Open Thread #462
by DB Staff
Happy Friday everyone!
Here is your Open Thread, which is here for you to chat about anything you want, whether it be drama-related or not. Nothing’s off-topic here! Spoilers may be rife, so proceed accordingly.
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1 pebble
August 26, 2016 at 6:11 AM
This is a week of redeeming oneself through courageous action.
Firstly, in The Good Wife, Hye-kyung finally redeemed herself from all her wifely obligations and courageously served Tae-joon the divorce papers.
Secondly, in Doctors, I loved the transformation in Seo-woo. She thoroughly redeemed herself from the guilt of her past wrongful deed against Hye-jung, and even chided her dad for failing to apologize to HJ for causing the death of her granny. Not only that, she also courageously apologized to HJ on her dad’s behalf. I didn’t expect that she would kneel down before HJ to express her sincerity. The scene was very well delivered by Lee Sung-kyung, it was quite touching. I also liked SW and Young-gook as a couple (SW did Subway a great disservice by being hardly able to swallow it and they left the outlet with the sandwich uneaten!). Their love was more heart-warming and down-to-earth when compared to that of HHH and HJ.
Thirdly, in Uncontrollably Fond, JY’s mom finally completely redeemed herself from the delusion of idolizing JY’s dad. This enabled her to reconcile with her son, and accept him as he is as she was able to let go of the bitter disappointment when JY did not follow in the footsteps of his dad to become a prosecutor. Still, UF is unbelievably frustrating, it gives the impression that it is trying to weave a complex melo net by entangling everyone in the interwoven twists and twirls of a relationship mesh. While busily generating angst and agony here, there and everywhere, it somehow lost sight of the most important element of a melo which moves the viewer, i.e. unfaltering love. Probably it is never too late to refocus on this in the remaining eps, and it looks like No-Eul is to shoulder this burden, provided that Suzy’s performance is up to the mark.
I’ve yet to watch ep 11 of W2W, while ep 10 felt like the modern version of SWWTN. What with a stomach wound, and building up to a final showdown with the devil (gwi). I salute the actor Kim Eui-sung, his transformation from dad to killer is amazing! It seems that there had been some serious discussion in DB recap about the possibility of multiple universes (Copenhagen interpretation and Schrödinger's cat??). Omg, this is too complex to delve into, you either like the drama or dislike it. I initially disliked it and felt that it was illogical and trying too hard to be ground-breaking sensational. But it is just a fantasy drama right? Why take the plot too seriously. Twenty years ago, Sadako crawled out of the TV screen to haunt the shit out of everyone. This scene in The Ring was accepted reverently with no questions asked, so it shouldn’t be too hard to accept that characters could jump in and out of a computer screen or teleport here and there like they did in Star Trek.
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pebble
August 26, 2016 at 6:13 AM
I also watched Cinderella but increasingly find it too childish for my taste. Second To Last Love is watchable, especially when the leads always said “As I grew older, …..”, those conversations resonated so well with me! I’ve almost finished reading BBJX, thanks to Moon Lovers SHR, I got to read quite a good novel, though from the posters just released, I think that MLSHR will deviate quite a lot from the original novel.
Lastly, I would like to share a lovely Japanese song from 30 years ago. It was made well known in the Chinese music scene by the “God of Songs” Jacky Cheung who sang the Chinese version of it. It is quite an evergreen indeed, as DBSK sung a cover version only a few years ago. There are so many versions of the original on youtube, here’s one with translated English lyrics. Enjoy!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BNSGMq6a9Ng
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Sancheezy
August 26, 2016 at 6:18 AM
oh rainy blue....
one of my favorite cover for the song is from Onew (the ptsd alobe doctor in DoTS)
https://youtu.be/0LXT4BrTZ34
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pebble
August 26, 2016 at 6:29 AM
Thanks so much for this Sancheezy, I love it! The piano solo is daebak and that crystal voice is so awesome!
Here’s DBSK singing Rainy Blue together with the original singer Hideaki Tokunaga, the violin solo is beautiful too. I was quite hesitant to post this due to the recent YC scandal, but shall we just watch this for other members, especially Chang-min? However, DBSK's singing was not as good when compared to Shinee Onew.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DXuc60k2BKk
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pebble
August 26, 2016 at 6:47 AM
Here's the Cantonese version by Jacky Cheung from 1986, he sung another new version of this song in 2000, but I still prefer the original 1986 version.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LxKFPLXhpR0
Sancheezy
August 26, 2016 at 8:09 AM
@Pebble
aah DB5K....
I also love changmin the most, idk why, I just like him the best
I think Changmin and Onew have their own strength in singing,
and thanks for the 1986 version, idk that the 2000 one is the new version
it sounds good and nostalgic
PakalanaPikake
August 26, 2016 at 5:29 PM
@Pebble,
Lovely... and the violin solo is bittersweet. I'm glad to hear Hideaki Tokunaga singing it with the younger generation.
pebble
August 26, 2016 at 5:50 PM
Hi @PakalanaPikake, glad that you like the song.
@Sancheezy, after listening to it carefully, I find the Jacky's 2000 a cappella version very enchanting too! His singing matured quite a lot with age, it sure feels very nostalgic!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QwgGkO6ay6A
pebble
August 26, 2016 at 9:42 PM
About Chang min, I think he has that scholarly look which is rather charming, not many korean actors have that kind of "intellectual" appeal. In SWWTN, I think he looked more scholarly than LJK (who has a different kind of appeal), though he was supposed to be the emperor and he the scholar, lol. :)
PakalanaPikake
August 26, 2016 at 5:20 PM
Thanks, Sancheezy...
That is truly beautiful!
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erratic
August 26, 2016 at 10:31 AM
I actually meant to post a similar question when I realized that all songs in my Apple Music account are Korean OSTs. Lol.
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Oshi
August 26, 2016 at 2:08 PM
It took me a while to commit to 2TLL. There was something of a disconnect between the Korean sensibilities and the patterns in the plot. I think it's one of those lost in translation moments. However it's started to find it's footing and finally lost the jarring aspects.
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PakalanaPikake
August 26, 2016 at 5:11 PM
Pebble,
Thanks for posting that link. Wow! Hideaki Tokunaga has such a beautiful voice. My first time hearing the singer as well as the song, and both are a treat.
It's also very interesting to me to view his performance. No fancy-schmancy gimmicks. He seems to be wearing simple street clothes... It's "just" his voice and the music. Love the piano accompaniment.
Emotively, he reminds me of the late Harry Chapin (and Jim Croce, too). I heard Harry's solo show circa 1976, and you could hear a pin drop in the audience... He didn't have a classically beautiful voice, but did have a gift for telling stories from the heart in gorgeous word pictures tinted with his Brooklyn accent. I didn't realize that the 35th anniversary of his passing was last month. He performed many benefit concerts for a wide array of charitable causes.
Much like Kdramas, Harry Chapin told "story songs," often with a twist.
Harry Chapin- Mr. Tanner
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TUCZUNevrEQ
That's "Big" John Wallace singing "Oh Holy Night" in the background. He and Harry were in the Brooklyn Boys Choir when they were kids.
Now off to listen to the other versions of "Rainy Blue." ;-)
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pebble
August 26, 2016 at 9:54 PM
@PakalanaPikake, thanks so much for this lovely song by Harry Chapin. It reminded me of Billy Joel's Piano Man, which is a "story song" too. It always feels so delightfully exhilarating to share those music we love and be introduced to new songs and singers previously unheard of, but which strike a deep chord within upon listening to the songs.
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pebble
August 27, 2016 at 1:20 AM
I forgot to comment about Hideaki Tokunaga's voice, it is so unique isn't it? It feels like a high-pitched soprano voice, yet slightly husky and so very soothing. I also love his other songs such as 壊れかけのRadio (Broken Radio), etc.
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Sancheezy
August 26, 2016 at 6:16 AM
Sadako still so scary for me,
one reason why I can't really watch horror movie, especially from Asia,
not to mention Thailand horror genre,
it just so good that make me afraid of real life,
my limit is my own laptop screen for horror movie,
but I am okay with gore or bloody looked in movie, I probably can't stand the music.
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Sweetsammy
August 26, 2016 at 8:08 AM
Same is tge case with me friend!!
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pebble
August 26, 2016 at 5:31 PM
I used to like horror movies when I was younger, but I refrained from watching them anymore, as they clutter the mind with disturbing images. Yeah, apart from the Japanese, the Thais are very good at making horror movies. I watched Nang Nak when it was shown on a multicultural channel here years ago, I was totally freaked out like when I first watched The Ring, do not watch it if you don't have the guts!
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junny
August 26, 2016 at 6:23 AM
For Ring, I found the novel freakier than the film.
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Lixie
August 26, 2016 at 8:47 AM
The Ring did a very good job explaining the mythology behind the monster, she had paranormal powers when alive and she followed rules before being able to get the victim. It's very different from W which has no rules for anything.
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pebble
August 26, 2016 at 10:01 PM
Yeah, that's right. Since paranormal and supernatural occurrence could not be explained at the onset, it is more easily acceptable than W2W's illogical plot, which is neither here nor there. So I stopped justifying the logic behind it and dismissed it as complete fantasy and just sit back to watch whatever it has to offer.
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mary
August 26, 2016 at 8:48 AM
Why can't we talk about quantum physics? :) Someone just made a Schrodinger's cat joke and others wanted to know what was the joke.
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windsun33
August 26, 2016 at 11:35 AM
Some recent research show that in fact there may be two cats, or no cat at all...
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pebble
August 26, 2016 at 5:18 PM
My understanding from someone who studied physics up to MSc level is that multiple universe is a theoretical foundation expressed via mathematical formulas, and not yet been verified experimentally. I never like physics when in school so my understanding of it is pathetically limited, bringing such a complex discussion to justify the plot of W2W is somewhat too abstract, it still bolis down to whether you like it or not. If someone doesn't buy the idea, even if this was argued till the cows come home, those who don't like it will still be unconvinced, right?
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mary
August 26, 2016 at 5:33 PM
We weren't laying it down as a foundation of W2W though. Just having fun with the cat. It's why I used probabilities instead of delving into the psi function. ^___^
Then again, I'm not a physicist. Just a normal engineer. So if anyone wants to take the quantum discussion into more detail, I might not be able to follow either. And I'd probably bow down to that person's expertise.
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pebble
August 26, 2016 at 10:22 PM
I deeply respect people who can tackle the "hard" sciences (of course, this includes you, though you said you are "just a normal engineer"). I hated maths and physics, they are just not my cup of tea, and I do not have aptitude for them too. Conversely, I'm not an "arts" person too, I can appreciate music, literature and art works, but all at a superficial level only. So I am those who are neither here nor there. So I took the easy way out by going into info tech, at least it enabled me to eke out a living, haha.
erratic
August 26, 2016 at 11:53 PM
Reminds me of a play I saw a few months back, Nick Payne's Constellations. The premise is that an infinite number of universes exist, branching out from every choice every person makes.
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pebble
August 27, 2016 at 1:02 AM
Hi @Erratic, I like all the songs in the list of "tear inducers" you listed below.
May I add Josh Groban's version of of Cinema Paradiso to the two Italian songs (Per Te and Mi Mancherai) you listed?
And Kim Bum Soo’s I Miss You from Stairway to Heaven, ah, that one is my all time favorite kdrama ost, the chorus was sung so explosively with such grief and deep emotions, after 10 years, I still like it so much!
erratic
August 27, 2016 at 3:32 AM
Actually I feel the same for pretty much all of Josh Groban's foreign language songs. Another such song is Un Dia Llegara from the album Awake.
Best Josh Groban album for me is still 2003's Closer, though. All of the songs in there gave me goosebumps (and/or) tears. =)
thespiritisaway
August 27, 2016 at 8:18 AM
Hi there! I just had to unlurk and make a first reply/comment on DB when you mentioned Constellations. Granted, I've only watched W up to episode 8 atm (I'm catching up gahh); but I'm reminded so much of Constellations when W shows glimpses of the alt-events.
I can't tell if you liked the play, but man, I'd give lots of money to watch it again.
erratic
August 27, 2016 at 9:37 AM
Hi, @thespiritsaway, I'd give good money to watch it again. That play was gorgeous, and yes, faintly reminiscent of W.
2 Sancheezy
August 26, 2016 at 6:11 AM
Happy OT
dramagod have been so nice for me lately
Mon-Tues with Moonlight drawn by Clouds
Wed-Thurs with the two world - W
Friday for any variety available
Sat-Sun with the cinderella and the questionable 4 knight (ha-hyun ship *cough)
lately I've been obsess with the newest OST of Scarlet Hear : Goryeo by EXO and Urban Zakapa - I don't love you...
Nozaki kun new volume just out and I love it, it will be forever in my keep manga list
question : how often do you listen to korean song or foreign song besides english?
for me, my playlist is quite diverse,
my favorite are back number, ai no uta mashup from green and whiteen (found on youtube), Shounen T, park hyo shin - good person, SHINee and Baechigi.
this is the 101 of my playlist
Happy Weekend all....
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Makoto
August 26, 2016 at 6:27 AM
My playlist consists of mostly Korean songs, maybe about 90%. There rest are English, Chinese, Japanese and Russian.
I like Park Hyoshin, too. I watch his video perfomances in youtube and listen to his songs almost everyday. Good Person is my fave too, along with Lost (there is a clip where he sang that song live and he looks so damn handsome) and Fool.
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oneearedgirl
August 26, 2016 at 6:46 AM
I feel I have been completely out of touch with the western world so much so that 100 percent of the songs on my playlist are Korean.
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Sancheezy
August 26, 2016 at 7:02 AM
park hyo shin has a very good voice and totally pleasant to see, he is really attractive,
I also like Snow flower, I'm sorry I love you OST, original by yuki nakashima,
then wildflower.... I like the way he sings,
speaking about good person, I still can't really get the meaning of good person,
the lyric said
"If one was in love with a good person,
Then breakup would not be too sad a thing."
is it mean that break up with a good person make you become happier because you know she deserves someone better than you?
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pebble
August 26, 2016 at 7:41 AM
i like Park Hyo Shin's Flower Letter (Iljimae OST). I also songs of korean singers Byun Jin Sub, Shin Seung Hoon, Yoon Gun, Sung Si Kyung, Alex Chu, Lee Seung Chul, Roy Kim and Davichi. From the list, you can tell that I'm not fan of kpop groups, probably due to my age, I prefer those more sentimental songs sung by veteran singers.
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Makoto
August 27, 2016 at 2:14 AM
If you dig a little deeper (like I did) you will eventually find idols who can sing sentimental songs too. My korean songs addiction was started from OST and then I found Yesung, Ryeowook, Baekhyun, Suzy, Minah, Jessica, Dahee, IU etc. I am not their fans but I found their songs among the drama OST. I feel like an ahjumma who aged backward. :D
Makoto
August 27, 2016 at 2:06 AM
Honestly I don't even know the meaning behind "Good Person" since I don't really understand korean language, but it still sounds beautiful to me.
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purpleowl
August 26, 2016 at 11:09 AM
@Makoto can I request Russian recommendations?
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Makoto
August 27, 2016 at 2:03 AM
I don't have much knowledge about Russian songs but I like this one song from Alexander Rybak, Cat. Fly away on the wings of wind, black raven and some others I don't know the title because I can't read Russian letters. I like the melody and for me Russian language sounds beautiful. You can check for more songs in youtube channel "Weekly Russian"
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hiheel
August 27, 2016 at 6:09 AM
I have a mix of english korean and chinese, though largely korean thanks to king of masked singer performances (more specifically music commander) Lee Hi and Akdong Musician :]
As for english its kind of a random mix of mostly pop
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Delurker
August 26, 2016 at 6:27 AM
I listen to drama soundtracks I like, plus an ever-increasing SHINee playlist, with occasional forays into other groups (Does Boys Generally Asian count? :-p) ; aside from that, mostly the occasional song in French I suppose...
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oneearedgirl
August 26, 2016 at 6:49 AM
How I wish Bga was a legit group.
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Delurker
August 26, 2016 at 7:01 AM
Perhaps if we pester enough they'll surprise us; after the teaser profiles, the actual video, dance version and BTS, we need a scandal, separation rumours, and a triumphant comeback; otherwise they aren't believable :-p . (one can dream, right?)
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Sancheezy
August 26, 2016 at 7:25 AM
we are BgA with the capital B lowercase g and capital A....
Boys generally Asian!!
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Delurker
August 26, 2016 at 7:46 AM
And here's his BgA army! OK I'll stop.... :-p
bbstl
August 26, 2016 at 10:47 AM
BgA totally count ?? !!!
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oneearedgirl
August 26, 2016 at 6:54 AM
Love EXO, but not sold on the OST itself, seems out of place for a sageuk. Urban Zakapa has got amazing vocals.
I don't love you is one of my favourite songs. Its so very beautiful, glad to find someone who likes it as well.
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rhiaa
August 26, 2016 at 6:59 AM
It's 100% korean songs for me, because I'm studying right now and I can't concentrate if the lyrics are in a language the same as what I'm studying, but I also need vocals and a beat and percussion. But then I'm also beginning to learn the words to the korean songs in my playlist so... *insert the scream emoji in here*
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Sancheezy
August 26, 2016 at 7:27 AM
(✽ ﾟдﾟ ✽)
(# ﾟДﾟ)
( ´Д｀)=3
ε≡≡ﾍ( ´Д`)ﾉ
*emoji triggered
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rhiaa
August 26, 2016 at 9:46 AM
This mouth: Д is gonna be me. I love that it's not even O shaped and portrays despair more accurately. Can this: Д Д Д Д be interpreted to mean AAAAHHH?
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fanwho
August 26, 2016 at 7:03 AM
I listen almost everyday - only Korean songs. Some selected songs from King of masked singer (Roller coaster, Music commander), and Lee Sunhee' duet 'Goodbye' and some old OST (Damo, King and the crown). I guess I love moody songs. I loved when they played 'Lies' by Kim Choo-ja in opening scene of Age of Youth last time.
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Sancheezy
August 26, 2016 at 8:12 AM
music commander don't cry is my favorite from the show,
it speaks different for me
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junny
August 26, 2016 at 7:28 AM
The only Korean group (duo, rather) I listen to is Fly to the Sky - I love Hwanhee's voice. I also have some Korean, Japanese and Cantonese songs from various drama soundtracks.
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Sancheezy
August 26, 2016 at 8:20 AM
I remember them since their song sometimes appears in many varieties shows as a background and so many people covered their song, like
Missing You and "Although My Heart Aches"
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junny
August 26, 2016 at 11:04 AM
They were hilarious when they appeared on Love Letter and X-man. And their 3rd-5th albums had some of my favourite songs. Ah, those were the days.
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pebble
August 26, 2016 at 4:16 PM
I just listened to a few of the songs sung by Fly To the Sky on youtube, I really like the R&B feel, especially Evasion and Gravity, HwanHee's husky voice does sound a bit like K.Will when singing ballads. Nobody could beat the Korean men when it comes to singing ballads, they can sing with such deep emotions and intensity of feeling, even when the lyrics are not understood, they way they sing can break any heart and bring tears.
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junny
August 26, 2016 at 4:43 PM
The R&B feel was strongest in the third to fifth albums, I feel. Almost all the songs in these three albums are worth listening. There were the trendy ones like Sea of Love, and then the melo R&B like Seub Gwan (Habit, aka Poison Ivy), and the ballads like Goodbye (which is a cover of the original song by All 4 One). Monologue (5th), Han (4th) and Say My Name (3rd) are also lovely.
My personal favourites are Rains (3rd jib), a Hwanhee solo, and Goodbye. I also really like Seub Gwan - it's got a young (and sexy) Kim Ji-hoon in its MV.
FTTS also sang Kaseumapado, the theme song for Fashion 70s. There are three versions: the duet, and Brian and Hwanhee's respective solos. I'm biased, so I prefer Hwanhee's solo version.
Unfortunately, I feel they've lost that R&B flavour in their recent outings, which is a real pity.
pebble
August 26, 2016 at 11:05 PM
oic, All4One, no wonder, it sounded so familiar, but I just couldn't place it. I've checked out Rains, Kaseumapado and Goodbye, I enjoy the strong R&B feel of Rains, also, I really like Kaseum apado, it is such a tragic and lovely song. Have downloaded quite a number of FTTS songs for listening during commute next week. Thanks a bunch for giving such a detailed write-up of their albums and songs, much appreciated !! :)
stuffed
August 26, 2016 at 8:10 AM
Whoa. I wanted to post the same question too Sancheezy! You beat me to it.?
My playlist is made up of mostly English songs - current fav track is from Twenty One Pilots. I find that the kdrama OSTs I listen to depend on the dramas I'm following/followed. Right now I have New Empire (not Korean songs, i know). I have the OSTs from Beautiful Mind - Dirt's my fav. And I've got Joon Jun Young's for W.
I've also got Hindi songs from my fav Bollywood movies. N some Japanese songs too. Wait.. i think I see a pattern here. They're all songs from dramas/movies. I guess once I heard the song it'd stick with me for some time ?
