Padam Padam Korean Drama - MyDramaList.com

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Jan 14, 2013 20 of 20 episodes seen

GraceLauzon
17 of 19 people found this review helpful
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- Overall 9
- Story 9
- Acting/Cast 10
- Music 10
- Rewatch Value 9
I am not really into a supernatural fictional stories or dramas but Padam Padam really got me watching it until the end. Jung Woo Sung, Na Moon Hee, and Han Ji Min really got me teary-eyed due to their skillful acting. At the first episode I was thinking if I'll continue watching it but right after that you'll get curious on how the crime on this drama will end. You must try watching this drama and you'll never regret it.
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Mar 5, 2012 20 of 20 episodes seen

manicmuse
21 of 21 people found this review helpful
Other reviews by this user
- Overall 9
- Story 9
- Acting/Cast 10
- Music 8
- Rewatch Value 8
This is a drama that does not fit simply into one category. I'd say Padam Padam is equal parts love story, tearjerker, crime drama, and supernatural tale. It combines all four genres seamlessly, and every moment of it felt genuine. I think much of the credit should go to the outstanding cast. I also liked that the director made some interesting storytelling choices that kept me engaged. This drama may not be fast paced, but it's originality stopped me from ever being bored. It was also consistently good. Not one of the 20 episodes felt like filler/unnecessary to me... and I think that's rare.

I can't think of one bad actor in this cast. Jung Woo Sung, as Yang Kang Chil, was intense, and very moving. Han Ji Min, as cool/controlled Jung Ji Nah, was his perfect counterpart. Their relationship had all the familiar elements (opposites attracting, destined path crossings, and family disapproval...) but without simply relying on clichés. My only small criticism is that they had some of the worst onscreen kisses I've ever seen, though the rest of their romantic moments more than make up for it. It could be argued that their awkwardness fit the story, but I just found it distracting. Their romance was portrayed as much deeper than a few cute moments, so I do have to give them a lot of credit for that.

Of the exceptional supporting cast, I have 3 favorites. Na Moon Hee, as the mother, was a really great character, and expertly played. Choi Tae Joon, as the son, was the only character that made me actually cry. Kim Bum, as the charming yet odd Lee Gook Soo, was my absolute favorite. His character's journey was so awesomely unexpected, and he did an amazing job with it.

As I mentioned earlier, this is a tearjerker, but there are plenty of funny, sweet, intriguing, and inspiring moments too. Some aspects of the story are left open ended, but that didn't bother me at all. I thought the end episode was beautifully done, and gave me all the closure I needed. I can't agree that this drama is perfect, but It is certainly better than most, and not to be missed. read more
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Mar 1, 2012 20 of 20 episodes seen

Starlitelet
16 of 23 people found this review helpful
Other reviews by this user
- Overall 10
- Story 10
- Acting/Cast 10
- Music 9
- Rewatch Value 8
My Mini Back-story:

Jung Woo-Sung is a must-watch actor. His versatile performances are hard to come by these days.

So if the storyline seems intriguing AND I get a chance to watch him deliver, I'll take that as a nod to dive into the fresh pool. Jung Woo-Sung always has something special to offer to his audience/fans.

Storyline:

Padam Padam has to be one of the most original scripts up-to-date (at least from all the Korean dramas that I've watched thus far). I love how the series does not look down on its' viewers. In other words, the plot doesn't go around in a continuous loop. Most, if not everything, gets resolved and there's no hiding/bickering between characters for too long. Hence, it doesn't make the viewers angry. The main character is very straightforward/honest, so perhaps that explains why the plot doesn't stall also.

The pacing of Padam Padam was just a tiny bit slow for me. However, I don't know exactly what they could have left out, since I believe most of it was necessary. Perhaps, it's just me who finds it a tad slow paced for my taste (especially near the end).

So what does this series have to offer?

a) Pathos driven. It will pull at your heartstrings whether you like it or not. I didn't cry, but I know people who did.

b) Sense of humor/comedy. The comedy nicely contrasts with the emotional/seriousness. There's quite a lot and it's incorporated together really well. It doesn't feel forced. I actually even laughed out loud at some parts (especially the bantering between Gook Soo and Kang Chil).

c) Family Relationships. There are a lot of heart-tugging/tender relationships (especially b/w a father and son, and son and mother).

d) Friendship. I absolutely loved the bromance between Kang Chil and Gook Soo. Those two are my favorite 'pairing' from this drama.

e) Very Romantic. Our two leading stars are not afraid to express their emotions on-screen. They looked sublimely natural together. Love the small/big romantic gestures. It doesn't feel cheesy either.

f) Strong dialogues/writing. This obviously enhances the series' quality.

g) Originality. Like, I've mentioned above.

h) Unpredictable. It's actually quite unpredictable, since there's an element of fantasy involved.

j) Fantasy. There's a touch of supernatural which I was hesitant at first, but it worked nicely. I wish they would have delved more into the 'chicken mutant'.

i) Crime drama. Not your typical gangsters. Phewww!

k) Realistic. One of the most realistic Korean dramas out there, despite it being marketed as a melodrama. The poor characters actually wear the same clothes multiple times. No characters are super 'evil'. Many themes (hope, will, and miracle) relate to our modern society/life. Even the locations and reactions from the characters are realistic. In fact, realism is probably the series' strongest point (aside from the great casts).

Each episode doesn't feel like a separate episode. It rather feels like a whole storybook told from the POV of the protagonist, Yang Kang Chil. And thankfully, he's a well-rounded/flawed character.

Acting/Characters:

I enjoyed most of the characters. I wasn't on the edge of my seat rooting for them, but I am glad that I went on such a wonderful/heart-warming experience with them.

