493

Answer Me 1994: Episode 15

by javabeans

With all the husband hullaballoo, sometimes the secondary characters feel a bit too secondary, but then they’ll step to the fore with something really sweet. It’s easy to get caught up in the Oppa-Chilbongie wars (omg you guys are killing me with them), but this drama has a lot more to offer than fanwars and shipping, which is actually why I think it’s doing itself a disservice to be so coy with the “Who is he?” gimmick. Because when the show is all about the small, revealing character moments, it’s totally got my heart.

SONG OF THE DAY

Lee Seung-hwan – “Good Day” [ 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.

 
EPISODE 15: “The people who changed me, Part 2”

It’s January 1996, and Na-jung is caught in a fierce tug-of-war with Garbage in the front yard… because she’s trying to sneak him into her room at night and he’s resisting. HA. She whines that he can just stay for ten minutes and nobody will be the wiser, except then Dad comes out and sees the scene. Na-jung and Garbage break apart and try not to look guilty, which of course makes them look incredibly guilty.

Dad asks suspiciously, “Are you two… maybe…?” They gulp hard, and then Dad finishes, “still fighting like mad dogs?” He barks at them to stop acting like kids while they sag in visible relief. Thank god for Dad’s dimness.

The family gathers for drama night, and Garbage joins them and makes sheepish vague excuses for why he’s been too busy to come by more often. Samcheonpo says knowingly, “And WHY do you suppose he’s been so BUSY?” (wink-wink), for which he gets his neck in a chokehold. Samcheonpo asks for some sympathy, though, since he’s going through a hard time—Yoon-jin’s been reacting to rumors of Seo Taiji and Boys’ retirement by camping outside his house with other fans. It’s hard dating a rabid fangirl.

Na-jung scoots closer to Garbage and tries to get coupley, like linking arms or putting her head on Oppa’s shoulder. He’s too conscious of Mom and Dad sitting in front of them and jerks away from her, though, jumping up nervously to get some distance. Which, aw. Girl just wants some love!

Mom and Dad remain oblivious and wonder why Na-jung can’t get a date; Dad says he’d love to push for Chilbongie if he were still living in Seoul, and Mom asks Binggeure if he knows any buddies to set her up with. Garbage looks crushed to be left out of the running, since Dad says he’d be happy with even a homeless alien if he accepted Na-jung’s personality.

Garbage takes advantage of a moment to put baby Joon down to sleep and motions for Na-jung to join him. He’s still too jumpy to let her get close, and when Mom drops by they leap apart suspiciously.

Mom feeds Garbage some soup, and Dad joins them and gets affectionate with Mom. It’s a sight that makes Garbage smile to himself… until that smile fades as he thinks a think we’re not allowed access to. Why are you sad, Oppa? Why can’t I know why?

Na-jung insists on seeing Garbage out, then tries to attack him with more hugs. He shoves her away repeatedly and finally dumps her on her bed, though he softens the blow with an aegyo wave goodnight. She slips outside anyway and waves some more as he exits from the front door, and they stand there exchanging adorkable waves at each other.

Then Mom almost catches them and Garbage scrambles to pretend nothing’s going on… and then that pensive look steals across his face again as he sees Na-jung waving merrily at him. Why are you making me nervous, Oppa?

By the time we hit the end of January, Samcheonpo’s relationship woes continue. In a hilarious scene, Samcheonpo sits by as silent comforter while Yoon-jin wails in grief, having gone to Taiji oppa’s house after he moved out and failed to loot anything, losing out to the other fangirls. Mind you, we’re not talking about personal possessions, but scraps of wallpaper and doorknobs and other fixtures their Oppa-god once touched with his hallowed hands. Or other body parts—Yoon-jin calls herself stupid for not thinking as shrewdly as the fanclub president, who ran off with the toilet seat cover.

Yoon-jin beats her “useless brain” for not thinking of walking off with a toilet or a faucet, and Samcheonpo just walks out silently. He just doesn’t get it.

Garbage and his fellow med students are given the next month off from hospital duties, and their professor advises them to get in their family and dating time while they have it, ’cause come March they’ll be back to the grind. Garbage excuses himself from drinks with the rest because he’s so excited to have Na-jung time, but then hears a message from her and panics.

As he takes off running and speeds home biting his knuckles, we hear her message telling him she’s on his way to his house and will let herself in. You’d think from his reaction that he was hiding a secret girlfriend or something equally dire, because he practically trips himself trying to beat her to his front door.

Na-jung arrives just ahead of him, though, and lets herself in. Immediately her jaw drops: His apartment is the trash can from hell. Not that we’re surprised, but it really is amazingly disgusting. Garbage offers the meek excuse, “I gathered the trash all together so I could clean it all at once.” Psh.

Na-jung can’t let this stand, so she kicks him out and gets to cleaning, and exhausts herself so much she falls asleep on the car ride home. Oppa keeps the car running with the heat while she sleeps, and once she wakes she puckers up for a big ole goodbye kiss. He casts nervous looks around since Dad could pop up at any moment and sends her away kissless, which makes her pouty.

Chilbongie, meanwhile, is in his last days of baseball training camp, and the idea of leaving in two days has his heart heavy. It’s only now that Na-jung notices her photo tucked inside his baseball cap, though she doesn’t show a strong reaction to the discovery. (Sad.)

Chilbongie is given an unexpected boon when his director lets him out to spend his last day with family. His mood makes a wild swing up from gloom to hopeful excitement as he dashes off in smiles and heads back to Seoul holding that old baseball. He doesn’t go straight to the boardinghouse, however, opting to call and leave a voicemail. All we hear is a long “Um…” and a short while later, Garbage gets a voicemail. And then so does Na-jung. Who’d he call?

Chilbongie waits outside while both Oppa and Na-jung head out in response to their calls… and it’s Garbage who shows up to see him. Na-jung, on the other hand, races to take care of Yoon-jin, who is passed out dead drunk after haunting Seo Taiji’s hotel all night. Samcheonpo is with her, but he’s just about at the end of his rope and leaves Yoon-jin in Na-jung’s care.

The boys relocate for a drink, and Chilbongie explains his purpose for calling Garbage out: to give him something. With that, he hands over that old baseball and tells its story.

This ball comes from his first defeat—it was the bottom of the 9th with two outs, no hits or runs on the scoreboard. Up stepped a batter who never had his game together, so Chilbongie pitched a hard one down the line… and the guy hit a home run. He’d been furious with himself afterward, but his coach gave him the ball and told him to accept it and win the next one.

So Chilbongie did, and exactly one year later, he played the same team and struck out that same batter—with the same pitch. “I’ll leave this ball with you,” he says to Garbage. “And I don’t know when, but someday I’ll get it back from you.”

Chilbongie: “Dreams always drive me and cause me to change. But what drives and changes me even more than that is the rival I meet at the corner on my way to those dreams.”

The next day, the boardinghouse family wonders about Chilbongie’s departure, and at mention of Yoon-jin’s name, Samcheonpo says flatly that he knows no such person. He appeals to the others for sympathy over Yoon-jin’s Seo Taiji obsession, and has to hush Binggeure when he brings up the possibility of Seo Taiji retiring. They agree that Yoon-jin would throw herself off the roof it such a day ever came—just as the TV reports that Seo Taiji officially retired today.

Almost immediately, loud wails come from Yoon-jin’s room, and Samcheonpo races up to push her back inside, yanking the door shut before she can actually go and throw herself out a window. Aw, he was complaining just seconds ago but now he’s dead-set on keeping her inside.

A long while later, Yoon-jin sits on the floor of her room, softly singing Seo Taiji’s “I Know” to herself in a sort of elegy: “I know somebody has to leave me… I couldn’t say I love you, it’s too late now anyway… Please just don’t say the world farewell, you were everything to me, oh please don’t leave me, are you really leaving me?”

Through it all, Samcheonpo sits on the other side of the door, guarding and waiting. (And eating.)

Na-jung gets a message on her pager, but when she checks it, she gets nothing but silence and hangs up. On the other end of the line we see Chilbongie in a phone booth, unable to say anything.

Yoon-jin lies in bed for the next two days, not eating or drinking a thing. Na-jung asks Garbage for his medical advice and scoffs at the suggestion that Samcheonpo feed Yoon-jin, considering their personalities. She says that the boyfriend should be more understanding, and Oppa assures her that he would act differently in that kind of situation, since he’s as open-hearted as the ocean. Then she says she’s going to go see her basketball oppa play in a game (nice of the show to remember that basketball was once her everything), and Oppa puts his foot down. “Ocean, my foot,” she grumps.

Samcheonpo gets more and more worried, telling Yoon-jin she’ll die if she doesn’t eat. She says dully that that’s her wish, and he frustratedly leaves her to her sulking.

Thank goodness for Dad, then, who isn’t having it and literally carries her to the kitchen (and then accidentally knocks her head into a doorjamb, whoops). He orders her to eat and everyone urges her to try something. Samcheonpo scolds her not to be so rude to Mom and Dad, and she takes up a spoonful, which unfortunately makes her gag and race for the bathroom.

Garbage drops Na-jung off after another date, and as usual gruffly orders her inside, declining her invitation to come in. She makes a show of grumbling and then sneaks a peck on the cheek, grinning that she just likes him so much. But thank heavens it finally gets Garbage a kick in the pants, and he leans over to plant a kiss—a good one, on the lips—and even moves in for a second, shoving aside his worry over being seen.

Then he walks her to the door holding her hand, and checks that her father will be home tomorrow night. Omo, is tomorrow the big day? He tells her to dress nicely and says that he’ll tell Dad about their relationship, and then they can date openly. He hugs her close and wonders if they’ll be able to get any sleep tonight.

Yoon-jin continues to be in her funk, listening to her Seo Taiji tapes on repeat, and the family wonders where Samcheonpo has been the last day or two. At that, he comes home… lugging a toilet bowl. Omg, is that what I think it is? The family gapes at the sight, and he grimaces that he can’t believe he’s gone to such lengths.

He tells Yoon-jin that he’s just come from Seo Taiji’s house and starts hauling the toilet upstairs. And that, finally, brings a smile back to Yoon-jin’s face.

A little while later they sit admiring its new place on the terrace, where Yoon-jin has planted a little tree inside the bowl. Samcheonpo asks her why she likes Seo Taiji so much, and she links her arm through his and leans on his shoulder before answering.

She explains how she was embarrassed in grade school when all the kids found out about her mother being mute, and it made her not want to be around anyone or stared at. She’d shut herself in her room watching TV, and one day she saw Seo Taiji on a docu-type program. The glimpse at the real person behind the star made him feel closer, like a real oppa, and listening to his songs made her feel stronger.

Na-jung: “Just as Seo Taji changed Yoon-jin, so did Yoon-jin for Sung-kyun, and Oppa for me, and me for Oppa. We did things that we never would have thought to do if not for love. What changes the world is love.”

And so, Oppa greets Mom and Dad formally and explains his feelings for Na-jung. Mom’s first reaction is a laugh of disbelief, but Dad stands up with a stone face and leaves the room without a word.

Na-jung paces outside anxiously while Garbage talks with Mom, and he calls her afterward to assure her that all was fine, and that they can date openly now. Garbage gets off the call and spots Chilbongie’s baseball, which he puts back into his drawer.

At the same time, Chilbongie calls the boardinghouse from Japan, and the kids all gather ’round excitedly to chat with him. They pass the phone amongst themselves, but he hurriedly cuts the call short before they can call Na-jung over, giving the excuse that he has to get back to training. Of course, it isn’t lost on her that it’s eleven at night and too late for training, making it all too evident why he rang off.

Chilbongie sits in his hotel room and sees the snow outside, which makes him recall the other times he’d seen snow with Na-jung—when she’d been excited about the first snow, on the night they’d had their last drink together, and when he’d asked to date her in the future if they met again.

So we return to 2013, where Garbage finishes beating Samcheonpo with a pillow for bringing up an awkward subject. Chilbongie’s serious face breaks into a small smile, and he tosses the baseball over to Garbage, who smiles back at him. There’s zero explanation for why, but I’m sure we can rustle up a hundred and one interpretations.

The potentially clairvoyant cousin is released from the hospital and chats with Garbage’s brother over the phone. As it turns out, it was hyung who told her in advance about Garbage’s girlfriend, HA. So she gave him a false breakup prediction just to needle him, did she?

Probably-non-clairvoyant cousin extorts a bit of spending cash from Garbage, pouting that the shuttle buses aren’t running and she needs to take a taxi. He barks that the shuttle is still good for another run but grudgingly hands over the cash anyway.

That puts her in such a good mood that she heaps the flattery on him—Oppa’s the best, and he totally has to stay with his girlfriend. Ha, but nobody believes you anymore. Oppa certainly doesn’t appear to, though he stops to consider her words for a moment.

The cousin bypasses the shuttle stop and hails a cab… just as an employee informs the people in line that the last shuttle has been canceled. Hm, so is she possibly clairvoyant after all? Or is this coincidence? Or door number three, and the show’s just yanking our chain every chance it gets? Yeah, I’m going with three.

