Playful Kiss: Episode 2
by girlfriday
Okay, I’ll give you this, Kim Hyun-joong. You are improved. I’m still not entirely sure that the entire range of human emotions is something you feel, but I can see that of what you’re feeling, you are showing. Jung So-min, on the other hand, is pretty much born to do this role. There’ve been a lot of comparisons to Yoon Eun-hye, because of her looks and the Goong similarities, but I think she’s got a different range than Yoon. Yoon is more understated as an actor—naturalistic, because she’s got more charisma than downright acting ability per se. She’s magnetic because she’s her, not X character.
Jung gets a little hammy, for sure, but she’s more in the acting her socks off camp, and because I’ve seen her in Bad Guy, I know that she’s capable of subtlety. She’s delightfully expressive, and totally readable, making her character endearing, even if her bumbling antics are a little staid. I think she’s got quite a career ahead of her, especially if she carries this drama on her shoulders the way she’s doing now.
EPISODE 2 RECAP
Ha-ni reels from the shock of seeing Seung-jo, of all people, standing in front of her. He cocks his head sideways, taunting her like the bully that he is. Heh, well I suppose if you’re going to be mean, I’d rather you own up to it rather than be oblivious to the fact that you’re making her squirm. I have to say, I sort of like him mean, because it’s definitely a step up from bland.
He offers to help carry her bags, but then glibly reminds her that she swore up and down never to receive any of his help. All she can do is shake her head at him, and then privately freak out over this unfortunate series of events.
The family sits down for introductions, and the dads confirm that they were as close as two boys could be. Their friendship is adorable. Mom asks Ha-ni if Seung-jo is disliked at school, supposing that people don’t like his prickly personality and the way he looks down on others. She can’t disagree, so she smiles awkwardly. Seung-jo’s little brother turns out to be a Mini-Me version of him. Great. Just what the world needs. He refuses to greet Ha-ni because she “looks dumb.”
Mom takes Ha-ni upstairs to her new room, which she has redecorated expressly for her. Ha-ni can’t believe such a pretty room is all for her, and Mom squeals in excitement over having a daughter in the house to buy pretty things for, and hang out with. Aw, they’re so cute. At least she’s got one ally in the family.
Seung-jo gripes at her for causing him inconvenience—now that she has this room, the two brothers have to share a room. He tells her to stop bugging him at school, and she declares that she wouldn’t want people to know that they’re living together anyway. He corrects her that they’re not living together; she’s living off his family.
That sends her into a fantasy tirade Matrix-style, where she accosts him with two pink pillows, dressed in black patent leather from head to toe. She pillow-attacks him till he bleeds and cowers in fear, all the while taking out her aggression on the pillows in her room, shouting, “Well I hate smart guys like you!” At that moment, Seung-jo steps out of the bathroom and into her doorway, sending her to the floor in mortification.
In the bathroom, Ha-ni sits down the toilet and giggles to herself that it’s warm, and that they’re in a toilet-sharing relationship now. She can’t actually manage to do her business for fear of noise, and when she catches herself cooing over their matching toothbrushes, she tries to talk some sense into herself, that he doesn’t like her and she shouldn’t bother him.
The next morning she can’t believe she’s having breakfast with Seung-jo, as he continues to look at her with disdain. He does seem fixated on her though, despite his cries for her to leave him alone. He may look down on her, but he’s definitely feeling her presence keenly.
He abruptly gets up to go to school early, making Ha-ni chase after him, since she doesn’t know the way to school from his house. She catches up to him, crashing into his back when he stops.
He looks at her like she’s a fly, announcing that they can walk to school together just this once, and tells her not to start any rumors at school. On second thought, to pretend she doesn’t even know him. He makes her walk a few paces behind him too.
Ha-ni sneers at him from behind, swears welling up, as she calls him a jerk under her breath. Finally! Hello, backbone! Nice to see you! She says bitterly that she can’t believe she liked this guy for three years, feeling regret over all the tears she wasted on him. There you go. Good girl.
Seung-jo comes to a full stop on the way to school, insisting that she walk ahead of him, since her legs are short and she can’t keep up. She hmphs at the insult and walks on ahead, and Seung-jo takes note of a trenchcoat pervert hiding in the bushes. Random. I’m sure you’ll make an appearance later.
At school, Ha-ni frets over the midterm test that she has to ace, and decides that she’ll make the class proud and conquer it. Duckie arrives with his lackeys in tow, and asks where Ha-ni’s temporary house is. She hems and haws, and he declares they’ll go together after school, since he needs to know where “his girl” lives. Cute. Why don’t you just date this guy? He’s adorable!
Ha-ni stays behind at school, studying till late, which is unusual for her, or anyone in Class 7. She peeks into Seung-jo’s special study hall, reserved for the top fifty students, and witnesses the special treatment that they get, like A/C and their own computers. She looks at the placement chart, sighing that she’s got quite the distance to travel, from last to first.
Duckie, who’s been waiting all this time for her to finish studying, prepares to escort her to her new house. So Ha-ni, rather than making up a plausible excuse or just saying no, ditches him on the subway to keep him from finding out where she’s staying. Tsk, tsk. Poor Duckie.
She then takes a taxi all the way BACK to school, thinking that Seung-jo is still there, waiting to walk back home with her. Seriously? You’ve known this guy way longer than me, and I can tell you there’s not a chance in hell he’s waiting there for you.
And yup, Seung-jo is sitting peacefully at home, until Mom asks why he came alone, when Ha-ni is unfamiliar with these streets and there are crazy people about. Seung-jo remembers the trenchcoat pervert, and starts to get a little worried as he sits outside. Exclaiming how annoyed he is, he heads out. Aw, Softie so soon?
