Required fields are marked *
67 epyc
May 18, 2010 at 5:55 AM
Thanks, JB, for sticking to OML from the beginning till the end. Your excellent recap always heightens our pleasure in and understanding of the dramas.
I love OML! From its cliched beginning to the quite satisfying ending, it far exceeds my expectation. I love its simplicity and also the refreshing choice of focussing on SMW's personal development. As mentioned by @ 65 Kappy, I am for once glad to see a drama "that didn't go there" to manipulate our emotions through angsty twists and turns. There are also almost no real evil characters who seem to be a prerequisite/resident feature in kdramas. In this drama, with the exception of MW's manager, the less-than-appealing characters have all redeemed themselves: Yura's rather gracious congratulations to KH, Reporter Han's writing a piece on the reformed MW, and of course, the apology tendered by KH's ex.
I am more than satisfied with KH's final acceptance of MW, which does not come off as rushed. Their romance is a slow-burned affair rooted in mutual trust and understanding. I will be the first one to protest if it is presented as a hot hormone boy-girl crush thing. The way that it ended with MW's writing a proposal for KH (mirroring KH's proposal for MW to become a real actor at the beginning of the drama) and the 360 degree swirl around the kiss (mirroring MW's kiss acting scene from Ep 1) are quite an amusing touch. Like many others said, I wouldn't mind more happily-ever-after scenes particularly with the girls .... but I am happy as the ending stands.
Kudos to Chae-rim, Choi Si-won and the two little girls: I had 16 very happy hours. And it will be one happy drama that I will re-watch in the years to come over a long weekend or whenever I need a light moment.
To cure my withdrawal symptum, it is amusing to read OML fans' comments at various forums about how they resort to watching the new Suju MV for search of their beloved Sung Min-woo only to find he has switched back to Choi Si-won who is totally different form SMW.......
Required fields are marked *
68 snap
May 18, 2010 at 5:57 AM
thank you for your recaps!
aww, i miss seeing siwon every week. thank goodness for super junior's bonamana! been watching that mv nonstop and because of oh! my lady, i'm a super junior fan now.
i'm surprised with myself. i never thought i'd actually finish watching this drama. after episode 1 i lost interest and didn't watch again until episode 4 or 5. i totally fell in love with siwon! after i watched episode 5, i found out that super junior was having a concert here in the philippines the next day and i was bummed out! siwon was here and i didn't get to see him in person T_T
anyway, this drama is like a leftover of cliches but i loved it nonetheless. i didn't pay attention to the plot really or where the story was headed, just watching siwon was enough... XD
Required fields are marked *
69 reluctantbutaddicted
May 18, 2010 at 6:47 AM
JB, thanks for sticking with this right through. I enjoyed your recaps and really enjoyed the show. It wasn't particularly challenging, and it won't change my life, but it was fun and the two girls were adorable, and I liked the toned-down maturity of the main relationship. Thanks again!
Required fields are marked *
70 koreanpsyche
May 18, 2010 at 9:15 AM
awwwww!!!!! bored to death!.....first time in weeks not glued to VIIKII for OML subs!
I re-watched the whole 16 episodes last week (my way of dealing with my withdrawal thing)
although I agree that this is not CR's best (All About Eve started by Kdrama and CR addiction), this is definitely better, a LOT BETTER, than Good job, good job!...
I's light, breezy, entertaining, cute, angst-free series....the right kind to watch when you want to escape from the wear-and -tear routine of everyday life.
Thanks JB and all of you who have been following the drama and the recaps...i benefit from all your insights!
@ 19 SOBIA : hey, our vibes are so tuned-in it gives me goosebumps: would you believe that right after watching OML ep 16, from out of the blue i decided to re-watch Pride and Prejudice and got the same inkling of an insight like yours? Funny, right?
Required fields are marked *
71 Anonymous
May 18, 2010 at 10:14 AM
Thank you for the 16 recaps. Even if it is on the light side, you commentary brings out the deeper aspects of the drama. Never get tired of reading your insights.