 
COMMENTS

Sooooo, the husband. We’re leaning toward Garbage again (though I’d argue this has not changed in weeks), with additional info about some of the ambiguous points, like the psychic’s breakup prediction being a fake (or at least contradicted by the newer one). Based on the story as of today, the most straightforward reading of the baseball possession is that Chilbongie never got it back from Garbage, but that in 2013 he’s moved past it and can look at it with a nostalgic smile.

There are additional ways to interpret this, of course, because we don’t know the details and have to rely on connecting a lot of dots ourselves. (If Chilbongie is the husband, maybe he got the ball back at some point and didn’t want to hurt Oppa’s feelings by reminding him in 2013. In that case, however, throwing the ball to him seems out of character. I feel like the one who “lost” can do it to the one who “won” to say No hard feelings, but the reverse doesn’t work so well.)

The writer is deliberately withholding information from us so there is crucial stuff missing to purposely keep us in the dark (which I am getting mighty tired of), so at any point between now and 2013, the story could change with one big twist. However, based on what has happened to date, I’m going with the straightforward explanation. And thus far the show has generally gone with the simple explanation over the convoluted rationale.

One of my big pet peeves about this writing choice is that I feel like it’s actively fueling the fanwars, which, you guuuuuuys. This nonsense has to stop, please—the escalation of animosity between sides is ruining the game for everyone. I like both guys, so reading the back-and-forth insults leaves me very confused because I find myself siding with whoever’s being insulted purely on principle, only the insults are flying in both directions so now I just don’t like anybody. This is not helping anyone.

I do like that the baseball is tied into the concept of Chilbongie “accepting things”—yes, it spurred him to come back and win the second game, but to do so he had to first accept his defeat—accept, not stew in self-hate. In that sense it acts as a closing of one chapter with the option for a second, rather than just some stubborn challenge to Garbage. Because let’s be honest here, nobody wants to watch two cavemen fighting over a girl like she’s theirs to possess. We’ve seen those dramas before, and this one is better than that. I don’t read his message as “Watch your back, I’m gonna steal your girl,” but a follow-up to his comments to Na-jung in yesterday’s episode—he’s expressing an understanding that he missed whatever chance he had this time but that he still wants one later. And that he believes he’s not out of the running for that future shot.

I continue to be annoyed at the show for jerking my chain, which is preventing me from riding the emotional wave with the couple. In contrast, I loved the Samcheonpo and Yoon-jin storyline today, and the juxtaposition of them against the baseball handoff really highlighted how much I preferred to watch a relationship that is just allowed to run its course. Knowing that Yoon-jin and Samcheonpo end up married in no way diminished my appreciation for their development, and allowed us instead to explore the question of how their connection grew.

It felt so realistic to have Samcheonpo nearing the end of his rope with Yoon-jin’s obsession with Seo Taiji, despite going to lengths to find ways around his frustration, because her love for that guy is pretty damn extreme. Funny from a distance, perhaps, but infuriating to live with. I think we can see that Yoon-jin cares for Samcheonpo as her boyfriend and that her infatuation with Seo Taiji is akin to hero-worship (so, they are separate feelings and therefore not at odds), but it sure doesn’t feel that way to the boyfriend left on the outside.

But when she’s at her loneliest moment, I love that he arrives at the decision to choose the thing that will help her, even if he doesn’t understand why. He has been beating his head against a wall trying to understand why she’d feel this way and hasn’t been able to move past that incomprehension, but in her moment of need, that is no longer the point. And even knowing that they’re still together in the future, this is the moment when you realize that they’re really going to be okay. I would love this moment of clarity in our main storyline too, even if I feel like that is just not going to happen. I know that continuing the mystery is the point, but if we continue to obscure the truth, we don’t get wonderful relationship moments like this, which is a shame.

RELATED POSTS

Tags: Answer Me 1994, featured, Go Ara, Jung Woo, Yoo Yeon-seok

493

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

an interesting thing i wanted to mention is that i feel like the shipper war for this drama is ridiculously intense. im kind of curious as to why it ended up this way... i understand that the premise of this drama is to 'find a husband' but with reply 1997, it was the same and it wasn't this bad. i guess it could be because it was way more obvious who the end game was? and perhaps also because the writers didnt troll as much as in this one?

i understand that another reason is because CB ended up being a better contender than expected. (another user mentioned this above) rather than being the typical 2nd male lead he has risen above that to become a character that is too good to not end up with the main girl. i understand that.

a similar drama in which the same thing happened is "best love". iono how many of you are familiar with this drama - it was SUPER popular in korea but not as popular internationally due to its over the top humor. anyways, in best love, yoon kye sang's 2nd lead character was beyondddddd perfect. like if u think CB is nice, then YKS's character yoon pil joo is like an angel sent from god HHAHAHAHA like he was super understanding of the main girl (goo ae jung), never cheated his way to her heart, and simply looked at from her from afar. always there to help her. he was essentially the perfect specimen of man. yoon pil joo was meant to be 2nd love line, but even dok go jin shippers were swayed time to time by his selfless love. honestly, we just wanted him to be happy in the end T_T

i personally was a dok go jin x ae jung shipper no matter how much i felt for yoon pil joo. and this was MOSTLY the case i would say. because no matter how nice or wonderful yoon pil joo was, everyone knew that ae jung and dok go jin were made for each other. its hard to explain if u havent seen the drama but ya...

so even if yoon pil joo was this huge, breakout 2nd lead character, most ppl knew deep inside that ae jung was meant for DGJ, despite his many flaws and insufficiencies.

i feel like the situation is sort of similar to answer me 1994's shipper fiasco, but iono why this one is so much more intense and cut throat. perhaps its the age range of the audiences?
who knows.

all i know is that i just want the hubby revealed ASAP so that it can come to an end haha

0
6
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

I know, huh? The war just morphed into this beast and from the looks of it is still morphing until they reveal who the husband is which my guess would be in the last 2 episodes. The war is just insane!

I think it has gotten this way because the characters were portrayed fantastically by both Jung Woo and Yoo Yeon Seok. I could be wrong but I'd think that if any other actor portrayed their roles, the response would be much different. Both just portrayed their character with a lot of heart.

Eventually, it all comes down to personal preference, but the way the writers are trolling us every week, dangling that proverbial carrot (the mystery husband) and teasing us, letting us think that our preference is the winner week after week just reinforces our love for the ship that we've chosen.

And yeah, I've watched Best Love, too, although I didn't watch it while it was airing. I was a DGJ shipper, too. I guess he had the right of quirk for me. ;)

0
1
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

*right quirk for me.

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

omg best love. i can see this comparison lol pil joo was virually perfect. i remember when she thought he was mad at her but he was literally tripping over everything. but yea ae jung x dkj were p much mfeo

0
1
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

omg that has got to be one of the hilarious scenes in best love LOLOLOL along with gu ae jung's swatting fly/gum stuck on her shoe karaoke dance HAHAHH

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

With Best Love, as perfect as Pil Joo is I never felt manipulated since it was very clear that DKJ is end game. When we know that the Am series, they purposely throw out confusing scenarios just to mess with everybody's head.

In Am 1997, it think it was more transparent that Shi-won never had that kind of feelings for Tae-woong as it is with Na-Jung towards Garbage. For 1994, I was all Oppa in the beginning, but they purposely threw Chilbong during the time that he needed to really think things with Na-Jung, which to me makes sense for his character and the history with both their families that he had to consider. So I think that's when I started to waver towards Chilbong.

Then you have Chilbongie - the guy that only have baseball and not anything else, who fell in love with someone who doesn't see him the same way and is in love with another guy. I didn't really feel bad for Tae-woong in 1997, maybe because as heartbreaking that is for him, we know he will always have Yoon-jae even if they drift apart for a bit, he will always have him as a brother unlike Chilbong. Chilbong has his cousin, but no real family to show him love as shown in the earlier episodes (broken family, no real ties to his parents etc) compared to all the other boarders. And it could be because of Yoo Yeon suk nailing the one sided love so well, I can't help but root for him. Yeah I feel sorry for his character, it's more pathetic than sad really. Even if he doesn't end up with Na-Jung I'm hoping the writers show how his angst was overcome as seen in his much happier 2013 scenes, as it is with Tae-woong and the doctor in the 1997 series.

although it is a central part of the plot, the constant curveballs (hah, another baseball reference) that the show throws out to keep the husband mystery going is starting to annoy me. I honestly thought I wouldn't mind, I could see that the story is leaning more towards Oppa-NaJung being endgame, but they deliberately throw in enough to confuse viewers even more no matter what side we are. Im with you guys that it's taking my enjoyment away from watching the show.

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

Err, I take issue with your implication that age (i.e. maturity) is the reason for the crazy fanwars, which was also previously mentioned before that CB fans are young and inexperienced while Oppa's are older/more inexperienced. I guess I would be considered young at 21 (but oh, do I feel age setting in), but I feel I'm a lot more level headed than most ajummas.

There are crazy fanwars because we're being manipulated by the writers, who are ruining this show. The story is no longer organic, with everything being used a plot device to move the story along and create drama (like this upcoming internship conflict to split them up). In contrast, Best Love was written so that the story centered around the OTP, even if the 2nd lead was perfect. AM1994 writers keep fanning the flames. Like the cousin possibly being psychic or not. Come on, that was so random.

IDK, I just get really tired of being told because of my age, I'm somehow less capable of having intelligent thoughts. Sure it can be true, (*cough Heirs). But I chose this drama because I loved AM1997 and was expecting the same from AM1994. I think a lot of people chose to watch this because of the story not the actors/hot factor. So I put this story and its production to a higher standard, which it's sadly not fulfilling.

And this is a general note: everyone needs to stop thinking people ship CB just because he's hot. That's such a one-dimensional way of judging people, both Chilbongie and his fans. And I ain't got no Trash Oppa hate either... in fact, I'll take them all and end the fanwars. You know, for the sake of humanity and all.

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

I love this show but it is driving me nuts! I have realised that I should be careful what I wish for....I remember complaining that in reply 1997 it was too obvious who the husband was and if they weren't going to tell you til the last episode it should be more of a proper competition. I was wrong. I take it back! The uncertainty this time is what is driving me nuts...I definitely have my own theory about who the husband will be but I do actually like both guys and if this was real life I would say Najung will be well off whichever one she chooses. However since this is fantasy I am watching through my fingers saying please pick the one I want! Lol. :)

0
0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

I don't know if it's a good or bad thing that people get so invested in the show that they can't seem to separate it from real life. It's a show! With fictional characters. No need to get so upset.

0
2
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

I'm referring to the extra intense shippers.

0
1
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

Lol. So true! People are willing to cut each other's throats here, if in the future DB does something about the comment section (cuts if off or something), I wouldn't be too surprised because this is all too intense. Both guys are good, so people calm down!

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

Guys, I think it is pretty clear who is the endgame.

NJ-T hot kiss? T telling the parents? NJ still not feeling any -zero - feelings for CB?

Episode 15 already.

Trash is endgame. There are many hints that he is the husband too, you just see CB hints in 2013, but has lots of hints that T is the husband.

NJ and CB will never date.

T and NJ will break up, CB will think it is his chance but NJ will not date him because she doesn't like him more than a friend and stays true to her heart that only has trash.

I really want NJ to reject CB if she is single, only then CB will realize, she isn't into him and they are never going to happen.

0
3
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

From what I've gathered from the previews for next week, Trash is going to have to fulfill his internship somewhere far away. I think that the stress of his job, family opposition and his guilt about it will make him break up with NJ pretty soon.

CB will be back from Japan to recover from a career ending injury just in time to be a father approved shoulder to cry on for her. They'll awkwardly date for a bit before his graciously bows out and gets with team manager girl.

0
2
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

I hope CB and NJ don't date.

It is for the better.

Or maybe if CB and NJ date, CB realizes he is not the right one and gives up.

0
1
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

Lol. What if his and NJ's relationship lasts? haha..

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

Samcheonpo is the best.

0
0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

Ugh show stop tormenting CB if he's not the end game cos its heartbreaking seeing him like that. I just want him to be happy, and not just in 2013. Don't male leads suffer more before getting their happiness, well whatever I don't care as long has CB is happy. Let him date someone else so we can all see what NJ missed.

0
0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

so yeah again today's baseball thing makes me positive that my theory from yesterday.

Another theory I have from the baseball thing is it turns out Oppa is gay and so is Chilbongie they’re together and Haitai is Na-jung’s husband.

Is correct, well not positive but that's what I want because that's the most fun possible ending.

0
2
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

Yes to Haitai hubby, but not so much on the T/CB shipping, though I would LOVE to see them shirtlessly proclaiming their undying love to each other.

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

LOL....That is nuts!!

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

Again, show stop yanking our chain with this. It is old.

One of the casualties of the writers burying the lead, trolling, giving us hints, trolling, whatever they are doing is Chilbong as a character. What was once a dynamic and cute sweetie pie is now a creepy mouth breather message leaver. WHY SHOW???? WHY?????

I don't think I've loved anything or anyone as much as Yoon-Jin loved/s Seo Taji. I was like Samcheonpo- clueless and frustrated with her.

I really want to know dad's reaction to Oppa. It gives credence to Oppa's prior apprehension and I think he may be fibbing when he tells Na-Jung it is all alright.

WHERE WAS HAITAI?????? That is all.