Listening to foreign language songs to me helps me appreciate the music more since I can't understand the lyrics. But after watching too many kdramas I tend to get frustrated not knowing the meaning of the songs playing in the background. So I really appreciate kdramas that use English songs once in a while like Healer and UF.
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Sancheezy
August 26, 2016 at 8:17 AM
and the meaning is why I relly like Viki subs,
it makes the experience better, as the example ; the song with and without subs for Kill Me Heal Me give different understanding, and I think Kdrama also want to be relatable by making the chorus in English
"love is the momeeeeent"
"almost paradise..."
"you are my everything,,,"
"stand by me....."
hahaha
the more I looked into my playlist, I still have many western songs from Muse, Green Day, Simple Plan, My Chemical Romance, some Bruno Mars and Beyonce,
funny that my western genre of song tends to be way different than my Korean genre,
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stuffed
August 26, 2016 at 8:34 AM
Haha. Yeah. That's true. Although they're mostly one-liners. But as long as they're grammatically correct I'm fine with one-liners in Korean songs.
I do have all those singers you mentioned in my playlist too.?
I guess since most of us are only familiar with Korean songs from pop idols n ballad singers, we don't really venture into other genres. I do listen to Hyukoh though. It makes me feel awesome that I actually listen to Korean songs but in different genre ?
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purpleowl
August 26, 2016 at 11:13 AM
Green Day, Simple Plan, My Chem, and Bruno for the win! I might not listen to them like I used to but they are home.
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pari
August 26, 2016 at 9:37 PM
Same here. I wish there were more English songs in Korean dramas. They tend to lean more towards the singers I have not heard of. I loved Bubblegum's song (the voice still haunts me) and even UF's background song is pretty nice.
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owl
August 26, 2016 at 8:32 AM
Hey Sancheezy,
I was just thinking how nice the kdramaland viewing week is laid out for me, too. Not all bottlenecked at one spot, but nicely spread out Monday-Sunday. I like it. I am on a Friday-Saturday k-entertainment craze with EW, 1N2D, Immortal Songs 2, Thanks for the Food, Abnormal Summit, WGM, Happy Together, Radio Star, and sometimes Real Men. I watch Hello Counselor on Tuesday. (Thank you subbers, couldn't do it without you. At all.) I'd love to watch Problematic Men but only a few random eps are subbed. That leaves weekdays (nights) for kdramas. Love my kdrama schedule right now! And I love the dramabeanies' virtual company! Happy viewing :)
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kdramafied
August 26, 2016 at 8:33 AM
Hi Everyone!
As soon as I read @Sancheezy's question, I realized most of the songs on my playlist are Korean! Imagine a 40-yo ajumma with EXO songs on her playlist :) I also like Leessang and recently discovered Korean indie music (like Tearliner). I love Lee Moon-se, too!
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am1993
August 26, 2016 at 8:58 AM
I have 3 non-english songs playlists on my phone: French (doesn't really count because Mother language), German and Korean. I listen to all of them almost everyday. I also have some Japanese songs since I discovered Leo Ieiri thanks to N no Tame ni. Korean and Japanese are the only ones that I do not understand the lyrics.
For Korean music, I listen mostly to drama OSTs and to Indie music. I am yet to get into kpop. Probably because I am more the kind of person who will like the song before the artist/band. I rarely have more than 3 songs from the same group, no matter the language. (unless it's Ed Sheeran...then I have all of his songs lol)
I was wondering if you listen to foreign music, do you feel the need to understand the meaning of the song or do you simply appreciate "the feel" of the music?
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erratic
August 26, 2016 at 11:20 AM
Personally, I find the need to look for translations only when the song induces tears and goosebumps. For example,
- Josh Groban's Per Te and Mi Mancherai
- Kim Bum Soo's I Miss You (Stairway to Heaven)
- Loveholic's If Only You Were Here (One Fine Day)
- Noel's Again (Come Back Ahjussi)
- Su Mi Jo's If I Leave (The Lost Empire, but I prefer Eun Ji's version. Man. She's got one of the best voices I've heard.)
- Eun Ji and Seo In Guk's Our Love Like This (Answer Me 1997)
- Ayaka's I'm Home (Zettai Kareshi)
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windsun33
August 26, 2016 at 11:43 AM
I think this is the saddest music video ever (from the movie Miss Granny) https://youtu.be/BjI_tyOf30o?list=FLrgNB_F1vp8GShh5fPwSRvg
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erratic
August 26, 2016 at 11:55 AM
It is very sad because of the video and the lyrics. Thank you. :)
The songs I posted made me cry the first time I heard them without me knowing what they were saying. It was all the combination of chord progression, vocals and orchestration. Once I get the goosebumps+tears reaction, that's when I search for their translations.
erratic
August 26, 2016 at 11:59 AM
I just want to share, The other day, I was on my way to a wake (a close friend's dad died. I never knew him.). I was in the car and Noel's Again from Come Back Ahjussi (the one in E, kind of reminded me of The Blower's Daughter by Damien Rice) started playing. Next thing I knew, I was staring out the window weeping.
purpleowl
August 26, 2016 at 1:40 PM
@Am could I get some German recommendations? Oh and some K-indie recs.
On your question the first time I hear any song even in English my mother tongue, I have to have a feel for it. I usually don't listen for lyrics until the 2nd or even 7th listen lol.
I tend to understand the vague meaning from musical cues. It's a happy love song, sad love song, party, nostalgic etc.
But if I'm becoming a fan of the song I look for translations.
Nice question! Thank you.
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am1993
August 26, 2016 at 8:46 PM
Oh It's so rare that people ask me for music recs. I'll do my best.
For German songs, it depends on your taste in music.
If you like popular music (pop/rap genre) than I would recommend any song by Cro.
Is most recent one is a live version of his song Melodie from his last album which I listen to a lot lately:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xkHzvhzwDGM
And here is one of his single:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8WQMBv2deYQ
If you like more songwriter type music then you might enjoy Max Giesinger stuff:
like https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K5LnKdUXI1o
or
https://soundcloud.com/max-giesinger/04-fu-r-dich
I also enjoy this song from Philipp Poisel
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XetBXed_ALc
And finally, if you like Indie Music, I would recommend the Swiss German band Patent Ochsner. Although, They sing in Swiss German (different language than German) but I really like some of their songs so I have to mention them lol:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GqnvEF6oVNU
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purpleowl
August 27, 2016 at 3:52 PM
Oh! I listened to Cro before I got into kpop. How did I forget about him? Thank you. I'll be back to him now!
I couldn't listen to the YouTube video for Max Giesinger. But the SoundCloud was nice. I listened to a couple other artists.
Philipp's voice is beautiful and I like the melody and instruments.
I didn't know there was a Swiss German. So is it considered part of Low or High German? I honestly had no idea how many German dialects there are. Language is amazing!
am1993
August 26, 2016 at 8:53 PM
For Korean Indie:
Busker Busker
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J1BP0uLnPo8
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bCoSB7lk4Ag
Standing Egg
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qNGocN0ypeE
No Reply
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KDiCPyszZ_Y
And one of my favourite song of the moment:
DayBreak
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xiUNCTCJf-M
Hope you find something that you like :)
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klurker
August 26, 2016 at 9:17 AM
Almost 100 percent of the songs in my playlist are korean that even my kids can sing along to some of them. lol!
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pogo
August 26, 2016 at 10:13 AM
I've listened to enough kpop to have a favourite group (Beast, and recently Gfriend). I think I listen to non-English music (excluding Bollywood, because that's the music where I live) pretty much every other day? Here are a few I love that aren't Korean:
O-Zone - Dragostea Din Tei (Romanian)
tommyheavenly6 - Hey My Friend (Japanese)
Rachid Taha - Ya Rayah (Arabic)
Shakira - Suerte (Spanish - I love the English version too!)
CSS - Music Is My Boyfriend (Portugese - the original title of the song is not PG)
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ladyjaye
August 26, 2016 at 2:04 PM
I know they are old movies, but the soundtracks to Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, Kabhi Kushi Kabhi Gham, Rab ne Bana Di Jodi, Omkara, and Hum Tum are some of my favorite songs ever!!!
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pogo
August 27, 2016 at 4:46 AM
I'm honestly not much of a Bollywood fan at all, but I really do like the music sometimes.
And old Bollywood to me = stuff from the 60s/70s/80s - it gave me a real start to realise Omkara etc are now 'old'!
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Persian Rose
August 26, 2016 at 10:31 AM
I never ever used to listen to Kdrama OST aside from when watching the drama. But UF changed it for me. I'm constantly listening to UF OST...the dram has a stunning scenery, beautiful leads, decent supporting leads, and very addictive ost. But sadly the writing and directing is a torture. I think the writer has some mental disorder issue that she likes to torture the audience form start to the end.
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DoubleFault
August 27, 2016 at 5:47 AM
I love Junggigo's Only U. It's on constant repeat on my playlist.
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purpleowl
August 26, 2016 at 11:37 AM
I started YouTube My Mix in order to answer the question. And almost got distracted with my music lol
I still listen to a lot of English songs. I love most genres so it's hard to get away from.
Country - Jason Aldean, Tim McGraw, Jason Michael Carroll, most of the boys
Pop - Justin Bieber pre-2014, though I'm listening to his new stuff slowly, One Direction, Disney Channel
Most Rock - Thousand Foot Klutch, Nickelback, Shinedown
R&B - Pretty Wings (Maxwell) is one of my ultimate songs ever
Ballad - favorite band Westlife, Journey
Kpop & OSTs
Boy Bands - EXO is my second favorite band, GOT7, BTS, SHINee, Big Bang, SuJu, Seventeen
Girl Groups - SNSD *not much into women's voices*
Been listening to the Heirs OST lately.
@Pebble started me on a Cantonese discovery a couple weeks ago.
Kiss Me (Am & Mike) is my favorite Thai song atm. I listen to it at least 3 times a day.
I need to listen to different genres and countries. I miss Afro-pop.
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Flightey Gazelles
August 27, 2016 at 1:50 AM
Live the Westlife mention!
Like JB too,wish he wasn't such a deuche. Favourites are 'Christmas Love', 'Nothing Like Us', What Do You Mean?' and 'Down To Earth'.
You should give Afropop a try. I suggest you start with Afro soul : the likes of Asa,Bez, e.t.c. Check out StylePlus,Banky W, Tiwa Savage, 2face and some of Wizkid for Afropop and rnb.
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windsun33
August 26, 2016 at 11:54 AM
I listen to a huge range of music, everything from 60's classics to modern Mando-pop and (mostly) Indie k-pop, French (Indila is my favorite). I am not much into most Korean groups - with a few exceptions they all seem to run together and sound the same.
I also have some of the Korean classics such as Kim Jung Mi, a few modern Vietnamese, and quite a bit of modern C-pop such as Penny Tai https://youtu.be/VrPvEWcyUCc?list=FLrgNB_F1vp8GShh5fPwSRvg
I have a huge playlist, which is probably 65% American/Brit type stuff and the rest foreign from about 12 countries. Spotify is my streamer of choice, because they seem to have almost anything.
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Karina
August 26, 2016 at 4:49 PM
I like indie music like Urban Zakapa, Standing Egg and Jannabi. Also I like many singers, Park Hyo Shin, Ali, Gummy, Eru and others. I'm not a fan of pop music in any language. The only korean group that I like is JYJ. As a group and as soloist. My favorite is Jaejoong.
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sharreb
August 27, 2016 at 12:53 AM
Dramagods r indeed smiling on us. On fri Saturdays its Age of Youth for me. But thats sadly ending this week. Its double moon next week when Moon Lovers premiers.
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indie24
August 27, 2016 at 10:12 PM
Good question... I usually listen to English songs but I have about 30% non-English songs on my playlist. I have Korean, Japanese and Chinese (mostly from drama and anime OSTs), Spanish, French, Thai and Hebrew (courtesy of an Israeli friend). Below are some recommendations...
Korean - Broccoli, You Too (Universal Songs and Graduation albums), Every Single Day (Pasta OST), Big Bang (Alive album), Hot Potato (love their songs Confession and Irony)
Japanese - Bleach anime OST, Suga Shikao and Angela Aki
French - Carla Bruni
Spanish - Juanes
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redfox
August 27, 2016 at 11:41 PM
strange question. I listen to music in many languages but rarely korean songs. I have only liked a few, the number is less than 10.
I listen to music in estonian, finnish, russian, latvian, swedish, icelandic, irish, flemish, catalan, italian, greek, serbian, mordvin, udmurtian, khanti, turkic (Kyrgystan), mongolian, japanes, english.... I only dont like german music. feels like being rubbed with a rock.
although my favorite songs are usually in english or estonian.
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3 Catz
August 26, 2016 at 6:14 AM
Just watched episode 11 of Age of Youth and boy was that an episode. Why must you be only 12 eps!!! :(
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4 9jagirl
August 26, 2016 at 6:21 AM
I just watched the first ep of Jealousy Incarnate and I just love Gong Hyo Jin so much ( she's one on my favorite Korean actress and woman cruch). Her characters are always quirky and different. I just appreciate that the characters she plays are dynamic and have certain idiosyncrasies about them. Others have mentioned that 24 ep seems alot- but the first ep introduced a lot of characters and if each character is nicely fleshed out it might perhaps need 24 ep. Time will tell.
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PYC
August 26, 2016 at 6:40 AM
Ep 1 of Jealousy Incarnate has such an uneven tone and less than appealing characters that worries me it will be a flop for GHJ and JJS. I don't know how to take it as it is definitely not the romcom I expect it to be.
Then tons of hearts kick in Ep 2 with more back story revealed. And the feels. I can't wait for the next episode now.
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eva
August 26, 2016 at 7:12 AM
Was the second ep better? I couldn't get through the first hour, I like both Jo Jeong-seok and Jung Sang-hoon, but they had only crap coming out of their mouths, I just couldn't stand it.
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PYC
August 26, 2016 at 7:20 AM
I had the same response when watching Ep. 1. It took some faith to try Ep. 2 and I'm glad I did.
Some back story was revealed and GHJ hints her spine despite the pushover impression she presents for her survival. And JJS is also not the asshole he wants people to believe. Lastly, GKP will drive the audience into huge second lead craze.
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eva
August 26, 2016 at 11:50 AM
Okay, I should give it another try then, especially when there's hope for a "spine". I understand where the heroine is coming from, but damn, that was frustrating to watch!
9jagirl
August 26, 2016 at 12:14 PM
I'll def be watching ep 2 - you are right @eva - ep 1 was very all over the place but I do hope it gets better
PYC
August 26, 2016 at 7:12 AM
Just checked it's by the same writer of Miss Korea and Pasta. Good tho!
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Yoyo
August 26, 2016 at 8:18 AM
Why are we not talking about the dancing Jo Jeong Seok? That's probably the best thing I've watched this week. Someone make a gif of that now!!
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purpleowl
August 26, 2016 at 1:48 PM
Kim Mi Sook dancing tho!
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Sancheezy
August 26, 2016 at 7:28 AM
the 2 ep for this week didn't quite grab me but it seems fun to watch
besides,
Go Kyung Po looked so refined... like damn, he is hot!
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randomblah
August 26, 2016 at 8:39 AM
oh my go kyung po. he's gotten smexier indeed. boarding the SLS train this early into the drama.
he's yet another answer me 1988 cast making a comeback in dramaland. i hope he's not gonna get the "Answer Me curse". him and park bogum.
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purpleowl
August 26, 2016 at 1:52 PM
I was prepared for GKP but not for dongsaeng. So cute and the classic ikemen.
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wapz
August 26, 2016 at 8:04 AM
The show is hilarious and that is what keeps me watching plus the actors. Right now I don't really care about the side characters but I hope they are well developed and strong.
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stuffed
August 26, 2016 at 8:15 AM
Love her too but I feel that after seeing her previous works I noticed that GHJ tend to play her characters in a similar way-like the way she fidgets n delivers her lines. I don't know if it's because she played too many weird characters that it felt too familiar for me. But I'm gonna stick with her n this drama for sure.
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Lin_K
August 26, 2016 at 11:22 AM
I love Gong Hyo Jin too! I watched episode 1 but wasn't hooked. But I'm gonna give the series a try. I'm hoping the drama does well.
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5 junny
August 26, 2016 at 6:21 AM
Back on the J-drama trail and finished the excellent Kageri Yuku Natsu - I'm always amazed just how much can be packed in a 5-episode drama, and not feel like information overload. It's so nice to still have stations that prize acting talent and deft storytelling above idols and cliches.
Now five episodes into Mahoro Ekimae Bangaichi. The Japanese do offbeat and weird so well, and this one really goes all the way. Eita is wonderful, but I think Matsuda Ryuhei edges this with his slacker dude get-up.
Also, does anyone get bored when reading recaps of certain dramas? It's not the recapper's fault, it's just... how do I put it... the drama's boring-ness shines through despite the recapper's best efforts?
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pebble
August 26, 2016 at 6:55 AM
Hi Junny, I've not watched jdorama for a while and I'm craving for a good one now. I think I will go watch Kageri Yuku Natsu this weekend. Many thanks for the recommendation.
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junny
August 26, 2016 at 7:02 AM
Hi Pebble,
I hope you enjoy it! Some very solid veteran actors in Kageri, led by Watabe Atsuro, who's generally excellent. If you need J-drama recs, feel free to buzz!
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CatoCat
August 26, 2016 at 10:38 AM
@junny @pebble both shows added into 2017 watchlist. hope someday a wellknown site starts to recap doramas too.
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pebble
August 26, 2016 at 6:34 PM
Thanks for recommending koe no Katachi aka Silent Voice in last week's OT. It is an anime, isn't it? I do not usually watch anime except for a few of Hayao Miyazaki's movies. But still, manga has provided a rich source for Jdorama and movies adaptations, some of them really good I must say.
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PakalanaPikake
August 26, 2016 at 6:25 PM
junny,
Sorry to take so long to get back to you re: your suggestions in last week's OT. Thank you!!
I’m so glad that you enjoyed Love Revolution! For more Fujiki, you can check out Itoshi Kimi e (melo romance), G@me (film) and Antique. I haven’t really liked any of his stuff post-Hotaru, unfortunately. If you liked Esumi Makiko in Love Revolution, do try Over Time – she had wonderful chemistry with her two male co-stars. Also give Long Vacation a shot if you haven’t – very classic 90s J-drama and arguably Kimura Takuya’s best work (I also enjoyed his performance in Hero). I’m assuming you’ve watched Nodame Cantabile?
I'd held off on ANTIQUE after watching the Kdrama version because it sounded as if the original story/characterization got butchered... but with Fujiki in it, I'll have to give it a shot. ;-)
Still haven't seen NODAME CANTABILE, but did watch the Kdrama version. Usually I have my hands full just keeping track of the Kdrama at hand... I'd only get more confused trying to keep it straight in my mind if I'd earlier watched the original version. Now it's safe to watch the Japanese one. ;-)
I've added the lot of them, plus this week's suggestions, to my watch list. I'll likely get to one or more of them during the run of MOON LOVERS: SHG, assuming I survive the week-to-week stress... Since they're definitely not sageuks, I should be able to watch them without getting the plots entangled in my flakey memory. How easily my buffer overfloweth. Again, many thanks!
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junny
August 27, 2016 at 4:41 AM
Haha, actually recommending Antique is a bit of a mistake (fat fingers!) because it did get rather watered down from the source material, so if you watch it as a standalone it's okay but if you've seen the k-version, then maybe not.
I'd meant to recommend Shukumei (2004), which is a tanpatsu and where Fujiki also sang the theme song. It's only about 2.5 hours long.
I strongly recommend Nodame Cantabile (drama, 2 SP and 2 films), because it's a seriously well-made adaptation of the source manga. It even uses classical music as the background music. Ueno Juri and Tamaki Hiroshi ARE Nodame and Chiaki, and you'll realise why the k-version just doesn't cut it when you watch the Japanese original. There's also an anime series.
Moon Lovers... seen the original, wasn't impressed.
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PakalanaPikake
August 31, 2016 at 9:13 PM
@junny,
My earlier response seems to have gone AWOL, so one more time, with feeling...
SHUKUMEI looks like an interesting mystery. I haven't found it streaming with English subtitles in my usual places. Any idea where a US viewer should look?
I took the plunge and just watched episode 1 of NODAME CANTABILE, and I like it a lot. The classical (and classic, e.g., "Rhapsody in Blue") background music is indeed wonderful. I'm also cracking up hearing Franz Stresemann's Japanese dusted with German.
So far, I'm finding Nodame much easier to take than Naeil in TOMORROW'S CANTABILE. The latter drove me up the wall, however much I loved Shim Eun-Kyung's performance in MISS GRANNY.
I'll give ANTIQUE a shot anyway because I'm intrigued to see Fujiki in that one.
Thanks again for your hot tips. ;-)
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Hanami
August 27, 2016 at 6:57 AM
Thanks for the recommendations! I'm always on the lookout for good Japanese doramas :)
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6 alua
August 26, 2016 at 6:21 AM
I did a dramathon (is that the word?) with Saya + some of her friends this week... 6 episodes of Signal in 9 hours. Ate wayyyyy too much food (including doekbokki, kimbap and ramen). Now I'm trying to keep myself from watching the rest of Signal for the next instalment of our dramathon...