Sure enough, Ha-ni encounters the trenchcoat man on her way home. He’s quite the bumbling flasher, and resorts to begging her to look, just once. Erm, gross, dude. Who’s going to say yes to that? She loses her shoe in an attempt to get around him, so he picks up the shoe and takes off running.
She gives chase, wanting her precious gift from Seung-jo’s mom back, so finally they strike a deal—he’ll promise to give the shoe back if she promises to look, just once. And then, stupid girl that she is, agrees to it!
She asks for a moment to prepare, and Trenchcoat starts to unbutton his jacket…
…and just as opens up his coat to flash her, Seung-jo appears behind her, putting his hand over her eyes. He turns her around to face him. She’s stunned when she realizes what’s happening, as her heart starts to race.
Seung-jo gives chase and Trenchcoat instantly lands on his knees, begging not to be reported since he’s new at this and has a family. He swears never to do it again. Seung-jo gets Ha-ni’s shoe back, and lets the man go.
He returns her shoe like a proper prince, and Ha-ni asks if he came out to look for her, because he was worried. He claims it was to go to the convenience store. Ha-ni: “But the timing was so perfect.” Seung-jo: “That’s just my bad luck.” She smiles, and scurries behind him all the way home.
Ha-ni stays up late in an attempt to study, but can’t get past the first pages of any of her books. Mom comes in with a late night snack, wanting to bond with her, so they look at baby pictures of her, and then Seung-jo. The best part? They cast a little girl to play the part of Little Seung-jo! Pwahahaha. Brilliant meta.
Mom confesses to wanting a little girl so badly that she raised him like a girl when he was little, but then eventually had to fess up when they were found out at a community swimming pool. Seung-jo was apparently scarred from that as a child. Um….yeah, I should say so, Lady! She thinks that maybe this has something to do with why he’s so cold now. She adds that he thinks all these pictures were burned, but she’s still got the negatives, so she holds onto them. Ha-ni smiles deviously to herself.
The next day at school she can’t stop laughing over last night’s discovery. Just then, Seung-jo appears in the doorway of her classroom, motioning for her to come out. With everyone looking on, he tells her to come outside with her gym clothes. She doesn’t know what’s up, but she complies, and realizes when she takes them out of her bag that their clothes have been switched. Cute. Love setups like this.
With the entire class watching them from the window, they go outside and exchange gym clothes. Ha-ni takes this opportunity to go in for the kill. Ha-ni: “Why didn’t you just wear them? You should be used to girls’ clothes by now.” And with that, she takes out the picture of him as a little girl.
All of a sudden his calm exterior disappears, as he frantically chases her up and down and around a tree, desperate to get that picture out of her hands. Aw, I love it. Kids actually playing like kids! He finally pins her against the tree, at which Mean Girl and Duckie both freak out from their window. After much chasing and hullabaloo, Ha-ni finally tells him he can have the picture back, but at a price.
She asks him to tutor her for the upcoming exam. He reminds her that it’s in a week’s time, and he’s not a god. Pfftt. Is it bad if I like it when you’re a pompous ass? He adds that he’d be a fool to help her, since he’ll lose the bet, and then have to piggyback her too. So she wants his help, and then a piggyback ride? She takes the piggyback off the table, saying that if he agrees to help her, the bet is off. She adds that she’s resolved her feelings for him, and has no desire whatsoever to be piggybacked by him.
“Oh, really?” he challenges her, leaning in close, within kissing distance…
Everyone at the window gasps…
…and then we cut away. Wha?? Why are we cutting away? Listen, in my old-school vocabulary, cutting away in that moment means And Then They Kissed, which is totally not what you are intending to say, Show. And since they didn’t kiss, I want to see her reaction, and his taunting her. Why with the cutting away?
Regardless, I do like that Seung-jo isn’t totally oblivious to Ha-ni, and that he pretty much sees right through her. His manipulative side is actually quite catty, since he’s taunting her on purpose, knowing how she feels about him.
At home, Seung-jo and Ha-ni begin their study sessions. The parents are shocked and pleased, and Little Brother Eun-jo is angry that Ha-ni is monopolizing his brother. It goes about as well as can be expected, with Seung-jo babbling on and on about log x and binary code, and Ha-ni making moon eyes at him.
At one point he snarks that it’s amazing how much she doesn’t know, and Ha-ni counters with, “Do you know everything? Do you know who these people are?” She holds up a picture of Super Junior, rattling off their names one by one. She adds that it’s simply that their interests vary; that’s all.
She plasters post-its all over the house and loses sleep, earning dark circles and the worry of her friends, but at a certain point, when Eun-jo comes in and yells at her for stealing his brother’s attention, she doesn’t even hear him because she’s so focused. Seung-jo looks over at her, impressed that she’s finally learned to concentrate. He cracks a smile.
He falls asleep while waiting for her to finish her practice test, and she thanks him sweetly for helping her, if only because he can’t hear her. Mom comes by later with snacks, and walks in to find them both asleep at the desk together. She squeals from the cuteness, whispering, “Daebak!” while running to get her camera. Haha. I love her.
When they get to school on test day, Seung-jo throws her a nonchalant, “Do well,” as he walks into class, startling Ha-ni but making her smile. She takes the test and when the results go up, she goes straight to look at Seung-jo’s score, relieved that he still scored perfectly, despite losing sleep that week to help her.
Seung-jo, on the other hand, goes right up to check on Ha-ni’s scores first. Oh, you two. He walks away, and Ha-ni catches up to him, telling him that he did a good job. He congratulates her too, which is when she runs over to see that she did actually make it—50th place, earning her a spot in the special study hall.