0
0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

I do think CB being that popular and loved it because of the actor and he doing a really good job with CB one sided love

I mean, I don't remember Taewoong from A1997 get that much support, and TW and CB are a bit similar.

Fight for the girl
Are honest with their feelings
Confess soon
Wait and wait and wait
Don't give up.

But TW didn't had this much fans...

Why? Because he was not young flower guy.

YJ the main guy there was young, charming and good looking, so everyone supoorted him.

Here the main guy - Trash is not young, the normal ''good looking type'' and also not cute. And then we have young, hot cute looking YYS.

Most people might deny it, but the looks are really important. If YYS wasn't playing CB, and it was not a good looking guy, he would be already be called creepy and people would say he was pathetic.

0
5
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

i can't speak for everyone who likes joon (CB) but i don't really like him because he is attractive physically. i don't think he is, honestly. i think HT or BG or Kim Gi Tae are more attractive physically.

i like joon because of his characterization, particularly as his character was revealed slowly in the first 10 episodes.

in my case, it's also not because of the actor YYS because this is the first production i have seen him in. so i have no biases on that score.

i can't really explain but i just singled him out when he was introduced in episode 2, got attached to him, and he became my favorite character.

it's probably because of a lot of things. for instance, i mean i can relate to him as someone who had an unrequited love. and i admire him for being proactive about it because that was something i did not do and could not do, and i think will never do.

i don't know really. maybe we just get attached to some characters, and feel strongly about that character, and want the best for that character (not necessarily meaning we want less or don't care for the other characters). it's just different.

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

I think that Haitai is the best looking one while Binguirie is the cutest.

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

TW from 1997 was way older than them and already dated Si won's sister and was probably going to marry her....so the eww factor for wanting the little sister too. Secondly, he didn't consider the fact the his little brother has been pretty much inseparable with Siwon all their life and may have feeling for her. There was just something creepy about his presentation and the writers making him fall for Siwon.

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

In AM1997, it was obvious from the beginning TW was not the endgame (they just had this oppa-dongsaeng relationship). In fact, I think that's why there's a bigger focus on "who's the husband" game this time around, as if the writers want to fix that problem in their previous drama. It's why Chilbongie is characterized differently and more as a possibility. Sure, I think he's gorgeous and the ab scenes are much appreciated, but I was initially much more interested in Haitai (who looks like Seungri to me) and Binggeurie.

I think a lot of has to do with YYS acting the heck out of his character. Maybe it's because his character is more of a straight shooter than TW, but when Chilbongie says something like "Najung, you make me smile" it's done with such intensity and takes on a whole other level of significance than when TW does it for SW.

And TW didn't have nearly as many cute scenes: when CB finished his game and was walking along the stadium with NJ following him, how he ate another meal or waited for her after work just to be with her, imitated her accent, took a bus to see her for a few hours, and bought rice cakes for her? HOW IS ANYONE IMMUNE TO THIS SWEET GUY?!

And idk if this is considered physical beauty, but CB's smile just does me in. Your post actually made me think how I would feel if Jung Woo and YYS switched characters. I'd still prefer CB if Jung Woo, as the "unattractive" guy, played him instead.

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

YYS isn't really that strikingly attractive. Not in the way someone like Song Joong Ki/Lee Jong Suk/etc. is. That's part of the reason why he was never popular before this show. He's not ugly, but he's no Won Bin.

Most of it has to do with the memorable scenes he got in episodes 7-10. That's when I observed people starting to like him. And a lot of it actually has to do with his acting, he's making the most out of his character.

Taewoong was in love with Shiwon's older sister who died. And used to be her teacher. That's why it was creepier. Actually the actor who played him is on about the same level of attractiveness as YYS.

And Haitai is the most attractive<3 Why try and discredit why people like the character that they do?

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

I really need someone to help me understand why there are neither pictures nor talk of that delicious Trash Oppa post shower scene. I CAN'T be the only person whose watched it multiple times.

0
8
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

Oppa's abs make me feel better about everything in life.

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

jung woo is so like understated hot lordt

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

It was delicious.
Na jung is so hungry for skinship and trash oppa's dream is to be a sex maniac.
I don't see what the problem is there.
Now that they can date freely i hope trash unleashes his inner beast and doesn't hold back from na jung.

0
4
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

If they really cross that line, there will be no going back and if they break up and she ended up with someone else, I don't think I will trust them together as just friends if I were the husband.

0
3
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

Yup, that's why i'm hoping for a sex scene to seal the deal and put the warships to rest. South korea is rather conservative in that aspect so if na jung and trash finally seal the deal then there's no going back.

0
2
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

1997 had a sex scene, maybe this will too.

0

heeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee.

Im blushing at the possibilities already. :)

0

i rewound and rewound and rewound and then told my sister "don't get it twisted. I watch for the plot"

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

I completely agree. Even if the show already showed me who the husband is, it wouldn't diminish my enjoyment.

I'm really really liking Yoon Jin and Samcheopo's story.

For me, I love everything about the show except the whole "who is the husband" dilemma. It's getting annoying. I enjoy 100 times more watching the secondary characters and their stories.

After all this fuss, if the writer ends up choosing Trash Oppa as the husband, then I'm going to wonder "Why even bother, if you were going to pick the most OBVIOUS conclusion anyways?"

I secretly hope the husband will turn out to surprise us all.

0
1
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

If its a total surprise that would mean the gimmick took control of the story, i.e. something very very bad. Twists in a story are only good insofar as they improve the story; they are not good in their own right. Do you really want it to be some last minute dude who we had no emotional build up with over the course of the show? That would completely destroy the romance. In the end, the mystery should just be a gimmick and angst generator not the purpose of the story.

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

I need more Haitai in these episodes! :( I miss seeing him with the rest of our cast.

0
0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

At this point I feel certain that Trash is NJ's husband and I find I'm really annoyed - though perhaps not for the obvious reason.

I'm annoyed that the writer has made the mystery of who NJ ends up with the central premise AND THEN NOT MADE IT A MYSTERY. I've been pretty certain that Trash and NJ were going to end up together since episode 12-13. If that's the case (and I'm betting that it is and we'll watch them have setbacks but ultimately be cute as anything together for the next three weeks) then there really isn't any reason for the mystery AT ALL. Sure, we get it, you love your warring fans. But now not only have you jerked your audience around (enough that I personally am not as invested in the outcome as I was, say, at episode 6) but you've done it BADLY. Unless you make CB the husband, there's now no way to shock your audience at the final reveal. However, making CB the husband is likely to create that oft-talked about whiplash effect for many viewers. What CB/NJ need is time - screen time, that is. And you just can't give it to them, writernim! It makes me sad to say it, but it seems like it's been left too late. Personally,I think I will be disappointed no matter who she ends up with.

This is definitely not intended to be read as crazed shipping. I loved Oppa from the get go, as I think we all did. Then CB crept into my heart and built himself a little house. I love both guys. I agree with all the people before me who have pointed out that NJ has free will, and that her happiness matters.

But because you told me you were going to show me the biggest mystery of a love story ever, Mister Show, You have to pair NJ up with someone other than Trash! And I'm worried you either won't do it, or won't do it well enough.

Perhaps if the show uses the extra air time to review a large part of the narrative and reveal scenes which we skipped in '94/'95/'96 between NJ and CB (or Haitai, I hear y'all, that would be brilliant!) we could truly have a surprising yet satisfying ending?

I don't know. I just don't see it happening. Sadface.

0
1
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

If they did that I would never watch something the team made again. That would be the epitome of bad story-telling: letting the gimmick get in the way of the story-telling. If we were secretly missing all the important moments in 15 episodes and they were then revealed in less than 6 (given that next week seems to be about trash/NJ separation angst) would be such a violent reset and destruction of the story up to this point.

Seriously, if the ending is not obvious the show is tremendously bad as a romance.

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

if they just tweak some things it would be much greater. but i still enjoy it immensely. anyway, excited for next week.

0
0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

I have preferences as to who I'd like the husband to be, but I don't think any character should be receiving the criticism that they are currently taking in from the comments here.

Honestly speaking, all three players in the main love traingle are too young to realize half the things we're criticizing them for.

It's easy for us to decipher and critically analyze their every move, thought, and word since we're the audience. But we need to first realize that though it's been made obvious to US (viewers) that NJ has no feelings for CB, CB hasn't seen what we've seen. The sensual kisses, the hugs, the conversations; all of that is stuff CB is not aware of. And so there's nothing to criticize him of. He's obviously already accepted the fact that NJ isn't into him (which is why he tells Bingeurae that he'll wait for NJ).

I just feel that we're thinking of CB's character in a certain frustrated perspective because we don't understand him enough. I think we've all overlooked the fact that he has emotional scarring and trauma from his parent's divorce, his mother's remarriage, and her personality (which has been described to be cold and distant). CB is a emerging college student who's trying to grapple the situation he's just had to go through (feeling frustration and betrayal from a mother who's just remarried) while also accepting the fact that the girl he's fallen head over heels with can't return his feelings. I would be so hurt if I were him. This is why he can't let go even though he's already come to his disappointing realization that he can't win--at least not this instant.

Then take for another example, NJ. We're all so focused on CB and Oppa when NJ is probably the most shallow character of all. Since day one, her entire world has revolved around Oppa. We, as an audience, no nothing about her that has any kind of real significance other than the fact that she is infatuated with her late brother's close friend. There's no substance to her! She's just always been the fangirl of Oppa. I find her character very very frustrating. I want to see a NJ that can live without Oppa. A girl who can live happily without the boy she's been blindly chasing for the past 15 episodes.

My point is: I think we're seriously reading too deeply into the situation. These kids are college students with raging hormones and, familial backgrounds and experiences of all different colors. There's no one person who's being more frustrating than another. The writer just makes some people's flaws more obvious than that of the others. In the end, they're all equally inexperienced, frustrating, and difficult characters.

0
11
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

NJ did live without Oppa; she confessed to him, but If he had rejected her, that would have been that for her. Just like CB, they both confessed but wanted to keep loving without the finality of rejection. What substance do you need from NJ's character; What exactly is substance? I am pretty sure she's going to school, hanging out with friends and doing her own things; it's just that the writers are not showing it. I think she is what you see. The only reason you are learning about the other characters is because they are not the main characters and you don't see their family life and know about their past hurt. You see NJ's family, you know one major event that has happened to her, the death of her brother and you know she likes basketball. She fell in love and redirected her love and I think that's perfectly normal. Don't say she has no character and substance because she's in love and maybe not with whom you will want her to be with; eventually, she will become less giddy.

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

The new thing for disgruntled Chilbong fans to do seems to be to pile it on Na Jung. You can relate to Chilbong's one-sided love, are willing to join the dots and make assumptions about his character that are not explicitly acknowledged in the show and can empathize with his one-track devotion to Na Jung, but somehow Na Jung is "the most shallow character of all" for pretty much being the same way? Because her unrequited love is finally being reciprocated, she suddenly has no substance to her? The fact that you are so quick to trivialize Na Jung's affections for Oppa by calling it an infatuation and talk about Chilbong's own affections for Na Jung like it's something much deeper speaks volumes. And all this in a post that started off with "I don’t think any character should be receiving the criticism that they are currently taking in from the comments here." Jesus Christ, the hypocrisy.

Na Jung and Oppa have known each other their whole lives. Their relationship and Na Jung's affections for him are as far from being shallow as anything possibly could be. I agree that the writers should develop Na Jung outside of the love triangle, but the very same thing could be said for Chilbong. In fact, he is even more poorly developed outside of the love triangle than Na Jung. He might have baseball, but by now we all know that his baseball arc is basically just a big symbolic representation of the love triangle itself, so seriously, how can you point fingers at Na Jung, say there's no substance to her when all Chilbong has done from day 1 is either played baseball or made moony eyes at Na Jung. That's literally it. Two things to sum up Chilbong's character in entirety. Na Jung, on the other hand, has much more going on than just being in love with Oppa. She is a part of the university film club, she has Lee Sang Min Oppa, her friendships with Haitai and Yoon Jin have progressed very nicely throughout the series, she has her back problems, her late brother, a great if slightly dysfunctional relationship with her parents, and yes, she also has Oppa, her first love. It is a truly fantastic thing that someone she loved for so long loves her back. Saying that she does not have any substance because of that is just so fundamentally wrong.

0
9
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

I think my last point stands to prove that I'm not trying to "pile it on Na Jung". I was trying to make room for understanding on CB's case and also shed light onto something I believe many people are not realizing about NJ's character as well. I never said that NJ was the more frustrating, more difficult, or more "at fault" character. I tried to neutralize myself by my last comment. Therefore, your argument regarding CB fans and their intent to pile their disappointment on NJ is false, if my comment is what you are primarily alluding to.

Again, let me clarify exactly I said in my previous comment: There’s no one person who’s being more frustrating than another. The writer just makes some people’s flaws more obvious than that of the others. In the end, they’re all equally inexperienced, frustrating, and difficult characters.