Started Jealousy Incarnate. It's cute so far, quirky. I'm happy with the three leads – even more so because it seems like the triangle won't involve any evil scheming (the two guys are friends). Not a radically new character for Gong Hyo-shin, but I like Pyo Na-ri.
Not so sure about the rest of the characters yet – I'm still lost on the exact situation of Hwa-shin's in-laws/ex-in-laws (they all just seem bonkers). Also, the workplace rivalry seems a bit over the top, e.g. the cliquish animosity between announcers/weather girls etc. I get it's for humour, but Kye Sung-Sook's hissy fit about the commercial was just too much (Overly long and super unprofessional. Does she own the broadcaster to think she can make such demands? And then she gets mad our Pyo Na-ri for her weather forecast clothes.... which was so evil for Pyo Na-ri's co-worker.)
Waiting on subs for pretty much all Japanese dramas – they seem to all have stopped? Not that there's anything I desperately want to watch...
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Lin_K
August 26, 2016 at 11:27 AM
This is the third time Gong Hyo Jin's character is in the media/entertainment industry in a drama. I love her though! Ep 1 was okay. Hoping the series become more interesting.
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alua
August 26, 2016 at 1:12 PM
She was a producer in Producers, but what was the third media/entertainment role? (I'm blanking on it.)
I'm happy to continue watching Jealousy Incarnate. It's good so far, but I wouldn't say outstanding just yet – but I'm still not quite sure yet where we're going, especially with all the random side characters that I don't feel much for yet. But 24 episodes is quite long, so the pacing will be different anyhow – normally I think we'd have an inkling of the story already after two episodes.
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purpleowl
August 26, 2016 at 1:55 PM
Greatest Love/Best Love, right?
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Lin_K
August 26, 2016 at 10:18 PM
Yes :)
Lin_K
August 26, 2016 at 10:18 PM
Best Love
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pebble
August 26, 2016 at 9:13 PM
I'm going to start watching Jealousy Incarnate, I will not want to miss out on Gong Hyo Jin's acting. She and Lee Yo Won are the only two actresses who always exceed my expectation, so which ever drama they appear in, I will sure enjoy it!
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Lin_K
August 26, 2016 at 10:20 PM
I like Lee Yo Won too. I enjoyed Horse Doctor very much. I haven't watched Queen Seondeok yet though.
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PakalanaPikake
August 31, 2016 at 9:37 PM
I enjoyed LYW's performance in 49 DAYS... but quit watching HORSE DOCTOR before she got onscreen... It's on my list to revisit, especially now that I know that sageuks often start out slow. I haven't gotten to QUEEN SEONDEOK yet, either. So many sageuks, so little time...
You might enjoy GU AM HEO JOON, a remake of the story of the Joseon-era royal physician who authored numerous medical texts... after overcoming the stigma of lowly birth.
Lin_K
August 26, 2016 at 11:31 AM
Signal was an awesome drama! I should do a dramathon too sometime.
I am counting down the days for Scarlet Heart. I watched the OST and the Highlights and was blown away by all angst/romance(?) between LJK and IU. I can't waitttt!! I rewatched the OST and Hightlights so many times. Monday can't come any faster!
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alua
August 26, 2016 at 1:14 PM
Much recommend a dramathon (but do it with friends, that's the whole fun of it).
Not sure yet if I'll watch Scarlet Heart. I have yet to make it through a sageuk (which is also why I've held off Moon Lovers). Hope you enjoy it though!
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Lin_K
August 26, 2016 at 10:24 PM
Thank you. I hope you find some awesome sagueks someday. Have you ever tried Sungkyunkwan Scandal? It's has lots of comedy in it and has a lighter tone mostly than other sageuks.
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alua
August 27, 2016 at 8:52 AM
<Sungkyunkwan Scandal
I haven't tried that one, but I have tried a good number of others.... I think it's just the genre somehow – like even the best sageuk somehow isn't going to work for me. I dunno...
windsun33
August 26, 2016 at 12:04 PM
Japanese subs have always been harder and slower to come by than Korean or Mandarin - not sure why, perhaps just a shortage of good translators. Too bad, because there are some good J-dramas that never seem to get subbed.
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alua
August 26, 2016 at 1:14 PM
I feel like jdramas have come to a near-standstill these days. *sigh*
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alua
August 26, 2016 at 1:15 PM
I mean, jdrama SUBS....
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PakalanaPikake
August 26, 2016 at 7:42 PM
@alua, @Lin_K,
You have a lot more willpower than me. ;-)
I marathoned SIGNAL last week or so... and boy, was it addictive. One of my all-time favorite Kdramas to date.
I raved about it so much, my dear husband watched SIGNAL, too. Hehehe... Then he totally surprised me by wanting to watch Kim Hye-Soo in QUEEN OF OFFICE! I was totally floored. I dug around and found it with subtitles for him, and he made it through the first four episodes... before veering off into some vintage REMINGTON STEELE.
I've been in training for MOON LOVERS: SCARLET HEART: GORYEO this past week by marathoning SCHOLAR WHO WALKS THE NIGHT (at long last!). With that, Lee Joon Gi as Kim Sung-Yeol officially joins my favorite vamp actors David Boreanaz and James Marsters (Angel and Spike from the Hellmouth in the Buffyverse).
Just finished marathoning TWO WEEKS as a chaser, and boy, was that good. LJG plays a lout of a loser...
Have not seen the original Chinese version of SH, but did watch SHINE OR GO CRAZY, which deals with the same Korean historical characters. Am looking forward to LJG's take on Prince Wang So after seeing Jang Hyuk's performance.
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Lin_K
August 26, 2016 at 10:32 PM
Yay! Another LJK fan!! Give Arang and the Magistrate and Time Between Dog and Wolf a try too. You may like it. I haven't seen the Chinese version of Scarlet Heart either. I heard that it made viewers cry a lot :(
What is Queen of Office about?
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sharreb
August 27, 2016 at 12:59 AM
Ohh another LJG fan. Hes just really gd n potrays his role so well. Poor dude lost alot of weight for his role as 4th Prince. I didt not watch original SH too but i read the firstfew chapters of the nov and it was good. So far im happy to see some originality injected in Goryeon ver. Him with a mask on and her removing it was a nice touch.
Im so looking forward to upcoming episode of running man.. Since 3 of the Prince will b there
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PakalanaPikake
August 31, 2016 at 5:24 PM
Hi, @Lin_K and @Sharreb...
Pleased to meet fellow LJG fans. I started out watching sageuks, fusion and otherwise, and only later started watching dramas set in modern times. I'll take a good swordfight any day, and LJG is simply terrific on that score... as is Jang Hyuk, who also does his own stunts. (Check out CHUNO for the epic swashbuckling, and BEAUTIFUL MIND for his incredibly nuanced expressiveness in portraying a person unable to empathize with others.)
I think ARANG AND THE MAGISTRATE was my first LJG production... followed by THE KING AND THE CLOWN, which is probably my favorite to date. I appreciate the range of characters he's portrayed in ILJIMAE, TBDAW, and MY GIRL. Looking forward to eventually seeing GUNMAN IN JOSEON and HERO, too.
See you over at MOON LOVERS. LJG is my reason for tuning in. ;-)
PS: As for QUEEN OF OFFICE, I only saw the first half of the first episode. Seems to be a battle of the sexes revolving around a temporary worker "who has many skills" in the words of Xena, Warrior Princess, and a US-educated MBA brought in to save a company. Kim Hye-Soo who portrays her was the female lead in SIGNAL, and was terrific as a rookie cop who works her way up to detective, eventually working on a cold case that involves her partner who's been missing for 15 years.
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7 mbebzz
August 26, 2016 at 6:22 AM
just when I still Crazy over with character shin Dong Wook PDnim eventhough drama Wanted was over, I must hear terible news : my Lovely Appa doing Sexual Assault? Omo.. what bullshit news?
I hope truth come out soon.. they already ruined happy family and his carrer :(
then when I read this last news
http://www.soompi.com/2016/08/25/uhm-tae-woongs-wife-revealed-pregnant-agency-denies-sexual-assault-allegations/
aw aw aw such bitter sweet news :/
*I"m so Sad, still shocking until now*
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fanwho
August 26, 2016 at 7:10 AM
I stopped paying attention to Sexual Assault claim stuff - It was spread like wild fire after Park Yoo-chun case. I am mad about Lee Jin-wook case where he claimed (and proved) his innocence from the get go, yet now he is left with huge payback(financial loss) and bad publicity.
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gem28
August 26, 2016 at 8:19 AM
LJW proved his innocence, was targeted by an immature brat yet has to pay for financial damages that he did not cause to the brand. What a pathetic situation for Korean male actors, damned if you do and damned if you don't.
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Lin_K
August 26, 2016 at 11:33 AM
What happened to Park Yoo Chun??
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monologue
August 26, 2016 at 5:09 PM
at the very least he went to high end brothels many times.
but he is also accused of raping multiple women who worked at these clubs. I think the case may now have been thrown out but he is certainly guilty in the eyes of the public. He's also on public service duty right now which makes it even more egregious
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Lin_K
August 26, 2016 at 10:39 PM
*gasp* *gasp* I can't believe that of Yoo Chun!! It's hard to believe what is true and what is not with these scandals. Some of these can be true but at the same time, there are others who make accusations to kill celebrity careers.
8 Ami
August 26, 2016 at 6:22 AM
Absolutely loving Jealousy Incarnate! To my ignorance, I didn't even know men could get breast cancer, it is fascinating to see the portrayal of it.
Moonlight drawn by Clouds is lovely, I never understoodball the PBG love until now, I find myself mesmerized!
Not many seem to be watching Seisei Surohodo Aishiteru? I enjoyed the moral conflict, where she proposed to be his lover even knowing that I had a wide, instead of the usual very innocent girl falling for a married and guy. Here, everyone is human and although I do not agree with adultery, I get caught up in the story and keep watching to know what will happen next.
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ami
August 26, 2016 at 6:25 AM
Lol my phone abandoned me in the last sentence
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alua
August 26, 2016 at 6:34 AM
I did know men can get breast cancer, but it's good for them to pick it up in the drama – it's probably something that many don't know. When Pyo Na-ri kept touching, I figured out pretty quickly (before she said it) that it wasn't a "pervy" thing but that she was worried about Hwa-shin possibly having cancer.
How sad was Hwa-shin's phone call though when he finally went to get a check-up ("I was just thinking of you")?
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fanwho
August 26, 2016 at 6:48 AM
You know what is funny? I complained my doctor why woman has to have mammogram every year (used to be) especially like me who might have less breast tissue than a man, and she said "You know man has breast cancer too." -so my plan failed to skip that exam :(
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wapz
August 26, 2016 at 8:09 AM
Showing men having breast cancer in a show was a good idea to spread awarenes because I had no idea that men can have it too. If I would have not read the comments at a streaming site I wouldve considered it as a joke at the end of ep 1.
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Ami
August 26, 2016 at 8:29 AM
So sad! And so touching! I was on the fence for his character to the first hour, until he took the phone off her and cursed out her beloved complaint. How cool was that? I felt for her but one of my weakness is someone standing up for something they think it's wrong.
I LOVE IT.
I did realise she was checking for breast cancer but it was like a little light bulb 'oh...but can they get it too?' Then googled a bit.
The good thing is that my family didn't know so now they all know!!
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alua
August 26, 2016 at 9:10 AM
Well, cursing out her complaint was good in one way (what he said in defense of Pyo Na-ri) but I did also agree with Na-ri that it's her phone & her call and that he doesn't need to handle things for her but let her decide herself whether she likes something or not. Although it may seem like that everyone just abuses or exploits PNR, it's clear to me that she stays true to herself and wins out over all those people – they may think they are better than her, but she does not let their judgment affect her. She's doing what she needs to do for her life. Tbh, him being a bit nicer to her would probably be appreciated much more. :-)
Incidentally, I don't think at all that Hwa-shin is anywhere near as macho/unapproachable as he thinks he is. He's been flustered pretty & jealous much from day 1!
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Anna
August 28, 2016 at 1:36 AM
Although it is not a common form of cancer in men, I pretty much thought everyone knew that men were at risk too. I am a little bit surprised that so many of you didn't know.
Some years back, a male friend got a large, suspicious lump under his nipple, went to the doctor and in no time at all he was in hospital having a mastectomy. Of course, being male, he was not in the least bit concerned at having breast tissue removed, but he was very worried about the fact that he might have cancer. Turned out it was a benign tumour, so he was ok, and relieved.
owl
August 26, 2016 at 8:52 AM
Alua,
I know, Hwa-shin's phone call in his hospital gown :( I also figured out pretty early on that's the direction the drama was taking with Na-ri's touching and then mentioning her mom. But what's with the shirt thing with Hwa-shin?
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alua
August 26, 2016 at 9:17 AM
I'm lost on the shirt thing so far. But I guess they're going to be slow to reveal everything, given there are another 22 episodes to go!
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purpleowl
August 26, 2016 at 4:17 PM
Welcome to the PBG fandom!
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9 pebble
August 26, 2016 at 6:23 AM
Hi Sancheezy, this is a question for me, I listen to all kinds of songs so long as the melody appeal to me, mostly Japanese, Korean, English and Chinese songs, but I like songs sung in other languages too, like French, Spanish, etc.
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pebble
August 26, 2016 at 6:32 AM
Sorry, this is meant as a reply to Sancheezy's post above.
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Sancheezy
August 26, 2016 at 7:34 AM
@pebble...
I sae lot of viral spanish song on youtube lately, and isn't bombastic from moonlight teaser also spanish??
so have any favorite you can share??
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mary
August 26, 2016 at 7:58 AM
Didn't one of the beanies comment that the bombastic song is French? :D
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Sancheezy
August 26, 2016 at 8:23 AM
@mary and delurker
thank you, I didn't catch that comment, my memory sometimes gets re-written by the auto reset worker inside my brain, lol
the song is addictive, especially after seeing park bo gum dance to it
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am1993
August 26, 2016 at 9:02 AM
Lol I think that might have been me. I was the one who couldn't recognize her own mother tongue.
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purpleowl
August 26, 2016 at 4:19 PM
Now it's stuck in my head again. Fine by me but my family looks at me strange when I randomly say "bombastic" lol.
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Delurker
August 26, 2016 at 8:13 AM
Yep, it's French; apparently from the same guy who represented France at Eurovision back in 2010. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FevYDoM59fE
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pebble
August 26, 2016 at 6:23 PM
Hi Sancheezy,
Actually, all the Spanish and French songs I listened to are mainly sung by Japanese singer 小野リサ Lisa Ono. I would say that that the Japanese singers tremendously influenced my love for music. I really love her Romance Latino albums and the bossa nova flavor in her songs.
Here's the song Contigo En La Distancia sung by Lisa Ono,
though I think Christina Aguilera's version is more popular in the US.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UibX3tqB1TA
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10 yunn
August 26, 2016 at 6:25 AM
this month I have watch Yong Pal,(feel so lame with the ending),and Producer (Gong hyo jin,always the best).and now jealousy.But did anyone at here have watch or maybe fan of Hong Kong drama,especially tvb Hk???????
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stuffed
August 26, 2016 at 8:20 AM
I watched a lot of TVB dramas back in the 90s. I'm not following any drama now but I'd really love to watch those old dramas back. I was obsessed with those dramas as much as I do with kdramad. Do you know any site I can watch with English subs?
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yunn
August 26, 2016 at 8:29 AM
@stuffed...sorry,I don't know,cause I always watch Hk drama from the dvd.yes tvb hk drama is so so so low quality know,but still sometime I watch one or two series,which have good story and actor.and it's so hard to find another fan of Hk drama now.
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stuffed
August 26, 2016 at 8:40 AM
I do notice the low quality but only in historical dramas. As for the shows I watched back then, I think they're pretty solid. I still see some of the actors from back then and they don't look like they aged at all! I wish tvb dramas would be just as glorious back when I remembered it to be
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windsun33
August 26, 2016 at 12:11 PM
Some of the very early HK movies and dramas were so bad they were almost good, like Mambo Girl https://www.viki.com/videos/220197v-mambo-girl?locale=en
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Table122000
August 26, 2016 at 11:41 AM
They have some Hong Kong dramas with English subs at Dramafever from TVB and other studios. They have a list, but there also may be a few others that you have to just browse for.
https://www.dramafever.com/browse/genre/hong-kong/popular?page=1&lang=en
You can also check Viki for HK dramas with English subs.
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stuffed
August 26, 2016 at 6:10 PM
Thanks Table122000 and windsun33!
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pebble
August 26, 2016 at 9:27 PM
I lost track of TVB dramas too, I last I remember is, friends living in HK talked enthusiastically about that 2000 tvb drama Return of the Cuckoo (i.e. 十月初五的月光) starring Julian Cheung, apparently very popular when it was aired. There is a movie sequel to it just released last year, I watched it online and felt quite disappointed, it was nowhere near to the original drama.
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pebble
August 26, 2016 at 9:31 PM
Here's the MV for the movie, a very nice song sung by Julian, which is the original OST of the drama too.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k_NcPR-8BF0
sharreb
August 27, 2016 at 1:03 AM
Use to watch just hk dramas. Havnt watch one in a long while. I thk mylast was Mysteries of love. Then theres Come home love that i catch once in awhile but not religiously. Alot of the hk actors i enjoy stopped their tvb contracts. N somehow i lost interest too
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11 Dexterinthelaboratory
August 26, 2016 at 6:35 AM
Was excited for Cinderella and her four knights but fell out of love with Jung Il- Woo faster than you can say Knight. Watched Sukina Hito ga Iru Koto ( A girl and three sweethearts), which I initially thought was along the same lines but isn't, and realized Kento Yamasaki does angst and rude way way better. Maybe he actually has a reason because.
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alua
August 26, 2016 at 7:06 AM
I don't much enjoy Sukina Hito ga Iru Koto because it's super cliché & predictable, plus the lead actress is terrible and her character is just too dumb for me.
But then there's Yamasaki Kento. I'm not sure his character has any good reasons for anything, but the thing is the actor is just very, very good. It's a pity (a total waste) he gets stuck in these kind of dramas only.
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Dexterinthelaboratory
August 26, 2016 at 11:00 AM
Damn right about the predictability. I am only watching it for Yamasaki Kento.
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eva
August 26, 2016 at 7:38 AM
Watching Sukina Hito ga Iru Koto myself solely for the cliche and predictability. Kento Yamazaki is like cherry on top, really doesn't hurt that he's so good-looking, because that led me to watch bit of Death Note, which in turn led me to Masataka Kubota, which in turn led me to wonderful Anything for N. That drama was really something, it kept me guessing up to the final episode.
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Ami
August 26, 2016 at 8:34 AM
I prefer Sukina much more!!! It took me the longest time to start, but I prefer the characters a lot more, the female lead, although she is not the sharpest tool in a box, she is hard working and true to herself.
But it is mainly the male characters, the Korean Leads in Cinderella just annoy me with their entitlement, in Sukina they are a lot nicer.... And Kento Yamasaki.
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kbaswithneko
August 26, 2016 at 10:17 AM
The female lead looks unhealthy thin compared to her appearance in earlier work. I was surprised she had the energy to pull her suitcase and jump around on the beach in the first episode. The pressure to be thin in the industry must spawn a lot of eating disorders.
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12 korfan
August 26, 2016 at 6:38 AM
Hi Everyone! ....... OT time once again. I hope you are all doing well today!
Watched this week:
Lucky Romance - Gosh, what is it about Ryu Jun-yeol? ...... He appears and the screen lights up.
Wanted - So the husband disappears for what seems like whole episodes at a time. Where does he go?
Moonlight Drawn By Clouds - Cuteness left and right, courtesy of the leads!
Uncontrollably Fond - Jung-eun still delusional.
Pasta - Credit to Lee Seon-kyun for turning what could be an unlikeable character into someone you want to tune in and watch.
The Good Wife - So I haven't been watching this, but my mom has been showing me short clips of this ...... oh my goodness, Yoon Kye-Sang! ..... I think I may need to watch this!
That's all for now. ....... Everyone take care and have a great Friday!
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CaroleMcDonnell
August 26, 2016 at 8:08 AM
We have Moonlight in common. Maybe with the new spate of dramas this weekend, we'll have even more dramas in common.
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owl
August 26, 2016 at 8:54 AM
Pasta has a special place in my heart as one of the first kdramas I watched and also because I've watched it with family members when we get together and they've loved it, too!
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MapleSilver
August 26, 2016 at 9:42 AM
I am glad you discovered Pasta and enjoyed it. Better late than never. I also hated the chef for the first eight episodes then suddenly boom, I fell hard for his character, and the actor. I can't count how many times I have watched the entire series and still laugh out loud at some of the scenes.
Too bad for me Lee Seon-kyun does not seem to enjoy doing dramas, or get offers, or both.
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am1993
August 26, 2016 at 12:43 PM
Lee Sunkyun is going to be in the drama "This Week My Wife Will Have an Affair" in November or December!!