Required fields are marked *
72 Sobia
May 18, 2010 at 2:02 PM
@70 koreanpsyche: That is awesome! Maybe OML was sending out subliminal messages (and here I thought only Siwonnie's abs were hypnotizing us). I love P&P so much -- I think I will go re-watch too to treat my OML withdrawal. Good idea...
Required fields are marked *
73 evma1319
May 18, 2010 at 2:28 PM
Thank you so much Javabeans for filling up my addiction to OML till the end...your recaps were always great...I like them a lot.
Required fields are marked *
74 Jersey Girl
May 18, 2010 at 3:44 PM
OML is a refreshing romantic comedy though it might not be the best of 2010. However, I enjoy OML more than Personal Preference as CSW and Chae Rim's ajumma pairing is much lovable compared to LMH and SYJ. For 2010 so far Dong Yi,Three Brothers, Stars Falling from the sky, Cinderella Sister and lately Giant are sure winners for me. I hope Si Won continues to develop as an actor.
Required fields are marked *
75 Penn
May 18, 2010 at 5:26 PM
Thank you for sticking with Oh My Lady, JB.
Required fields are marked *
76 lovin it
May 18, 2010 at 6:39 PM
thanks! overall a cute drama
too bad we didnt have more of yeeun talking ha
Required fields are marked *
77 koreanpsyche
May 18, 2010 at 7:56 PM
@Sobia: thanks a lot! now I realize that I am truly not alone hehehehe! I feel that we are already friends....
Godbless!
Required fields are marked *
78 janie
May 18, 2010 at 8:15 PM
Oh thanks for the final recap... finally... i can put my OML/SMW withdrawal to a closure!
bdw, that Eom guy and manager Jung should do a father and son movie together 'cos physically they look so much alike ^ ^
Required fields are marked *
79 tamu
May 19, 2010 at 1:02 AM
Thank you for sticking with Oh My Lady,Javabeans
OML is a refreshing romantic comedy
Required fields are marked *
80 firsttimenewbie
May 19, 2010 at 12:50 PM
You know, unlike others, I never disliked Reporter Han. He didn't annoy me, rather I found his scenes and presence amusing and light hearted. I laughed throughout much of his scenes.
This is the reason why I love his and MW's scene together in the final episode. The one complaint I have/had was in episode 15, where it is implied that Han is the one who published the fake article about Ye Eun's mother. That just didn't gel. Pretty much everything else he had written, both during this drama and what we are told of his earlier breaking scandals and affairs, he seems to have had some basis.
The whole blackmail thing, for some bizarre reason he seemed to believe the manager--though in reality it wasn't all that hard to believe since in a way, their relationship and his involvement in the musical was due to "blackmail." Just like KH's husband said, the dating thing made less sense than her blackmailing him, and he then correctly surmised that KH had found/knows MW's achilles heel. The actual reality that he is not in danger of her revealing it is another matter.
But anyway, my point was that everything else Han had written about seemed to have some basis. It just wasn't needed for the show to have him write an obviously fake article about the mother.
We've seen him stake out, follow, etc to get a scoop. And in the end, he is helpful in the resurgance of MW's career. A career, by the way, which is dependent on reporters and publicity. A career which has a symbiotic relationship with the press, and if the reporters don't care enough to follow you, then you are in trouble.
Now that MW is actually being an actor, he would need less "stardom" and less reliant on publicity. But not completely. He still needs press about his performances, and even an image for advertisements.
Anyway, my take on the reporter. I generally don't hate or mind reporter characters, unless they're outright a holes like in "Speedy Scandal." Reporter Han really wasn't one. He was doing a job, which as much as MW could hate and bitch about, is what MW's stardom came with, and was reliant on.
Required fields are marked *
81 firsttimenewbie
May 19, 2010 at 12:58 PM
And I just love the little things about this show.
In ep 15, after they go back to MW's place with Ye Eun and KH is about to leave. He says sorry for not being able to drop her off. And he gives her this sizing up look. In a way, they both kind of knew right then that the dynamic had changed. She kind of smiles, giggles as she tells him it's okay, careful not to let him see her reaction.
As she is recalling the hug in the elevator, I think it's a different angle, than what we first saw at the store. Here we can clearly see MW's face, and we see him sort of kind of realizing the depth of his feelings for KH.