0
5
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

You said that at the end as a disclaimer AFTER dedicating a paragraph discussing why you can understand Chilbong's pain and another talking about why Na Jung feels like an inaccessible character to you because she is in love with Oppa. They're two characters who were virtually in the same shoes not too long ago, experiencing the pangs and excitement of their respective first loves, and yet you GET Chilbong but not only do you feel like you know nothing about Na Jung outside of her love for Oppa, but that is also somehow a problem when it's so clearly not a problem for you that Chilbong pretty much suffers from the same lack of three dimensional development? Somehow you can still find it in your heart to support Chilbong despite his one dimensionality, but you can't do the same for Na Jung? Do you really think you are being neutral here? Because what you wrote about Chilbong and Na Jung directly contradicts your neutrality claim.

And someone shallow and saying she has no substance for loving who she loves IS "piling it" on her. Let me put it this way. Every reason you listed for you finding Na Jung to be a character without substance COULD be said about Chilbong as well.

"Since day one, his entire world has revolved around NJ. We, as an audience, no nothing about him that has any kind of real significance other than the fact that he is infatuated with his close friend. There’s no substance to him! He’s just always been the fangirl of Na Jung. I find his character very very frustrating. I want to see a CB that can live without Na Jung. A boy who can live happily without the girl he’s been blindly chasing for the past 15 episodes."

But you did not say these things about both of them. You said it about Na Jung only, and if that doesn't prove that you were not being neutral in your first post, then I don't know that anyone can make you see it. You have your bias, I have my bias, and that's all good as long as we're not attacking other characters to make our favorites look better. I just don't understand how you can pledge neutrality and sympathize with one character for a reason and think a different character is less of a person for the same reason.

0
4
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

Ah, I don't know how to say this to you so you'd understand. I didn't explicitly state those things for both characters because I'm only try to shed light on what I believe many people are missing out on.

I never said NJ's character as I described it was exclusively relevant to only her. I mean the things I said about her character for CB's as well, but went out of my way to explicitly state it just for her because I think that people have realized that for CB whereas they haven't for NJ.

That goes to say that CB's hurt that he's felt is the same for NJ. She has a brother who passed away when she was younger. I have an older sister. The pain of that kind of experience? I can say for sure that it would excruciating and unbearable. But people seem to be attentive to that detail about NJ whereas with CB, his past with his parents seems to be looked over.

My last comment was trying to encompass this thought. Everyone is literally equal and on the same boat in terms of the things they've gone through, it's just that each has a different explicit experience (CB with his parents, NJ with her brother, YJ with her mute mother, etc.)

I don't think less of one person over another. I never said that. Please do not twist my words to assume things such as that. This is not to mention that I AM, however, frustrated with one character over another, but I clearly don't think one character is better than another.

0

@Junhee

"I never said NJ’s character as I described it was exclusively relevant to only her. I mean the things I said about her character for CB’s as well, but went out of my way to explicitly state it just for her because I think that people have realized that for CB whereas they haven’t for NJ."

But if you don't explicitly state, or even just imply, that you mean those things for CB as well, there is no way of taking that away from your post.

"I don’t think less of one person over another. I never said that. Please do not twist my words to assume things such as that. This is not to mention that I AM, however, frustrated with one character over another, but I clearly don’t think one character is better than another."

I'm not twisting your words. You literally said "NJ is probably the most shallow character of all". And you also said, "There’s no substance to her!" That sounds to me like you do think Na Jung is a lesser person than Chilbong. But if you didn't mean that, then let's move on.

You are telling me that I should infer things that you do not even touch on in your post and accusing me of bending the meaning of things you do explicitly state. But, my main gripe with your first post was that you were attacking only Na Jung for some thing that Chilbong is also very much guilty of. If you think the same applies to him, we don't have anything to argue about.

0

I understand. What I'm saying is that after the first post, I clarified myself once more and yet, you still seemed hung up on the fact that I was not explicitly stating certain things for certain characters.

I'm ultimately trying to express that everyone is on the same platform right now. That's my main thought and I hope everyone is able to take away that the point, which I specifically highlight, is encompassed in my final conclusion.

No one character is better or less than another character. Each character is vulnerable to the same criticisms.

0

@junhee

That is false equivalency at the end there. There are characters in that show who do not have that problem. Perhaps NJ does and CB definitely does. However, Trash, YJ, Samcheonpo, Haitai, the parents, and BG all don't. Just because CB isn't well-characterized and he's obviously your favorite character does not mean that all other characters must have his flaw.

0

Speaking of Chilbonggie amd character development, does anyone know what his actual major is? Unless ball tossing is an accredited educational choice...

0
2
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

you know, earlier in the drama I wondered if it would turn out that Oppa and Binggeure were gay? But it seemed very unlikely for a Kdrama such as this one (in my limited experience), and now seems inconsistent with other info, even if T Oppa is not The One for NJ. -----Oh HOW MUCH I wonder what Chilbongie's major is! The ball on the bookcase is sitting on medical books! ------I love everyone's comments--the shipping wars seem to be calming down, Kdrama fans on DB are the best!

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

physical education, okay?

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

No comment on Dad's reaction to Oppa's declaration of love. I would like to know what do you think :)

0
13
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

I knew dad's reaction may be like that from his reaction during Oppa brother's wedding when his parent's joked about NJ marrying their youngest son or even any of their son's; Oppa's status as a son may actually mean more to them than him being their son in-law, it is kind of sad for Oppa knowing they never considered him as a contender for NJ's heart. I have my feelings about next weeks Oppa's decision to have his internship far away and they aren't good!

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

That's why it seemed like a no biggie when the parents met at the wedding and were joking around about pairing up na jung with one of their sons (among them trash). But when it really came down to it, that's a whole different thing. Mom didn't believe him(she laughed!), and dad was stoic.
No wonder my poor oppa-ya hesitated this whole time.
His status as their son was pretty much more important than his status as their son-in-law.
I don't know how that'd be different since a son-in-law is basically your son, but i guess it's a cultural thing, and is different in s.korea.

0
3
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

You said it better than I, thank you!
I do think that CB's complete development will be more of a life lesson for him and will be coming in the next two weeks. We know his parents are divorced and that he loves baseball but maybe baseball is more like a lifeline for him with the aftermath of the divorce and that may be why he takes losing really bad, don't say he doesn't because it is very clear that he really does not handle losing well at all; this will be his lesson and his growth. The guy has scars from his past that he needs to confront before he can even have a healthy relationship. I just feel that the writers are taking too long to present his struggles in order for him to be a perfect contender.

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

Because a son in law can always leave but a son will always be there.

0
1
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

precisely. :)

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

I really wish more people were talking about Dad's reaction in that scene. So many people wrote off Oppa for being reluctant to date Na Jung because of her parents. It just wasn't a good enough reason for them. And now that we see that it was indeed a very valid concern to have had, you can literally hear the crickets chirping on that front.

0
5
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

yea and i also think it should be brought to attention the little details of the scene. this is no doubt one of the highlights of the episode - alot of korean netizens were very touched by it and so was I.

1) oppa said "I like NJ alot" " I see her more than a little sister, i see her as a woman"

i think the nuance is much better captured in the korean language... but basically it was very obvious that he emphasized that HE (used "i" instead of WE like each other) liked NJ alot and that HE saw her as more than a sister. he didnt even mention her liking him.

oppa is basically looking out for NJ, he wants to ensure that IF and WHEN they receive any ridicule that it'll point to him and not NJ.

also, it was really sad when oppa made that "devastated -but -trying-to force -a-smile" face right after NJs dad left the room... he just couldnt hide his sadness :((

all in all i think it was a very underrated scene - its like al over the news in korea but i guess not here haha

0
4
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kH9VapXqLlU/UqRfdwZdumI/AAAAAAAAALg/6O4nM_i3-4s/s1600/111.gif

a gif of oppas sad face :(

0
3
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

dam.

Chilbong being sad and all is heartbreaking,
but oppa being sad is like.. i don't even know anymore. Cause we're all used to seeing his goofyness.

0

Jung Woo really nailed that reaction, didn't he? Oooof! I can really feel his pain, sadness, embarrassment, etc. yet he's still trying to smile so as not to burden Mom of his sadness.

0

And thanks for sharing that gif. Sometimes, I tend to miss subtle things like that unless I watch the episode again.

0

For me I thought that if oppa was serious about NJ we would have had asked dad his permission much earlier. As a Korean person and someone who lived thru the 90 ' s asking permission is a must before seriously dating. If they can kiss the way they do then he should have asked much earlier. But since oppa is a slow mover and a thinker thus his hesitation. I think that he knows it too. A lot of the sad face was his his own guilt in not saying anything earlier.

It is obvious that dad cares for oppa but NJ is his daughter and as a Korean dad he feels as if he has every right to say who she can and an not marry. Not to say that he is right but to say that is how a Korean man thinks.

0
1
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

in addition, oppa asked after chilbong give the ball
so, literally, it because chilbong again

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

Honestly, even though I'm on CB's side, I'd be frustrated if he IS endgame at this point. It would be an empty victory to have something nonsensical, underdeveloped, and rushed, because that's how it would have to be. I have my issues with the T-NJ couple, but if she's happy, then just stop with the trolling please writers, and let them be confirmed and legitimately happy, and let CB move on in peace. I'm just going to keep watching to see how the other characters turn out now, because either ship isn't working for me anymore. They sacrificed the good and little moments for the mystery gimmick, and it killed the development of NJ's and CB's characters, which is unfortunate. Still, I hope the show pulls through to be as heartwarming and fun as it used to be, and sometimes still is (SCP and YJ! <3). :)

0
7
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

Awh, I feel for you on this one.

I feel like the writer is just wasting our time and trolling us if Oppa does end up becoming NJ's husband. I'm tired of this emotional roller coaster.

For this reason specifically (but not exclusively), I do hope that CB is the husband.

0
6
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

Wouldn't a CB ending be a waste of our time, though? Considering how much emotional and structural build up there's been with the T/NJ storyline compared to the CB storyline, like 15 hour and a half episodes would go down the drain. At this point CB doesn't even have any semblance of a romantic relationship with NJ--and if he did that would have to be rushed through in like 5 episodes worth of content, most of which would probably be spent justifying a complete 180 turn in the narrative and attempting to salvage the show's emotional integrity. Maybe a shift to CB could have been structurally justified if it had happened sooner, but as it stands now, CB being the husband would be the ultimate troll move.

0
5
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

You have a point.

I guess it really depends on how you see the situation. For me, the endless amount of baseball analogies, the notable interaction between Oppa and CB, and CB's undying efforts to reach out to NJ created a strong imprint in my mind than NJ's current relationship with Oppa. Oppa is important and the lovely relationship that the two are creating is nice but do remember that their being officially together hasn't lasted longer than what, two episodes? If you disregard those episodes, I think CB is still fair game. I'm not saying I'm right! These are just my opinions. :/

0
4
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

Hmmm, I guess the thing I'm having trouble with most justifications for a CB ending is that they seem to totally discount NJ's emotional storyline, and the fact is, her entire thing has been her love for Trash. CB doesn't really register on a romantic level at all. I've actually been surprised by how little ambiguity there has been in CB/NJ interactions. It has consistently been him pursuing and even stealth dating her, while she has never even had to go to the trouble of friend zoning him. It's like, when he left for Japan, she just went to sleep. Or last episode, when CB called someone and then Trash and NJ both got a message and went running (but then NJ went to Yoon-jin). I guess I don't understand that kind of fake out if CB is endgame?

I don't know, I'm going to trust in the massive amount of build up and T/NJ content over narrative gimmicks and metaphors. I mean, does it really seem like the main couple is going to arise out of psychic predictions and quotes like "it ain't over till it's over" and weird and potentially squirmy metaphors made with baseballs? I respect your opinion, and I understand why you might be rooting for CB, but at the end of the day, a CB ending would only work for that character IMO. It would come at the sacrifice of the show's structural and emotional integrity, and the manufactured destruction of a relationship that has been the centerpiece of it all. I just hope he gets over her and finds a nice girl to marry. Seems like he's happy in 2013, so.

Sorry, kind of rambling. Just have a lot of thoughts...

0

Grumpy - I'm not sure if you have watched AM 1997. I believe it's on the last episode when the husband is finally revealed, they also in turn when back to key scenes of the drama from the earlier episodes to tie back with their "answer". So This would probably be the same for 1994. Which would explain why we really do not see the full reactions from Na-Jung, as well as other scenes that may seem disjointed right now that will probably be revealed in full towards the end. Although of course, in AM 1997 it's much more obvious who she ends up way before the finale aired.

0

I have seen AM 1997, though I don't really see why you're bringing it up. 1997 used the 2012 scenes to feint towards Tae-woong, and then gave us YJ. The 2013 scenes are doing the same thing with CB/Trash IMO. It's not like we're suddenly going to see all these scenes that show she was secretly in love with Chilbong the whole time. What would be the point in watching the show if that happened, anyway? 2013 doesn't exist to undercut 1994-6; 2013 scenes are narrative structures used to frame 1994-6 dramatic structure. Anyway, the only scene between them that cuts off is his confession, though I'd say that it arguably isn't cut off. What, are we going to see her rejecting him in some kind of way that means it's not complete and total rejection? Her feelings after that moment were made perfectly clear.