Although I first saw him in Coffee Prince, it's only when I watched Miss Korea recently that I truly noticed him.
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purpleowl
August 26, 2016 at 2:07 PM
When the plot for My Wife came out, I never would have guessed I'd be counting down to the drama. But yes, LSK is back on my screen. It's going to be fun.
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vongole
August 26, 2016 at 11:18 AM
Ooooh... Love the Pasta references! It was my first ever K-drama and I continue to adore the two leads. And, Miss Korea is my favourite-est - LSK forever?
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purpleowl
August 26, 2016 at 2:06 PM
Oh, someone is watching LR! Ryu Joon Yeol is such a gem. Please share your overall view of the show when you end.
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13 neener
August 26, 2016 at 6:40 AM
Happy OT everyone! ?
Currently watching:
Age of Youth I still cannot believe that it's ending this week. ? I have many things I want for our girls but mainly for them to be happy and eventually say goodbye to their own 'ghost'.
W-Two Worlds It was a slow week compared to last week but I still have NO IDEA where we are going. I can't see any clues, not that I mind ?
Jealousy Incarnate Cute. The graphics or effects might be a little over the top. Still on the first week and I'm already having a second lead syndrome.... Sun-woo yaaaah!
Still downloading PU38, it might be a bad idea to watch it now esp with thesis papers and reports for next week but who cares? It's SIG!
And lastly, I've been wanting to watch Jdrama and I have no idea what to watch since I've been away for almost a year. If anyone is willing to recommend me... dramas that aired 2014-2015, anything good...any genre would do ?☺️
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neener
August 26, 2016 at 6:42 AM
I apologize for the bold in the first part, I made a mistake in the code since I'm using my iPad ??? but it could also mean my love for AoY.
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alua
August 26, 2016 at 6:59 AM
If you like human slice-of-life dramas with depth, I would recommend Love that Makes You Cry (Itsukoi) – really love love love this one. That's from the writer of Soredemo, Ikitte Yuku. His Mondai no Aru Restaurant (2015) is also good. The writer is just very, very good and fortunately his dramas come with excellent actors too.
For quirky j-humour, Fuben na Benriya is unmissable.
Plus:
–Love Song (need finish this myself, but enjoyed what I watched)
–Kazoku no Karachi (I liked it ok, some liked it a lot)
–Okashi no Ie (simple, funny, sweet)
–Kounodori (a rare hospital drama that I really enjoyed)
–Okitegami Kyoko no Biboroku (still need to finish it, but I know a lot of people loved it!)
Currently airing:
–Hajimemashite, Aishiteimasu (good so far)
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neener
August 26, 2016 at 7:29 AM
Thank you for this! Will check Itsukoi once AoY finishes. I actually watched Kounodori and loved it.
Jdramas has this way of focusing on one setting/situation but then it gives you different perspectives. That's just one of the reason why I love watching Jdramas.
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rhiaa
August 26, 2016 at 7:11 AM
I will miss Age of Youth SO MUCH. :(
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neener
August 26, 2016 at 7:30 AM
I know! I want to watch ep 11 but then I don't want it to end but I waaaant to watch buuut...ugh.
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rhiaa
August 26, 2016 at 9:40 AM
Let's just watch it! Then watch it again...and again...and again...
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neener
August 26, 2016 at 10:34 AM
Will definitely do that! Watched it without subs and my heart can't take it. Waaaah
bugs_bunny
August 26, 2016 at 11:40 AM
highly recommend juhan shuttai! watched it after reading an article from timescout, wherein she mentioned mookie's post also (both blogs, search juhan shuttai review timescout). 10-epi drama, concise but full of heart, luv the lead actress + all actors involved. each episode highlights their hard work, effort (or lack of) & commitment, just to release a weekly magazine (manga) from the editor, writer & seller’s perspective.
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purpleowl
August 26, 2016 at 11:26 PM
Hiya! We're gathering the Go Kyung Pyo fans. Can I could you in?
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sharreb
August 27, 2016 at 1:08 AM
Me too.i was just saying i will miss Age of youth and im eager tk see tonight's episode. Can our Ji woon start dating the guy from her office?
I actually enjoy the slower episodes of W this week. Last week was too much for me.half the time im asking myself: "am i too dumb for this?" when i try to analyse. Pep talk to myself "dont over analyse and just enjoy Kang Chul-Yeonjoo romance"
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14 PBY
August 26, 2016 at 6:40 AM
I don't know why I'm asking for drama recs with so many new shows airing/about to air, but - can anybody recommend something in the vein of Surplus Princess?
I really liked the comedy and the quirkiness of it, especially the referential humor (poking fun at MLFAS, KPOP M/Vs etc.) and various visual elements (video game elements, drawings etc.).
Somebody recommended After School Ready or Not, but are there any others?
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Makoto
August 26, 2016 at 7:02 AM
After school can't be compared to Surplus Princess. It was funny at first but then it gets boring and meh (for my taste), while SP is all round funny and refreshing.
I myself am trying to search drama which has similar traits to SP but haven't found yet.
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Delurker
August 26, 2016 at 7:05 AM
Best Love had a lot of meta humour, but it may be a little late in the game to be recommending it... :-)
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mary
August 26, 2016 at 8:12 AM
I vote Best Love too.
And the Reply series all had lots of kpop reference (varies per era). I think You're Beautiful had lots of kpop meta too.
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Ami
August 26, 2016 at 8:37 AM
Age of Youth has moments where it cracked me up, so that? And Jealousy Incarnate has funny moments as well.
Moonlight drawn by clouds is hilaaaarious, sageuk with humour, who would have thought?
They are not as funny as surplus princess who was all round funny but they are great!
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15 kanz
August 26, 2016 at 6:40 AM
Honestly I want to write some things about dramas I'm watching nowadays, but the latest DB's post makes me forget everything! LOL
http://www.dramabeans.com/2016/08/its-all-muscles-and-kittens-for-action-drama-the-k2/
All I know is Ji Chang Wook with muscles and kittens! Dramagods must be kind to us this year!
Anyway, here's the list of dramas I watch
W: Best sci-fi kdrama ever! Probably too sophisticated for our minds, but maan every episode just gets better and better. Korea needs more dramas like this, stat!
Moonlight Drawn By Clouds: I'm drawn by Park Bo Gum and Kim Yoo Jung. Such a cute and lovely couple! It's kind of show you'd want to watch after work, light, cute and fluffy. Best not to know the history before. I don't think I could take the ending, if somehow Crown Prince Hyomyeong ends up like in historical texbook.
Uncontrollably Fond: I'm so close to dropping this, esp after reading the latest recaps. Better luck next time Kim Woo Bin! Next time, please ask your buddy Lee Jong Suk before deciding to appear in a drama/movie. That guy has really good eyes for projects.
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jcwislove
August 26, 2016 at 9:39 PM
Exactly my feeling when I saw the K2 post. It s like nothing else matters???
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16 Sweetsammy
August 26, 2016 at 6:41 AM
Just ended up watching Japanese drama Rich man Poor woman!
And.... it was awesome...I heard about it from somebody here at Dramabeans and gave it a try, but I ended up marathoning it. It was that good! Sorry I don't remember who it was but here is a big thanks from my side.
Morever, somehow I find that the japanese dramas are way funny compared to korean dramas( please don't judge me!). I mean I had seen the korean version To the beautiful you way back during my college, but when I recently saw the japanese version Hana Kimi, it was way way funnier and light unlike its korean version.
To any body who has not watched the special movie type episode at the end of Hana Kimi that was absent perhaps in the korean version, I would strongly recommend them to give it a try. I have never ever watched such hilarious football match ever!!
Thank you to the ones who recommended me the drama Rich man poor woman !!
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kimchikay
August 26, 2016 at 7:39 AM
I love Rich Man, Poor Woman (which by the way is such an awful title for such a fantastic drama!). Shun Ogari is just so wonderful in whatever he does…glad you enjoyed it!
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Sancheezy
August 26, 2016 at 7:41 AM
I also think Jdrama is way more funny and ridiculous, I laugh the entire ep watching Manhattan Love Story, it's ridiculous but they don't think it is.
then who can forget the self-reclaim/ self-appointed detective nakatsu???
a second lead who also getting confused with how the story picked the male lead since he thought he is not that bad.... lol
the 1st day sequence to the homo janai part is funny and I still remember when they looked for the treasure with their non existant human ability.
also nanba senpai and oscar.....
then sekime .... aaab my school day looked so fun.
sorry, I really like the show and I can't help to spazz abou it.
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Oshi
August 26, 2016 at 2:11 PM
The Japanese are like the English to Koreas America (At least as far as TV shows go) I always laugh more in with Japanese shows.
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CatoCat
August 26, 2016 at 10:50 AM
That's what i'm trying to get. Doramas easily click with me but i always end up finding all kinds of faults in kdramas.
When characters show varios kinds of emotions I just sit there thinking why they are trying so hard to make me feel their emotions. Most of the time they feel too superficial.
Whereas not matter the absurdity jodramas always make me think and care about characters and their future life.
i think Rich Man Poor Woman needed a some more time. In the everything worked well for the hero and it felt rushed too me. This is why I have yet to see the Movie.
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17 drawde2000
August 26, 2016 at 6:47 AM
Tatlong tulog na lang at Pasko na. (Three more nights and it's Christmas). I guess I should be happy if the drama didn't turn out well since it's full of pretty.
I have been listening to that OST released this week. Multiple times mind you. It is lovely to hear Baekhyun's, Chen, and Xiumin. I think it helps that I don't understand Korean because I am able to listen to the music and harmony better.
Tonight and tomorrow though, I will have to bid farewell to my drama of the year. AGE OF YOUTH. ... You surprised me, show. You were the drama I didn't know I needed. Thank you for the wowing us viewers with exceptional friendship between five working class woman. Bravo! Thank you for providing us characters that are relatable, unique and flawed. Til we meet again.
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18 fanwho
August 26, 2016 at 6:50 AM
Happy Friday! Are you drowning in dramas being offered? We have more dramas to start/started, and many more production press conferences. It gets boring when in every production press conference, there is not much new talk other than 'It is honor to be in this project' and 'I will work/have worked hard'. Here is one for 'Jealousy Incarnation' and what Jo Jung-suk, Gong Hyo-jin and PD Park Sin-woo mentioned. [Xsports News]
About the reason why he chose this project, Jo Jung-suk said "I really like GongVeuli (Gong +lovely, Gong Hyo-jin's nick) and the writer Seo Sook-hyang and this is these two people's colaboration, so I had to choose. Currently I am shooting working hard, thinking "I was right". He said about his character laughing(he was embarrassed even himself), "I play a macho reporter Lee Hwa-sin who is born skin handsome(pale and clean skin, I assume), and macho man thinking his manliness is superior."
Gong Hyo-jin said she wondered about the length of 24 episodes. "I think the strength of this writer is (describing) image of someone who works her hardest to be the best in her occupation. I think her writing became firmer after 'Pasta' and 'Miss Korea'. Her scenario was much more interesting than before. I was conflicted because it has 24 episodes, but this drama has lots of story to tell, so I expect great long journey. Writer-nim said she hoped me to forget previous finicky roles, and come back to being GongVeuli. When she handed me the script she said she wanted to see my role like the one in 'Pasta'. I said I got older and wondered if I could play what I did when I was much younger. I don't have any more loveliness left in me. But I put a lot of effort to find different charms from the previous role. I'd like to show GongVeuli who is adjusted fitting to new situation and her age."
About her character, Gong said, "This time there are parts like cider(Feel refreshed. Cider in Korea is Sprite in US- drinks which clear your indigestion). This character is not someone who is always nice and frustrating, but overcomes her difficulties just by working hard. This time also she is barely-making-a-living character who can't get out of rooftop room. She still works hard but not always nice. She curses her boss and smirks behind his back just like any working woman. She strikes back and retaliates. I am trying to make and give so-called Cider-like refreshing feeling."
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fanwho
August 26, 2016 at 6:50 AM
PD Park Sin-woo said "This show is romance comedy which will make people feel refreshed and happy this summer. Jealousy is human's common feeling. I hope this feeling relays to the viewers well. I love these actors' good looking and prettiness. I'd like to complement them who convey energy on the set and show even more cool side of them than on the TV screen. They usually say director is the leader, but I don't play that role this time. There are great performers who can do themselves without being led. I am directing the show thinking I am like a carpenter who makes the stage."
Sigh. I like Gong Hyo-jin but 24 episodes? Personally I do not like mini-series longer than 16 episodes. Still JI fighting! (It already had better ratings than UF)
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19 fanwho
August 26, 2016 at 6:51 AM
I am glad Doctors ended. Even though I needed more conflicts to be more invested in the show, it was feel-good, heart-warming drama. I am happy for them for the high ratings. PD Oh Jung-hwan had an interview. [OSEN]
Q: There were many star cameos.
A: The viewers showed conflicted responses about special appearances. We tried to tie patients' stories to the leads, and because cameo were well-known actors, their stories made more impact, I think. Overall we had good response.
Q: Was there any part you had extra difficulties?
A: We've really worked hard to prepare for medical part scenes. We found the actual clips with difficulties and did shooting having expert's consultation. We tried very hard to make it feel realistic so it was extra hard. We even searched and brought in equipments you can't commonly find. We almost reached the level where we could actually perform a surgery.
Q: Besides surgery scenes, what was the most difficult or the most memorable scene?
A: Helicopter scene in episode 4 was very difficult, I think. Space was smaller than expected (had to limit staffs), it was hot and it was dangerous because there were no railings. Also ground had while color so that we couldn't open our eyes. Even though the scene came out ok, I don't remember how we filmed it. (We put black tone on the ground) That helicopter cost (about) $5000 an hour so we had to hurry filming.
Q: You had the puppy Sangchu appeared in the beginning ep.
A: Grandma's house was a set. We added flowers and tried to make it cozy. I thought it would be nice to have some animal, so I added a puppy, but I was shocked at the response because people loved it. Because people loved it so much, I was seriously thinking to add it back after 13 years, but Hye-jung didn't stay in her house much, so I couldn't.
Q: You worked as main PD for the first time, and ratings were high.
A: I am thankful that ratings were better than what we've expected. I really didn't think this was the story which could pull high ratings, so I didn't have much expectation. But we had good ratings, so I am really grateful.
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fanwho
August 26, 2016 at 6:51 AM
Q: I heard you are same age as Kim Rae-won.
A: Our staffs are all young. Shooting director is same age as me and all other staffs are in their early 20's. So our set had carefree atmosphere, and they could do acting comfortably. Kim Rae-won ssi is mature man style, but he played comfortably. Even though he joined in rather abruptly, he became close to people very quickly and showed many things with ease.
Q: At the end of episode 19, Park Sin-hye danced on the rooftop.
A: Since they had to wait for long hours, we had the music on letting them play. It was carefree atmosphere and they played with staffs a lot. This kind of set is rare, because drama shooting is difficult and sensitive. But we really had cheerful atmosphere and everyone was happy, and that is why I think we did shoots with confidence and results came out better.
Q: There must've been a message writer Ha Myung-hee wanted to convey. Do you think you delivered them well as the PD?
A: Maybe 85 out of 100? The main point had changed and characters became more cheery. Originally lead's description was strong, but we covered side characters and patients' stories a lot, and we wanted to find a way to unravel leads' love and family story as relatable. So the only way to talk about it directly was by narration. Writer-nim really had hard time with it. Thankfully we had good response.
Q: Park Sin-hye must have had hard time because of action scenes.
A: She said she had the most difficult time among all dramas she's done but she had fun. Because she is an actress who is cheerful and considerate of others, she did all without frowning not even once. She did all the actions without using double. Also there were many situations she had to show wide range of emotions. In episode 3, there were about 10 times she had to cry, and she did all well. She is really diligent and hard-working actress. She was the best among all I have met so far.
Q: Kim Rae-won was able to overcome his previous (serious) image.
A: He is an actor who acts well and engages himself well, and I was amazed. He is really manly man. In him there were parts fitting to his character Hong Ji-hong, and there were parts not fitting, but when that happens, he threw himself into the role right away and became HJH. It was amazing experience. He is really cool and talented actor.
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fanwho
August 26, 2016 at 6:52 AM
Q: Did he do ad-lib a lot?
A: He has his own tone. For example, 'Bad bitch' was his line written in the script, but his tone was very different which he made himself. He is an actor with lots of ideas. For example, in the beginning the scene where he left banana milk was not in the script. He does research about how to make it more fun and more relatable. And he wanted to do some different acting because he has done heavy and dark roles previously. In the beginning I asked him to do acting a lot like him in 'Attic cat', and I am thankful he did acting cheerily.
(Actually I thought about Kim Rae-won in Attic cat when I watched this show. I still remember BTS when he and JDB having fun spreading the blanket out on the floor. Oh I am going to cry thinking about her).
btw Park Sin-hye must be popular. Last TvN's 2016 List reported stars who are close to many star men-friends, women-friends. Park Sin-hye came out as 2nd only after G-Dragon who is close to many singers, actresses, even international celebrities. PSH is good friend of just about everyone including co-stars in her previous projects like Jang Geun-suk, Jung Yong-hwa, Lee Min-ho, Lee Jong-suk and many (and we know how Taecyeon fell for her in TMAD). For others, Lee Sung-kyung/Seo-woo from Doctors who is known to have cool personality made the no. 8, and Park Bo-gum made no. 7. He is known for his aegyo, and keeps touch with actresses who did project together (it said "Park Bo-gum prefers older ladies" heh) including Lee Chung-ah(Lucky romance) who he mentioned as his ideal type, Hye-ri, Lee Yeon-hee, Kim Go-eun, Jang Na-ra, etc and Kim Hae-soo(Signal) who he calls 'Noona' as well as moms in Reply 88.
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20 purpleowl
August 26, 2016 at 6:52 AM
Where's the Go Kyung Pyo fandom at?
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fanwho
August 26, 2016 at 6:58 AM
Is there such a thing? I saw this one.
http://www.dramafever.com/news/-actors-whose-fandom-grew-so-much-in-2016-that-they-could-be-elected-president-of-south-korea/
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purpleowl
August 26, 2016 at 11:48 AM
Thank you for that link. It was funny. Idk which fandom I would side with lol
http://www.dramabeans.com/2016/08/threes-a-crowd-in-sbs-rom-com-jealousy-incarnate/
Mary's comment started it all. We even have a slogan:
"Forget Go Jun Pyo, have some Go Kyung Pyo" ?
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Oshi
August 26, 2016 at 2:12 PM
Every time I see him my knees go weak.
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Sancheezy
August 26, 2016 at 7:43 AM
maybe you can add me if you found one,
he is ridiculously attractive,
even in serious real life situation,
he is the man
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Yoyo
August 26, 2016 at 8:21 AM
He's my flower boy next door!!!
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Lin_K
August 26, 2016 at 11:38 AM
He is good-looking and kinda reminds me of Choi Si Won.
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Oshi
August 26, 2016 at 2:13 PM
I think he's more authentic then Choi Si won.
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purpleowl
August 26, 2016 at 11:35 PM
I can see that. I love Si Won oppa but Kyung Pyo puppa seems a little more masculine and accessible. Si Won would probably agree lol. I'd live to see them hang out, like Jisoo & Nam Joohyuk do. Lookalikes or similars should be friends.
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fanwho
August 27, 2016 at 9:01 AM
btw I hope he gets some love this time. I remember feeling sad when Go teared up saying he thought he didn't deserve to be in the program when he was cast in 'Youth over Flowers' Africa episodes. That time PD Na said he was picked by misunderstanding (PD Na watched first couple of episodes of Reply 88 and thought Go and Ryu were male leads - heh I thought that too. Then why he picked Park Bo-gum? Na said because he was good looking).
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purpleowl
August 27, 2016 at 10:45 AM
Aw, he doesn't know how beloved he is. I hope it's vocal enough for him to notice this time. I really need to watch YoF but my tv list is so heavy and I start school Monday. One day.
I thought the same thing at the beginning of R88. I agree with the PD's reason for PBG, kekeke.
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21 fanwho
August 26, 2016 at 6:53 AM
How sad Age of Youth will end soon. Casts seem to feel the same way and one of them is Ji Il-joo(31) who plays despicable Go Doo-young in the show. He had an interview[OSEN].
He is being cursed because of his character. "I didn't care about my image at all. I wanted to do this project because it was so good. People say 'Go Doo-young bastard, garbage, dung truck', and it means they are invested in his character. I thought I was doing well. I take it as complement."
Currently he is dumped by his gf Yeo-eun. "There are still something big left to come. Writer Park Yeon-sun is not careless. There is still more to come. She said he was a bad guy to the end. So I think getting cursed now might be nothing compared to later."
For the scene showing his worst behavior, he picked the one he gave Yeo-eun a perfume sample as a gift. "That was the best. Director-nim added one line which was not in the script. Actually we struggled about whether we should wrap that gift or not until the shooting time. We decided to hand it without wrapping it. And director-nim told me to say I didn't wrap it because I didn't have time. It looked really pathetic. But I liked it because that scene came out good."