The scene where the chief gives MW the keys to practice, he tells MW that it's important to share what he's thinking with someone. A subtle hint about KH, which Min Woo realizes/recognizes, as we can see from his expression and eyes.
Yes, I love this show. I would watch the whole series over and over in the future.
And of course, like JB said, I love his drunken train of thought on when exactly he started liking KH. Just so....realistic, in a way.
Required fields are marked *
82 koreanpsyche
May 19, 2010 at 8:02 PM
aside from the recaps and insights, what i love about this site is the way the writer/s and readers / viewers interact with each other.
I always look forward to firsttimenewbie's, epyc's and reluctantbutaddicted's comments. their comments are both insightful and entertaining.
thanks JB and dramabeans!...your site is addictive!
Required fields are marked *
83 sajor
May 19, 2010 at 10:26 PM
i enjoyed reading the comments of 80 and 81, i don't pay much attention to reporter han, and i'm not annoyed at him either, though i can understand why some are irritated at him..i just find him, well, not worthy of attention? and here is 80 and 81 (firstimenewbie), giving a totally different take on reporter han, which I totally did not expect from anyone to be quite possible.. and although i may not like him as much as you do, nor am I completely compelled by your reasons, i can say this much: i am now considering reporter han and i'll have a better reception of him whenever i watch this drama again, and i believe i'll be more perceptive to those kind of characters for the future dramas i'll be watching... and cheers to you, 80 and 81
Required fields are marked *
84 kappy
May 19, 2010 at 11:14 PM
@ 82 koreanpsyche - I do enjoy the insights and interactions between the writers/viewers, too. Reliving the show, in a way? Delving, etc.
@ firsttimenewbie - Since I know it's their job to be nosey and assertive to get the best scoop, like you I wasn't hating on reporter Han, but he still did annoy me (dressing up as cleaning lady and taking KH's phone was a bit overboard, though thanks to his actions we were blessed with one of the wonderful MW-saving-the-day scenes). I agree with you, though, that it didn't seem like he'd stoop to totally fabricating a story like that, especially since in one of the earlier episodes he tried to establish he was a reporter with scruples. The relationship between reporters and celebrities does seem like an interesting one for the reasons you stated. I marveled at how MW and Manager Jang treated him, for the most part, with respect, as if they were at his mercy, which I'm sure is true, whereas I would be more like, "Get outta my face already!"
And as for the part when MW apologized to KH for not being able to take her home, I noticed the change there, too. Of course, I had to rewatch it to make sure (as if I needed an excuse to rewatch it).
One thing I noticed and enjoyed is how KH's voice would sometimes waver at the end and/or sound nasally, like when she tried to blame her stomach growling on YE, or after her ex finished apologizing and she told him to go (Ka-a-a!). It seems like at those instances she's trying to hide something, or is uncertain about something she's trying to prove she's certain about. Just one of the little things that I found endearing.
Required fields are marked *
85 mtoenlob
May 20, 2010 at 1:09 AM
I love OML. I love the simplicity of this drama. Nothing breath-taking nor grand that would put its viewers on the edge. Its beauty lies in its simplicity. Straight forward story telling and before you know it, it’s finish. It has no pretensions. But it is not without its merits. It is a light drama but not wanting in quality entertainment. Beyond its simplicity lies a message of deeper significance – little lessons in life of human nature, the relationships between sexes, what man and woman wants to make a relationship going; familial relationships; friendships; relationship to one’s self and relationship in general which is the very foundation of human existence.
OML is the story of one man’s journey from being just a person who merely exist to becoming a humane individual who dares to live his life with a meaningful purpose. It depicts the life of a popular star who in spite of his lack of acting talent which his multitude of adoring fans conveniently overlook, manages to stay at the top, thanks to his good looks and a body to die for. Sung Min Woo is at the top of his game. He who is blessed with good looks, the height, a killer smile and top that with a body that could make a multitude of mankind either swoon with delight or grit their teeth with envy. He is adored and he knows it and he immensely enjoys the adulation and the perks that go with the territory. He has everything going perfectly right for him until a past came to haunt him. And his life is never the same after that. This is where the drama begins taking its viewers to the pinnacle and to the pit of Min Woo’s struggle, his actions and reactions to the people and situations around him as he faces the challenge that is before him. He soon learns that true happiness is not dependent on wealth and material trappings alone, but at the end of the day it is the people who matters to you that count.