She runs over to him, so happy and grateful, that when he sticks out his hand, she mistakes it for a handshake. She shakes his hand up and down, thanking him profusely. He pulls away asking what she’s doing, and tells her he’s waiting for her to hand it over…the picture. He snatches it out of her hand and warns her not to tell anyone and walks away.
Too happy to have her mood killed, she shouts at him, “Thank you!” He smiles, with his back turned away from her.
But just before he can get away, Ha-ni’s teacher calls him out for the bet—the one to piggyback Ha-ni if she scored in the top fifty. Ha-ni tries to explain that the bet was called off, but the teacher goes on and on about how proud she is, and how he can’t go back on his word. He tries to ignore her, but then she starts chanting, “Piggy-Back! Piggy-Back!” and all the students join in. Hahaha. This is ridiculous. But hey, if we get a piggyback ride out of it, I suppose Teacher will be everyone’s hero.
Seung-jo looks back at Ha-ni incredulously, as she tries to indicate that this isn’t her idea…
Will he? Won’t he?
What’s a girl gotta do for a piggyback ride?
COMMENTS
Episode 2 was a marked improvement from Episode 1, which really should have been condensed into a twenty-minute intro rather than a series premiere. Ha-ni and Seung-jo are far more interesting with each other, and the hate dynamic is fully in play, making every forced situation with them delightfully awkward in that teenage love/hate way.
I think they have good chemistry, which is surprising, really, since I thought it would be extremely one-sided as far as acting goes. But I actually think that they work well together and that there’s plenty of potential for a cute love story here.
Plot-wise, there’s very little going on in terms of big story moments, which is fine, but makes this feel much more like a daily family drama. It’s actually lacking the sort of narrative urgency of other trendy dramas, which have to go the course of a relationship while getting through all the major story arcs in fewer episodes. Like javabeans noted, this one lacks the high-concept elements that made longer-running series Return of Iljimae or Goong work with more languid pacing.
I don’t mind the mundane stories and the smallness of just following two characters in their day-to-day, but there does seem to be something lacking in terms of story space. It’s possible that it’s humor. While I find everyone adorable and sweet and very pretty, I don’t laugh out loud while watching this. Don’t get me wrong—I don’t think this drama is trying to make me laugh out loud. I just sort of wish it were.
As for the couple who hates each other, forced to live together, and piling misunderstanding on top of misunderstanding? I love that stuff, and get such pleasure out of watching them squirm. Here’s hoping the situations get even zanier, and the actors tap into that energy.
A flawed beginning for sure, but I already like the Duckie / Ha-ni / Seung-jo triangle, and I trust the director, so I’m optimistic that we’re going somewhere…worth going.
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Tags: featured, Jung So-min, Kim Hyun-joong, Playful Kiss
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51 crazedlu
September 4, 2010 at 11:20 PM
oOoohh. this episode seems better. i think i'll check out this episode.
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crazedlu
September 4, 2010 at 11:37 PM
one minute in, and i like episode two already. much better than their opener. i've been a good deal judgmental of this series, even before it aired, but just deliver, everyone!! and i should be able to deal.
and in defense of ariel lin's portrayal of kotoko, i thought she was mighty endearing too. i mean, there were plenty of times i thought, "man, this girl's dumb", but she delivered.
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52 cinderella
September 4, 2010 at 11:25 PM
GF, I'm kinda disappointed that you didn't mention the little dialogue after the "pervert" scene whereas she asks for some of the ice-cream that he's bought (to use as an excuse to go outside), and when he gives her one she states that "it's melted." Which to me, means that he waited for her.
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ilikehim
September 4, 2010 at 11:27 PM
That's so observant of you. I didn't notice and glad u pointed it out!
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jeankaycee
September 5, 2010 at 1:01 AM
yeah that scene was cute too! he really waited for her to come home thats why the ice cream have melted!
those little nice moments are the most fun to watch!
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poo
September 5, 2010 at 3:00 AM
no the ice cream melted bcoz of he is tooo hot :P
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sweet
September 5, 2010 at 8:20 AM
hehehe. gotta agree! ^_~
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Bori
September 5, 2010 at 9:56 AM
Ah, I loved that scene, too!
It didn't fail to make me go "KYAAA!"
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ross
September 5, 2010 at 11:31 AM
hey ...i missed that line too ..you're way too observant ..thanks for pointing it out :)
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53 S
September 4, 2010 at 11:32 PM
ep 2 was way more better than ep 1.....and KHJ has improved a lot ....
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54 Keld
September 4, 2010 at 11:36 PM
I still find KHJ kinda stiff i know it fits his character but i'm just wondering if has any depth for the more emotional scenes later on.
I do agree i like seun-jos mom and she is till the hottest woman on the show. I think she is not overdoing it and you her warmth and desire to treat hani like a daughter.
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55 appy G
September 5, 2010 at 12:02 AM
ilove love the set ... I LOVE how jung plays her role =) super enjoyable!
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56 Lu
September 5, 2010 at 12:10 AM
i think jung so min's acting in this drama is not as good as lin yi chen in the taiwanese version.
but she's not bad. awfully funny at certain scenes.
and ep 2 is way way way better than ep 1.
i hope it gets better ~~ ^-^
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57 -Maui-
September 5, 2010 at 12:17 AM
As someone else mentioned, the interesting thing of the original story was that the girl was super incapable of most everything while the guy was capable of everything (at least what tangible things people place most importance on). So there's a major imbalance in capabilities. But the girl has a warm heart and is like the little engine that could which sloooowwwllyy melts the ice prince. And I'm not seeing the silly girl in the korean portrayal. Which is great for equality for women, but not what the character embodied - which takes a bit of wind out of its sails - and also makes the characters a little flat. I guess it makes it more realistic? But not as fun a watch. And yes the taiwan version made her a bit too silly at times, but other times, it fit. There was such a stark contrast between her attitude and his.