About Han Seong-yeon who plays his girlfriend, he said "Kara debuted when I was in the army. To soldiers, girl idols are like god. I liked them at that time, but I became distant (to that feeling) when I got older. I was happy to meet her here. Han Seong-hyun is nice so we play jokes and stuff on the set. When we film a scene Go Doo-young does bad things to Yeo-eun, she says "You were really bad." We often have a break together, and talk about many things. "Did you have bf like Go Doo-young?" "Did you have gf like Jung Yeo-eun?" I didn't act like Doo-young, but had nice friends like Yeo-eun."
About other couples, he said, "I am jealous. I am envious of Jong-yeol and Eun-jae couple, and Jin-myung and Jae-wan couple. Eun-jae and Jong-yeol's romance is good, but I am too old to do that kind of innocent love. I think comfortable meeting is better. Jin-Jae couple's romance is not quiet and not easy because of her situation, but it looks sincere even though it may not fancy."
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fanwho
August 26, 2016 at 6:54 AM
About all characters, he said "Even though I haven't experienced all, I feel connected. There are parts I can relate to Jin-myung. When I was in the college, I kept working on part-time jobs, and greedy to sign up for 32 hours taking extra dance and writing classes when taking 22 hours was normal. And I ate Kimbap during 10 min break. I even did serving in a beer place while my classmates were drinking. I wanted to at least make money to support myself to take the burden off from my mother."
He used to insist doing only plays. "Before I debuted, I only wanted to do stage plays and musicals. But during last days of my army duty, I changed my mind to do acting on TV. In my early 20's I thought stage play was real acting, but when I was in the army I questioned that idea. I thought it would be good if I could meet many people through good projects."
About his future plans, he said "I think it will be nice if I continue acting 10 years from now. It doesn't matter if I am taking lead or supporting roles. Currently I am working on my master's, and I hope I can teach around that time."
He also played the bodyguard Moo-myung of Lee In-jwa/Jung Gwang-ryol in 'Jackpot'. "Before I started filming I heard Jun Gwang-ryol was scary, but sunbae-nim took care of me really well. We did shoots for Jackpot when weather was cold. There was a scene I knelt down on the floor, and sunbae nim said "Bring him a cushion since his knee won't be shown on the screen". He also said I should stay close to him because standing wrong side might give me hard time. "Many hoobae/juniors of Jung Gwang-ryol sunbae-nim like Kim Bum (Goddess of Fire), Yoo Seong-ho(Remember) stopped by. Usually that does not happen, but I could understand why."
I loved him in Healer. JIJ fighting!
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The other Kiara
August 26, 2016 at 9:15 AM
Fan, you are awesome! I look forward to your OT post every Friday. Thank you for taking the time to translate these articles. It's nice getting to know the actors outside of the dramas. They have a big influence when it comes to picking dramas/films to watch.
I have to admit that I didn't recognize Ji Il-joo as the Nameless guard from Jackpot. He looks really young here.
I hope that he won't give up on stage acting. I do have a soft spot for stage actors. They bring with them unique traits and there is a certain confidence that they have from performing in front of live crowds. Most of my favorite actors have stage/theatre experience.
It's good to know that Jung Gwang-ryol has a follower of young actors. He is amazing! He seems to be young at heart too.
I am going to miss Age of Youth's cast and the amazing writer Park Yeon-sun. Please stay with jTBC.
Looking forward to Han Ye-ri's new movies and Park Eun-bin's drama. Park Hye-soo just gave me another reason to check out Saimdang. I'm excited that Yoon Park (Jae-wan) is going to be in jTBC's The Package. I honestly don't care about the leads but the supporting actors are pretty good.
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Sera The Ms Temper
August 26, 2016 at 10:24 AM
Park Hye Soo gonna be the young Lee Young Ae, I'm looking forward for this drama even originally not really wanted to do so.
All casts in Age of Youth are talented AMD amazing. Wish they will get more good roles in the future.
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The other Kiara
August 26, 2016 at 2:17 PM
Her first sageuk ever. She is going to look adorable in hanbok.
Sera The Ms Temper
August 27, 2016 at 1:36 AM
She reminds me a lot of Baek Jin Hee. They can pull of innocence and naive character very well. Looking forward to see PHS in her first sageukm If she continues do well, she will stay in my rising actress list. I was hoping there will be OST by her for AOY. Her voice is so lovely.
Sera The Ms Temper
August 26, 2016 at 10:27 AM
Thanks a lot , fan.
I love this actor. He is very good looking and good actor. I hope he can land lead role so . I think I first saw him on Neighborhood Hero. even he was only supporting cast. Jackpot too. Even I do think I actually watched him in a drama before but could not remember the name.
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trebleandbess
August 26, 2016 at 5:11 PM
Ji Il-Joo did a fantastic job in episode 11. I was really impressed with how the drama handled this sensitive issue while still keeping bits of funny in it, although in the first couple minutes I feared that the writer would go the opposite way it did.
I was pleasantly surprised by Han Seung Yeon, who I know has received lots of fire (at least on dramabeans) for her acting, but I do think she fit the role and she really did seem frightened with everything that was happening.
Hope that wasn't too spoilery of a comment.
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Sera The Ms Temper
August 27, 2016 at 1:42 AM
HSY was indeed terrible in acting, I watched her previous drama like Jang Ok Jung and Jang Bori. This time around, not impressive but serviceable and improves. Her character just fit with her nicely. If she is to act the characters of Han YeRi, Park Eun Bin or Hwa Young, I don't know if she will perform.
She can act but she needs to do role within her limitation. I'm okay if she wants to continue with acting, but honestly I don't think she is lead material yet. If she knows kind of roles she can do, she will do well.
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22 purpleowl
August 26, 2016 at 6:56 AM
I've been semi lurking this month.
@Sancheezy thank you so much for the drawing ?
@pogo @junny on the Austen discussion I recommend the vlog adaptation of P&P or Emma or Mansfield Park, depending on the story that you like better
P&P The Lizzie Bennet Diaries
Emma Emma Approved
MP From Mansfield with Love
I wish someone would do Persuasion. It's tied with MP and Emma as my favorite Austen.
@Michykdrama responding to 8/12 OT when you mentioned Aaron Yan was taking time off to study directing. I'm sad he's not available to be making new dramas. But having just discovered him I have a lot of catching up to do. And I love actor/directors too. It's cute how they gain in passions and knowledge. How is S2013 coming along?
@Chocofrogs as @Mochakat9 said, It Started with a Kiss is an amazing drama. I forget about it being TW because I watched it for the INK storyline.
@yukari responding to 8/12 OT, I've liked classical since I did a music appreciate class. But watching the anime for Nodame heightened my love for it. Classical music is so colorful as they describe it. I agree the kdrama didn't do a good job with the performances. Some of the positioning took away from the scene but the Japanese does it much better.
@CatoCat responding to 8/12 OT, I get you on Orange. I haven't been watching "because of all the kdramas" but really I'm scared of what will happen, lol. How are you managing to keep away from Jdoramas? Tell me your ways.
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purpleowl
August 26, 2016 at 7:00 AM
@Fish N' Chips responding to 8/12 OT, I loved the anime ending of InK. Sometimes I find myself wondering why there wasn't a child in the other versions an I have to remind myself that only the anime really finishes the story. The second kiss is my favorite. And I love that it's Yuki's wedding present to Kotoko. Omo, yes! Naoki is so complex. When Ken-chan tells him what jealousy means, it really hits home that while Naoki is a genius he doesn't really get emotions, he just knows the words. I enjoy discussing. Let me know if you watch more of Kiss Me (Thai). I'd love to hear your opinion.
@Pebble responding to 8/5 OT. Thank you for the Hacken concert & links. I haven't gotten a chance to watch yet but it'll probably becoming my studying music. Such a pretty voice and comforting like you mentioned. Lol, I didn't know if anyone checked out the Zac Efron songs. Idk how missed you commenting on it. I think I'm between I Will Survive & the Pokémon theme song as my favorite mash up.
@DoubleFault I can't get into color books, probably for the same reason I didn't like them when I was younger, whatever that is. But I'm glad it's become a trend. It's been proven to be calming. Haven't seen The Producers yet but I'll keep an eye out for IU coloring.
Bucket lists are amazing. I make a new one every year. I feel like I'm efficiently using my time, you know? I recently found an website called ListChallenge.com and I'm going to use that for next year's bucket list.
YKS's classical music is probably my favorite part of that show. Entertainer had a minor classical part *if only SKJ gave concerts in real life ?*. It's time to rewatch Page Turner. The performances were realistic, not too much for Jisoo and amazing for the childhood pianists. My classical music on YouTube is getting buried. Better listen to more, lol.
@Wag_a_Muffin I ? the parodies. The sageuk parody had me laughing so much.
@Lady Jaye how is kdramaland treating you? Did you start a second drama yet?
@Kaybee sorry for the late reply to our conversation about MH in television. I haven't written a post on the topic yet. I'm going to start going through the shows and movies soon. I'll link to my website. I haven't seen IO, IL but from the reviews I can understand it representing mental health almost too clearly lol. I haven't seen United States of Tara but I'll probably come to it while looking over MH in media.
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pebble
August 26, 2016 at 8:07 AM
Hi Purple Owl, no worries at all for the Hacken links, I'm glad you find Cantonese songs interesting and listenable. Actually, Hacken is not considered a superstar, he is well liked mainly in HK only, though I love his voice and his effort in promoting and incorporating classical music in his songs. You may want to check out Jacky Cheung too, he is truly a superstar who is very well respected in the Chinese music industry, both in HK and Taiwan, he delivered numerous mega hits, both in Chinese and Cantonese throughout his music career. I posted a link of him singing Rainy Blue in Cantonese above in 1.1.1.1.1
btw, I was reminded of Zac Efron when I saw Kim Hee-ae dancing enthusiastically and crazily to the tune of I Will Survive in kdrama second To Last Love. :)
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purpleowl
August 27, 2016 at 10:52 AM
Oh, him not being a superstar is a shame because he's relaxing. But being in the underground know makes me feel special lol.
I listened to all the Rainy Blue original and covers. I had heard Onew and Taemin's during a SHINee binge. All the others were a great listen. I'm adding Jack Cheung to my music list now.
Lol, now whenever I get around to 2nd Love (probably not for a few weeks), I'll think of you thinking of Zac Efron ?
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kaybee
August 26, 2016 at 10:46 AM
No worries! :) Yes, IOIL is freaking scary in its representation. I had a really hard time watching it, while also being happy that for once being sick (whether it be physically or mentally) wasn't being portrayed as some sort of heroic, stoic act of patience and perseverance, but rather as the .. ehhmm... [insert own indecent word here]... that it is. It's the only time I've seen chronic/long-term illness portrayed in a real way.
I'll look forward to seeing your post then! ^^
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purpleowl
August 27, 2016 at 4:09 PM
I should really check out It's Okay, It's Love but now I've started Jealousy Incarnate and have a rule about watching actors in more than 1 show. I'm excited about the mental health in media analysis though.
This is my blog
http://scharja.blogspot.com/?m=1
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Wag-a-muffin
August 26, 2016 at 11:07 AM
Thank you, Purple Owl.
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purpleowl
August 27, 2016 at 4:10 PM
You're welcome. I look forward to your next parody ?
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Janezelda
August 26, 2016 at 7:15 AM
I second the Austen vlog recommendations! I haven't seen MP so I'm looking forward to watching it. Persuasion is my fav Austen. It would be interesting to have a modern adaptation.
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mary
August 26, 2016 at 8:08 AM
OMG Persuasion friends! It's my favorite Austen novel too!
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purpleowl
August 27, 2016 at 4:21 PM
Yay, Persuasion buddies! Who's your favorite character? What's your favorite Wentworth moment?
I love Captain Benwick and my secret favorite is Louisa Musgroves. My Wentworth moment is tied between when he asks for Anne to ride back with his sister during the walk & when he gets upset at the play.
I have the words "I must go, uncertain of my fate" hanging in my room. I think I made it at 15 ?
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erratic
August 26, 2016 at 10:58 AM
High five! Mine, too! There's something about second chances that resonate with me.
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purpleowl
August 27, 2016 at 4:24 PM
Same. I'm all for second chances, especially when both parties still care so much if not more than before.
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purpleowl
August 27, 2016 at 4:13 PM
The MP vlog is probably my favorite and that's a difficult decision because TLBD started everything. But Frankie/Fanny Price is life. It's the perfect modern day version. Please share your reaction to it. I'd love to discuss ?
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erratic
August 28, 2016 at 12:07 AM
Ooh. I'll look it up.
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yukari
August 26, 2016 at 8:04 AM
I try to forget it but since you mention it again, on k-nodame I can close my eyes and switch off my brain about their acting and 'cheap' concert hall (despite huge naeil's room and other gorgeous shoot). I can even ignore the awkward playing of the violin soloist in the last couple eps (forget kversion Mine's name), but to hear 'Eroica' in the mid of 'Violin Concerto in D major', that's offensive!
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junny
August 26, 2016 at 8:45 AM
Thanks for the vlog suggestions! I'll look into them. I'm still trying to finish the second half of Pride and Prejudice - the Keira Knightley version. I had watched the first half at a friend's place but didn't get to finish it. And then I got sidetracked by North and South, which I finished in one shot thanks to Richard Armitage, haha.
As for the classical music in Nodame, totally agree. Fantastic stuff, all the more so when you consider that classical pieces were also used for the background music in the drama version (I didn't watch the anime).
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erratic
August 26, 2016 at 10:37 AM
Lizzie Bennet Diaries! Did you watch Lydia's spin on things? Became a fan of Mary Kate Wiles because of it.
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purpleowl
August 28, 2016 at 11:28 AM
Yes! I just rewatched some Lydia episodes, sigh.
I watched TLBD live and suffering through the days off was worse than any kdrama waits I've ever had. I was so happy when Maria started her side story, even though it was super boring. And then Lydia's gave the character so much depth and made it easier to understand her.
I love MK Wiles the most out of the cast but I cheer every time I see any of them with more work be it commercials, a show, or a singing competition.
Have you read either book? I've always wanted to but haven't gotten around to it yet.
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CatoCat
August 26, 2016 at 11:00 AM
I just made a rule that i won;t watch any japanese content this year and then i started to watch kdramas. I can spend time only on 1 kind of content and it worked out for me.
If you haven't started to watch a show then you can easily avoid watching it.
I wanted to mention people from different open threads but couldn't make time to find their comments so left the idea. I really like the idea of Joining the different threads into 1 big set of conversation.
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23 CaroleMcDonnell
August 26, 2016 at 7:03 AM
Hello all:
I am so numbed by those stories. Kinda wondering if I should take on another 50 stories or let the other judges handle it. It really is very difficult to find something good to say about a crappy piece of writing.
May I say that Lee Jong-Suk is amazing! Okay, I have always liked him but NOW I see his sexiness. Okay, moving on.
Dramas:
W-- This is the best kind of drama for me. I love Speculative fiction that plays with the ramifications and consequences of a great "What If?" And when the "what if" is merged with the mega, wow! Most Kdramas tend to be overly-plotted with tons of sub-plots which prevent us seeing the true ramifications of the basic plot. That kind of stuff bothers me because I like to see organic plotting and storytelling. But when we have tons of sub-plots, kneejerk plotting predictable stuff has to happen to speed stuff along. And that gets boring after a while. High School King is an example of a story that didn't have too many subplots. Same for Mirror of the Witch. But those were good emotional dramas. This drama is emotional but it's also a great little mind game. We think some "plot thread" has been dropped but our great writing team is so aware of all the elements of plotting and of their plot that they pick the thread up again and it's like...WOW, I had forgotten about that!!!! The storytelling care is Wonderful. Sure we don't know where all this is going, but once you A) accept the basic What-if premise and B) trust our writing team (Queen In Hyun's Man, 3 Musketeers, Nine) you can just sit back and enjoy the ride.
Cinderella and 4 knights -- I'm actually liking this. It took me until episode 4 to like it but now I'm onboard. Jung Il Woo has a lot of sexy angst going on so I'm kinda shipping him with Cinderella. I say "kinda" because I'm trying to believe there will be just enough tweaking of the chaebol poor boy and poor Candy trope to not be totally predictable....and yep, I'm for Candy getting together with the butler. Of course if butler turns out to be working with evil stepmother...aaargh. I'm also really afraid we're gonna end up having to forgive the evil stepmother and stepsister. And I'm not really happy that Candy's dad is looking for someone in the Kang family. Just seems like one of these overly-plotted stories.
Incarnate Jealousy -- I'm trying to force myself to sit through the first 4 episodes of this to give it a chance. Right now, I'm not feeling it though.
Moonlight Drawn By Clouds-- Oh wow! This is fun. I think I'm gonna be going through some powerful second lead season this drama season. The artist/second lead/son of treacherous prime minister is really tugging at my heart strings. I like the Crown Prince but ah me, I like his "former" friend as well.
Flower in Prison -- I am so loving this. Another case of second lead syndrome might be brewing. I want heroine with the grandson of Lord Tae Soo. Jung Nan Jung and the Dowager Empress are...
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CaroleMcDonnell
August 26, 2016 at 7:09 AM
are so matter-of-factly greedy and evil! Am so glad. I haven't seen a good female villain team in a while. Female villains often work by themselves and these two work by themselves but they are also great cohorts.
I am so in sageuk heaven right now. This weekend looks sooo good. Waiting to see the Laurel Tree Tailors and all the other great stuff that starts today and tomorrow.
I've been wanting to watch Death Cash but haven't been able to find it anywhere.
Happy creativity all.
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Kestrel
August 26, 2016 at 9:26 PM
I should write more. Sometimes I read what is published and I think, "Huh. Really? I could do that." I'm in a bit of a dry spell. Need to find a nice SF/F community in the Bay Area.
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Wag-a-muffin
August 26, 2016 at 7:13 AM
I dropped Cinderella and 4 guys, but if you like it, Carole, (and I value your opinion, seriously, I've read you enough to do so) I will give it another chance.
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CaroleMcDonnell
August 26, 2016 at 8:15 AM
I could be totally wrong but around the fourth episode I thought, "Dang Il Woo-shi is pulling me into this mess." Manin and I were talking about JIL and about his need for a good drama to show his skillz. He really is a good actor but for some reason his career seems to be filled with meh characters. At least lately. He has a lot of angst in Cinderella. So I'm hopping there'll be some darness here. It'll make the chaebol greedy villainesses trope a bit more tolerable.
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PeepsLeAwesomePotato
August 26, 2016 at 10:11 AM
Jung IlWoo pulled you into that drama? I never thought I'd say this, but Ahn JaeHyun was the one who pulled me into it.
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CaroleMcDonnell
August 26, 2016 at 10:19 AM
Oh dear! Can it be that our tastes are being led not by our brains but by other things? Hormonal drama-viewing, bias-love-love critiquing, internet-boyfriend-based standads or drama reviewing. Yep, my ovaries are leading me with this one. I like the kid. Heaven knows why. There's a kind of joy in his personality mixed with a touch of sadness. I always wish him luck. And yet, i have often been unable to sit through some of his movies/dramas because he picked the wrong thing to act in.
PeepsLeAwesomePotato
August 26, 2016 at 10:31 AM
Hahaha, nothing to do with my ovaries for this one. I just like Ahn JaeHyun's cheeky bastard portrayal of HyunMin. Sad Jung IlWoo who's one line is "Get lost" isn't doing much for me in this production.
Oshi
August 26, 2016 at 2:15 PM
Let me just say to everyone in this thread. If you're watching Cinderella and your interest isn't driven by the pretty I need to take your sex cards away. Immediatly.
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CaroleMcDonnell
August 26, 2016 at 5:46 PM
The Cinderella is beautiful but she is too too too Candy for me. It's like the writers went overboard with her sweetness. She doesn't feel like a real person to me. The guys at least do.
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korfan
August 26, 2016 at 7:29 AM
Carole -
I commend you for reading all those stories! I can only imagine that it's quite a thing to endure, reading less than stellar writing. But how kind of you for wanting to take the time to give positive feedback. You don't find this too often nowadays unfortunately.
I'm with you regarding Moonlight. Fun indeed and a charming cast!
Take care.
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CaroleMcDonnell
August 26, 2016 at 10:21 AM
I'm trying. Working on a new batch. Sicty stories . Hopefully i help some folks ...and not destroy them.
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Lin_K
August 26, 2016 at 11:47 AM
I love Flower in Prison. The whole setup, the prison background, the lives of ordinary people, I love it all.
I really like that the female lead is independent, capable and cares about others' welfare. And she knows martial arts!
I like the King and Chief Sung more than the main male lead. I used to like Yoon Tae Won before the King entered the scene and Sung was a moron. But now that Tae Won is on the bad side, I am all for the King. It's too bad that Ok Nyeo and the King seem related; otherwise, they would have been a great pair. I like her and Sung as good friends only.
The female villains are greedy, evil, and despicable. But they are also strong female characters. If only they used their brains and power for the good of others.
Besides that, I love all the minor characters around Ok Nyeo (except that Constable Yoo) as well.