Along side with Min Woo’s story is the story of Yoon Kae Hwa, a depiction of how one woman wrestled through life in order to keep her sense of worth. We learn from her that true beauty is beyond the physical aspect of a person; that life offers second chances; that life is a risk and it is up to you to take it or leave. None the less, this is what makes life exciting.
Noteworthy, too, is the relationship between the couple Shi Joon and Jung Ah. Their situation showed us a glimpse of a married life albeit a sad one which could have been otherwise had they set aside their pride and talked about their differences. The importance of communication couldn’t have been more emphasized in their situation. A relationship and marriage at that is a two-way street, a give and a take, a push and a pull and committing one’s self into a relationship entails responsibility to be truthful and faithful. And yes, loving that person unconditionally.
One particular scene in the drama that impacted me was when MW met up with KW’s ex-husband and asked for him to apologize to her ex-wife. I like it how MW’s action rippled a beneficial effect to KW and her ex-husband. The admission of guilt, the act of repentance, the asking of forgiveness and the absolution paved way to catharsis. Both the penitent and the aggrieved persons are healed, liberating them both from past burdens and allowing them to face the future with heightened expectations.
Although this drama does not present a stunning and an award-winning performance worthy of a Baeksang Awards, the actors did a commendable job in portraying the characters - Chae Rim, as always being a competent actress, was able to pull through her role as the 35 year old ahjumma. In spite of her youthful look, Chae Rim did a believable portrayal. She even got that ahjumma voice and mannerisms pat down. The little girl who portrayed the adorable Ye Eun stole everyone’s hearts even with the lack of any speaking lines except for two words. The child Min Ji was as spunky as her mother Kae Hwa. At such a young age, she showed maturity beyond her years. Although she was given limited exposure, every time she was on screen one will get nuggets of wisdom from her lines. But I would say, it was Choi Si Won who was the pleasant surprise in this drama. I am not fond of boyband idols doing dramas. I have nothing against them. Sure they look good and can probably sing and dance. However, most of them who have the good fortune to act in dramas, if not all, cannot act. They have nothing to boast but their picture-perfect faces which most of the time do not register an iota of emotion. All they can do is smile and look pretty. Argh! But, Choi Si Won proved me wrong With due respect to Chae Rim, I dare say that he carried this show from beginning to end, of course, ably supported with the rest of the cast. It was fun seeing Si Won portrays Min Woo. Beside the body beautiful which is given and that killer smile, it was fascinating to see the various expressions of Si Won coupled with the now famous Shibrows and hand movements! Haha! His portrayal of Min Woo was like a breath of fresh air. He was a natural. Although in dramatic moments he still needs improvement, he managed to display the right emotions, to translate to the viewers the emotions he was going through. And to me that is what matters. If the actor and I, the viewer, were able to connect, I felt as he felt, then he had won me over. In any drama whether a movie or a theater play, the scriptwriter provides the vision, the direction where the story is going through the dialogues and the scenes; the director provides the guidance and the instruction how a scene is to be done or acted out; but it is the actor’s primary duty to know and understand the character he is portraying, to breathe life into his character and to make that character believable as close to reality. Choi Si Won gave soul to Sung Min Woo.
As for the love angle, I am in love with the kind of love that blossomed between KW and MW. Nothing of that hormones-charged kind of love which is just all physical attraction. (Hello Yoora! Are you there?) Or as one viewer commented a "microwave" kind of love that easily heats up and quite easily fizzles out. Rather it was a kind of attraction that gradually grew out of respect and trust in each other cemented by a common concern for the child YE.
I am totally satisfied with the drama. Thank you Chae Rim and Choi Si Won. Another worthwhile 16 hours well spent.
Required fields are marked *
86 epyc
May 20, 2010 at 4:33 AM
I have my OML withdrawal so bad that I come back here every day to check out new comments. It's fantastic to see so many OML lovers here sharing our thoughts.