But as to KHJ, really liking the jerk side of him. I just wish they'd draw out the cold side of him more... why is it so easy to break through to him??
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crazedlu
September 5, 2010 at 2:11 AM
ooh. you said it way better than i wanted to say it. =D
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sweet
September 5, 2010 at 6:04 AM
hmm... i thought about this too, but then i think that i like how they're portraying hani's character now.
as in, she's silly in some of her ways, but not so dumb to the point that you just cannot fanthom how anyone can be like that.
seriously, in ISWAK, i watched the whole thing, but was in despair on how dumb they made her.
like the scene where she couldn't even photocopy.
that is just lacking in even basic common sense!
and, i really suspect that if they had made her so dumb in PK, there would be sooo much negativity and bashing in these forums against her.
for sure.
anyhow, i kinda like how they're keeping certain things from the original, and how they're adding their own take on it for PK. i really enjoyed ep2 i must say, and i hope that they keep it up and bring it up even more in the upcoming episodes.
they've already got me sold for the next coming one, so i'm looking forward to seeing more of seungjo and hani, and of course, their lovable family ^^
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pipit
September 6, 2010 at 5:01 AM
Never imagine I'd ever say this, but:
'I want a stupid heroine please....'
As some people have pointed out this big story is about this stupid average looking girl who dares to love the perfect prince and for him to love her back.
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58 marmar
September 5, 2010 at 12:22 AM
Episode 2 was definitely better than ep.1.
1 was a disappointment but this one I was smiling & laughing I really enjoyed it.
KHJ has definitely improved. He shown range in this episode. I loved his little moments, like that little sneaky evil smile in the beginning with her not ever wanting his help. To his shocked expression when she pulled out his baby pictures (I loved that look)..then back to his sneaky expression when he leaned in to her to test to see if she really doesn't like him anymore. KHJ improved so I enjoyed him in this episode.
JSM I love. She's totally carrying this drama which is a surprise cause when KHJ was getting all the press from this drama & JSM was still sorta a "new face" but now it's all her in this drama. She's carrying it & I can totally see her doing this drama justice & yes I feel like this role was meant for her which I am so happy cause I was hoping she got this role when ppl were considering Suli & other idols. I was happy it was given to an ACTUAL actress & definitely happy it was my choice. Cause yes watching JSM in Bad Guy you know she can act in different roles. I love her here.
LOL@the Super Junior moment. So random but she's right. it all depends on the person's interest.
Oh their love-hate relationship I'm loving it. You can totally see it being played in this episode. I look forward to the rest of the episodes.
I hope the ratings will go up. I believe it will just takes time. After watching the first two episodes I wanna go back to watch ISWAK just to remember the sweet upcoming moments for PK..lol
& yes I love the moment when he turned her over to him. first LMAO at her agreeing to look & the flasher begging..OMG..that was so funny. but so super cute when he turned her to avoid from looking. I just love how she just stood there looking at him something about that just made me smile big. It was cute.
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59 rheina
September 5, 2010 at 12:26 AM
Thanks for the recap. I'm glad you continue recapping coz this episode is much better than the 1st one.
i like the Taiwanese version but as far as the characterization of the leads, i like the korean version better. Like most people have said here, Ha Ni is not smart, but she is endearing and adorable, not annoying like Xiang Qin or Kotoko in the Japanese version. And IMO, it stays truer to the manga coz when i read the manga, I didnt really find Kotoko annoying, other than that she's stupid. That's why I was wondering why they make the character in the Japanese and Taiwanese version so stupid and dumb.
and I also like how SeungJo has slowly warmed up to Ha Ni. It will be frustrating to see him always being cold and mean to her throughout the show.
JSM and KHJ definitely has the chemistry building up. JSM is perfect for this role. KHJ has done good job so far, though i agree he still needs improvement, but heck this is only like episode 2 of the drama and he still has like 18 more episodes to further improve his acting. And I know he will.
I'm glad that you admit that his acting has improved coz all the hate comments for him is so upsetting. All KHJ antis who said he has not improved at all from BOF should just shut up and go watch other dramas if u dont like him. Why bother to watch PK?
I hope u will continue recapping this drama. I'm loving it so far and I hope it gets even better.
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60 okitokki
September 5, 2010 at 12:28 AM
I'm surprised how little I mind the fact that at times, it's nearly identical to iswak.
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Bori
September 5, 2010 at 9:57 AM
Really?
Whenever I watch this, I keep getting reminded of the anime version.
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61 pk
September 5, 2010 at 12:45 AM
ep 2 was really good. hell i think i love this drama
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62 ockoala
September 5, 2010 at 12:48 AM
I spent the entire day with a small thought in the back of my mind - I think I am in love with PK ep.2
Which bodes well for all PK episodes to come, because this story only gets better and better.
PK - I am in it to win it! :-D
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63 Lemon
September 5, 2010 at 12:52 AM
WOW this was much better than episode 1! Love the recap soo much. Episode 1 was extremely disappointing, but I had faith they would pick up pace once the 2 lovebirds moved in together. And boy- how cute are they!
My fave character though, is the mom. She's like, my ideal mom and the cutest one there could be.
Thanks girlfriday for this great recap :) Made my day.
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64 purpleducky
September 5, 2010 at 1:01 AM
a bit redundant after everyone else's comments but...
ep 2 was way better than ep 1. i think having more interaction between the leads and having less daydreams helped.
khj does seem to have taken a lot of previous criticisms of his acting in bof to heart and improved his emotional range, but to me he seems way too studied now. everytime he's on screen, i'm very aware that he's khj playing the character bsj. still, it's miles ahead of his acting in bof.
jsm is great. she does a wonderful job of endearing ohn to the viewer. part of it definitely has to do with how the writer(s) has(ve) written the character, but i actually root for ohn to get her man whereas in iswak, i wanted ariel lin's character to get a brain transplant.
thanks for your recaps, gf and jb. and i hope each ep continues to get better.