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CaroleMcDonnell
August 26, 2016 at 5:53 PM
Exactly how I feel in everything (except for Chief Sung, whom I want to marry Ok Nyeo) It feels like hanging out in a village and knowing everyone in it. I still like Tae Won and even his dad who seems as if he'd be a good enough guy if Jung Nan Jung weren't around. I suspect Nan Jung and the Dowager Queen were working together --and responsible somehow-- for the death of Ok Nyeo's Mom.
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Lin_K
August 26, 2016 at 11:09 PM
Yoon Won Hyung seems good enough without Jung Nan Jung. He is kind towards his family and friends but he shows no remorse to step on people outside his circle. He is definitely less evil than Nan Jung is. But he is also in on the death of Ok Nyeo's mom along with Queen Dowager and Nan Jung. He was the one giving orders to the people trailing her mom.
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fanwho
August 27, 2016 at 9:04 AM
+1 on the King part. Show became more interesting once he entered in the picture.
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24 Wag-a-muffin
August 26, 2016 at 7:12 AM
It's not up yet. But I'm going to post my alternative ending for "Let's Fight, Ghosts" on my blog before the actual final episode is aired.
I wasn't going to do this, in case my "surprise" ending actually turns out to be true. But I have not read the webtoon, so I don't know how the webtoon ends--or if it ends.)
What I watched this week:
2 Days 1 Night: Wow Bo Gum, you are SO cute and can drink a lot of sports ade!
Infinity Challenge: is in LA! I'd never seen the glass slide on the side of the building, but my daughter had. And I laughed when they "ran into" Kim Jong Kookie.
Running Man: I LOVED the double blind elimination name tag rip off. Great episode!
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owl
August 26, 2016 at 9:01 AM
Bo Gum and the sports ade, gulp! The teammates were worried, telling him 'You're important" and to not get sick or the PD would get it bad from his fans. How cute!
Infinity Challenge LA was at first a disappointment because they were originally supposed to meet up with Jack Black which didn't happen, but as always, the IC crew makes the best of things. The glass slide, yikes!
Can't wait to see your depiction of our couldn't-try-any-harder-but-still-falls-short actor, Taecyeon. Still, I root for him!
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PeepsLeAwesomePotato
August 26, 2016 at 10:09 AM
Bogummie is magic.
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Wag-a-muffin
August 27, 2016 at 12:01 PM
Congratulations to Korea Seoul Little League International Champions!
I think they're going to win tomorrow and be world champs. They're good.
(And I love their Usain Bolt pose.)
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25 purpleowl
August 26, 2016 at 7:15 AM
Watch list
Korean:
Doctors – done! Minsuk killed it with his performance. The hair will come back. 17, Not the best Hye Jung ep.
I'm full on swooning again. Just as the show is ending. Boo
The drama had its weak points but overall loved it. Thank you!
UF - next ep 5, no progress
W2W - on ep 10 *hate being behind*
TF38 – next ep 14
Jung Do in jail because of Sung-il? Yeah right I don't think it's that simple. Next ep is entitled "Two years Later"
Well, two years later dey be still conning.
C&4K - on ep 3. Wow, I love this drama!
JI - next ep 2 *dying from laughter*
LiM - on ep 2 so cute!
Japanese:
Nodame Cantabile – next ep 8
Love Live Sunshine – next ep 9
InK (1996) – on ep 4
Orange - next ep 5
Taiwanese:
Fall in Love with Me - on ep 11
Western:
GMW– next S 3 ep 11. The older cast bugs me. Either let it be about children or not. Don't flip back and forth.
Ep 10 had me wondering if I should drop it. Idk. I'll stop talking about it if I have nothing positive to say.
Going back to sleep now. Have a good morning/afternoon/evening. See everyone in a few hours ?
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26 pickledplumtree
August 26, 2016 at 7:18 AM
Hello everyone! This is my first time on Open Thread and I thought I'd officially introduce myself! In the past I came to Dramabeans from time to time to look for an explanation of something I didn't quite pick up, or vent something I just needed to express about a drama. Since I'm a kindergarten teacher, this summer I fully submerged myself into the beanieocean, and have been popping up here very regularly. Now I spend more time reading comments than watching dramas - a whole new addiction, but it's so much fun, and now it's an official part of my kdrama experience! Thanks to the creators, and commenters too, for creating this space where drama lovers can unite, discuss, ponder, swoon, and seethe, all in good company!
I actually just finished Reply 1988 yesterday. I don't think I have never bawled so much from a television program. Movies, yes, but not a show. GOSH! I feel like my friends have gone and moved away, and I was more nostalgic for that little drama neighborhood's youth and relationships than my own (and we were close, too!). I guess that's what an all-around extraordinary production can do.
I had one question throughout the drama. I don't know if this is a cultural practice or if it just had to do with production, but the eomma's seemed to wear the same outfit for many days, for the course of the episode. Do people wear the same outfit for ages and then pick another, or did the wardrobe team just not feel like giving them a million outfits and gave them one per episode? Any insights? Thanks! xo
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pickledplumtree
August 26, 2016 at 7:23 AM
Some PS~
Another reason I enjoyed coming to DB, even occasionally in the past, is to see if others shared any of my strong opinions about certain occurrences. It's so much fun to get so many insights here!
AND
Reply 1988 is definitely my absolute favorite drama of the hundreds I've seen by now, and one of my favorite programs of all time. :)
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korfan
August 26, 2016 at 7:34 AM
pickledplumtree -
Welcome to OT! Glad you could join us!
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Sancheezy
August 26, 2016 at 7:50 AM
hmm idk about eomma outfit but my mom bought several comfortable clothes, same design diff color to wear inside the house, sometimes she has the same one
then my grandma like to wear the loose comfortable dress all around, doesn't matter if it the same, she actually like if it the same exact one with the one she love
but as I see, my mom only wear that outfit at home, not at work or when she is outside, that's why it doesn't get dirty faster and she wore it for 3-4 days before cleans it.
ps: mom I love you,
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pogo
August 26, 2016 at 8:17 AM
Welcome to OT!
Re: the costumes, where I live it's normal to have 'home clothes' which are worn strictly inside the house, and in my experience it's not uncommon to wear the same ones over the course of a few days, assuming they don't get sweaty or otherwise dirty - especially if it's stuff like jackets/sweaters/sweatshirts. I assume that's what production was going for, with the moms of 1988.
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bbstl
August 26, 2016 at 11:52 AM
Hi pickledplumtree! Do you know that your name autocorrects to pickled plumbers? Because that is a common phrase, right? Sheeeesh, autocorrect.
My take on the limited costumes in 1988 has everything to do with time and economics. Korea was not that far post- war and the parents in 1988 would have been children during the War and its long aftermath and grown up with all those privations ingrained. The families in the show really resonated as the embodiment of Korea at that time: work incredibly hard, do without and save, all for the future (the kids, the Olympics). It was a big deal for the sister to give Dad a new dress shirt for work; even a white-collar middle management dad didn't have a bunch of spare shirts. The mom of the family that was rich wore more clothes than the others but still not that many. It was another detail that the show got so right. Awwww, I'm tearing up thinking about the show now ?
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pickledplumtree
August 26, 2016 at 1:03 PM
I didn't realize that about autocorrect bc I'm on a desktop! So funny!
I see what you're saying about the economy, but the ajummas DID have multiple outfits, they just wore each multiple days in a row, then moved on to another, rather than scattered throughout (which was moreso the case with the other characters). Also Ra Mi Ran had some $ and lots of animal print clothes, but would also definitely wear one outfit for some time, then move on. I do think it makes sense that they didn't consider the clothes dirty for a few days.
There was fine attention to detail though, for sure! I wish I could see all the blurred out references. Does anyone know where such a version exists? Even if it's the dvds for purchase?
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bbstl
August 26, 2016 at 1:17 PM
Because doing laundry was such a pain with the stomping and the tubs and all? LOL It's the 1988 equivalent of wearing your same sweats and tshirt all week at home. But seriously, it was a pretty bare-bones time and most people were still getting used to Korea becoming a first-world country with all its material meaning.
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Amilia
August 27, 2016 at 8:13 PM
I am a day late, so you may not see this, but the third party sites have 1988 without the blurring. Dramacool et al. As a general rule, I like to watch things on the legit sites and only go to the third party sites when neither DF or Viki carry a particular drama. But the censoring out of all the nostalgia stuff in a nostalgia show drove me to it with this show.
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purpleowl
August 28, 2016 at 11:31 AM
Welcome to OT!
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27 atz
August 26, 2016 at 7:23 AM
This might sounds totally off topic but this tragedy is very much like a K-Drama event.
I just heard that the Number 2 of the Lotte group committed suicide the day before when he was summoned to testify at a court against the Lotte corruptions. He was the first director who was not blood related to the family( owner of the group)yet was promoted to the high level. It's a tragedy for his family indeed. But after watching all those corporate scheming Korean dramas, I can't help smelling something rotten behind the story...
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windsun33
August 26, 2016 at 12:27 PM
That entire Lotte investigation has been like a makjang k-drama brought to real life for the past several months. Apparently almost every chaebol cliche short of murder went on. It's a real mess.
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redfox
August 26, 2016 at 11:52 PM
good material for PU38 season 2....
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28 Flightey Gazelles
August 26, 2016 at 7:30 AM
Hey everyone! So,this is my first time attempting a topic on the open thread. I've always wanted to participate but I'm always late and find many comments before I get here so I just give up and read everyone's comments instead. Here goes...
So I recently came into feminism. I've always heard about it but dismissed it as man-bashing or man-hating. Coming from a culture that is traditional and favours patriarchy, it was not easy leaving that familiar place. I think my journey to feminism started with Chimmamanda Adichie's 'Purple Hibiscus'. Its funny to think I didn't care for that book in my first year of senior secondary because it was always there and I just couldn't get the appeal since I couldn't read past the first page...until one day during school break. I was bored with nothing to watch or read. Since my brother was studying it for exams, I decided to give it a mindless read. This was definitely a case of judging a book by its cover( giving myself a pass since it was always a pirated version with bad picture quality and not even the real book's cover). I can't believe how much I identified with Kambili. It was such a revelation to me because on the outside I wasn't as reserved and suppressed as she was but she definitely was my spirit animal. It was like someone crawled into my head and brought out what I was feeling but couldn't put into words. I was in that 'young adult' transition phase where I wasn't sure who I was,what I wanted to be but was just dissatisfied with everything. My enviroment ,my life,school e.t.c. I read it over and over again,it became my close companion who I could talk to and not be afraid. Now I finally understood all those coming-of-age movies (having found them pretentious and bullshity but for a few). After I read it, I wanted to discuss its themes and rave about it,so I went online,read reviews and read about the author. it was through Purple Hibiscus that I got curious about feminism and when I discovered that the author was a feminist herself, I decided to hold an open mind to it. It wasn't instantaneous. After a few more years of surfing the internet,reading articles(in gossip sites,for that matter) and finally stumbling upon her TED talk ' We should all be feminist' , I was finally ready to embrace the fact that I was indeed, a feminist! So many issues with our culture that has troubled me, that I couldn't exactly understand, it was the Double Standard. I didn't want to be limited,to be caged into some narrowly defined expectations about how I was to leave my life,to behave. I'm really sorry if I bored you with this,just felt like sharing my journey with you guys. The stories not over,I'm still struggling with reconciling something ingrained in me from birth with my new found beliefs but one thing's for sure... I'm a feminist and I'm proud!!!!
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eva
August 26, 2016 at 9:04 AM
Thumbs up, Flightey Gazelles! I've never read Purple Hibiscus, but I can totally relate to the before and after effect of feminism. I was, similarly to you, inexplicably dissatisfied. I couldn't figure out why in some everyday, very normal situations I was left with feeling hollow, like I had stepped out of my body. Why some "jokes" weren't funny at all. Why I found myself tip-toeing and speaking in a cutesy voice around some people, why I felt ashamed for no apparent reason etc etc. After reading Simone de Beauvoir it all made sense. Like a big riddle had been solved. And it's still hard, it's especially hard to recognize and change your own views.
Good luck, Flightey Gazelles!
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Karuna
August 26, 2016 at 12:14 PM
Simone de Beauvoir was my first introduction to feminism too!
Chimamanda writes so well Flightey Gazelles, not surprised it stayed with you and changed you. I think its hard to go back once you start thinking about a lot of these issues so hope the journey is fruitful!
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elorej
August 26, 2016 at 3:48 PM
I loved Purple hibiscus, it was one of the few books i read more than once. All of the characters intrigued me, Kambili's father really infuriated me because of his self-righteousness, and abusive behavior. It still is one of the best books i ever read. I read it in junior secondary school, Nigeria. I completely forget about it, till i saw your comment. Thanks for reminding me about it.
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29 logan5
August 26, 2016 at 7:48 AM
Just finished play an computer game with the wife called “To The Moon” …. Damn I’ve never cried so much playing a stupid game. Totally would make a good Kdrama. Anyone else played it? It’s certainly worth looking into.
Finished watching “Five Children” … and I think I’ve found my new Kdrama celebrity crush, So Yu Jin is a gem to watch.
Stopped watching “Doctors” at ep 11 … just can’t get excited about this ….
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mary
August 26, 2016 at 10:25 AM
I got that game long time ago but was too busy to actually play it. :|
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The other Kiara
August 26, 2016 at 2:24 PM
I love RPG games. going to add this to my list.
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Kestrel
August 26, 2016 at 9:29 PM
*googles "To The Moon."*
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30 bips99
August 26, 2016 at 7:49 AM
I have heard so much about Japanese dramas but i haven't seen even one.
Can anyone suggest something with -
Good production value (so nothing older than 3-4 years)....... And a romantic show - I'm not looking for anything too sad. Not teens but a lighter happy show
Also a medical drama recc pls. I love those.
Anyone pls?
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junny
August 26, 2016 at 8:01 AM
Actually, production values were pretty solid even in the late 90s and early-mid 2000s. You'll find a fair number of classics were from that era, especially in the rom-com genre. The rom-coms these days just don't match up, to be honest.
I would totally recommend:
- Nodame Cantabile (not a lot of rom, but excellent nevertheless, with great music)
- Love Revolution
- Long Vacation
- Love Shuffle
- Kekkon Dekinai Otoko
- Hotaru no Hikari (2 seasons, film)
For medical dramas, try JIN (2 seasons) and Shiroi Kyoto.
If you like cats: Neko Zamurai (2 seasons).
For slice-of-life:
- Shinya Shokudo (3 seasons)
- Okashi no Ie
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Sancheezy
August 26, 2016 at 8:03 AM
Date - Koi to wa Donna Mono Kashira [JDrama] (2013)
5 Ji Kara 9 Ji Made [JDrama] (2015)
Mondai no Aru Restaurant [JDrama] (2015)
Soratobu Kouhoushitsu [JDrama] (2013)
Dakara Koya [JDrama] (2015)
Good Morning Call [JDrama] (2016) ---> but this is high schook setting,
Medical Jdrama
Doctor X [JDrama] (2012, 2013, 2014) 3 season
DOCTORS Saikyou no Meii [JDrama (2011, 2012, 2015) 3 season
Dr. Rintaro (NTV / 2015)
Kumo no Kaidan (NTV / 2013) but this kinda dark . . . .
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Lindy
August 26, 2016 at 10:09 PM
I'm glad to see another Dakara Koya fan. I love this one! It starts out with a woman on the run from her domineering husband and unappreciative sons and ends up as a contemplative examination about how the past/old age affects the present even if we choose to ignore its lessons. I really learned a lot about Nagasaki and the bomb and the city itself is so beautiful the way it's situated on hills overlooking the port. All the characters are so true-to-life and concerned with normal, relatable situations and dilemnas.
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pogo
August 26, 2016 at 8:09 AM
romcom - Date (2015)
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kimchikay
August 26, 2016 at 8:18 AM
- Rich Man, Poor Woman (I think it was mentioned in this open thread but so good)
- Buzzer Beat (one of my favs...college love)
- 5-Ji Kara 9-Ji Made
- Orthos no Inu (interesting thriller)
- Absolute Boyfriend
- Love Revolution
- Hotaru no Hikari
- Mei-chan no Shitsuji
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AYA
August 26, 2016 at 9:43 AM
I’d recommend the following:
JAPANESE – Romance:
– Dame na Watashi ni Koishite Kudasai
– Hana yori Dango
– Juhan Shuttai!
– Kekkon Shinai
JAPANESE – Medical:
– Doctor X
For more recommendations, I’d suggest you visit http://film-enthusiast.blogspot.com/2008/03/drama-japanese-1.html. The blog has a lot of posts on Japanese dramas with short synopses and brief reviews.
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erratic
August 26, 2016 at 10:46 AM
Nodame Cantabile (plus movie and special eps), Gokusen Series, Trick Series (Banana Boat!), Voice, the Japanese Hana Kimi, the original Devil series with Ikuta Toma, Hotaru No Hikari, Densha Otoko, Kimi Wa Petto, Zettai Kareshi, Last Friends, Sunao Ni Narunakute. I haven't seen anything new these days. Also, I love Ueno Juri and Eita together.
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windsun33
August 26, 2016 at 12:29 PM
Any of the 3 Doctor-X ones.
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bips99
August 26, 2016 at 10:08 PM
Thanks for the recs.
I was thinking i am starting to get over my Kdrama obsession because I have seen most of the popular ones of the past 2-3 years. I thought now i'll just watch the new shows. A couple of hours per week is not bad. Right?
But with all these huge list of recs, i think i might start a new obsession. Sigh! ..... who needs an social life anyways?
Thank you everyone
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31 min
August 26, 2016 at 7:50 AM
I really do wonder how W is going to end , especially with so many shocking things happening episodes after episodes. Also, I am feeling 200% bad for all the readers of the actual W comic because first it turned from a thriller mysterious comic to a rom-com only for readers to discover it was only a dream and now we have no face taking over the comic and ACTUALLY TURNING KANG CHUL INTO A SIDE CHARACTER ?? like urm no No face aka new face does not have the face to be lead ?? ( I am terribly sorry ) and now Kang Chul is actually recognizing Yeonjoo and did the preview of ep 12 show KC asking YJ to draw their meeting into a dream again ? like I would legit cry if that happened ?? Also, I think W would be a good chance for Subway to do PPL like they could totally have a homeless YJ chowing on a subway with her and saving the other half and accidentally bringing it back to the other world to discover 2 months later to the real world with the subway still being very attractively delicious looking? LIKE IF I SAW THAT HECK YES I WOULD TOTALLY BUY A PPL SUBWAY. Therefore, I would strongly encourage subway to drop me a email and hire me. That is the end of my fantasy between subway & W & maybe also lee jong suk chowing down a subway like a hungry puppy.
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32 annyeong
August 26, 2016 at 7:50 AM
what's your favorite kdrama of all time?
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kimchikay
August 26, 2016 at 8:29 AM
I have a soft spot for Goong….I can't say it's my favorite kdrama of all time because I have way too many that I love HOWEVER Goong was my first kdrama and I think you always have a thing for your first >.-
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Sancheezy
August 26, 2016 at 8:31 AM
perhaps Dae Jang Geun and Queen Seon Deok,
I watch it when I was in school and I still like to rewatch it after,
bidam probably my 1st Kdrama crush . . .
tbh this is a hard question since W is going around my finger as I typed this comment
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juniper
August 26, 2016 at 9:11 AM
Shin Don. Just hearing the soundtrack makes me tear up.
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drawde2000
August 26, 2016 at 9:36 AM
Answer me 1997. I just love the family dynamics, friendship, first love, unrequited love of that drama. It is also short and to the point.
Misaeng and Secret Love Affair came very very close to it.
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blnmom
August 26, 2016 at 9:44 AM
Me too, Reply 1997. Perfect drama.
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erratic
August 26, 2016 at 10:53 AM
I loved Secret Love Affair, and I don't like infidelity themes in general.
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erratic
August 26, 2016 at 10:51 AM
Before 2015-2016, I'd still say Soulmate and Dalja's Spring. Then Six Flying Dragons happened.
Runners up- Answer me 1988 and W.
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erratic
August 26, 2016 at 10:52 AM
And I can't believe I forgot I Remember You.
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erratic
August 26, 2016 at 10:54 AM
(still haven't finished 38 and Signal. #-o)
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Sunflowerdiva
August 26, 2016 at 5:50 PM
Get on that pronto!
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erratic
August 27, 2016 at 3:34 AM
I will, once I get my sister up to date on W. lol.
erratic
August 26, 2016 at 10:55 AM
Ooooh! Also, Gaksital. So powerful.
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erratic
August 26, 2016 at 11:04 AM
And Master's Sun.
In fact, I think this thread's going to be a bit long. -.-'
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drawde2000
August 26, 2016 at 12:13 PM
These are my top 3:
1. Answer Me 1997
2. Misaeng and Secret Love Affair --- objectively, these two productions would have won. But since the question is favorite, then they are only No. 2.
3. SFD, Answer Me 1988, Healer, Padam Padam, Missing Noir M, and the currently airing Age of Youth.
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Wag-a-muffin
August 26, 2016 at 11:14 AM
It used to be History of a Salary Man.
