Sports meets noona romance

I love Zhou Yu Tong's acting in Begin Again. I had never watched Wu Lei's acting so I watched this cdrama for both of them.

What I like:
1) Wu Leo's acting - wow, I was blown away by his commitment to the role. He really looked like a top-tier athlete and his good looks is a bonus.
2) Tennis - I must have overlooked the synopsis because I didn't expect plot to focus on tennis coaching. As tennis fan in 2000s, I enjoyed the tennis scenes immensely. I love watching Wu Lei & Xia Hao Ran playing tennis & their physicality. Great to also see community from coaches to nutritionist.
3) Supporting characters - My favourites are Coach Zhang Yan, Jiao Jiao & Luo Nian.

What dislike:
1) Liang You An's characterisation - her character started off great in the first few episodes when she was at Y Space. Then I didn't like her character when she acted more like a manager than a girlfriend. I dislike when she made decisions for Sang Chuan without discussing with him.
2) Y space involvement - too much interference & I think the later parts were unnecessary because the club was already financially independent.
3) Second leads' romance - I wanted to see more Coach Yan - Luo Nian's romance because of the emotional baggage they have is intriguing.

Favourite scene:
Song San Chuan first match that he won. What a thrill!

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Enjoyable body swap story

After avoiding kdramas for a few months, finally broke my "fast" with this. Branding in Seongsu is a light romantic thriller
with bits of comedy.

What I like:
1. The mystery plot - was thrilling especially in the 1st part.
2. Acting - Kim Ji Eun & Lomon did well playing their roles (first
time watching their acting) although at times Lomon stole the show when he played Naeon.
3. Kissing - Wow Lomon can kiss. The first kissing scene was hot.
4. Song 'On my hill' - Love this song because the alluring beat is fitting for seductive moments.
5. Supporting characters - Team Underdogs out shined other side characters. Joo Rex reminds me of P1harmony's Keeho. Hehehe

What I dislike:
1. Villains - underdeveloped & tad predictable.
2. Supernatural element - wish they develop that element. It'd be interesting if the 'demon' is tied to Naeon's feeling of guilt.

Favourite scene:
As a non-drinkers, I enjoy the Mood project the most. I know there is non-alcoholic soju sold in Thailand because it is endorsed by Mark Tuan, a member of GOT7.

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Overhyped, overrated waste of talents!

I had high hopes on 'King the Land' as I only became a fan of 2PM in 2023. I was disappointed by the quality of this series.

What I like
1. The flight attendant -Pyunghwa's struggle and love life kept me watching this series.
2. Jeju island - so pretty

What I dislike
1. Poor writing - Aigo, King the Land has no proper plot. The showrunner is banking so much on Junho-Yoona chemistry.
2. Gu Won's characterisation - My number #1 issue with his character is that he lacks motivation/drive to run family business. I don't mind so much about him being rich, pampered/spoiled brat but if you don't want to run family business then why so greedy? I can't deal with mediocre employee who knows nothing but kissing boss's ass. That's my view of his character.
3. Sa-rang's characterisation - started off as ambitious & driven woman who now gets distracted by her boss's charms. Why is a hardworking female lead's romantic interest a nice nepo baby?
4. Visit Thailand ad - what a filler episode!


Favourite scene
Da-eul's re-enactment of RoWoon's deep voice & coolness during a sleepover. That's hilarious!

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Noona romance done right!

I enjoy watching older female-younger guy romance (wishful thinking) and Why Women Love is the best noona romance I have watched, so far!

What I like:
1) The length of the series - 24 episodes is the perfect number of episodes.
2) Female lead characterisation - ❤️ that Jiangyue is career-focused but not uptight. Yes, she is a workaholic but she makes time for her best friends. Jin Chen was so radiant in this role. She reminds me of TWICE's Nayeon somehow.
3) Male lead characterisation - ❤️ Jia Xin 's growth throughout the series. He started as a bratty rich kid but once he saw his boss's vulnerability and understands her perspective, he accepts his role and is attuned to her needs. I also like an introspective male character. I like his styling (both hair & clothes) - I find Zi Yi resembles Gon of Vanner.
4) Chemistry between Jin Chen and Wang Zi Yi - Combustible chemistry and their kissing scenes🔥. Both are visually arresting.
5) Ending - I like the award ceremony scene. I expected the proposal to be different and kinda happy it turns out to be true. Given the characterisation of Jiangyue and Jia Xin, it is believable.

What I dislike:
1) Supporting characters - Jing Jing and Duo Xi's love stories were underdeveloped. I'd like to see more of Jing Jing's love story because it's second chance romance involving mature characters.
2) Li Yan Ran - annoying! It's hard to develop empathy for a character that doesn't understand personal boundary.
3) Sub-plot - I think the office rival plot can be executed better.