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65 alert
September 5, 2010 at 1:30 AM
I kinda like this fresh and updated version of Kotoko in Oh Ha Ni. I think the drama still wants to portray their contrast personalities - Seung Jo being the highly intelligent, but slacking the attitude, and Ha ni being the bubbly & vibrant, but lacking the brain. And this is their journey of completing each other with what they have. I do enjoy seeing a portrayal that someone who's dumb in studying does not equal to being stupid in everything else. It may be slightly different from the manga, but I like this realistic approach of the character.
But of course, it's only episode 2, so there are still lots of rooms for character developments. I'm a hopeful person, so I'll keep watching!
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66 linkyo
September 5, 2010 at 1:34 AM
Seems like eps 2 is much more bearable... But, still... Meh...
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67 djeedjes
September 5, 2010 at 1:42 AM
Here, Oh Ha Ni is not too...stupid, which is kinda different with 2 previous versions.
I don't really mind, actually, but somehow I feel her efforts to get in the 50 special position is not quite as hard as what Kotoko & Xiang Qin did.
does it make sense?
But I like it though, the fact that Oh Ha Ni is not super stupid and annoying. And she's adorable in her own way.
( I'm really Ariel's fan, so I'm little bit sad with all the comments about you guys hated XQ. :D )
KHJ is better, I agree. He has to be more mean, and shouldn't show his killer smile too often! Joe Cheng as Zhi Shu in the other side, is meanie, he nailed the character by the way he talk, smirk and look at Ariel. And he was believable as a smart guy...which KHJ hasn't showed it yet, he seemed a little bit struggling in delivering long sentences. I hope he was just nervous.
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68 Jen
September 5, 2010 at 1:49 AM
Having watched both the Japanese dorama and the Taiwanese version, I can say that there isn't much of a difference with the Korean version. I can tell that the storyline is going to remain as close to the Manga's storyline as possible, which kind of makes me sad since I've already seen this story played out twice before.
I think something Japanese and Taiwanese dramas do well is over-the-top humor. Unfortunately, the Korean dramas I've seen so far don't do over-the-top as well.
Korean dramas have a more subtle sort of humor, which I really enjoy and actually prefer. Even with dramas like "You're Beautiful" or "My Girlfriend is a Gumiho" the humor isn't the in-your-face variety. There were hilarious moments and you knew they were intended to be funny, but it wasn't necessarily forced. I was hoping the humor element of this drama would be much the same way, but I feel like I'm watching a Korean drama trying to be a Japanese drama. The set up reminds me too much of "The Man Who Can't Get Married" that it irks me a bit.
Still, I love Kim Hyun-joong as a person and I am willing to watch him become better as an entertainer so I'm sticking around for this one.
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69 Kriyn
September 5, 2010 at 2:15 AM
A few interesting observations from the comments.
Absolutely amusing how everyone is waiting in unison with bated breath for KHJ to make an acting boo-boo. Haha! It's actually a direct reversal of roles between the characters and actors. KHJ's playing the genius but in terms of acting capacbilities, he's actually the underdog compared to Jung So Min.
It's sweet how we all want this drama to succeed though, it's got that heart tugging story line of girl-finally-gets-together-with-long-time-crush-who's-way-out-of-leave. Awww :)
There's one scene that I found especially touching in episode 2. When Ha Ni counts the number of physical steps it will take for her to cross from bottom of the school chart to the top grade, it subtly brings across the so-near-yet-so-far idea so well! Javabeans, starting to see what you mean by this director's got a talent for poignant little moments. I didn't watch Goong (*shocked gasps from readers*) or Return of Illjimae but I'm really looking forward to the rest of Playful Kiss~~
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70 rainerust
September 5, 2010 at 2:20 AM
LOL awesome recap GF. I've always loved the little bro in all the adaptations actually - he's sort of adorable, the way he hero-worships his brother...until...well...later. ;) You'll see what I mean. Also love the Mom! Again, in all adaptations. She's so cute when she tries to play matchmaker and is so trigger-happy (camera-wise).
I like Duckie in this adaptation, which is sort of a surprise to me, because I hated him in the other Japanese and Taiwanese ones, so certainly Korea's doing something right with Duckie's character.
ALSO!! I totally agree with the cutting away at the almost-kiss-tree scene. I was all WHUT!! What did I miss?! Why the cut?! Was there something amiss with my (downloaded) episode?! ...alas...maybe just some bad editing there.
Anyway! Can't wait for Ep 3! So I guess this means JB will be recapping next right?
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71 Sisneyace
September 5, 2010 at 2:28 AM
I think that ep 2 was so much better the ep 1. During the first 20 mins of ep 1, I was like..OMG this so sucks. The last 10 mins of it was the only reason that I tuned in for 2ep. Here's hoping that it steadly gets better.
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72 kate09
September 5, 2010 at 2:29 AM
I luvvvv everything that U said!! Bravo!! I like this series/drama...and give it some more episodes..it's gonna do really well...hmmm..what ratings? can't even spell it!
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73 whit3butt3rfly
September 5, 2010 at 2:51 AM
I'm watching the Taiwanese version of this series, and I keep wanting to bang my head against the wall with the pointless and non-plot related scenes. It annoys the hell out of me, how they spend like precious moments on stupid antics of whatever else is going on, that don't even contribute to the plot in a meaningful way.
The moments that really matter to the plot, they are good.
I haven't started watching Playful Kiss, but I'm really hoping that the meaningless stupid supposedly 'funny' and cute scenes are chopped out. Although from what you're saying those still kinda exist.