Then it was Two Weeks.
That was replaced by Healer.
Which was bumped (ever so lovingly) by Signal.
Which was replaced by Squad 38.
I'm shocked when I look at this, because I thought I liked Rom Coms the best. But the writing on the thrillers/action shows I mentioned was JUST TOO GOOD.
(I have to give honorable mention to Queen Seoduk. Out of all the dramas I've loved, I've rewatched that one the most.)
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Lin_K
August 26, 2016 at 12:01 PM
I have also discovered that many thrillers/action shows are the best!
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Sunflowerdiva
August 26, 2016 at 5:52 PM
Healer, Signal, and Squad 38 remain my top three favorites. I do tend to love action and thrillers, though, so I'm not surprised by my list. ;)
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redfox
August 27, 2016 at 12:08 AM
My past to current favorites
You Are Beautiful - for the funny and the construction of a pretty realistic idol band
City Hunter - I still have a crush on that prosecutor. This drama has swagger and is bad-ass. Baddest Bad Daddy ever
Shut Up Flower Boy Band this is EVERYTHING for such a hard-core music fan as me. My support for young and starting musicians doesnt know boundaries and is not limited to just one.
Kill Me Heal Me - I never knew I could love 7 characters played by the same actor in the same drama as different individuals in their own right, they should all get passports and a social security number if I had any say in it. I miss Perry Park :-(
I Remember You - tera + alpha. I´ll keep re-watching until I reach 250.
Police Unit 38 - can´t win against this. Tell me, how can anyone win against this? That´s why it is number 1. Except Min + Hyun is still > than Jung Do x Sung Il
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redfox
August 27, 2016 at 12:11 AM
oh, I forgot Two Weeks! Ninja Teacher was so great in it. i wish he did a modern action drama again. Well, I might have to go see Resident Evil... I decided to start learning to be a ninja after this and Ninja Teacher is my Remote Mentor. He´d be very surprised to know.
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Table122000
August 26, 2016 at 11:58 AM
Marrriage Not Dating
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Kestrel
August 26, 2016 at 9:31 PM
My fav Rom Com.
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Lin_K
August 26, 2016 at 11:58 AM
I have many favorites! I really love Arang and the Magistrate and Two Weeks. Maybe coz they are LJK's. I am absolutely in love with them. By the way things are going, Scarlet Heart: Ryeo is gonna be a favorite too. Ever since I discovered the highlights video and the OST, I have been continually watching them. I. can't. stop. hitting. the. replay. button. Lol.
I also have a string of thrillers/crime investigation dramas I love. Liar Game (Korean), Signal, Bad Guys, PU38, I Remember You, Ten, Ten 2, Missing Noir M, Vampire Prosecutor. The rom coms/comedy/melo I have loved are few - Best Love, Sungkyunkwan Scandal, Secret Agent Miss Oh, and Grandpas Over Flowers Investigation Unit. There are more I am sure but can't remember any now.
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Lin_K
August 26, 2016 at 11:59 AM
King of Dramas and History of the Salaryman.
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Lin_K
August 26, 2016 at 12:03 PM
Oh how could I forget Nice Guy. Lol, I told you I have many favorite dramas!
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bbstl
August 26, 2016 at 12:04 PM
always and forever,
The one
The only
? My Name is Kim Sam Soon?
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am1993
August 26, 2016 at 12:50 PM
I have yet to find a drama that I love as much as I love King2Hearts.
It might not be perfect but that drama just gives me all of the feels.
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jozie
August 26, 2016 at 1:11 PM
I have soft spots for Reply 1997 and Coffee Prince. However, Nine might be my favorite for so well thought out.
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Jiji
August 26, 2016 at 3:58 PM
City Hunter
Faith
Answer Me 1997
Gaksitaaaaaaal
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erratic
August 26, 2016 at 4:09 PM
The feels in Gaksital. Most powerful end scene ever.
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phoe
August 26, 2016 at 9:20 PM
First winner is Coffee Prince,
Then My love from Another Star,
Then third position is Full House.
For the last drama if W keep being strong until the final ep, then W will gonna beat Full House for me...
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Kestrel
August 26, 2016 at 9:37 PM
I'm cheating, but here's my favs by Genre:
1. Rom Com: Marriage Not Dating, Reply 97
2. Action: Healer, W, Killer Girl K.
3. Drama: Signal, Liar Game
4. Period: Gaksital, Giant, Empress Ki (I know, it's not historically accurate, but HA JI WON was so badass)
Why I'm a heathen: I didn't much like Kim Sam Soon (she was just loud), I never finished Sandglass (because I swear the lead was gonna get out of army jail camp and go build some houses with the Giant lead), I never saw any of the other Replies (I'm not in HS anymore, so I have a hard time with those), and I'm bored by the meta film/tv production and doctor stuff.
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Jean
August 27, 2016 at 6:59 AM
Oohhh, I know I'm late to the party and always lurk, but I just want to share also my favorite kdrama(s) of all time:
King 2 Hearts, Nine, Misaeng ..and just this year, Signal and Six Flying Dragons were recently added to the list.. and soon (barring any WTF-ery) W as well :)
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33 Mandy
August 26, 2016 at 8:07 AM
I mostly rewatched old dramas this week because im out of options.i watched moon embracing the sun,my love from another star.for new dramas,i just read the recaps until i am able to buy them but for the episodes i've watched and read in uncontrollably fond,KWB-Oppa is getting on my nerves
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34 pogo
August 26, 2016 at 8:13 AM
I think I'm going to start on Age of Youth this weekend - literally everyone who mentions it online has loved it, and the bean community's endorsement is a pretty solid one, in my experience.
Also Jealousy Incarnate - haven't watched it yet but I want to see how it turns out.
(and I still hope to all the drama gods that Scarlet Heart is good).
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Chandler
August 26, 2016 at 8:03 PM
Do it! Age of Youth is really a gem not to be missed. It's also one of the few dramas that actually gets better with each episode, imo.
Not to mention, you'll get to meet Doo-joon's lookalike, who has a charm all his own.
(I'm praying with you for Scarlet Heart! Just let it be good. Please.)
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pogo
August 27, 2016 at 4:48 AM
Doojoon lookalike, you said?! GIMME!
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35 kimchikay
August 26, 2016 at 8:25 AM
Hello beanies…hope everyone had a good week!
On the drama front - not following much besides W. My love for it has dwindled slightly…I mean, I'm still enjoying it BUT I'm finding myself wanting it to pick up the pace. Maybe because the first half of the drama was so FAST.
Also, I finally finished Signal! I felt like the only one on drama planet who hadn't seen this and wow, was it good! Especially the latter half of the series!
Lately, I've been finding myself wanting to watch drama's that have already been completed, rather than follow along. This is new for me since I've usually had 5-6 drama's I've been watching at a time..but I've found myself dropping rather good dramas needlessly because I either don't have time or find myself not as interested. SO my new thing is to follow only 1-2 airing drama's and wait for the rest.
I started Mirror of the Witch…wholly moly, episode 1 was fantastic!!! I'm so glad I waited to marathon this!
On other news - I'm on cold #2 for the summer. This is my second cold in 2 months….anyone have any good immunity boosting tips!?!?!?
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36 Yoyo
August 26, 2016 at 8:25 AM
We should start a poll on what we think is the most overused drama trope.
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Yoyo
August 26, 2016 at 8:29 AM
I will start by stating: the amnesia trope.
Some amnesia tropes were executed flawlessly but in most cases, it feels forced and the story loses its luster and pacing.
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Sancheezy
August 26, 2016 at 8:34 AM
birth secret : the existential trope since the Goguryeo era
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wonhwa
August 26, 2016 at 2:29 PM
Amnesia is definitely my least favorite trope - perhaps we can make writers forget that it exists?
It's closely followed by the truck of doom, unless driving or being a pedestrian in Korea really is like being in a Mad Max movie. In which case I'll take the subway . . .
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Chandler
August 26, 2016 at 4:42 PM
Part of the reason I hate the amnesia trope is because I actually love it when it's executed freshly, like in W. Haha, I don't know, I just really get into the angst of it all when it's done well. But, if there aren't any supernatural elements in a drama to explain it, I despise it. I still remember FTLY when I was in complete denial that they were actually going to go there. I was just like, NO. You aren't doing this to me. But it did.
Also, ROFL @ the Mad Max reference. I just watched that for the first time last night & I still think I'd be more at danger in a kdrama.
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mochakat9
August 26, 2016 at 9:02 AM
One vote for truck of doom!
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PeepsLeAwesomePotato
August 26, 2016 at 9:59 AM
I'd have said that Truck of Doom is such a ridiculous cliche... but that'll be before my recent trip to Korea. The traffic there is no joke. I don't know how many taxis I've sat in charged through red lights (even though yes, no one was on the road).
And the one time the driver didn't (sans when there was someone on the road), he was muttering, "But there's a camera there though..."
Lol.
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Kestrel
August 26, 2016 at 9:37 PM
I need a Truck of Doom Tshirt.
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erratic
August 26, 2016 at 11:05 AM
Forced separation?
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Wag-a-muffin
August 26, 2016 at 11:15 AM
noble idiocy
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owl
August 26, 2016 at 11:45 AM
a zillion bad part-time jobs to pay off deceased parents' (or father's) debts
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paroles
August 26, 2016 at 12:11 PM
Not in order of cringe-worthiness:
1. Rich man, poor woman
The guy lives in a $20mil mansion whereas the (debt-ridden) girl lives in the rooftop house. And somehow they fall in love.
2. Childhood sweethearts
They still remember and/or love each other even after 200 years apart.
3. Jerk v.s. Daddy Long-legs
In drama world the jerk is 100 times more desirable than the nice guy.
4. Crazy bitch
It's interesting how the second female lead is always the antagonist whereas the second male lead is always the nicest guy on earth.
5. Mother-in-law
Always opposing the relationship of 2 people crazily in love, often carrying props including a glass of water (liquid), a checkbook, etc.
6. The missing USB
Despite being arguable the most technologically advanced country in Asia, they only save important things on their USB, make no backups, and conveniently leave it in a place for people to steal.
7. Geniuses
The protagonist is either crazily smart, or the others are dumbed down to give the illusion that he's crazily smart (gender-neutral pronouns not required). Usually the latter.
8. The makeover
An already insanely gorgeous lady is given a makeover to look more beautiful.
Can't think of anything more at the moment, but I'm sure there are tons of other (annoying) tropes.
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windsun33
August 26, 2016 at 12:48 PM
#7 - what bugs me about that one, especially in cop movies, is that all the other cops but the hero are just so totally freaking dumb and/or corrupt.
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junny
August 26, 2016 at 3:51 PM
In relation to 1: the poor girl still has the latest smartphone or lives in an apartment big enough to house an entire extended family.
Also:
- Male lead usually has a ton of daddy issues.
- People who cannot take 'no' for an answer.
- The wrist grab.
- Inability to communicate properly and must torture one's object of affection because this is how a hot male lead shows lurve.
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windsun33
August 26, 2016 at 12:43 PM
There are so many, hard to pick a single one that takes 1st place, so I am only going to list a few of what I think are the absolute dumbest/stupidest ones.
1. Total inability of any Korean girl to hold onto anything not made of plastic, which then leads to dropped broken plate/glass/whatever. She is then totally incapable of picking up any of the broken pieces without getting a trauma inducing wound.
2. Close up of tachometer (not speedometer) on dashboard showing it going from 1K to 7K RPM as the hero supposedly rockets down the highway chasing or being chased. It then cuts to an outside scene and the car is actually moving slower than the rest of traffic, and/or is pointlessly changing lanes with all the appropriate tire squealing.
3. Candy Girl finally gets some real money, and the first thing she does is stand outside the bank in public flipping through all the bills and waving it around while exclaiming loudly about how rich she is now, and nobody (including thieves) ever notice.
4. Dare I even mention all the tons of fancy and expensive food both at home and in restaurants that is never eaten?
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windsun33
August 26, 2016 at 12:46 PM
I forgot one of my favorites:
5. Superior being - whether it be MIL, boss, evil stepsister, whatever - coming into kitchen and while standing 3 feet from the water demanding that the Slave of the Moment get them a drink of water.
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Flightey Gazelles
August 27, 2016 at 2:25 AM
Thank you,thank you, THANK YOU @Windsun33 for no 4: the food that no one ever eats! Even in western shows and movies. I can't believe how much that pisses me off! I mean,this is kdrama where people have deep wells in their mouths and stuff their faces with food but when it comes to the delicious/super expensive fancy food, NO ONE TOUCHES THE F*UCKING FOOD. Does not actually taste delicious? Is it horrible? Maybe its PPL.
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LizJ
August 26, 2016 at 12:45 PM
The ex that just won't let go!
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coolbeans
August 26, 2016 at 7:24 PM
can't stand the time leaps, especially when there are only 1-2 episodes left! kills me every.time.
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Kestrel
August 26, 2016 at 9:40 PM
All corporate politics come down to illegal slush funds.
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redfox
August 27, 2016 at 11:44 AM
Grown ups SLAPPING KIDS, drunkenness, forced kiss, getting rained on pointlessly, annulling your destiny by entering or exiting an elevator, leaving food on the table and ripping out IVs
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37 owl
August 26, 2016 at 8:48 AM
It's Friday! Sunny, plenty warm here, and still summer - yay!
I am convinced that the parts with Woo Bin and Suzy in Unfortunately Long are in slo-mo. Can anyone walk, raise a finger to ring the buzzer, glare, and slump to the ground any slower than these two? Why am I rooting for Ji Tae?
W- I think Chul may be the answer to a happy ending by getting real control of his own life and helping JY get hers back. Talk about coming full circle from ink on a page to RL and back to ink.
Moonlight - just pretty (everything)
I love what I learn every week about Korean music history (recent mostly as in 80s, 90s and current) and I love the homage the performing artists pay to the weekly musical guest or group.
I always look forward to reading everyone's comments on OT ~
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erratic
August 26, 2016 at 7:24 PM
I already dropped UF since Ji Tae finally managed to man up and confess to No Eul, but yeah, I thought he's the only likeable dude in there, and my eyes appreciated seeing Im Ju Hwan in chaebol duds again post-Snow Queen. Jik is cute, but seriously, the sasaeng? Isn't he supposed to be smart?
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38 Mev
August 26, 2016 at 8:53 AM
So i just watched my first Taiwanese movie called our times. Personally I'm more of a kdrama girl but this movie was awesome. It hit me right in the feels I would definitely recommend people to watch it, it's not perfect it does have its flaws.
Also I haven't watched any of the recent on air dramas could somebody please recommend me the dramas that worth watching so far.
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mary
August 26, 2016 at 10:15 AM
Our Times!!! *squealing*
That's all. :D
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mev
August 26, 2016 at 1:45 PM
OMG have u watched it? what did you think of it?
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mary
August 26, 2016 at 2:04 PM
I was obsessed about it ever since koala (from koala's playground) posted the first teaser!
It's like Answer Me transported to Taiwan and turned into a short but sweet movie, right?
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mev
August 26, 2016 at 2:34 PM
I saw a video on youtube called "our times - please dont go" watched the first few seconds and decided to watch it. I absolutely loved the surprising narrative twist.
Yes it totally reminded me of answer me, the only negative thing was that I was too invested in the young actors that I wanted to see them at the end. Otherwise i'm still on cloud nine after just watching it lol.
39 whimsyful
August 26, 2016 at 8:56 AM
Sad Age of Youth and The Good Wife are ending this week. Age of Youth especially has been such a refreshing drama -- even if the ending jumps the shark, eps 1-10 will go into my hall of favorites.
On the other hand, super excited for Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart: Ryeo (whyyy so many colons, drama?). I keep on watching the eng subbed version of the korean 6 min highlights: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T6HybbYgWBw
Please be good, show!
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The other Kiara
August 26, 2016 at 2:28 PM
Those are the two shows I'm currently watching. This is going to be a sad weekend.
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40 AYA
August 26, 2016 at 9:02 AM
I'd recommend the following:
JAPANESE - Romance:
- Dame na Watashi ni Koishite Kudasai
- Hana yori Dango
- Juhan Shuttai!
- Kekkon Shinai
JAPANESE - Medical:
- Doctor X
For more recommendations, I'd suggest you visit http://film-enthusiast.blogspot.com/2008/03/drama-japanese-1.html. The blog has a lot of posts on Japanese dramas with short synopses and brief reviews.
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41 juniper
August 26, 2016 at 9:07 AM
Sad Age of Youth is going to end.
Tried both Moonlight Drawn by Clouds and Jealousy Incarnate. I dropped the former like two minutes in when they went from "no man will get killed for confessing" to a slave infatuated with his mistress. Really!? When you start erasing problematic historical realities because you're too lazy to bother, there is absolutely no point to the story you're telling.
As for Jealousy...tried it because I enjoyed Pasta and Miss Korea and love Gong Hyo-jin and Jo Jung-seok. Very quickly realized just how much Kwon Seok-jang compensated for Seo Sook-hyang's writing in those projects. Between her lapses and the PD tripping balls (seriously, I have no words for how misguided and straight up insane the production is), the story and characterizations were so disjointed it was difficult to sit through.
Still enjoying Garden of Heaven. I'm also watching Seoul 1945, which is enjoyable enough, but sadly a failure in terms of bringing the time period to life through character melodrama once it gets past the first 20 episodes or so. It mostly treats history as a narrative break and seems more interested in taking ideology at face value, so the whole "communism was a force for good until Kim Il-sung corrupted it" narrative takes precedence. Which is not entirely wrong, but doesn't necessarily ring with the emotional truth of a generation without a homeland going from Japanese colonialism to being torn apart as pawns in the Cold War. For example in Eyes of Dawn ideology was both a means to gain agency, self-respect and power, an emotional response to the traumas of colonization and WWII, and the brutal, totalizing force driving would-be countrymen to despise, suspect, and ultimately kill each other. But anything would lose out getting compared to Eyes of Dawn, and Seoul 1945 has had some great moments so far (anytime Kim Young-cheol is on screen, for example).
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seares
August 26, 2016 at 12:11 PM
FYI Mistress, slave and love counsellor all became wanted criminals after the incident.
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juniper
August 26, 2016 at 1:39 PM
lol okay, maybe I did not get far enough...I've seen enough "sageuk" that at the first sign of trouble I bail.
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seares
August 26, 2016 at 9:44 PM
I feel you, k-drama logic...I was able to overlook it because I knew beforehand a lot of it is intentional for fun and acting is too good to miss out :)
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juniper
August 27, 2016 at 12:38 PM
Yeah, I love Kim Yoo-jung. I hope it does well for her sake :)
The other Kiara
August 26, 2016 at 4:07 PM
This is the kind of show that uses webtoon/manwha adaptation as an excuse to do away with being historically conscious. It drives me nuts and just because it's geared towards the youth doesn't mean that they are not aware of their history and traditions.
I also hate the makeup in sageuks. It feels like they don't even care that she is trying to disguise as a guy lol.
If Kim Yoo-jung wasn't in it I would've been done after the 1st eps but she is so good and she can surely carry a sageuk. She seems to be having a lot of fun playing Ra-on so I'll watch for her.
I expect the same thing from Scarlet Heart. I'm already annoyed at some scenes from the trailer but I know I'm gonna end up watching it anyway cause I have nothing to watch after this weekend.
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juniper
August 26, 2016 at 5:01 PM
It seems like I jumped the gun a little bit :P Maybe I'll try again. idk, there were so many signs they didn't care already (the weird game show atmosphere, the romance the crown prince was reading, the makeup like you mentioned) that by the time I got to the slave having a meet cute with his mistress I cut my losses. I'm so disloyal haha--I always think I'll watch something for an actor, and then I'll quit in a few minutes.
idk if I'll try Scarlet Heart haha. I love the idea of LJK in a fusion sageuk but he's had pretty bad luck picking them so far. He was so awesome in The King and the Clown.
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The other Kiara
August 26, 2016 at 7:18 PM
Actually you didn't because there is more lol. I tried to ignore everything else and just concentrate on Yoo-jung. She is really cute and funny here.
This would be my show if I was still in Middle School to be honest.
I think I'll go and rewatch King and the Clown and maybe War of the Arrows after that.
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juniper
August 27, 2016 at 12:37 PM
Yoo-jung is always perfect <3
Yeah, I'm too old and grumpy for cutesy shows now. I need to feel like I'm getting something out of stuff I watch, something that I can relate to as a human being.
Hye Mi
August 27, 2016 at 1:46 AM
Same here. Some scenes in the Scarlet Heart trailer has already irked me. I really don't like it when production team ignores historical correctness for the sake of viewership. I'm still going to watch the drama but if the writer's and PD's going to be too liberal with their writing/ directing I'll have to tell myself that I'm watching the show for certain actors only.
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bugs_bunny
August 26, 2016 at 6:00 PM
Heaven's Garden w/ kim sae ron? If yes, that's a lovely drama. Luv the interactions within the small community.