Favourite scene:
When Jiangyue was given gifts by Zi Yi. I love the meaning attached to each gift!

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Frustrating second half

I really like Lee Min Ki's performance in Because This is My First Life so I was curious to check out this drama.

What I like
1. Oh! Master was fun watch in the first half of the series. I really like the scene when he saved Jooin.
2. Bisoo & Jooin relationship development. Kissing & intimate scenes were hot
3. Heartwarming interactions between them & their mothers
4. Record store scenes - I would love to have dates in that store.
5. Dialogue about closing doors, death
6. Kang Min Hyuk's styling is impeccable. Surprised to know that he's a drummer.
7. Oh I like the score 'Running to You' so much!

What I dislike
1. Bisoo sabotaging their relationship
2. The second half of the series especially the Ending

Favourite scene
Dating in the record store

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Exciting science-y non-romance Jdorama

Once upon a time, I considered a career in forensic science but didn't pursue. I find Jdrama Unnatural exciting watch!

What I like:
1. Writing - I love the cases that were presented in this series. My favourite episode is the death by drowning. I didn't expect the fiancee/boyfriend to go ahead with his intention. What a sad moment for him and humanity! The father-and-son arcs in death in burning building was awesome great. Tearjerker.
2. Love story - I like that romance was hinted at the start of the series but never explored. Instead the writers focused on the love between Mikoto and her mum and brother.
3. Acting - Fine acting by cast especially from Satomi Ishihara and Arata Iura.
4. Mystery - Three main characters have mysterious background (Mikoto, Kai & Rokuro) and I like how it's related to their work.

What I dislike:
1. I am unclear about Mr Kibayashi's connection to Nakado. Why is he so willing to help him out?
2. Shishido is a despicable man!
3. The arc of the serial killer. It feels rushed.

Favourite scene
When Mikoto informed parents of burnt victim about how their son died saving people from burning building.

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Predictable but main leads' chemistry kept me interested

This series is featured in a top drama list on YouTube. I think it was about contract marriage oh well I was intrigued hence I watched it

What I like
1. Romance - Wang Zi Qi & Wang Yu Wen have beautiful partnership that their characters look like a real couple. They are affectionate with each other. The morning after scene was so sweet.
2. Si Chen's characterisation - mostly about his personal side not professional side. I like how he acknowledges his growing feelings for Xixi and tries to win her heart. He did not deny his feelings.
3. Handbag drama - This occurred during grandma's birthday party. I like this story because it demonstrated Xixi's resilience.
4. Wang Zi Qi - I like that he looks like a normal businessman not a movie star. I find him attractive once his character opens up to his wife. He looks like Kim Sungkyu from Infinite especially with fringe/hair down.
5. Chen Xun - arresting visual. He looks like he is part of Twilight's Cullen family. Pale skin contrasting with dark brown hair. Bloodshot eyes.

What I dislike
1. Over the top stories - some stories/scenes are too dramatic and unnecessary. For example, the attacker.
2. Fashion - for a fashion shopper/designer, Xixi has horrible fashion sense.
3. Xixi's characterisation - childish & klutz.

Favourite scene
Xixi's birthday celebration scene.

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Rival secret agents with sizzling chemistry

This is the fourth mini drama directed by Zeng Qing Jie that I watched and I enjoyed it immensely.

What I like
1. Romance - Wow, Yang Ze and Smile Hu's chemistry translated well on screen. It's evident whenever they were kissing, having a playful banter or expressing their feelings for the other.
2. Yang Ze's acting - I've watched him in Destined to Meet You and I must say I love him in this role so much more because Yan Wu Ming is a better written character. Yang Ze played this character with depth and vulnerability. I like that he is a secret agent but with a kind/boyish face.
3. Smile Hu's acting - brilliantly cast. She looks tall and athletic therefore believable as a secret agent/assasin but with grace and poise. She also demonstrated vulnerability quite well.
4. Costumes - Lord Yan and Xiao Nian wore beautiful clothes. I love Lord Yan's black work outfit, tailored robe in final episodes, Xiao Nian's red work outfit and pink robe. The fox mask is also pretty.
5. Writing - Male and female main characters were well-written. I like the inject of humour at the start though at times seem too much (I think because of the music).
6. Directing - Beautifully shot especially fight sequences.
7. Duration and length - Perfect for bingeing.

What I dislike
1. Villain - I think the villain character was underdeveloped.

Favourite scene
The duel between Yan Wu Ming and Si Xiao Nian. Beautifully choreographed fighting scene that was perfectly captured on screen.