Thanks for capping! :)
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74 Abdul
September 5, 2010 at 2:59 AM
I think I might watch this for Duckie and his hair =)
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75 TgM4
September 5, 2010 at 3:08 AM
I like it more than the manga...the lead girl character is not too stupid and clingy but just dreamy,childish yet sensible and the lead guy character is not cold and heartless but rather rude, arrogant and mean kind which i think khj is handling in a very cool way...the love/hate relationship is building fine. The pair looks young and fresh...even the drama settings like goong are pretty. I am falling in love with this drama.
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76 Jenny
September 5, 2010 at 3:12 AM
I think chemistry wise ep 2 was a improvement. Of course there will be Joe/Ariel comparisons because thr TW drama version was so popular.
KHJ has improved (thank you)even though Duckie and the actress portraying Ha-ni are overshadowing him.
They should totally skip the daydream sequences though.
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77 ck1Oz
September 5, 2010 at 4:19 AM
GF I am just thankful you didn't pan it.That toilet scene comment...emm...well,that was more realism than I wanted to know.
I find your recaps more funny than the episode.I am following it to the end so I am just grateful you didn't totally hate it...whew.
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78 junaly
September 5, 2010 at 4:28 AM
thanks for a great recap once again! you and javabeans are awesome! when i watched the first episode, i wasn't sure if you would think it was good enough to recap. but the second episode was definitely better. i can't wait for the next ep! :D thank you so much!
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79 bumpkin
September 5, 2010 at 4:41 AM
Are we really calling 'bad-elvis-hair-lookalike' dude, 'duckie'? :) Well, I guess its shorter.
It's funny because I've seen the actor (duckie) in an interview once and my first impression of him was he was sooooo serious!
As I've mentioned in my comment in episode 1, episode 2 is much, much, much better. I will wait for episode 3 because of episode 2.
I really like the Ha-Ni character. I guess it's because I understand her. She is not good in school because she doesn't really make an effort to learn. It is not because she is stupid. As she said, it is just because her 'interests' are just different from SJ's. As shown in episode 2, because SJ managed to make log x problems relevant (like the universe and aliens), she is intrigued! Therefore, she made an effort to understand it.
I have watched ISWAK and I agree that the XQ character could use some IQ points. I find the Ha-Ni character more redeemable. I like the fact that they made Ha-Ni talented in her own way, not some bumbbling idiot.
Thanks for the recap GF!
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annie
September 5, 2010 at 3:44 PM
I understand why a super-dumb character can be annoying, but really? Being smarter makes a character "more redeemable"? People can't control their intelligence any more than they can control their skin colour, and it doesn't make them any less worthy of being loved than someone smarter. Maybe you didn't mean it that way but I find that a bit offensive. Despite its flaws, one of the things that make this story unique, both in the manga/anime and the tdrama, is the vast difference in capabilities between the two leads. The heroine has a tough time of it - the world is a more difficult place for her than most people. And yet she never stops trying. That's what eventually wins the hero over.
Especially in the context of kdramas, where the heroins is always some version of "dumb but good-hearted/spunky", I feel that making Ha Ni smarter/more talented kind of lessens the charm and originality of this story.
That said, I'm still enjoying it and plan to keep watching :)
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Angie
September 6, 2010 at 2:10 AM
Laica, I don’t think that bumpkin was implying that less intelligent = less lovable.
The lead girl in the TW version was likable, yes, but you have to admit that there are times when you want to hit her for being well, not so bright. C’mon, it was to the point that it was bordering RETARDATION.
I think she meant at least the Kdrama character isn’t so stupid to the point that she seems retarded already. She has some smarts about her. I don’t recall the TW version being good at anything. Or maybe I just forgot.
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80 aentee
September 5, 2010 at 4:54 AM
Thank you so much for the recap, it's always fascinating to read your insight. Playful Kiss has a lot of misgivings but I am really enjoying it; it's pure cute fluff that should nicely balance out the future angst of SKK Scandal and Gumiho Girlfriend.
I am really loving Ha Ni (Jung So Min = <3). My RL friend is really against TW's version of ISWAK, she thinks the heroine there is a total idiot; so I approached Playful Kiss with much trepidation. Ha Ni is a total cutie though, and I'm already rooting for her. I adore the side characters as well, in particular "Duckie". KHJ is good enough eye candy and he has decent chemistry with his leading lady, so I can't ask for more, heh.
Looking forward to next week's ep and your recaps :D
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81 Nancii
September 5, 2010 at 5:13 AM
am i the only one who totally loves duckie?
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lala
September 5, 2010 at 5:47 AM
haha. ur nt the only one. i love 'duckie' character too.<3
he's hilarious! lol
just nt with hani. cuz hani is with seungjo. <3
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anon
September 5, 2010 at 7:03 AM
be careful not to get too attached you will be left yelling at oh ha ni/ your computer screen like a mad woman for breaking duckies heart if this is anything like ISWAK
..............
i speak (sadly) from experience damn the 2nd male lead syndrome
..............
you.have.been.warned :(
p.s its not that i hated ZS/XQ in ISWAK i just hated the way she treated such a sweet guy :(
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Bori
September 5, 2010 at 9:48 AM
Don't worry, I totally love Duckie, too!
Hehe.
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82 CHshe
September 5, 2010 at 5:17 AM
Ohhh round 2...
I'm growing to BSJ character, he's a jerk of course, but thru Oh Hani, he'll be better...
Although some would argue that BSJ mean n jerk potrayal would kill the original Naoki, I somewhat disagree and likes it a lot...
Yes true that original Naoki didn't look down on ppl, but he doesn't show care of others, and to me that's a bad thing too...