@ firstimenewbie
I actually quite like Reporter Han's character as well. He is certainly not evil but just doing his job trying to unearth a story. His camping out at MW's apartment and dressing up as a cleaning lady are all fun to watch. More importantly, from what we've seen, he is one reporter who will only write up a story AFTER uncovering facts (or facts he is led to believe). Compared to reporter characters in other dramas (notably recently the reporter in You Are Beautiful), Han is a more enlightened version who is neither evil nor stupid. I am therefore a little bit disappointed - with the writer - at the implications that he is behind the make up article of YE's mom coming out. It is pleasing that he is given that final drinking seesion scene to get his record straight.
Now that the drama is over, I have to say this is my top favorite this year more than all the others in similar genre, like WUAS, Pasta, PT and PP. All these dramas have the same fair share of eye candies and romances. I love OML because of its simplicity (as so well said by # 85 mtoenlob) and also the naturalness of how the plots progress. It makes watching OML endearing. The waiting of Mondays and Tuesdays for OML is like the anticipation of a good home-cooked meal by your mom - nothing fancy but warmly yummy and filling. I just wish more people could travel this MS-KH journey to know that there is always a better world if you see through the crap and make a go.
OML is no doubt 'inspired' by a few dramas thus getting the 'cliched' tag from the beginning. However, it is the character development and all those little things which may get pass by if you don't watch them closely with your hearts that make this drama shine in its own way quietly. I hope its 2-digit rating (though in the low 10) is regarded a good result in Korea and Choi Si-won and Chae Rim as well as the other supporting cast get the recognition they deserve through receiving good projects in future and awards at the year-end ceremonies.
Required fields are marked *
87 Drama Dazed
May 20, 2010 at 6:36 AM
@85 mtoenlob - Great analysis! Very well expressed! As far as I am concerned, Chae Rim's good performance is a given but Choi Si Won surprised me pleasantly with his endearing portrayal of Sung Min Woo.
Required fields are marked *
88 a_fan
May 20, 2010 at 9:55 AM
I am re-watching this drama. I think the ending was well done. I was skeptic at first with the pairing and in the middle of the series, I couldn't see how the writers could make them end up together. I am very very happy with the ending and with the dynamic of the drama. Thanks Javabeans for the insightful recaps. That added to the enjoyment.
By the way, I didn't find the wrist grabbing at all abhorrent. It actually looked pretty romantic as it was warranted by the situations.
I think Chae Rim looked adorable and she made the most of her role. A makeover would have decreased her credibility. Of course, the male lead was very very well played by Siwon.
I find that I rate a drama the highest if I can visualize the characters' lives 5 years down the line. I can with Oh My Lady.
Required fields are marked *
89 Lilian
May 20, 2010 at 10:27 AM
I really liked the ending. Although minwoo has matured, but you can still the childish side of him through the proposal. One month: marriage? wow!
Overall, I enjoyed the drama. But if they could have cut out some boring parts featuring the supporting actors that would have been greater. Then more parts for the cute Ye Eun =)
Required fields are marked *
90 firsttimenewbie
May 20, 2010 at 11:31 AM
@82, koreanpsyche, thank your for the kind words. I enjoy reading everyone's analysis and discussions as well, along with the initial recaps by JB.
@83, and @84, I can see why Han can annoy people. I am not denying that he is a nuisance to the various characters in the drama. He is. But I see him being a nuisance to those characters, rather than I myself being annoyed with him. I see the other character's point of view as well and just enjoy the whole dynamic as a whole.
All his antics and reactions to finding out info, was acted with humorous touch. During the conflicts, I was on the side of the other characters (with the exception of Yoora, he he), ex--hoping for Min Woo to avoid him in the parking garage, laughing when the guard comes and takes him away.
But at the same time, when he did find out stuff, I didn't hate him, want to slap him out of the screen, etc. His reaction while overhearing the convo between the chief and KW was pretty amusing. I just took it as is.
There were times with Yoora, on the other hand, where I wanted to reach in to the tv and slap her. Or just say out loud "what a bitch." While with Han the most was "idiot" for not recognizing YeEun or not recognizing when he's being played.