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Wow, a lot of kisses!

Ok I watched this jdrama after watching clip on Asian Crush's Youtube channel & reading the synopsis.

What I like
1. The kisses - I was pleasantly surprised by the quantity & quality. Hase had insatiable appettite for Momo. The actors did these scenes well.
2. Female lead's characteristic - I enjoy seeing her growth. She was assertive at the end but still remains compassionate.
3. Pacing - Fast-paced and I had to binge!
4. Music - This is one of the few eastern dramas that I enjoyed the opening song. Dreaming night is so catchy.
5. Colleagues - I enjoyed watching camaraderie amongst Calico Cafe staff.

What I dislike
1. Plot - There isn't a proper plot for this drama. I was wondered a lot about the direction of the series throughout.
2. Supporting cast - I wish Fukami's relationship with Hase was elaborated further.

Favourite scene
Cafe lesson no. 3 because I never expected it!

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Sweet love story

This series was recommended on reddit for its story & romance scene. I enjoy it & would say that it's one of the few good mini series.

What I like
1. Romance - I love it when male lead is attuned to female lead's needs and always prioritise her first. Love the scenes when he did housework. They are quite affectionate with each other. I also like second lead romance though I wish there were more scenes focusing on their growing romance.
2. Butterfly slave plot - Fascinating though I wish the writers had not gotten rid of it so viewers can see how characters accept the condition and become more empathetic.
3. Rain Lu - great acting. She conveyed various emotions well from innocence, delight to upset and disappointment.
4. Length & duration - I don't fancy historical drama but I like this series because it's short & concise.
5. Cameo - I like cameos from The Killer is also Romantic. Already have it in my watch list so I am going to watch that series next after completing this review.

What I dislike
1. The 3rd act - I feel it is too rushed especially the last 3 episodes. I'd like to know more about Lord Wu'an struggles.
2. Flashbacks - I know it's important as viewers got to learn about how Chengfeng & Qianyue's relationship developed but those episodes did not excite me.
3. Chemistry - There are many romantic scenes between 2 main leads but I don't feel much sexual chemistry coming from the actors.

Favourite scene
When Qianyue appeared as butterfly slave to Princess Baozhu. Beautifully shot & highly suspenseful.

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Another side of Song Jihyo

I only watch Running Man whenever my favourite Korean groups are guests so I got to know Song Jihyo from there. This drama introduces me to Song Jihyo the actress.

What I like
1. The writing - It has the right balance between the characters' personal and professional lives, the drama & comedy. I enjoy medical aspects. Reminds me of Grey's Anatomy earlier seasons when the episodes were so engaging.
2. Main characters' development - It's wonderful to see
Jinhee & Changmin grow as individuals and as doctors. Jinhee especially. Changmin is so cute whenever he is cheeky.
3. Romance - Glad that this second chance romance develops slowly. Jinhee especially needs to understand her worth first before committing to a relationship. There aren't many kisses but when they kiss, I feel their love and longing for each other. Their intimate scenes are quite sexy.
4. Changmin's father - his kindness reminds me of my late uncle. That quiet but wise character.
5. Songs - I love the opening track and the other song that always accompany sad scenes.
6. Death & bereavement - humbling is the best word to describe those moments.
7. Choi Jinhyuk - my first drama starring him. This role was meaty role and he nailed it. His hairstyle made him look like a flower boy but he is manly.
8. Song Jihyo - I enjoyed her acting too. She conveys Jinhee's doubts very well.

What I dislike
1. The overbearing mother
2. The length - 21 episodes are a lot for kdrama. Nevertheless I hardly felt bored watching the episodes.
3. Gossipy colleagues

Favourite scene
When Jinhee informed Changmin why she kept in touch with his father. It's very touching that I cried a lot.

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Corporate drama with romance & murder mystery

After watching too many romance-centred drama, I decided to watch different genre. The reviews here convinced me as I am not easily swayed by high scores.

What I like:
1. Mystery plot - I like whever the drama focuses on mystery mode. However these parts were mostly at the end after episode 8 if I am not mistaken. Wish they could execute it like Elite (Spanish Netflix series) because that would really make this series gripping.
2. The intro montage - Don't skip it. It is beautifully done and the score too!
3. Female lead characterisation - I like how Yuanxing's character development is written.
4. Romance - The romance plot is well-done too though I wish to see more affectionate moments between Yuanxing & Cheng.

What I dislike
1. Family drama - too much screne time given to greedy family members especially episodes 2 - 8.
2. Baddie - I think in episode 9 or 10 you could figure out the baddie. Wish it was hinted more in earlier episodes because then I would care more about the villain.