Also, the emotional build up in 1997 was with Yoon-jae, the same way it is with Trash. Even when she wasn't romantically into him, the emotional structure of the love story was based in YJ/SW, not SW/TW--we saw his angst, her regret, and finally, his brother's guilt. Plus there were more scenes with YJ/SW together, and a more complicated dynamic between them. It was clear that when Shi-won decided to date Tae-woong, it was because she was immature and didn't really know what that meant, and just as clear Tae-woong was constructed as a source for angst for YJ and late-stage angst for SW.

That structure is different from 1994. In this case, Oppa is the YJ character. The only difference is that NJ likes him first, and they get together. Even if they've only been dating 2 episodes (and are likely to break up or be separated in the next one), the first thirteen episodes were the build up to them getting together, these past two their changing relationship, and I suspect the last few will be separation/break up angst, then reunion. Along the way, Chilbong has worked as a dramatic catalyst in the same way as TW. The husband, if this show has any emotional integrity, should be just as obvious as it was in AM 1997. People just don't see it because CB is a massively more appealing character compared to TW (although he still lacks the nuance, development, and centrality of a YJ or Trash).

0

. I was just saying since you made the point about NJ's non reactions to CB then it might be possible that maybe some of the flashback scenes in the end would shed some light to more her feelings or thoughts at the end when all is revealed, or maybe it wouldn't happen anyway since it was clear that she does not see him the same way. But yeah, you are correct that it is a misstep on the writer at this point to do a complete reversal on the storyline to make CB the end game (even if everyone on Team CB wishes that was the case). But I have to be honest - Even as all signs point to Trash, there is a disconnect in my head and my heart when it comes to this. It is further fueled by the constant curveballs/trolling that the writer does to confuse viewers like me even more.

And yes, everyone looks happy in the present time so whatever happened in the past is well under the bridge. I hope they give CB the proper send off he deserves like how TW story was.

0

”this drama has a lot more to offer than fanwars and shipping, which is actually why I think it’s doing itself a disservice to be so coy with the “Who is he?” gimmick. Because when the show is all about the small, revealing character moments, it’s totally got my heart.”

I agree with this so much.

0
0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

yea the PD should really listen to the fans' multiple pleas to just reveal the husband already... it would SRSLY make the story so much better.

and i must respectfully disagree to the the insight about how NJ is one dimensional character and all she cares about is oppa. and how she needs to live a life without oppa for once and be happy.

compared to the other characters in the show, i agree that NJ lacks a lot of character development. this is indeed def because her stories tend to revolve around the love triangle. however, there have been a few scenes here and there that demonstrates how much she cares about her friends and family. they were mainly concentrated in the beginning of the series. however, i feel like there are plenty of episodes left to develop NJs career and identity issues or what not.

what i dont understand is why she would have to separate herself from oppa to achieve that. i dont think there is anything wrong with a relationship with a significant other to take a big chunk of ur life. esp at her age and even more so when marriage becomes a real possibility. she will surely calm down after time.

alot of ppl say they dont like the girl she is with oppa - calling her clingy, annoying etc. and that all she cares about is oppa. i frankly think thats just a normal attitude of a girl experiencing her first love. if anything, i think its wonderful that she is able to experience those intense feelings for someone she truly loves. and it would be the same if she was with CB (i hope). if she liked CB, i dont think she would act any different. if anything , it would be sad if she DIDNT act that way. i mean whats the point of having a guy like CB like you and treat you super nicely if you dont feel that passion for him?

i agree that sometimes oppa can be a bit lacking in the affection dept, but when he does do it, its that much more intense. plus i dont think he was ever able to date NJ in peace since he hadnt told her parents yet. another thing is that oppa and NJs interactions tend to be used alot for comic relief... i think the writers purposely wanna keep with the rough play to keep it funny, which it is. and thats why their relationship is so charming to begin with. they have a natural banter that is always going on as close friends - but that doesnt mean they don't like to transition into sexy time now and then ;) part time lovers, and full time friends.

0
1
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

Yeah, i get where people are coming from when they see na jung being all "clingy" and whiny with trash but why do you have to separate her from trash in order to see growth? She's currently experiencing dating and first love for the first time in her life. Plus, the only reason she's like that is because trash is denying her of skinship in fear of getting discovered by their parents.
Once that honeymoon stage is over in their relationship there's plenty of room for her to grow into whatever person she ends up becoming. I don't know about everyone else but in 2013 seems like she's got trash whipped. Fact is, she takes care of him and he takes care of her. He'll make sure she doesn't break her back and she'll make sure he doesn't drink spoiled milk.

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

Thanks Javabeans and GirlFriend for the 2 episodes' recaps!

Like both episodes where the secondary characters came forward to share their stories.

Haitai learning his life-long surviving skills from his senior officers. Some life lessons are gained not from books.

Bingeure eventually found he wants to do in life through his family's love. Even though being a doctor is not what he wants to do, he at least had given a try to be a singer (though failed due to 3rd-party plagiarism and con-man).

Samcheonpo and Yoonjin.... I love them! This episode has cemented their relationship! It's touching from the beginning how they started noticing each other and falling in love. Then compromising with each other's interest. Over a conflict, their relationship grows stronger and each has a better understanding of the other. It is obvious in their relationship that Yoonjin is the one wearing the pants (at least at the initial stage). But when time arise, Samcheonpo is able to step up and be the pillar that Yoonjin could rely on. Hmm... wondering if we will be able to see picture of their daughter?

0
0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

Did anyone notice that when the Japanese player was calling Chilbong at his room to come down and join the party, he called him 'Kim-san' as in Mr Kim?? So that means that Chilbong's surname is Kim, right???

0
2
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

Yup! And, on a side note, we've already been able to confirm that CB's name is Kim ____ Joon. There have been several comments made on last week's episode as well as 15 that have compiled all the information we know about the characters real names.

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

To counter point this though - Garbage's name is Kim Jae _____ based from his brother's names that were revealed in episode 12. And as Javabeans pointed out, Haitai's last name is Kim as well. So again, just a reminder that this is the writers way of messing with our heads =p

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

I think my main problem with the show is how it's abusing the who's the husband game to hook it's viewer and ultimately ruining the enjoyment of the romance and ruining what was a very engaging/well written love triangle.
in my opinion, a good love triangle keeps the pendulum swinging back and forth between contenders. ideally, the audience roots for the contender in concordance to what's happening in the story at that point and as the story progresses the audience falls a little bit in love with each of the contenders along with the main character and if the writer is control of their story the audience will understand why the main character chose who they chose. It was something I thought the Dream High/I Hear Your Voice writer did very well.

of course, there are always certain times where certain characters grab us more than others but I think it's a little crazy how intensely certain viewers prefer one guy over the other. In the beginning I liked how both guys were equal contenders and I liked the little mystery of who the husband was but I think it's progressed that...and spiraled out of control. It seems to me that Trash is going to be endgame which is why that 7+ episode time period where he was being all wishywashy with his feelings was a big writing mistake because it was during that time that Chilbong stepped up big time and won the hearts of the viewers (including mine) and by the time Trash was finally taking action it felt very jarring because we had already spent so much time with Chilbong. It was as if the writer was "oh shit we have to start putting in Trash moments now". But since T and NJ got together in ep 12 I was hoping they would use the remaining episodes to convince us that this IS the the ship to root for even though oppa stepped up a liiiitle too late for my liking but now they keep throwing in stupid little hints at Chilbong being to husband for the purpose of keepin this guessing game alive and it's just ruining the NJ/TJ's story and fueling this shipwar by giving Chilbong's fans false hope. I really don't understand the point of this guessing game anymore....especially when it's going to alienate half your audience. writer-nim you should try harder to persuade you viewers rather than tricking them kthnx

0
1
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

Yes I'm with you on this. That is why it's so manipulative of the writer to mess with our heads. I'm like you - I love all the characters and loved the initial surprise of Garbage being not her real brother in the beginning and the possibility that he is the husband, then towards the middle gravitated towards Chilbong, to now not caring who ends up with who because it's getting annoying. The husband mystery is definitely doing this show a disservice, that's why I'm glad they focused on Binggurae, Haitai, and SCP & Yoon Jin couple on these past episodes. I can't just enjoy the little moments of Oppa and Na-Jung because of the constant reminder that, hey it is still possible that they will not end up together! And that hurts Chilbong the character because it does seem like he's being reduced to a plot device to keep this up, when he deserves so much more than at this point in this drama.

It is doing a fan disservice to keep up with the husband mystery - for me, the pendulum swinging back and forth and totally taking the fun of me just watching the drama for everything else. It makes sense for Oppa-NaJung to end up together based from the storyline at this point, but once you have accepted that they remind you, that oh hey it's not over, or yeah psychic cousin is totally psychic (or not).

Lastly, I think we can all agree at least here in DB about not flaming the fans of this already heated love triangle. i believe out of all the forums (even tumblr is not immune to this), DB has the most level headed discussions about this drama but has started to have flame wars between shippers. It has gotten accusatory to even acknowledge a preference - there is nothing wrong with that but we can all agree to disagree without deducing the other person or disregarding their opinion just because they prefer the other ship. Just stop it guys! We can all have a big group hug when this is all over! :)

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

Isn't it completely understandable for najung's parents to react the way they did? Trash was always like a son to them, a brother to najung, so him suddenly getting together with her can be seen as a violation of their trust and him taking advantage of his closeness and integration into the family. I don't think it's so much of them being worried about losing a son. I am sorry but I cannot see how trash's relationship with najung right now differs much from previously; he was always touchy with her, always bantering, etcetc...he has always been and still is only an oppa to her, imo. Jung Woo's cringe-worthy aegyo does not help at all.

0
4
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

That cringe worthy aeygo makes me love him. They've said multiple times on the show that, outside of the inner circle, Trash is this super cool dude. Being with NJ brings out his inner geek, and it's awesome.
Sigh, I'm a sucker for the dorky types.

0
3
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

hmm i never thought of it that way. that is so true! oppa is def the cool, calm, and collected dude that everyone loves. but with NJ he becomes a totally different person... so ADORABLE HEHE i almost died watching him do the bunny/dog hop thing this episode HAHA

and also i really dont see why two people who are friends-turned-lovers really have to do a complete 180 to be considered lovers... like what are they supposed to do? stop the bantering and gaze into each other eyes and sing odes to love? completely change their dynamic and never ever get mad each other for stupid things (like they used to)?

like if ANYTHING, i feel as if they way they acted before was very couple-like to begin with. iono how other ppl are with their significant others but ive been with my boyfriend for 6 years and when we first started dating, yea it was very typically "romantic". but as our relationship progressed, we grew increasingly very comfortable with each other - were now both super goofy with each other, we make fun of each other, and sometimes we make the other person mad for no good reason. it doesnt mean that were not 'coupley' though - we are always there for each other, we are physically intimate, we take the time to do romantic gestures for each other, etc.

even if oppas actions with NJ havent changed drastically (minus the two kisses nbd) , there is reason behind the idea that there is a fine line between super close friends and lovers.

0
1
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

i wonder how many people out there who's been in a long, comfortable relationship with someone are Trash shippers.
I've been with someone for 9 years now(high school sweethearts) and i readily identify with their relationship because i find it has shades of what my relationship is to my significant other. We're as goofy and comfortable with each other as it gets, bicker like no other, instigate meaningless fights. Granted, we've gotten over the honeymoon stage and have settled nicely into what you call the comfortable stage. Other people might look at us and not quite see the sparkling lust and romance but we've got our own kind of love going on.
I watch k-dramas because of the different world they create, and the magical romances that sweeps us off our feet, but i appreciate reality when i see it in k-dramas, too.

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

Same here. I am madly in love with oppa who has managed to be dorky and protective oppa all at the same time. Jung woo has just shot up to my list of favorite actors.
Who's ever seen a hero like that in a k-drama? Never.
You always get those perfect nice guys or those jackass chaebols with a big heart underneath. Where's all the in- betweens? God dammit. There's alot of dorks that need lovin' too. His character is way more realistic (imo) than any character in dramaland which all end up being caricatures. (Maybe except for his genius abilities combined with his absentmindedness mix.
Surely if you can study medical textbooks you can read product labels to pick out face lotion.)
Like you courtney, i have a soft spot for dorky types, and i think that's the case for Trash shippers who find his aeygo-ness endearing. <3 <3 <3

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

Cutest part of Najung-Oppa is how they've come full circle now. i think the writers planted this scene on purpose :)
http://oi39.tinypic.com/xeefpx.jpg

it's cute to see Oppa being a giggly marshmellow with his jacket and i just love how he is so obedient! looks like he's even trying to keep his apartment clean now.

0
0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

thanks jb for the recap, and loved your comments at the end - balanced as always, and sincere. its the part of your recaps i've looked forward to since i started to read db in 2007 and you you could always be depended on for a rational voice amid all these crazy crazy emotional commentary.

onward to my fav parts of this episode (a reprieve from the intense shipping war) -

1. appa asking oppa to bring his little brothers (the trash bags out), and telling oppa he wont be able to break scp neck by strangling him

2. when they were watching forrest gump and scp comes in with the toilet bowl and they played the theme song from forrest gump - my favourite moment in the entire series because the song completely encapsulate the love in the movie and the moment in the show

3. when oma tells oppa to understand appa's feelings, there was a split second showing jung woo's trembling smile and heartbroken eyes - THIS. it feels so real, how many times have we seen this in real life, that hopefulness mixed with insecurity, so terrified of the outcome and when the reaction comes just as expected and you have to put up a brave front. it was an outstanding scene.