His dressing up as the cleaning lady didn't bother me. His taking KH's phone was over the limits, but even then when they were fighting, despite his going overboard, he wasn't exactly physical with her. Rather she--very rightfully so--uses physical force on him. And again, while I just took the scene for what it is, I loved Min Woo's shove. Watched the whole scene a bunch of times. Especially the shove.
Because like I said before, that shove was acted perfectly by SiWon. It shows his feelings. In fact his whole demeanor starting from his getting out of the car shows his feelings. I think that shove somewhat gave Han a better idea of MinWoo's depth of feelings for KH as well.
From (I think) being still somewhat skeptical and then commenting that their relationship is weird for two people dating, he goes on to say MW took the side of KH because she is MW's woman.
(By the way, I found it amusing that Han's description of KH to MinWoo in the last episode was basically a rehash of their fight over the phone.)
Anyway, yeah I just took Han as what he is. A reporter whom the characters found annoying. Hell if he were after me, I would find him annoying too. Though at the same time, they realized his importance since they would often have talks over lunch, dinner. It's a game that they all know they have to play.
But as a viewer, I found him pretty amusing. I think I firmly decided I would like the character no matter what when he commented on Yoora in episode 10. That she looks to be the clingy one in the relationship, and it won't last. HAH! Like I said before, it was so true. She made the first contact pretty much all the time.
Required fields are marked *
91 lidme
May 20, 2010 at 11:43 AM
OML was the first drama I watched while being aired. I watched the raws immediately though didn’t understand much. It was warm and funny and I felt empathy for the characters. The two leads were great. I even became a Suju fan. I’m missing OML.
The end seemed a bit rushed on the romantic part. An extension would have been appropriate. They gave us the kiss in episode 6 to show that Kae Hwa and Min Woo were both physically attracted to each other, but after that the relationship evolved only in soul bonding.
The drama wasn’t about her becoming his manager (like promoted), but about Kae Hwa affectionately helping Min Woo to manage his own life. I enjoyed the process and towards the end, Kae Hwa, Min Woo and the two adorable girls felt “like a family”.
I’m sorry to hear that Siwon became sick while filming this drama and rehearsing for Super Junior comeback (http://www.allkpop.com/2010/05/choi-siwon-recovering-from-salivary-gland-surgery).
Jang Geun Seuk also was hospitalized for exhaustion after filming “You’re beautiful”. The Korean wave means so much dedication and hard work.
I really enjoy now the drama “My country calls”. It’s hilarious and the chemistry between the leads is strong. Lee Soo Kyung is so amusing; I would like to see her acting together with funny faces Siwon in a romantic comedy.
Required fields are marked *
92 firsttimenewbie
May 20, 2010 at 11:43 AM
@85, that's such a nice write-up of this drama. A joy to read. I really have nothing more to add. Shi Joon and Jung Ah was indeed noteworthy. It says a lot. Because I would watch the drama as a whole even when I rewatch, I think. Everything including the side characters, make this drama. Though the main draw is MW, Ye Eun and then KH.
It just occurred to me. Shi Joon's advice to MW about it being important to share his feelings/thoughts with someone. Ironic coming from him. He realized his own shortcomings, even though he himself even by the end still hasn't been able to get completely over that, he tells MW of its importance. Beefore he finally decides to have a talk with his wife.
Actually I do want to clarify my comment on 81, when I said "blackmail." I guess I wasn't thinking clearly, because even when KH in episode 12 told the Chief and MW that she blackmailed, while I got it, it technically wasn't true. Since by the time they got him to agree to the musical, he knew she wouldn't reveal his secret. It was more of a mutual deal between the two. Though she certainly did use it to her advantage, saying she wouldn't enter and help him with the kid unless he signed--which is why I used it in quotations in the first place.
Nevertheless the basic idea remains the same as to why he initially did the musical.
Required fields are marked *
93 kappy
May 20, 2010 at 2:23 PM
@85 AMEN to your assessment of our dear OML.
The side characters and their interactions with and influences upon the main characters and each other all helped to make the drama what it was.