Yes, BSJ is being mean and a jerk who look downs on ppl, at least he is showing what he feels and gives a shit about others...
Originally Naoki would learn to feel thru Kotoko
So may be in here BSJ would change his bad attitude... And what I like about it is to show that nobody is perfect in this world... including BSJ
So what I am saying, this version doesn't have to stick to what's original is... This is only a drama based on manga... not an exact reenactment... haizz
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rheina
September 5, 2010 at 5:34 AM
I agree with you. This drama is only an adaptation of the manga and doesnt have to exactly duplicate everything from the manga. As I've said before I like the characterization in the Korean version better than the other versions, for both the main characters.
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83 dolche
September 5, 2010 at 5:37 AM
I totally love this episode. Group 8 surely knows how to make their audiences crave for more! ^^,
And what can I say about KHJ?... He improved a lot! I actually kept on looking if there are still traces of Jihoo sunbae on him, but man! He totally transformed into a Baek Seung Jo! he's totally made for the character, though there is still room for improvements but.. I know and I believe he will nail it! ^^ I can see potential in him.
And about his nose. I think it's natural hehehe sorry for bringing this up. I mean, i tried observing him from his SS501 debut days and before that (teenage days) which is 5 years ago, and it's all the same. Still big, but not that big haha.. I know it's not proportion, well that explained it... if it's a job, then it'll be proportionate. Try to look at yours, you will find it not proportionate too kekeke I tried mine and it's not! haha
~sorry for being weird haha
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84 chahaya
September 5, 2010 at 5:40 AM
People, if you don't even want to watch this show, no need to leave bad comments here
Btw, I love SJ because he's talkative, mean and already concern about Han in second episode. Hani is less iratating and I think I like her most compare with Kotoko and XQ. I enjoyed these two episodes and I think it is because I expected worse from this show. It is definitely better than BOF but not too enjoyable as much as Gumiho :)
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85 stee
September 5, 2010 at 5:47 AM
So glad they got to the story in this episode, instead of draaaggiiinnnng out the premise. One thing I did like about the 1st epi was when Ha-ni was running and mentioned that if there's one skill she has, it's being persistant..never a truer word! I liked that they put that there, it's a hint to the future and explanation of her never giving up on Seung-jo. She's got stamina, will and persistance! lol
Hope it keeps getting better and also includes the married part. On second thought...it can't, can it? 20 episodes would no way be enough, especially at this pace. Oh well.
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86 lehappyrosa
September 5, 2010 at 6:45 AM
ISWAK was the first asian drama i really enjoyed, and i still enjoy watching it until now. the scene in the rain never fails to make me cry.:) oh, how i love love love it! i haven't watched yet this kdrama version; i sure do hope i don't get disappointed.
btw, loved ISWAK's soundtrack. i how PK's OSt will be just as good. :)
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annie
September 5, 2010 at 3:47 PM
I don't know how many times I've rewatched that scene :)
And yes, amazing soundtrack.
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87 Maria
September 5, 2010 at 6:48 AM
ISWAK yay, PK nay...but I'm still giving pk a chance for improvement ;)
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88 meteorflower
September 5, 2010 at 6:54 AM
Finally, people already see improvements on KHJ's acting
coming from a none fan, it's sound music to my ears
episode 2 is a lot better from episode 1
Im looking forward to episode 3
thanks for the recap
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89 missy
September 5, 2010 at 7:48 AM
...and i found myself anticipating the next episodes.
yeah you're right. i can feel the awkwardness. i think it is the best part of the storyline. somehow i can relate to them because you know we've all been there at the giddiness land.
let's cross our fingers for the show :)
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90 mysuna
September 5, 2010 at 7:53 AM
Thanks for the recap. Much appreciated!!
I am actually quite pleasantly surprised by this show. The 2nd episode is definitely better than the 1st one. I finished the 1st episode in 30 min and the 2nd one in 40min. Thank God for the FF button.
I like the main girl Ha Ni, she is awesome. The male lead looks kinda of old and tired but he has improved since BOF. The supporting cast are really good especially "Duckie" and the chubby girl.
Nevertheless, personnally I prefer the Taiwanese version. Ariel and Joe have great chemistry
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91 ross
September 5, 2010 at 8:02 AM
good recap! surprisingly, i enjoyed reading it again word for word even after watching the raw twice and subbed once ..nice to see the drama in another one's eyes and made it enjoyable ..love the stills too because it made me notice their cute expressions otherwise ..please keep them coming ^_^
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92 elaine sarah
September 5, 2010 at 8:25 AM
episode is so good. much much better than episode 1.
ep.1 had a very slow start. episode started all those kilig moments that i've been expecting from this series. now, i cant wait for the next episode. :)
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93 Lee
September 5, 2010 at 9:12 AM
I'm very certain this is gonna be in the TLDR category as there are loads of comments before this but here I go. Yes I liked ep2 better than ep1. I like that she has some talents such as being good at drawing and her kicking strength. Yes I have watched the previous versions a the JP one was completely unbearable to watch for me and the taiwanese was was okay, I did really like the soundtrack for that one though. With the previous dramas I couldn't see how the guy was supposed to like the girl who was a dumb a stump 1) the Japanese one was too short and made leaps which were just kinda unbelievable and 2) the TW version of the girl was ssssssssssssoooooooo annoying.
I hope that in this version they can truly become equal to each other in that he becomes more human and she gains the ability to do well and being together keeps them on the right path in those aspects. Like someone else mentioned people are comparing but do they just want to see a Korean rehashed or an actual adaptation of the manga? I'm going to look at it as an adaption from now on and I hope others will too.
Also with the Goong comparisons I get it and I kinda thought "Oh! It's the bears again, cute but I could do without them".