4. nj roaring at oppa if he wants to freeze to death or get beaten to death. her first reaction upon seeing the trashy room parallels with her expression back in oppa hyung's wedding when oppa told her to get more of his favourite food & a 2013 scene when oppa exploded mayo on her face. its hilarious, looking forward to more of these scenes with their children in 2013
(anybody else looking forward to seeing nj and oppa as parents????)

0
0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

"Dad says he’d be happy with even a homeless alien if he accepted Na-jung’s personality."

I may watch this ep just to hear Sung Ding Il deliver this line.

0
0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

Yesterday, i end up breaking my heart seeing how much chilbongie suffered. I love trash oppa, he's loving and caring doctor towards his patients, dependaple oppa for najeong family, and a good guy for na jeong. If he's the man, the groom of 2002, and the husband of 2013 (the love, skinship, and everything about trash and najeong are everywhere), then please don't torture chilbongie.. At least in this episode, i'm happy seeing how he's chasing his dream and lessen his interaction with najeong. Be tough, CB. Writer-nim, please give him a good, kind hearted, funny girlfriend for our chilbongie, will ya

Sometime i wonder what chillbongie profession is? Haitai civil servant, binggeurie and trash oppa are doctors, scp is white collar, chilbongie???

0
0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

The dilemma with this story is that the second male lead was supposed to be just that, a second male lead. His role is to serve as a rival, a catalyst and at times a threat then fizzle out in the end to give way for the main couple to sail happily into the sunset. Then comes YYS with his boyishly innocent but killer smile charming his way to our hearts. By episode six, half of us wanted him to be the husband while the other half did not have the heart to see him get hurt. By episode ten and eleven when the fizzling is supposed to start, the killer smile was replaced by far deadlier puppydog stares so full of longing, trying so hard to hide the hurt of his unrequited love. At this point, I believe is when the audience stopped regarding him as just the second male lead. The message conveyed by those eyes are more louder that any word that he has spoken. You could not help but unknowingly root for him. Who would not. His intentions are pure, his love is steadfast and whether you think he is loyal or just plain pathetic, by episode fourteen his pain became your pain. People emphatized with him to the point that watching the romantic scenes between the main couple makes you feel a little guilty because you are enjoying it at his expense. Episode 15 should have been the nail that sealed his coffin. They ship him off to Japan, and the main couple should start their sailing into the sunset thing, but by now it is too late. This story is not about Trash and Najong's romantic adventure anymore.This story has become Chilbong's journey. If it is the writer's intention for the main couple to end up together then it would not feel as triumphant because it is not only a given, but somehow it has become too predictable. Yes, they had their share of angst, the meaningful smiles, the stolen kisses, the romantic first love moments that make you giddy inside, and they had "The Kiss". However, by K Drama standards, it is still predictable. They cannot just fizzle him out now because they don't have a carrot to dangle anymore. They need a little more juice to last 6 more episodes, but at the same time, for the writer to continue stringing the poor guy just to give him anguish will dampen the happy ending because it just feels so wrong to do that to such a decent guy. We all know by now that the main couple will prevail if we go by the clues given like breadcrumbs following a typical K Drama formula. However I don't think that this drama is typical at all. For a drama as meticulously well written as this one the writers would not just go for the predictable. I don't know, somehow I just have this feeling that they are preparing the stage for Chilbongs great comeback. This might still end up as the best turnaround performance ever by a second male lead.

0
17
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

Although i'm not 100% all for chilbong to end up with na jung, i've got to applaud your comment. Written with such passion and level-mindedness that it makes me love chilbong all the more for it.

0
2
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

I started watching it without knowing any of the actors at all. My thinking that Chilbong should be the endgame is merely from the standpoint of a more interesting storyline. Putting the love angle aside, if we look at each characters journey his is the one with the most challenges. We thought in the beginning that he had an easy life being rich, goodlooking and a star athlete at that. But as his story unfolds we learn about the obstacles that he had to overcome. Growing up from a broken family, not really born a star athlete that everybody thought but became one through sheer determination. He have girls tripping in line to get on a blind date with him but the one girl he loves, loves somebody else. Yet through all this, the writers made him forge on, not bitter but coming out shining so far. That I think is where they forgot to factor in the stellar perormance of YYS. He managed to convey Chilbongs giddiness as he was falling inlove, his longing for a girl so close yet so unattainable, his pain at realizing that hard work alone will not necessarily win him "The Girl". He did all these, made me walk in his shoes, feel his pain and eventually end up fighting a lossing battle with him by the mere hint of a smile here, a longing look there, a tear or two in just 5 or 10 minutes of airtime. In other words, his story resonated more with me than the main couples journey, and they had 20 or more minutes to have me swoon over for their cause. I am sure that their story also resonated more with a lot of the viewers, but isn't that what it was supposed to be? What I am saying is that one stellar performance from the second male lead has somehow stolen the show and now for me the only way to end this as not just another predictable K Drama is give it the unpredictable ending. How they are going to pull it off in 6 episodes will define the mark of a great writer. We are now at the bottom of the 9th inning with 2 outs and a full base my fellow crack drama addicts. I am rooting for the underdog because I cannot see the point in the writers jerking us all over the place for a story that is a given. If I am proven wrong, I have enjoyed the experience. I laughed and cried with him, I am sure he can also bow out graciously and portray his defeat still shining...

0
1
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

I want to hug your post, NomadMom3.

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

I've enjoyed reading your comment and find myself nodding several times in agreement about some points you've mentioned. YYS really portrayed his role as CB so convincingly that you can't help but root for his character.

But is he really supposed to be the 2nd lead? I actually thought he's the main love line at the onset of the drama based on the news prior to the showing. But at this point, I think the line between the main lead and the 2nd lead is definitely blurred. Props to both as they've been stellar in their acting.

0
1
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

I read somewhere that the writers wanted and waited for JW to be available for the male lead. But you're right, by now the lines between the main lead and the second male lead are blurred due to the massive support that both actors are getting. They both did a stellar job regardless of the outcome.

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

Love, LOVE, L.O.V.E!!

YYS made Chilbongie shine, period! Interestingly, EVERYBODY on the cast signed for CFs except for him which makes me really sad.

0
1
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

He does have that hot MV with Hyorin which is super popular now too, so it wasn't an exact loss? LOL

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

thank you @NomadMom3 for your post! i love it.

for a character with so little screen time (gah, i hate you drama gods, why!), i don't know why but feel like, for me at least, the drama became about joon (chil bong). since episode 02, since he came out, it's like i got attached right away and there's no going back.

for some strange reason, i also think he's making a comeback, that he's the husband. it's all those parallelisms between dialogues/scenes in 2013 to 1990s, i don't know.

i'm hopeful for him and his happiness with na jeong, but yes, even though that won't be the ending of the drama, it's fine because i knew him and loved him as a character, and i enjoyed and learned a lot going through his experiences.

that's why answer me 1994 will be one of my favorite korean dramas. because it has joon (chil bong).

and for others who want a 2-minute video of chil bong and his expressions and mannerisms, and smiles, here you go... http://youtu.be/0YbVPKWgb3c

0
6
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

He will definitely make a comeback because how else are they going to spice up 6 episodes if they take him out of the equation. Yes we have the four other characters whose experiences we still need to explore, and the female lead ofcourse, who in a way got overshadowed (not intentionally) by the tug of war between two good men, portrayed by two better actors. However, the driving force of this drama has been the love triangle. We wished that they could have developed the friendship and camaraderie angle a bit more but we are too far gone for that to get picked up now. So either they spice up the the main couple's love affair by making them go through what K Drama couples go through (been done, seen that) or they yank back the exiled 2nd male lead and hopelessly lead us on again. I am sure we all saw this coming, but whether he will come back charging in full speed and finally winning the heart of the girl he loves is the great unknown that will unfortunately keep us hooked. I know, we all saw this coming too, but the game changer here is that YYS's portrayal of CB made him so endearing that he could easily carry a twist without allienating the viewers. To make him comeback just to whimper away and get awarded 2nd place is such a disservice to what would have been one great twist. Will the writer settle for your run of the mill love story, told and retold in countless other K Dramas? Or did they just pull off the biggest troll by presenting CB as an underdog 2nd male lead, seemingly fighting a loosing uphill battle only to come out as the "Real" male lead? Hoping against hope...

0
4
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

*raises hand* I would be totally alienated if CB won. Not to be a troll or anything, because this is a really cool and well thought out comment. But yeah. I agree that CB is a good character with a lot of appeal, but the drama has shown that it is definitely not about him. And though NJ may be underdeveloped (although CB is in the same boat, IMO), she's still a character with agency and feelings. Her whole story has been based in her evolving feelings for Trash, so any last minute "winning" her over and negating all that would be seriously disingenuous storytelling.

0
3
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

yes, nj is still a character with agency and feelings, and she's human and she may change her feelings over time. and maybe she wouldn't.

the same goes with joon. he's currently waiting because he cannot do anything else. over time, his feelings may change and maybe it wouldn't. distance and time may make him forget his unrequited love, and circumstances may lead him to meet and be with the love of his life... or maybe it wouldn't.

the writers/production will definitely not make joon the husband just because some people feel for him and his situation. but if ever they choose to go with such an ending, they will know how to do it in a way that such an outcome it doesn't feel too far-fetched.

as a joon fan, i am convinced there are clues in the 2002 and 2013 scenes that point to him as a husband. but those are based on my interpretation of the scenes.

i think there are also some clues in the 2002 and 2013 scenes that point to trash oppa as the husband, as well as clues that point to trash oppa as not the husband.

for one, the wallet; nj's husband is a brown/dark brown with a cream stripe outside and cream lining in a previous episode when she threw the wallet. but in this episode, trash oppa's wallet is black all throughout. but still, there may be a logical explanation that will make sense when the drama chooses to explain it later on.

for another the couple phone cases. joon and nj has them in different colors, whereas yoon jin has a cat cover. but still, there may be a logical explanation that will make sense when the drama chooses to explain it later on -- like everyone has the same style in different colors except yoon jin didn't use hers.

0

Thank you for sharing your take on the story, it is greatly appreciated. I stand corrected. I should say that most of the viewers won't be alienated if in the end he gets the girl instead of encompassing all the viewers. I agree with you that this story is not about him but about the main couple. It revolves around their journey with 5 other secondary characters each with their own little side story meant to spice up the drama as a whole but yet independent in a way. My point was that CB was suppose to be a third wheel on paper. He existed to give a little competition to T just enough to spur him on and rattle things up a little then fade away graciously with a litle sidestory of his own. By the time we got to this point though, a lot of the viewers (probably not the majority but enough to rock the boat) found themselves invested on his quest. Was it because of sympathy? Empathy? Or just plain underdog mentality, I don't know. All I know is that for me, he made me ask the what if, and then...why not? He gave me a glimpse of an alternative ending. I think that T and N are adorable together, and you are right this is their story, their journey, their happy ending. To nigate all that as you said will be disingenuos storytelling. I have seen enough K Dramas to be able to predict the trajectory of a story, but I am not an expert to solidly analyze It. I go by feel rather than analytical methodology so my emotions get in the way of my objective judgement. I don't know my friend, but I guess the ending we want boils down to whose story resonates with us the most. CB makes the girl in me all giggly and giddy. Those innocent looks, that boyish grin. The woman in me swoons everytime he longingly looks at N, silently rallying as he forge on hopeless yet determined and unwavering. While the mother in me wants to soothe his pain. To tell him to just accept it. Accept it and move on. We all know whose story this is, and the predictable happy ending, but I tell myself, it is the journey...not the destination. AM 1994 made me laugh and cry. Made me awake on countless sleepless nights. Made me so frustrated that my husband and kids would willingly join the prayer circle for CB just so I could get the ending that I want. CB/N or T/N it is too late for me. I already sold my soul to the Drama Gods!
Thank you for giving me an insight of your side of the journey, and for understanding mine. 6 more episodes to go and the destination is on the horizon. But what if...

0

@yuna111

I could understand the switch in real life, but this is a drama. NJ's entire emotional storyline has been based in her feelings for Trash. CB's feelings for her have not registered in her storyline up to this point in any way other than vague discomfort and indifference. And her feelings for CB have been comfortably friendly, with absolutely no hint it could become something else. If the writers decide to do a 180 on her storyline when it is like 80 percent of the way through, there is absolutely no dramatic justification for it that respects her character's emotional integrity. It would be about CB and CB only. I understand why people like CB and are a fan of the character, but I don't get why people are ready to write off the whole show for him. I just hope he ends up with a great girl who loves him in all the ways NJ categorically does not. I mean, how could a guy that great stay single for long?

Also, if the husband is decided on wallet colors and phone covers, then, I just can't, because then the show ceases to justify itself. Because if the 50 million hours I spent watching what is most definitely NJ and Trash's story is hacked by some narrative gimmicks, it will mean that the drama itself is totally irrelevant.

0

@yuna111

Thank you for sharing that vid. I had a goofy grin for the 2 minutes that the video was playing. He just lights up the screen.