@91 This was my first "real time" Kdrama as well! Weekly I would decide whether or not it was worth just gobbling up the raw episodes or rewarding my patience with the subbed ones. I have become a SUJU fan, too. (Before this show I would have been like...SU Who?) Glad we previewed their physical attraction early on, 'cause I'm sure I'm not the only one who thought, "Whoa, where did that come from?" (all the while being happy it came). I've already expressed that I wish there were signs along those lines from KH earlier on. But hey, they were together in the end.
And you bring up what I've wondered about for a while now. It was promoted that she would become his manager, and it came across that that meant his business manager (taking Manager Jung's place), not the figurative managerial type position a wife and mother (ahjumma!) might assume. I wonder if they changed things during the course of the show based on ratings, or fan support, or whatever. I've heard the endings of some dramas have been changed because of fan protest (ex., someone NOT dying from a terminal illness that was supposed to). It could be as you say, that the figurative meaning was intended.
I am sorry to hear about Siwon getting sick. I do hope it's nothing much to worry about, as the article implied. I was wondering how he was juggling all he's involved with and thinking he was one busy man. Stress and overwork does take its toll. Where's that ahjumma? I feel like sending a Get Well card, or Congrats on a job well done card, or something...
Required fields are marked *
94 Minnetter
May 20, 2010 at 3:43 PM
I have to admit that I am not human but ELF... soo I watched OML completely prepared to love it... Plus I´ve seen Hyang Dan, and his bit part in Spring Waltz and 18 vs. 29 and the movie Battle of Wits, so I knew he was pretty talented in the acting department, so I also watched this hoping that he would showcase more of his talent. And he didn´t disappoint :) the story might have clichés and what not but Si Won and Chae Rim really brought a lot to the characters and made it very enjoyable to watch... my mondays and tuesdays are now hopelessly empty....
Required fields are marked *
95 Ace
May 20, 2010 at 8:41 PM
Oh, that's why Siwon was not in the KBS 3D Concert to perform Bonamana...=( Hope he gets well soon...
This is not the first drama I've been watching in real time, but this is the first one wherein I'm willing (and eager) to buy the original DVD for (I usually just download it or have someone download it for me). Does anyone know when the DVD will be available?
I'm also lurking here everyday to read new comments about OML. =)
There's a simplicity in this drama that tugs at me deep inside. Of course I also love angst-y / passionate dramas that really makes me say, "ah, that actor/actress is so good...he/she so nailed that scene...bravo!". Or there's a scene that makes you fall off your chair laughing so hard with tears in your eyes (e.g. You're Beautiful), and there are others which makes you tear out your hair, crying, "what the???" or "why, why, why" (just watched episode 15 of PT, hehe). I enjoy those moments too, but you know you'll only have that reaction the first time you've watched it. When you've watch it for a second time it's not the same. Either you just smile at the funniest scene or roll your eyes at the most frustrating moment. And when you think of some drama's endings..."lacking" seems to be the word that comes to my mind most often. With OML though, I sort of appreciate it more the second time around...and I notice or realize some things I didn't before. It still makes me smile - Min-woo's adorable gestures (check http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ncDhvh4AUJ0 or type "come to play siwon gestures" @ youtube), Kae-hwa's ajumma hair and cover of "Oppa", Ye-eun for simply being Ye-eun, and all the other characters. There's just something real about all of them even if the premise of the drama is...not.
So I just love that I've connected with the characters and the other OML viewers who shared my views on this drama. It made me look forward to Mondays, led me to watch Dalja's Spring (finally! I kept procrastinating), inspired me spiritually because of Siwon's cover of "Who Am I?", made me one of the millions of SuJu fans who can't call it a day without playing Bonamana at least 5 times, and strengthened my resolve to visit South Korea sometime this year. =)
Thanks JB for the wonderful recaps. I've been a fan since you did the recaps for BOF and I really appreciate your efforts and insights. Keep it up! (You also make me want to create my own blog, kekeke)
Required fields are marked *
96 Sobia
May 21, 2010 at 12:56 AM
It's so funny this recap is still going strong... But I'm glad, because I am missing OML and Siwonnie, and am glad to know I am not the only one ...