Favourite scene:
That love confession at the very end of last episode. Heartfelt because of the script & acting.

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Fast-paced & enjoyable romantic thriller

Destined to meet you is one of the best mini dramas I have watched.

What I like:
1. Lu Yan Qi - great actress with brilliant comedic timing. She also did vulnerable scenes very well. The watching movie together scene was hilarious! She also portrayed the different ages of Rong Rong quite well. She looked pretty & youthful in the photo.
2. Jin Rong Rong characterisation - love girlboss , no-nonsense & take charge attitude.
3. Writing - Brilliant comedic scenes. The villain's characterisation is also good, not a cliche, 2D character.
4. Directing & editing - Brilliant for a mini drama of 20 episodes with each episode lasting less than 15 min. I like the pacing of the story.
5. Supporting characters - I like Jin Xi Chen & her executive assistant.

What I dislike:
1. Age difference between both main characters - 5 years seem to big considering real life age gap is 3 years. Wish Cong Bei was working adult instead of university student but then some scenes wouldn't work that well.
2. Grandpa - small issue. Got the impression that he's known Cong Bei for awhile. Not sure why Grandpa likes Gu Cong Bei so much.

Favourite scene:
When the aircond in Rong Rong's room malfunctioned. Rong Rong showed her vulnerability to Cong Bei.

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Started great then it fizzled

I was excited to watch this mini drama after seeing it featured in a few top mini drama lists on YouTube. The drama started off great but then it fell flat.

What I like:
1. Intriguing start - The 1st 3 episodes were intriguing. I was delighted to see a "smart" female lead who managed to escape from interrogation. I was also pleasantly surprised with the bed scene. Cunning!
2. Right hand man - General Liu was the smartest character out of the bunch.
3. Dai Gao Zheng - A lot of reviewers mentioned him so yes, I agree. He has good looks & body. Acting wise, he's ok.

What I dislike:
1. Female lead characterisation - I mentioned earlier she was "smart" but my gosh she became unbearably silly as the episodes progress. I can't get over her decision to pursue Tiangyi when she already willingly agree to become Yu Ze's fiancee. What a silly girl!
2. Writing - was bad. I almost stopped at episode 19 but persisted because there is fast forward button. I chose 4x option just to make sure I complete this mini drama. I think the episodes could be reduced to 24 or even 18. The conflict was dragged too much.
3. Ending - omg what a silly one. How can a stupid, cowardly girl become menacing to gangsters? And that very last scene I really don't understand
4. Physical abuse - You experienced and witnessed beatings but omg why stay in abusive household???
5. Chemistry between main characters - to me, lackluster.
6. Fashion - I dislike the clothes worn by Tiangyou, female lead. Pink dresses made her look like childish and with her characterisation, she was indeed a baby. The last qipao she wore had weird colour combination and doesn't look nice.

Favourite scene:
The bed scene between Tiangyi & Tiangyou. As I said earlier, cunning!

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Letdown by this supernatural-romance series

I love supernatural series such as Lucifer, Angel, Buffy, iZombie so I had high hopes on 'My Demon'. This series felt like a Korean version of Twilight. So much potential not explored, I decided to drop this series halfway through.

What I like
1. The song by NewJeans
2. Do Do Hee's fashion
3. Episode 1 was beautifully shot.
4. Park Bok Kyu & Ms Shin's banter

What I dislike
1. Do Do Hee's characterisation - I want to scream out my frustrations. The character is written like a Harlequin romance novel from the 90s. She started off as a clear-headed, no-nonsense CEO but episode 2 onwards, she became easily distracted/influenced by Gu-Won. Wish she struck partnership with Gu-Won like a business deal - weigh the cost of benefits and risks. Negotiate a protection and a marriage deal that benefits you too - I don't like that Gu-Won dictated the terms and Do Hee easily agreed.
2. Gu-Won's characterisation - I don't like Jeong Gu-Won. I expected cockiness but his arrogance, solemn & cold demeanour irked me. I wish he enjoyed his demonic responsibility and had cheeky personality like Lucifer.
3. Too much push in the romance angle too. Not enough supernatural moments.
4. Ga Young's clinginess annoyed me.
5. Slapstick comedy is fine for some episodes but get tiresome after awhile.
6. Song Kang's acting - I feel that he's miscast in this series. I'd like to see Woo Do Hwan as Gu-Won because he was mighty fine in Divine Fury and he'd be up against Lee Sang Yi's character to win over Do Hee's heart.
7. Reincarnation/past lives trope - I am tired of this trope since it's also used in other dramas released around same time such as The Story of Park's Marriage Contract, Moon in the Day.

Favourite scene
When Do Hee first met Gu-Won. The cake!

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