Going into this, I was a little skeptical, but as of now, I really think this series played out to the best of its ability. Was it flawless? No. Were there some bumps along the way? Absolutely. However, overall, this series offers a fast-paced viewing experience, mostly entertaining, featuring some aesthetically pleasing characters that I can't help but appreciate.

Let's Dive In.

So for the most part, My Dear Gangster Oppa is good, at least in my opinion. My only struggle with this series was sitting through the "mafia" or "gangster" part of it all. I think it works in some parts, and then in others it doesn't. Like the backstory is neat, the way in which Thiu has to get out of the mob is great, and even some of the more specific details make lots of sense, however, I was just really bored with the whole Kenji storyline. Like you're in a mafia, just kill the dude and move on, did this really have to escalate for an entire 8 episodes? But I say that because I am also just not the biggest fan of these recreations of "KinnePorche" (again, in my opinion) -- and maybe not necessarily recreations, cause other series can make a plot surrounding the mafia and whatnot, but I always just think back to KP whenever that happens and it's just not as top tier as that was.

Moving on to the romance, I think Meen and Ping had great chemistry, except their characters moved into a relationship way before I think the characters were ready for one. It's obvious they both have some feelings for each other at the beginning, which again, the build-up to the relationship is my favorite part about BL in general. But I feel like before they can hit their climax of feelings, they're already kissing and having sex and becoming boyfriends. It's a lot to move into, especially after Guy becomes aware of Thiu being in the mafia, having so much anger that Thiu didn't tell him, and then subsequently not caring about that anymore out of the blue. I love slow burn, I'll love it till the day I die, and this couple was not that at all. They were quick-paced, and they fell in love pretty quickly. However, Meen and Ping do chemistry rather well, so their kiss and NC scenes were all great.

Moving onto Wal, I actually really like him. He's severely unpopular, and most people wish he wasn't in this, but for a slight second, this actually felt like it could've been a love triangle, and that's also something I love. Wal was a guy who was terrible at admitting his feelings, and due to it, he hurt his friend who, at the time, was also reciprocating his feelings. I'm also a sucker for friends to lovers which is another reason why I was rooting for them, but of course, it wasn't going to happen for many reasons. Also, I'm shallow, and Winner (Wal) is gorgeous.

The side couple that wasn't really a side couple was pretty disappointing. I think they had a nice build-up, but it doesn't go anywhere. Slightly aggravating. Also me just being nit-picky, but the scars on Thiu's body... why were they like an orange/yellow color? I'm no doctor, I have no idea about any of the scarring tissue and whatnot, but I'm pretty sure it doesn't turn a sickly yellow tone? I wish the makeup department could've at least used some foundation to blend it in a little better, but whatever.

Ratings:

Story: 8/10 - Good, some parts draggy, some parts boring, but for the most part. good. The romance isn't the best I've seen, but it did capture my attention a lot within the first couple of episodes.

Acting: 8/10: I think it was good for the most part. Some actors felt a little mediocre, but it doesn't take you out of the story any, just that it could've been a bit better.

Music: 6/10: Didn't pay it any attention and it wasn't distracting, so good!

Recommendation Value: 5.5/10: This wouldn't be something I'd recommend, just because I personally don't see it as something that is indeed in need of a watch. But the actors are beautiful (I want to stuff Winner in my pocket) and if you like a mafia story, then sure.