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

thank you for posting this. I agree with you 101%.
Although Chilbong may have been given 5-10 minutes of airtime in each episode, his scenes with NJ were the ones that made so much impact on me. The new year's kiss. The confession. The goodbye in the snow. Him just staring at her while she rambled on their last night. And who could forget that 'It Ain't Over Until It's Over' thingy? or that baseball?

0
1
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

Don't forget the stadium walk. This was one scene where the simple act of walking was elevated into an epic romantic moment, with not a single word spoken, yet the message conveyed was louder and brighter than if it was pasted in the scoreboard complete with blinking neon lights. Then there was that razor sharp gaze when he purposely homered that annoying guy who wanted to hit on Najung. Lastly, the steely determination that's as palpable as the pulse in his set jaws when he answered Trash's challenge of "what then, if i like her". There is no mistaking the meaning behind that unwavering gaze, "one on one" bring it on!

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

Standing ovation to all of your comments, everything you said was done in such a wonderful and articulate manner. Thank you!

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

About the look on Oppa's face in the kitchen and on the porch it's the thought of losing his status as their son that made him sad. And what if things don't work out. Some people may find his behaviour tiresome but I had the same experience with Oppa... well kinda. I felt tormented when I realised I had a crush on my best friend. When it turned out the feeling was mutual, I insisted that we're not dating despite we can't kept our hands off each other, and said 'no matter what happened we're still friend'. The thought of losing him as a friend is more scarier so I refused to date him openly...pretty dumb huh. I still get tease up to this day about that. We've been married for 11 years, I think we were dated for 9 years and just like NJ and Oppa we were also childhood friend.

0
2
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

I wanna watch the kdrama of your life.

0
1
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

Thank you :) but I think 9 years of dating will make viewers bored except maybe several times when that we're-not-dating-and-still-friend-no-matter-what thing backfired on me, some girls (prettier than me of course) flirted with him in front of ME and I couldn't do anything about it :(

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

Answer Me 1994 started off great. I thought it would even surpass 1997, but now that we've reached the 15th episode, I can only say that the writers got way too invested in the "Who's the Hubby?' game. They tried way too hard to skirt the identity of the husband that in doing so, they could not dive past the surface of Najung's relationship to reach the meatier stuff without posing danger to the face of the husband. Sure, there's insightful monologues and maybe even growth of some individual characters, but we're purposefully kept a distance from the intimate bonding of a romantic relationship that really pushes at a viewer's heart. It's seriously like watching their relationship from the corner across the street. I think that's why the time skip with Oppa and Najung's 6 month of initial dating was so jarring. All we saw were kisses and hugging, which doesn't do much to convince the audience that they are the ones who are meant to be.

And I totally agree with what everyone is saying about Najung - she's been severely under-utilized in this drama (and Go Ara is fantastic!!!!!!! How could they!) I think if they had made her the centerfocus and narrator of the drama, it would have gone a lot better because, really, she IS the center of the situation. I felt in '97, because Yoonjae was obviously the husband, he was able to carry a good weight of the drama on his shoulders, showing us a great deal of the personal, and enabling us to sincerely feel every pang of his hurt and frustration throughout the relationship. Chilbongie feels like a Yoonjae, except he has barely any romance with Najung, making it seem wrong if he did end up the husband.

0
0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

That face of Chilbong when he reached for the baseball on the cupboard made me teary eyed. I watched 3 episodes last night till 2 am hoping for a brighter episode for Chilbong, but I found none and slept with a heavy heart.

Its strange that this the first drama that I did not look forward to all that smooching and actually skipped them, which makes me hate the writer for turning me into like that.

By the way, hooray for the "Like" button! I really like it! Where can I like the like button? hehe

0
1
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

me too...i cry alot too.... everytime chilbong appears with sad face, im crying and sad with him.....otttokeeeee?

i dont even know who is yoo yun suk before this drama, i did watch werewolf boy , but didnt notice the bad guy is yoo yunsuk.

but with this drama and his character as chilbong, i just love him to the max...im laughing and crying with him...

what u did to my heart, chilbong ah?????

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

The fact that no one has spazzed about the kiss yet is so, so sad. We all know how rare a good kiss in dramaland is, but everyone is so frustrated with the husband mystery and being sad or afraid for their ship that an amazing kiss like this is not getting the love and attention it deserves. It must be rectified at once.

GUYS, Oppaya knows how to kiss. /fangirls by herself

0
10
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

OMG u are so right!! yea man that kiss was really good!! she actually reciprocated the lip action this time around ;) i guess it makes sense since she was prob just super shocked the first time... plus theyve prob been practicing ya know ;) i doubt that was their second kiss, it was probably the umpteenth time hehe

but yea jung woo is such a good kisser! so sexyyyyyyy

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

Omg, you are so right. I've read every comment thus far and have not yet come across a spazz over that hot kiss.
Come on, that was like open-mouthed and a decent 4 kisses in one. You rarely ever get that in k-dramaland.
Granted, it's not one of the best, but it's still pretty good in comparison to the overall majority.
Gotta hand it to cable(well, mostly jung woo) to give us that hot kiss!

Where are all the Nareki/Trash-NaJung shippers? Probably not able to enjoy the scenes with that cloud of doom over their head. Either that or we need them to fangirl more often. This thread has gotten rather depressing what with all the disappointment.. :/

KISS some moaaar. <3

0
6
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

and the way he held the steering wheel...such a simple gesture but iono why but it was just so manly! and they way he couldnt stop looking at her lips after the first peck... and the way she was holding on to oppa's clothes tightly when they kissed... so much tension!!!! they just need to make babies already teheeheheh ok i sound like a perv now so ill stop. hahahahaha

0
5
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

Oh man, the steering wheel hold was too hot. I don't think I've ever been this worked up by the sight of a man's hand alone.

0
2
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

The hands were too manly. i think there were veins bulging out.

0

These comments + ones about the shirtless scene are seriously the best in here. They pinpoint the most important issues of this episode. Heeheee.

The hand. THE HAND...!

0

Personally, i saw some sexual tension in that gesture. gripping the steering wheel tightly = holding back.
Holding back from what? His inner beast.

Seriously, just make some babies already and end the mystery.

0
1
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

his sex maniac side is really having a hard time with NJ and her skinship LOL XD

0

THIS!!! Completely agree.. The lips. The hand in the steering wheel the hand tugging the shrit. Man sexual tension was off the charts.
What i loved more was the build up to the his aloofness her peck in the cheek, him pecking her in her lips then unable to contain himself to go for the real one. Seriously awesome kiss. Should have been discussed more.

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

These writers do know how to give us great kisses. I actually went back and watched the Si Won/Yoon Jae scenes from 1997 to compare.

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

#Haitai <3

0
0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

I totally agree! The fanwars are CRAZY! it's like they are picking at the opposing team, but forget that the point is at that time both guys love her. The fanwars are totally messing up the journey of who she ends up with at the end of her journey. The way deal with is she can have one and I will have the other :)

0
0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

The kisses are sooo wrong for me...don't know why... it feels sooo wrong!!! I totally can understand the parents' reactions. Having grown up together since little and been thought of as brother-sister, this is just sooo wrong!
Ya...but love happens.. like it or not....some love like this do happen which is not looked upon kindly.
For me the relationship between Najung and Garbage feels like an incest one...
Chilbogie is a better choice if the writers have thrown out Haitai from the competition...but I guess...Haitai may come back from the Army in the 16th Episode and things will warm up from there...
Rooting for Haitai all the way... He is a friend, a confidante and knows Najung well and even likes her!
Being in the Army can actually make him sort out his priorities and feelings. Also if he lacked maturity in relationship, he's already learning a lot of life skill so I believe he will come out stronger and better.
Friends like him make the best lover and a life long companion... not someone like Garbage who was raised like a son and been like an elder brother for Najung...

...but those kisses makes me scared... only the OTP gets to kiss so many times and they have already been kissing, cuddling and is in a relationship... ahh...this is not right....if they end up together then it will be confirmed for me that Korean dramas love to play on incest (even though it is not but...) relationships as suggested in various dramas...

0
0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

Haitai is the end game!!!

It just occured to me!

Oppa Garbage after getting cold reactions from Najung parents, and having guilt over violation of their trust and love as a family member breaks off with Najung or goes off to a far off place for his internship.

Chilbogie is still in Japan... and meanwhile Haitai gets discharged from the Army and the first person he rushes off to meet is Najung...

Najung is totally heart broken after getting dumped. Haitai becomes the main source of strength for her gradually which leads to them falling in love with each other...
Also Haitai confesses his feelings and proposes to Najung... Najung accepts and they get married... Happy ending,...

The wedding comment of Najung's father of how the groom is ugly and all this and that fits the theory/ fact that Hatai is the Husband and also like many pointed out the grooms' parents looks like Haitai's parents.
I'm hoping madly that Najung and Haitai ends up together in the end...

#teamhaitai

0
3
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

Weee....Haitai! Haitai for president! Haitai for me! Why worry about the two main contenders when you can just make your own contender, so there will be no pain and suffering or consequences? No bruise, no harm done. So I say vote for Haitai lol. But it would be totally awesome if in Haitai is the husband in the end nobody saw it coming. BOOM. If that happened I would be like, "I knew it, crazy and "overly imaginative" people DO make sense."

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

This would be so awesome and pretty logical. Except that they hardly even focus on Haitai in 2013 and it doesn't explain the baseball. Seriously, writers, there was so much potential, so little used. SMH

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

hai tai's parents were shown in the show already, when he went to the army. his parents were nothing like the groom's parents in the wedding video.

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

I was thinking, and even though pd and writer are loving to troll/cheat with us, there is something that never changed: NJ love. She loves oppa-yah until episode 15, has only eyes for him, never thought about CB more than a friend.

If she showed some mixed feelings for CB, or showed some confusion, I would get why people are feeling cheated and played. But NJ never showed CB nothing more than friendship, and most of CB shippers see something where there isn't. It isn't a love story between CB and NJ, if Nj feels anything about him. She really never showed any confusion or hint she might like him - so all your hopes comes from wishing CB might be the husband and getting trolled by the pd.

If we look past the trolling, the main couple NJ-T are always there, their relationship keeps developing, and they keep falling more in love. Nj feelings never changing.

So this is the key and big hint who she husband might be, and you should not ignore it and just think about CB's feelings, when NJ's feelings were clear all this time.

So that is why I don't feel that affected by the trolling or who the husband is.

Now, if NJ goes to CB, in just little episodes, I might feel cheated.

Why? Because there wasn't hints about NJ feelings changing and it would feel rushed, also why spend 15 episodes on NJ-T relationship to throw us CB and NJ in the end?

This would be really mean and big trolling because they didn't prepare the viewers for it.

0
6
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

YES. Thank you. Na-jung is not a baseball game--she has feelings too. This is why CB as the endgame would at this point be just plain bad writing and storytelling. I could have understood a CB ending if she had shown any interest in him over the past 15 episodes, but no. And it's not just that, having a CB ending at this point would destroy the T/NJ relationship and would really only work for CB's character. One character vs. the whole drama? Eh, I'll take the drama.

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

But feeling today are not necessarily the feels for tomorrow or the next year or six years. Just cuz she has no feeling today doesn't mean she won't have feelings down the line. We all change and grow and what we love one day may be forgotten the next day. Everyone in the 80 ' s loved that crazy permed poodle hair but you wouldn't see that as fashionable today.

How name times has our heart been broken and thinking that we will never get over the pain but we eventually do. That is what growing up us all about. Accepting the pain not let it it weight you down. That goes for CB too. If oppa is the end game then CB has moved past it and all the better for him.

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

You haven't seen NJ's feeling for CB,Because They didn't show any of her reactions to you.

Why do you think,They can't show them to you through Flashback?

The question should be,Will you believe those feeling,If They show you That She indeed felt something/awkward in all the screen times She shared with CB?

0
3
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

I posted it up thread - in AM 1997, on the last episodes they showed all the scenes in earlier episodes now with the reactions (answers, or replies if you will) of the characters when they finally revealed who the husband is. So I wouldn't imagine them doing any different this time. And that for me, as an answer me fan where the confusion lies. It certainly looks on paper that Oppa-Na Jung is end game, yet what is up with the abrupt scenes where Na-jung's reaction to CB is not showed when he confessed? Or that farewell scene of CB giving the baseball to Oppa, why was Garbage reaction not shown? My guess is that there are more to this scenes that will be revisited later and it would somehow tie back to the ending.

0
1
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

The completed scenes in 1997 were scenes from 2012, not the scenes from the 90's... (save the breakup scene and we all knew what that was and it did not conflict the rest of the present story)

If anything this proves the future is NOT to be trusted and is cropped to mislead. It does not in any way suggest we will go back to the past and see stuff that totally changes everything. If the main segments were cropped to mislead this would be one bad show, basically it would tell a story and then say haha it is a lie.