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juniper
August 26, 2016 at 6:41 PM
Yep, that's the one. It's got such a great cast. I'm glad to meet someone else who enjoyed it <3
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bugs_bunny
August 26, 2016 at 7:17 PM
Yay!!! Well-written drama. So true about the cast, even the minor characters shine.
It would have been a nice daily drama, just to see how things work for the children, so promising:)
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Sera The Ms Temper
August 27, 2016 at 1:54 AM
I also dropped after epi 1 and half way after epi 2. Maybe will check it back later after Chae Soo Bin appears because wanna see her first sageuk ever. I don't particularly fond with any lead ( they are pretty and eye candies but I'm so done with cross dressing dramas). Fusion sageuk is not really my thing. And I also don't really like the idea teen actress being the lead in a drama. I don't know maybe because I am in the opinion, they should at reach 20 first before get any lead role.
Yet to watch Jealousy but God, I cannot miss Gong Hyo Jin. I love her. Will check it out later after few more episodes.
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The other Kiara
August 27, 2016 at 3:45 AM
I don't mind teens being leads in dramas for teens. She is actually the same age as her character in the web-novel.
I don't have a problem with them changing the history but I do have a problem when the traditions of that era is thrown out the window just because it's a youth sageuk.
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juniper
August 27, 2016 at 12:41 PM
I love Gong Hyo-jin. It's my dream to see her and Ahn Pan-seok work together, but I'm not sure that's at all realistic haha.
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fanwho
August 27, 2016 at 9:06 AM
Seoul 1945- I watched it ages ago, but It had some powerful scenes and I still remember the final scene - it was so sad and emotional. I loved it.
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juniper
August 27, 2016 at 12:30 PM
Yeah, I really enjoyed the Hamheung parts in the beginning--Kim Young-cheol, Go Doo-sim and a couple of the other veterans had a lot of unforgettable scenes together (plus young Park Eun-bin in the childhood section!). It has slowed down a lot since it got to Seoul because I don't think it's handled the political chaos after the Japanese fell all that well, but I have 40 episodes to go and I'm definitely eager to see what's next.
idk, I just love period dramas. Eyes of Dawn, Sandglass, Comrades, The Count of Myeongdong, Giant, Golden Apple, heck even stuff like Capital Scandal...can't get enough of them lol.
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The other Kiara
August 27, 2016 at 3:43 PM
Kim Young-cheol is love!!!! He leaves a trail of unforgettable characters because he is just that good. When he plays one he owns it.
I watched 200 eps of Daejo Wang because he was in it lol. I'll watch a thousand more if he is in it.
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juniper
August 27, 2016 at 5:45 PM
He is so amazing. Even when he plays completely horrible human beings, you can't not sympathize with him. He's in a lot of great shows, too, but even when in crap he's always worth watching.
42 DBRooter
August 26, 2016 at 9:32 AM
I wish someone could draw a manhwa of my life like W where I could go 10 years back and start living altogether a new life..
I wish I could go 9 years back where I would choose the right path regarding my college after 12th..
I wish I could go back 8 years ago where I would not stubbornly pursue a wrong relationship and be all wounds like I am now and loved someone who even now loves me truly..
I wish I could go 6 years back where I would not hurt my parents mentally and financially rather be more of a support to them..
I wish I could go back 4 years back where I could have moved out of the relationship when I had a chance to.. I wish I could go back 3 years ago when I started watching kdrama and be addicted to the point till now to the point that I am physically and mentally broken and lost..
I think all the girls here are smart and good enough to handle your love for kdrama and life equally well.. But it's getting difficult for me..
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urbangirl
August 26, 2016 at 10:58 AM
Newbee, I ask you to think about the future and all the possibilities it will bring. I had a pretty miserable childhood and adolescence. My life became increasingly better. I recently realized that both my parents lived their lives always looking back and regretting events that they believed had happened to them. By always looking back, they couldn't or wouldn't be in the present or look positively to the future. I try not to be like them. When I do look back to events that were not happy, I also think about how those events helped me make better choices in the future, open to new and unplanned for opportunities and I try to move forward looking to how I can create a better future. I think of it like writing and reading a book at the same time. The past chapters are still there, but you turn the pages and write the next chapter.
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Chandler
August 26, 2016 at 4:04 PM
Wonderful insights, Urbangirl. If your comment doesn't make it into Beans of Wisdom, just know that it's one of the best comments of the week for me :)
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fanwho
August 27, 2016 at 9:07 AM
agreed. Nice comments Urban girl
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jozie
August 26, 2016 at 1:20 PM
I don't know what's going on in your life, but try to hang in there. Tomorrow won't be like today. If you need to ask for help, ask for help. You can always pay it back by helping someone else in the future when you are doing better.
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43 paroles
August 26, 2016 at 9:48 AM
Haven't been watching anything other than...
Age of Youth: Picked this drama back up. It's still fun. There nothing much more to say about it really. I just really really really like shows which show friendship between girls. On the other hand, I find bromance portrayals in Kdramas (actually Asian dramas in general) disturbingly cringey.
Also, I watched the first two episodes of Jealousy Incarnate and it's about as boring as a rom-com can get. Maybe it's just me.
I'm really looking forward to Scarlet Heart. Not because of the princes (well, partly because of Lee Jun-ki), not because of the story, not because of the original (I think it sucked) but because I think it looks good and it should be good. I know people think that the OST isn't that appropriate for the drama, but I think it's a pretty good song albeit not very sageuky.
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Sunflowerdiva
August 26, 2016 at 5:59 PM
Everyone raves about Age of Youth, and I'm tempted to watch it because of the friendships and the fact that it's a short drama. Haven't wanted a slice of life in a while, maybe I'll like this one.
I watched the first episode of Jealousy Incarnate and was also really bored, despite my love for Jo Jung-suk and the fact that Gong Hyo-jin is a very good actress. I just wasn't feeling it... I did enjoy Bam Bam's cameo, though, that was cringe-funny.
I'm also looking forward to Scarlet Heart. It looks like it's going to be GORGEOUS, both production-wise and people-wise.
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44 PeepsLeAwesomePotato
August 26, 2016 at 9:55 AM
I am back with my recap mojo! Or as back as I can be.
Just watched today's episode of Age of Youth (it's now my must-watch drama, especially after JinMyung's episode) and I am so, so, so pissed at a certain guy. I think I might get wrinkles just looking at him because I instinctively frown. And grimace.
Is Jealousy Incarnate going to be recapped on Dramabeans? Because I don't see it here. I'm expecting it to be recapped, if only because of the star power it has. I find it okay-ish~ Not that funny but not terribly boring either. Well, it took me till episode 4 to decide to stick with Age of Youth till the end, so I'm gonna give it more time. Maybe that's what it needs.
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alua
August 26, 2016 at 1:52 PM
<Is Jealousy Incarnate going to be recapped on Dramabeans?
Yes. Saya is one of the recappers for it and I know she's working hard on it already. :-)
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45 Sera The Ms Temper
August 26, 2016 at 10:38 AM
So Our Gabsoon will start this week! I'm so looking forward for it, and its trailer made me more excited. Although I don't think it will be really good and just a normal family drama, but weekend drama are mostly.watcheable and enjoyable. TBH, based on the trailer, I think Kim So Eun gonna do most emotional roles compared to JaeRim. But that just my early assumption, ? Excited to see them in the press con today, they look so good and comfortable together. Love all other casts too.
Looking forward to see Cinderella. I dont know why I feel this drama is addictive LOL even the main reason. why I started to watch just to see Park So Dam becomes Cinderella.?
Hmm, Age of Youth is ending this week. Sad but also excited to see new drama starring by my Eonnie Kim Hyun Joo. Not to mention Scarlet gonna start next week. I hope it meets expectation * trying to really put the lowest expectation ?
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46 kaybee
August 26, 2016 at 11:18 AM
Happy Friday Beanies!
Been catching up on some live dramaviewing and some older dramas this week, juggling quite a few atm - I hope I don't get too confused O.O
Moonlight Drawn by Clouds: SO MUCH PRETTY! It's all unicorns and rainbows, but in the best way possible. Honestly, it's the first time I've actually moved beyond ep 1 of a sageuk. Kwak Dong Yeon... When did you get so handsome? And he's just such a talented actor, I hope this'll be his breakthrough! PBG is giving me serial killer vibes lol, he'll forever be Min in my eyes, I guess. But yet, that cute puppy face! Also for some reason always like Jinyoung as an actor, despite him being pretty mediocre. The story is so much fun and I love the prince's sister. Is that Chae Soo Bin in a wholelotta padding?
Jealousy Incarnate: So bad. So, so bad. No resemblance of a proper plot, not very funny and Gong Hyo Jin's acting never did do much for me.
The Good Wife: I'm so late to the party. But boy, it's awesome! Only at ep 2 so far as it's not really one to bingewatch, but it's so wellmade, the acting is great and the story is quickly evolving and making me secondguess everyone. I can't believe I didn't know Lee Won Geun's in this! I'd definitely have started sooner if I'd known ha. Never watched much of the original, but I think he's the perfect guy to play Matt Czuchry's character, they both have that boyish charm while still being able to look cold and tough. Jun Do Yeon rules and I love her assistant.
Detective Alice 2: It's pretty bad, but... Song Seunghyun! (And Jo Dong Hyuk) It's so poor though, good thing it's only a webdrama. Seunghyun did much, much better in the movie "The Youth", so I hope this doesn't tank his acting offers. Namjoo drags everyone down and the director etc aren't too great either it seems.
OLDER DRAMAS:
My Name Is Kim Sam Soon: Loved the first half, but then it was all crying and Jin Hun was simply abusive and didn't better himself one teensy bit. Why does Hyun Bin always pick tyranical roles? And how on earth is Sam Soon fat in any way??
I Need Romance 3: I'm trying... At ep 6 and not connecting with the characters yet. I really like Sung Joon, but I've yet to truly like a drama he's been in. His character here is so far a bit too manipulative for my taste, I'd be mad af if I were [forgot name of female lead character]. The office politics and rivalry bore me to no end. The kisses though... TvN are the best at those LOL. No deer-in-the-headlights pecks.
Ho Gu's Love (/Fool's Love): At ep 4 and I love it so far! Ho Gu is the cutest, if unbelievably ignorant (how can you not know what "my water broke" means? LOL. And no, you don't have to be married to get pregnant kkkk). Love Uee's character as well. It freaked me out that Lee Si Un is playing a webtoonist here too though lol! Could do without the high school flashbacks, don't add a whole lot to...
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kaybee
August 26, 2016 at 11:24 AM
Also still watching Cinderella andthe Four Knights, although I don't know why. Not much is going right in this drama. Park So Dam might not end up with Ahn Jae Hyun, but honestly, he's the only one she's got chemistry with and Jung Il Woo's character is mean and childish yet self-righteous, so it'd really annoy me if he's "the one" for her. I completely adore PSD though, she's so gorgeous and cute, acts really well and I feel like her character has a lot of her own personality in it, although how would I know, didn't even know who she was until watching this. The plot is.... I don't even know anymore. It's all about the relationships it seems, so I hope the majority of viewers get their wishes fulfilled and Ji Woon ends up with Hye Ji while PSD gets AJH. I kind of feel like it's up in the air atm.
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paroles
August 26, 2016 at 11:36 AM
I thought no one will echo my sentiments about Jealousy Incarnate, but reading through the comments it seems that quite a few people agree that it's pretty crap.
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juniper
August 26, 2016 at 12:17 PM
The directing though O.o
Forget visual narrative, the PD is literally incapable of stringing scenes together. Add in the bizarre CGI interludes and it felt like the entire crew was high when they made this. It was almost unwatchable.
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kaybee
August 26, 2016 at 12:45 PM
@paroles Yeah, haven't really seen a whole lot of people saying they enjoy it... Which isn't surprising, considering...
@juniper Considering everything you just said! Couldn't agree more, there's no way I'll give this a second chance and I'm usually pretty generous with those. It's worse than Cinderella+4, I'll even dare to say it's worse than the mess of the year that was Neighborhood Hero. Which is saying a lot.
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windsun33
August 26, 2016 at 12:52 PM
I am trying to watch Jealousy, but so far having problems moving past ep1. It's just all so disjointed and full of weird random scenes that don't seem to have any purpose. Will try another episode or two, but so far not looking good.
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blnmom
August 26, 2016 at 1:34 PM
Oh, I liked it. I though it was funny, and I love that the 2 stones are back together. But I have no idea about visual narrative and stringing scenes together and stuff like that. My friend was a film major and she taught me about continuity in a scene and it ruined me from watching stuff for a while, so I like to know as little as possible. Ignorance is bliss!
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juniper
August 26, 2016 at 1:43 PM
I'm a layman too. I just mean that there is no rhyme or reason to the way this thing was put together, not even basic transitions from scene to scene.
I'm glad you're enjoying it, though :)
erratic
August 26, 2016 at 7:26 PM
And they still have 22 episodes to show, tops.
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purpleowl
August 28, 2016 at 11:41 AM
I don't think that's CBS in the padding. Isn't she playing Bo Gum's wife?
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47 Pooja
August 26, 2016 at 11:22 AM
Hi dramabeans,
I am new to kdrama and Taiwanese drama. I am totally addicted to these kdrama world.But i don't know much drama. Kindly suggest good dramas.
(suggest only those dramas that are completed, bcz i cant hold the excitement :( .)
Dramas i have completed already are:
my love from another star
My girlfriend is gumiho
heirs
U r beautiful
Moon that embrace the sun
School 2013 & 2015
Dream high
Boys over flowers
Personal taste
City hunter
Arang and the magistrate
Scholar who walks in the night
Coffee prince
Goong
Descendants of the sun
Pinocchio
Flower boy next door
Masters sun
Oh my Venus
Ma boy
Cheer up
Reply series all
Angry mom
Page turner
I hear your voice
Lie to me
Playful kiss
Secret garden
Kill me heal me.
Taiwanese i have watched : one little crazy thing called love (movie)
Devil beside you (series)
Suggest good and must watch series and movies of korea and taiwan :)
Waitingggggggggg......
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kaybee
August 26, 2016 at 11:40 AM
Only know Korean ones.
Really good and worth watching:
- Heart to Heart (so sweet and quirky)
- I Remember You (in my top 3)
- Police Unit 38 (in my top 3 already, just recently completed its run)
- Producer (especially the first half is great, but the second half is also good old kdrama fun. Probably funniest if you've seen "2 Days and 1 Night" season 3 (highly recommend that as well!))
- King of High School
- We Broke Up (cute webdrama so a quick watch)
- Shut Up Flower Boy Band
- A Witch's Romance (Park Seo Joon and AH-mazing chemistry.)
- The Lover (if you're old enough for a lot of inappropriateness and don't find that sort of thing offensive)
- Modern Farmer (if you don't mind lowbrow humor with a lot of heart and good actors/actresses)
Must-watch (as in, some of them are awesome, some aren't, but they're all referenced quite a bit):
- It's Okay, It's Love (great, but be prepared for the realness of mental illness)
- The Innocent Man/Nice Guy (loved this despite not being much of a melodrama fan)
- Flower Boy Ramyun Shop (really cute and fun)
- To the Beautiful You (mainly because everyone seems to have seen this. It's pretty BOF-ish and not that good, but has some cute moments and some of the supporting cast are actually good actors (at least in what I've seen them in later))
- Heartstrings (same as above. Minhyuk was adorable, but otherwise it was a pain to watch.)
- My Name Is Kim Sam Soon (classic and a decent watch)
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Pooja
August 26, 2016 at 11:51 AM
That's so cool kaybee. Thanks a lot. Will surely watch these.
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kaybee
August 26, 2016 at 12:57 PM
You're more than welcome :) Hope you'll find some you'll like and enjoy!
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Ami
August 26, 2016 at 2:58 PM
For Taiwanese, Hi! My Sweetheart, Back to 1989, Marry me or Not? (One of the absolute best I've seen!!!)m Refresh Man (cute).
Korean, Cruel City is great! Queen Inhyun's Man, Reply1997 (A MUST), Protect the Boss, Slash Splash Love (cuuute!), Shining Inheritance (one of my first), Marriage Contract, Scent of a Woman.
Lol I think you enough for months!
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Sunflowerdiva
August 26, 2016 at 6:08 PM
I second Queen In Hyun's Man and Splash Splash Love! So far they are only sageuks I've been able to watch--and that's probably because they are fusion sageuks. Queen In Hyun's Man is so smart and swoon-worthy -- time travel done right and soooo maaaany kiiisssses! And Splash Splash Love is hilarious and seriously needed to be longer, because Doojoon and Kim Seul-gi are OTP.
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Lin_K
August 26, 2016 at 12:10 PM
Sungkyunkwan Scandal, Nice Guy, Two Weeks, Dr. Frost, Time Between Dog and Wolf, Flower Boy Grandpa Investigation Unit, Secret Agent Miss Oh, Let's Eat 1 (I didn't watch season 2 but heard that it was great), Police Unit 38, Signal, Bad Guys, I Remember You, Liar Game (Korean), TEN, TEN 2, Missing Noir M, The Girl Who Sees Smells; Marriage, Not Dating; Healer, Reply 1997, Full House, Eccentric Daughter-in-law.
And many dramas that aired in 2016 were good. It was good year for dramas.
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Table122000
August 26, 2016 at 12:15 PM
Korean:
Marriage Not Dating
Oh My Ghostess
Taiwan:
Fated to Love You
Murphy's Law of Love
Just You
Alice In Wonder City
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Table122000
August 26, 2016 at 10:10 PM
Also for Taiwan:
Autumn's Concerto
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48 Jasst
August 26, 2016 at 11:25 AM
I love Im Joo Eun despite her character being so horrible (written?) in UF. I sometimes catch myself paying her more attention than the female lead in terms of marveling about her beauty on screen. That's why I find it hard to believe Im Ju Hwan's character to not even have an ounce of attraction towards her at all.
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fanwho
August 27, 2016 at 9:08 AM
I like the actress too. I remember how Beanies loved her in Heirs.
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49 Karuna
August 26, 2016 at 11:53 AM
Still enjoying W. Its insane fun. Not overthinking it, just going with the flow.
Dropped Second to Last Love. Its an easy watch but somehow I feel its Japanese origins sit a little uncomfortably at points in the K-version.
JI will get around to only cos of the actors.
Still watching Dear My Friends. Has a few overused drama tropes and the odd hiccup but I find myself thinking about it quite often. First time I have seen GHJ in a role and she has such a warm, lovely presence. The senior roles are so beautifully etched - and I so ship Hee-ja and Jeong-A - that the Wan-Yeon-ha romance is not so compelling. Its kind of interesting that it feels like a bit of a side plot to fill in scenes. Apart from the drama itself so pleasurable to watch older actors so effortlessly on top of the game. Along with Cranford definitely a drama that shows that a bunch of old women make for a compelling show.
PS: I guess one shouldn't go by a writer's previous work since I was so lukewarm towards IOIL and TWTWB.
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50 dopefish
August 26, 2016 at 12:12 PM
I finished watching the 2003 drama, Snowman last week. It starred Gong Hyo-jin, Jo Jae-hyun, Oh Yeon-soo, and Kim Rae-won. I decided to watch it for a couple of reasons. I like all four actors, it was Gong Hyo-jin's first leading role, and I was a bit curious about the content since it seems to be at least internationally, a polarizing drama.
Watching it, I can see why people wouldn't like it. The drama covers a rather taboo topic about a girl who falls in love with her brother-in-law and the feelings of guilt she struggles with for having those feelings while the brother-in-law struggles with putting a stop to those feelings without ruining the relationship between the sisters. I fall into the camp of liking the drama even if there were a few flaws in it.
I guess it's important to note that at the time, it was illegal in Korea for in-law's to marry. I'm not sure if that's still the case today, but it was illegal when the drama was made. This isn't explicitly stated until around episode 14, but most of the conflict revolves around this fact so I guess it might make it easier for viewers to at least understand the characters' reactions throughout the drama.
As for the acting, everyone was great. I thought Gong Hyo-jin did a great job of taking a rather frustrating and immature character into someone that I could understand as she grew up and matured in the drama. Jo Jae-hyun and Oh Yeon-soo were great as always. Kim Rae-won's character was a bit underwritten but he did well with what he was given.
This drama is not for everyone and one is going to have to be a bit open-minded about the topic, but with the exception of some contrived situations, I liked the drama. I was quite surprised that Gong Hyo-jin chose such a role as her first leading project, however I understood since her role was very meaty which probably further proved to producers that she can act and is worthy of leading roles.
I'm not sure if I condone the relationship and some things could have been handled a bit better, but the drama and its topic did have me thinking, which is more than I can say for a lot of dramas today. Although dramas of this type may not be to everyone's taste, I do wish more producers today would take more risks to let writers cover more of Korea's societal taboos.
I have also started the 2009 4-episode drama special, Kyung-sook, Kyung-sook's Father. This one took me a while to find the raw files for, but I found it and I will probably leave my thoughts on it once I'm finished with it. I've seen good reviews for it however.
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fanwho
August 27, 2016 at 9:10 AM
I watched Snow Man long ago (I didn't feel uncomfortable tho). I also remember that time many people felt uneasy about that drama/ subject.
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