I am here to confess that while I am not a big kpop fan and was always confused by the fact that Super Junior had so many members, and avoided them as a result, I now can't stop playing "Sorry, Sorry" and "Bonamana" over and over again. I thought my days of boy bands and teen idols was over, but I guess not...Thanks a lot, OML. First you put that Justin Bieber kid in my head ("Baby, Baby, Baby, Ohhhh"), and now this. If I didn't love you so much, I would be really, really angry with you.
Required fields are marked *
97 apithea
May 21, 2010 at 6:21 AM
I really enjoy it when I watched this drama en can't hardly wait to watch the next episode everytime the episode was end. I think it's gonna be in the top ten kdrama that I like for good.
The ending was nice, but I think it'll be more perfect if the scene ended with the four of them, min woo, kae hwa, min ji and yoo eun were out together as a family.
I just think it'll be much happier to see the image of them as a family at the end of the show.
Required fields are marked *
98 MEL
May 21, 2010 at 10:42 AM
JB, my return journey to OML... just really , really miss this light show, so I've got my elbows above the creaking washer, doing the weekly load...got my iphone and just to get rid of the OML addiction--withdrawal, am reading the comments again, it's sooo amusing to just go over what everyone has written regarding OML... HOOO... well, been watching CSW's Bonamana on YT (which is doing quite well, and trying to find out what Chae Rim's next project is.... I even went to Koreatown yesterday to buy the OML ost, but lo and behold... it's all sold out--good for them (!!!!...) ended up buying Super Junior's 4th album, 2 for me and my daughter. My cousin, who is a huge Super Junior fan, bought one for herself, her sister, her brother and her niece... Back to OML, it's really hard to shake off the OML addiction... probably because it was so light--minimal to no angst, and the chemistry between SMW and YGH was almost non-existent until the last few episodes (I believe that's why many of us stuck around--to finally find out what the relationship would lead to, if there was even going to be one in the end).... It was a satisfying end to me. Sooo, this was no challenge to the mind, recently a lot of the dramas have so much angst (painfully heart and gut wrenching!!! see... I also follow the daily morning and night dramas that have so much angst, it be great if they just killed off all the villains...right?!!!)
So OML was a light fare with beautiful Chae Rim, aren't we lucky she took this role? I can't see anybody else take on our Yoon Gae Hwa other than her... (no matter what hair style--it doesn't take away from her beauty--be it this drama nor Dal Ja's Spring..) As for the upcoming star Choi Si Won, yeah, it looks like he's reverted back to the real man not our beloved Sung Min Woo. Just going into the net and of course YT searching for that face--and body, well, it's okey to stave off the withdrawal from OML.... Well, enough said, again thanks JB for the recaps of this as well as other dramas, it would have been really great listening if this drama recap occured as part of your podcast... Can't wait for more of your written and pocast recaps... Chae Rim and Siwon fighting, 'be looking forward to their future projects to satisfy my addiction.......JB, thanks once again for sharing your talents... and everyone who are fans...
Required fields are marked *
99 firsttimenewbie
May 21, 2010 at 11:13 AM
@95, [quote]inspired me spiritually because of Siwon’s cover of “Who Am I?”[/quote]
Just had to say, that happened to me too. I ended up listening to the original so many times after initially hearing a few renditions from Siwon.
Required fields are marked *
100 kappy
May 21, 2010 at 10:34 PM
Since it's been hours since the last comment, I felt the need to revisit here and break 3 digits.
Someone mentioned this drama wasn't life changing, and we know what that meant (not heavy, moralistic stuff), and I agree, but it's funny how I am doing things I hadn't because of it.
My confession/list: I am a daily visitor of allkpop.com for Siwon news (congrats to Suju, btw, for topping the charts at Mubank...and Siwon is back in the Bonamana line-up looking good and healthy--hooray!), I watch Bonamana daily (and am able to cue each in at their respective parts and could possibly even perform it myself, though that ain't happenin'), I plan to watch Dal ja's Spring really soon, I continue to read old OML comments daily, I review scenes from OML daily...
Okay, that's enough confession. Sorta life changing, wouldn't you say?
Required fields are marked *