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94 theseasings
September 5, 2010 at 10:14 AM
i don't know if i'm in the minority saying this, but i thought khj nailed the feeling of seungjo a couple of times in epi2.
my top 3 moments all belong to him, 1. in the opening sequence when he mocked her refusal for help and gave that smirk *egad, melt~!!*
2. when she greeted him after he came back with the shoe (i loved the entire pervert scene, btw ^^), and he had a subtle look of near-tenderness on his face *melt, melt~!*
3. when he beckoned with his finger impatiently when he went to her classroom to exchange pe attire *melts!*
i'm totally looking forward to ep3, i loved ep2, it was lighthearted yet strangely heartwarming ^^
the music lends itself to that i think: bye bye sea's theme song interludes, and that realllly nice piece of instrumental music with the heart-thumping sounds.
i think it has the potential to become a sleeper hit, it's certainly striking the right notes already.
eagerly awaiting ep3 and 4!
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95 Leonardswench
September 5, 2010 at 10:15 AM
If they are not careful, PK will turn into a success, lol!
Yeah, total improvement in episode 2, and as for the cut-away at the tree . . . I'm thinking we'll see what really happened in the future, the PD giving us a teaser of something to come back to in another episode.
And, about episode 1 in light of episode 2 and a more firm 'feel' for where they might be headed with this drama: I think the longish dream sequences may come back into play, too, but it did definitely set us up for Ha Ni's mental and emotional state: dreamy and unrealistically in love with "The Prince". Now we're dealing with reality, them living together, The Prince is being stripped of his dreaminess in many ways. Oh, I'm sure she'll still fantasize about him, but when faced with the cold reality daily, she'll grow up, too.
My daughter said it best, it's like she's romantcially emotionally stuck at 13, and the moving in with Seung-jo's family, having a mom (finally! awww!), 'brother', normal family life, will grow her up past all of that and mature her, making her ready to more maturely deal with her love as it moves from crush to passion.
Here's hoping ....
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96 kimmy
September 5, 2010 at 10:21 AM
just read that the rerun of PK scored much higher ratings of 8%, having watched ep2 myself and loving it, can only hope that the cast & crew keep their chin up and continue to give their best. it's actually a pretty enjoyable show and it's a case of bad timing (and bad first episode editing definitely). hopefully it can overcome the odds! nonetheless, i'll be supporting!
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97 Koreandramasrock
September 5, 2010 at 10:23 AM
This sounds EXACTLY like the taiwanese show, ISWAK down to the girly dress on the hero and those two seeing each other's scores... so I don't even think I will watch it.
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98 Stephanie
September 5, 2010 at 10:28 AM
I nearly slept when I watched the taiwan version (usually taiwanese are ott funny but because of the nature of the story, there is nothing we can do about it I guess. The only fun parts are when the writer plays with the shyness of teenage love. You were spot on in saying that it is like family drama, the manga itself doesn't seem to be the normal chick flick with all its funny antics like personal preference.
SO YEA, I AM HOPING THAT YOU WON'T REVIEW THIS BASED ON TRENDY DRAMA PERSPECTIVE CUS IT IS SORTA DIFFERENT. But I am still loving your reviews and insights that only an extremely avid drama goer (with years of history and research on ever single drama under her belt) and regular drama critic can give.
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99 DiOnIsSa
September 5, 2010 at 10:33 AM
Hi, guys! I've read all of your comments and smiled :) So many comments on this dorama mean that it's not such uninteresting though ;)
And now I want to share with you my own opinion. Personally I don't understand why a lot of people abuse this dorama? I think Kim Hyun Joon acts like it's supposed to be for Irie Naoki! Of course, his acting isn't brilliant but he really does good! I feel sorry for him cuz he is too much strongly criticized! *btw, I liked him in BOF* I think he maintains Irie's cold-blooded spirit with total ignoring others. And I totally in love with Jung So Min! For me she is the best *Kotoko* from all 3 versions (I watched all of them). I really adore director for non-making Ha Ni too much dumb! She is weak in studying but, at least, has some talents and some proud which was totally absent in taiwanese and japanese charecters!
I totally desliked japanese version, and I don't exactly know why? Just disliked it...
As for taiwanese one I would like to say that I adore Joe and Ariel and Jiro as well cuz they did great team! And as for Joe and Ariel acting I they have the greatest on-screen chemistry I ever so!!! But the thing that I really couldn't deal with was Xiang Qin's hopeless stupidity! Seriously, show me at least one person on earth who doesn't know how to do anything! It's impossible. She was SO non-realistic though I really enjoyed this dorama and re-watched it several times. And I, undoubtedly, like Ariel, she did her best in acting! But as for director of that show he made this character too much stupid and non-realistic!
I really enjoys Playful Kiss! I don't lose faith in this show and hope it still will show it's strong part!!! Let's cross our fingers for that! And I'm looking forward watching next episode cuz previous two made me did it ;)
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Leonardswench
September 6, 2010 at 1:08 PM
This is just a side note, but I come from a rather large family and have a sister who 'might' be categorized as a "Xiang Qin". We love her to pieces and she has found her niche in life, but the first 24 years were rather rough for her, if not for her sunny personality.
So, whenever I read that the character is just too dumb to be believed, I think with a great deal of empathy and sympathy about my sister, who few people do understand, but who really exists in a family of doctorates and successes. She was never good at much, but is fun, funny, optimistic, hard-working, and pure-hearted. While she may lack understanding about many things that others take for granted as common sense or necessary knowledge, she fills the world with her own brand of love and leaves that 'other stuff' to the rest of us. :)
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100 weissman
September 5, 2010 at 11:51 AM
I really liked the second episode, I guess we had to give this one time.
Hooah!
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