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

I already replied to this argument up thread in reply to Mashimomo, so I won't get too into it. But all I'm going to say is that if at this point we do not see NJ loving CB, she doesn't. SW/YJ were in a very different relationship than NJ/CB so the portrayal of SW's realization that she liked YJ is far more nuanced and complicated. It's not clear when she started liking him, but she realizes she likes him when he comes to rescue her from that pervert that one time. It's just she was confused, and add in the fact that SW was an extremely immature and emotionally dense character, it becomes clear that her wanting to stay as friends with YJ wasn't so much a rejection as a denial. She didn't want to deal with change in their relationship. It was also pretty clear that she didn't feel much for TW, and even though they didn't reveal the break up scene till later, it was fairly obvious why she was doing it then.

Anyway, long story short, SW's feelings for YJ were not revealed in the later parts--they were revealed in the 1997 storyline. If anything, CB is similar to TW, in that she was never into him. And also, if NJ has been secretly in love with CB this whole time, I'll eat my hat. And if CB is the husband, I'd like my 15 plus hours of watching NJ and Trash's story back please.

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

Maybe this will end like Queen of Reversals (i.e. planned 2nd lead gets the girl)?

Like many commenters, I find myself unable to enjoy the show as fully as before since around episode 10, mainly because I'm getting ultra pissed off about the husband thing being used to jerk us viewers around! It is really getting irritating!

I think Na Jung as a character, ended up being the most poorly developed along the way as a result of all this rubbish. I'm not sure why everyone claims to know how this is going to end, in the show Na Jung is still in college and is still young, things can change and feelings are dynamic things. Maybe like some people say, it may be better for her to end up with NEITHER CB/oppa, although we know the husband is one of them, so the only other ones in the running are Haitai/Binggrae.

I find that I don't really care, cos it's not like Na Jung is such a great catch. I don't see why she's such a great girl that these 2 are fighting over her? They didn't develop her character well enough, and we haven't seen any growth from her character over the last couple of years. She just went from spazzing over Sangmin oppa to trash oppa..... she is far from being an adult to me.

In the end, I'm not sure what I am rambling about, I just wish the show had been better with less trolling. Sad for what it could have been, but it's still a good show, unless the ending really sucks.

0
2
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

NJ isnt a great catch? i mean i dont even know what being a great catch is - being exceptionally pretty? exceptionally nice? exceptionally smart? All of the above?

obviously, both guys have their own reasons for liking her as much as they do. they dont have to like her for the same reasons. i personally find her adorable, caring, motherly, cute, and very relatable. yes she 'spazzed' about sangmin oppa, but is that really such a bad thing to do? I'm nearing by mid 20s and yet here i am still fangirling over celebs LOL i have a bf of six years and i work full time and am working toward grad school. i dont think that necessarily would make me not an adult.

also she is not "spazzing" about oppa, she is currently in a serious relationship with him. they are in the beginning stages, but it is likely that in the future she will grow within the context of her relationship - aka she will learn that love isn't perfect, that she and oppa will have arguments, that passion doesn't necessarily last forever, and she will ultimately tone down (kinda sad though cuz u would think that it would be nice to be excited about ur SO forever haha :( ) and in terms of her career i hope to see it addressed more explicitly in future episodes. her growth will become more apparent as she experiences more tribulation, which still has yet to occur (any major problems that is).

go team NJ! haha

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

If NJ is the most poorly developed character then what about CB? All CB does is have crush on NJ. Even baseball was turned into a simbolism of NJ for him. His character is nothing else.

NJ has the basketball, YJ, the friendship with HT, the health problems, teaching CB, the problems of handling a good friend being in love with her, her feelings to Oppa, being the daughter, etc...

So how is NJ less developed than CB?
I agree that she is not the best developed character, and we nee to have some story about her ambitions, etc.
But she is nowhere near as poorly developed as CB for example.

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

A part of me thinks that many of the viewers are missing the point. I understand that especially in tv, and let's face it especially in korea, writers are coerced into adjusting to the public wants and desires. It's why we get pointless extensions and devastating cuts. The beauty of reply 1994 (and 1997 sort of) and tvN as a network is that the producers and writers are given the liberties to tell the story more or less exactly as they envisioned. Yes, they created this mystery and planted obvious red hearings to play at our heartstrings and evoke our deepest emotions but, that's the fun of it. That's the beauty of good storytelling. Getting people to really feel and have opinions towards the characters' plights. Being as uncertain with the future as they are in the past as it unfolds. Sure, focussing more on the mundane day-to-day life of chilbong would be enjoyable but let's be honest, you wouldn't be AS invested. It's a method of storytelling that's used in SO many american shows (Lost and how I met your mother, to point out the obvious) without the criticism that "the writers are screwing with us and they shouldn't be" argument. Of course even I am leaning towards one over the other in this mystery. Will I be sad if he doesn't get the girl? Of course. But I will be frustrated and confused knowing that I care enough for these characters to have these feelings. The writers didn't fail and the writers aren't messing with me. They're just telling the story the way they wanted to, plain and simple. I'm just looking forward to the reveal.

0
2
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

Well said. My sentiments exactly.
Ppl get upset becos the story being told isn't the story they'd like to have told.
We all lean towards one guy over the other. It's silly to get hostile with ppl who lean towards the other.

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

There needs to be more comments like these.

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

I love the segments about Yoon Jin's Seo Taiji obsession. It gives insight into the rabid fangirl psyche.
I found it very funny that fans went into his vacated house and took everything, including the floor coverings! But I guess it was no joke.

So it was at this time, early 1996 after retirement that Seo TJ went to U.S., married Lee Jia and started a family. No wonder it was kept a secret. So many fangirls would have jumped off the roof, going by YJ's reactions.

0
0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

I hate how they openly call Samcheonpo Sung Kyun now. It's like, "It's all right, you can have a name, because we all know you're NOT the husband."

It puts the husband issue as the central point of this drama, and I'm not denying that it's a huge issue, I just wish they'd develop NJ & Oppaya & CB as individuals on their own, too, not just "From NJ's Oppaya to NJ's BF-Oppaya" or "Someone who loves and will fight hard for baseball to someone who loves and will fight hard for Najung."

I wish they'd given some other storylines that doesn't involve the other people in the 'love triangle', you know.

0
1
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

Chil bong has been called joon since ep 3. Rarely but enough times. Definitely more so lately.

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

Trash reminds me of my Brother in law.

For people he is so serious and cool about things. But in front of my sister. Gosh I cringe everytime he talks using his aegyo voice LOLOLOL It sounds so wrong coming from him, the cool serious guy. ANd his foolish smiles... lol I know he must really love my sister.

So Idk why you guys keep insisting that they don't seem like a couple...

0
0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

Err, everytime I read people saying A1997 was better .

Hm no. The husband game got really tiring too and all, it is just everyone was sure YJ was the husband, so you guys didn't stress much about it.

Plus, I don't really remember much about the secondary characters there. There was the dumb but nice guy, there was the guy that watched Porn, and there was the girl that was SW friend and liked idol groups. Aside it? Nothing much. JH had a crush on YJ, aside it what more about himself we knew? His world was all about YJ.

SW world was all about tony oppa.

YJ world was all about SW. Like for almost the entire drama.

So I don't get when people say in A1997 the love triangle didn't had much focus, I disagree.

If NJ life is all about Trash and her love line, I can say YJ life and characterw as all about Liking SW.

0
0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

Wow.
I think this may be the first drama where the ship wars are so fierce--it doesn't help any that the writer is trolling so damn much!! I get that she's trying to drag it out for the big reveal, but come on! The drama has lost a lot of the charm that drove the beginning half...making it more of who's-the-hubby, whereas there was a natural progression in AM1997. Why even bother with the love triangle if it's gonna be so freakin obvious? What fun is it to follow the trajectory of 1997?

And the ship wars have gotten way ridiculous! It's just a drama y'all...so-called attacks on bashing the other ain't cool, no matter which side is "right." I thought the commenters on here were civil but reading all the comments on recent eps, I'm beginning to question why on earth there is such rabid attacking (G's side seems to be overdoing it more than C's)...and to think there'll be 6 more episodes of this madness! I'm neither G or C...if she's gonna throw a wrench, let it be H!! ;)

0
10
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

No, from episode 12 foward 1997 was boring because we knew who was the husband, everyone knew but the pd keep the who is the husband game until the end.

0
1
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

I didn't say AM1997 was more exciting, I just meant that there was a natural (more smoother) progression to the story without full-heartedly depending on the "who's the husband" gimmick to make the story. Although, I gotta say that TW ain't definitely no CB.

In AM1994, the writer is jerking the story back and forth, where all the viewers are already aware there is "who's the husband?" going on (thus, the lack of progression). And unfortunately, it's getting pretty olddd now.

And yes, people pretty much figured it out towards the beginning, since the "could it be TW?" wrench was thrown in later on in the game...whereas here, both were shown from the beginning.

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

"x side is doing it more than y side" needs to stop.

0
7
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

I find it funny that this is coming from a G shipper...when I'm pointing out that BOTH sides gotta stop. Perhaps pointing that out is striking a nerve..? Jeezzz.

I've pointed it out before that this is coming from an OBJECTIVE unbiased view, because I don't ship either. Got it? Good.

0
5
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

lol, i was agreeing with your comment until you made the side comment "(G’s side seems to be overdoing it more than C’s)"
So technically, yes, you did say both sides need to stop, but then made a backhanded comment by saying G's side is overdoing it. So maybe the comment is not 100% unbiased.
No need for any attitude, she was just trying to end all the smack about which fan-ship is attacking the other.

0
1
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

I respectfully decline that my comment had attitude or was backhanded in any way; I simply made the observation from the comments on here. I would have given proof (as in providing numerical evidence) but honestly, I lost count! lol ;P

But seriously though, reading the comments on here...it's a bit jarring to read so many comments that are simply just mean-spirited and so downright condescending. I know that obviously everyone has a right to express their opinions, but that doesn't give anyone leeway to shove their opinion down someone else's throat or bash them for simply stating their opinions. Takes the fun and joy out of reading the various insights that normally make digesting a particular drama more easier with an open mind.

0

This is about the most passive aggressive comment I've ever read. Objectively speaking.

0
2
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

*@tara. Not sure if I replied to the correct post.

0

haha...reading that secondary comment a few days after, I can see where you get that, it does come off a bit snarky. I guess I was a bit pissed off at reading the continued overload of negative comments, and it manifested in my writing xP My apologies, if there was offense taken...

0

Honestly, looking around this comment section, isn't that the truth? G side definitely doing it more than CB side, throwing all kind of dirt on CB. Well, some are legit well thought out opinions, but some are just biased and hurtful comments which completely fail to look deeper into CB's actions and take it just as its face value.

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

I feel this drama dragging already. I believe that it's going to be Oppa in the end but they're still making us guess. Actually, it doesn't matter who ends up with who as long as they're all happy. But right now, all it does is make me feel so bad for Chilbong but dislike him at the same time. Yes, I feel sorry for him for having such a sad one-sided love but dude, you're not really doing anything. He's not aggressive enough to be the lead. The drama keeps on putting him away from the spotlight. If Najeong does end up with Chilbong, I think it would feel weird. I mean, we only have 6 episodes left and Najeong doesn't seem to be wavering, even a bit, because of Chilbong.

Anyways, I really love Samcheonpo and Yoonjin together. I agree with you about Samcheonpo not understanding why Yoonjin is like that and what she's doing is just totally not his style. Still, he did the thing that he knows would make her feel better, all for her sake. Wait, let me cry for a moment.

Well, we only have 6 more episodes so I guess we'll see the end soon. I hope it's good. And some 1997 cast cameos please!

Thanks for the recaps, javabeans!

0
0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

I am really wondering what we are to expect in the future. At some point, all of the boarders will have to go their separate ways and meet up again in during New Year's 1999. There still so much that's left to fill in the next six episodes, what happens when Haitai comes back, CB's family problems, how the dynamic might change for both families since Trash and NJ are now dating, and more. In the end, they all find a way back to each other which goes to show how strong the relationships are going to build in the end. There seems to be no hard feelings between anyone in the future, even between anyone in the love triangle and I'm definitely looking forward to see how it all progresses.

0
0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

Maybe if I concede to Trash Oppa, I'll get to enjoy the show for this weekend. Cursing myself for getting into that ship thing.

0
0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

i really liked the scene in ep 14 where CB threw the ball to oppa in 2013. it was just such a warm moment between them - u can tell there are absolutely no hard feelings and that if anything they seem super close. :) this assurance is what will keep me watching the series.

0
0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

I have a bad feeling that is trash oppa did u see hw. Na-Jung's appa walked out wen he went respectfully to ask to date her. And in d wedding video wen her little bro said his siter husband is d most handsome of the five guys and d father said no dats he was not squeezing his face b4 takig d boy 2 d bathroom. I also miss Haitai.

0
2
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

agreed!!! if it had been chilbong, dad would have agreed at the handsome comment!!

0
1
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

honestly, in opposite, dad said that about their in law cause that day he is jealous his daughter taken away
and he isn't in his baseball team

0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

after watching this ep, i dont think there's any hope for chilbong left T_T

0
0
reply

* Register or Login (Get credit for your great comments)

Required fields are marked *

Join our newsletter ♥

Editors' Digest

Featured Videos

Linky



    Currently Airing

    Prime-Time Shows This Week
    Monday-Tuesday (September 9-10) Wednesday-Thursday (September 11-12) Weekend (September 13-15)