My favorite characters are: Kang Chil, Gook Soo, Mi Ja (Kang Chil's mother) and Min Hyo-sook.

You grow to love these characters as you understand their motives/reverse-psychology tactics. Their reactions are very realistic and each character has distinct qualities which makes them unique. I despise when characters are just written to support the main characters’ existence. Padam Padam is definitely not one of those cases.

Without a doubt, Kang Chil’s character stood out the most. He’s such a heart-warming character. He has lots of flaws, thus many ranges of emotions. Probably every emotion that exists can be seen in his character. The reason why Kang Chil is such an expressive character is largely thanks to Jung Woo-Sung. His face contortions and smiles don’t require words to back up his character’s (Kang Chil) unique thoughts. I can’t remember the last time I saw a character with such huge range of complex emotion. Jung Woo-Sung has never failed to amaze me (perhaps in Athena, but that wasn’t the actors’ faults). He really understands his character well and it shows A LOT.

Gook Soo is also an amazing character (too bad Kang Chil is hard to beat). I love his innocence / contemplation of what is a miracle or not. He’s like the archetype of Kang Chil. In a way, they both bring out the best in each other and it is indeed rare to come across such a strong bromance. They truly stick to each other through thick and thin. Kim Bum has improved A LOT from the last time I saw him in Boys Over Flowers. When I first saw him in BOF, I never thought of him as manly, but he has definitely changed my mind. He’s also a very versatile actor. I can’t wait to see him in another project that will do him justice like this one. He’s a young actor that should be used to the fullest potential (like Kim Soo Hyun).

Mi Ja is the epitome of a caring mother. She often uses reverse psychology because she doesn’t want to show her weakness. And I love how she’s so brave / strong even though she’s a single mother. Definitely love the relationship b/w her and Kang Chil. It’s also rare to see a bonding mother-son relationship in K-dramas. The closest one that I’ve come across is Will it Snow on Christmas?

I don’t know why, but I just love Hyo-Sook’s presence. I admit that I wasn’t too fond of their countryside accents at first (shallow me!), but I grew to like hers. Her conversations with Gook Soo were also tender / cute. She really brightens the mood whenever she appears, which is nice for a change.

On a side note, since Ha Ji Min plays a huge role as well, why not talk about her? I personally thought her character, Ji Na, felt unoriginal for me. She's your typical Korean drama girl. I was hoping for a more in-depth characterization b/w her and her father. It wasn't a huge deal in the end though.

Nonetheless, Ha Ji Min played her character beautifully. If a less experienced actress played her role, I think it would have been hard to watch, since Ji Na isn’t a very interesting character to start. The thing that stood out for me the most is how Ji Min reciprocates Woo-Sung’s actions/love. They felt so natural together that it was hard not to believe that they aren't more than just friends in real life. Ji Min and Woo-Sung are probably one of the best/most natural on-screen couples I’ve seen. I’ve already mentioned in my review of The Princess’s Man how I like it how couples give the same amount of effort in the relationship (HATE when the man does everything). And they did just that, or they even went beyond it! One look/one touch, sparks were flying all over the place.

Music:

Originally, the songs didn’t peak my interest, but as the drama and its’ characters pulled me in, I started to take notice.

My two favorite songs are “You’re a Fool” by Brown Eyed Girls (JeA) and “In Order to Live” by Noel.

“You’re a Fool” matches so well with Ji Na’s perspective. The melody pulls at my heartstrings.

On the other hand, “In Order to Live” fits the mood and it makes me palpitate whenever it comes at the end of the episodes.

These two songs make you feel like you’re living a part of these characters’ lives.

The other songs were nice, but they didn’t stand out.

Bonus:

It took me awhile to get into the way it was filmed. First of all, it was shot like an actual film.

The backgrounds/scenes look rather gloomy for my taste. Though, it gave it darker/grittier atmosphere which complemented the tone of the drama. Hence, I slowly came to appreciate the cinematography. It added realism to the storyline.

Did I mention that Woo-Sung and Ji Min look beautiful here? Honestly, beautiful, beautiful couple! Not just in the looks department, but the way they cared for each other.

Love the addition of Tengie!! I'm an animal lover, so maybe that's why.

Overall:

Loved it! Padam Padam is a well-rounded drama if you’re looking for a melodrama that’s realistic (does that make sense?). Not only is it realistic, but the characters are thoroughly fleshed out (with a few minor missing). I loved the concept and the twist of fantasy.

If you’re a sensitive person, you might want to carry a box of Kleenex with you while watching this. Padam Padam excels at bringing one moment of sadness followed by a moment of happiness. The mood transition happens quite quickly, but it’s plausible (can’t really explain it until you’ve seen it). My mom actually cried while laughing at some point (no, she’s not crazy).

It’s quite uplifting and inspirational too. So if you’re looking for a change/originality in K-dramas, be sure to give this a chance. You won’t regret it.

It's not the type of drama that I would watch over right away, since some parts were kind of slow (for me at least).

Overall rating for review: 9.5/10

Purely for entertainment: 9/10 (Why not 10 instead? Padam Padam is a spectacular drama, but I did not obsess over it)

My Dramalist rating (avg): 9.25/10 read more
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Feb 10, 2012 20 of 20 episodes seen

LisNoir
16 of 23 people found this review helpful
Other reviews by this user
- Overall 9
- Story 10
- Acting/Cast 10
- Music 8
- Rewatch Value 7
I'll admit that when I first read the synopsis, I really didn't expect much from it. It even looked like an ordinary drama story, but that all changed as soon as I watched the first episode.

Story: The story was different and well written. The plot kept getting more interesting with each passing minute. Everyone involved in the production of it, cast and staff, knew just how to take it a notch up with each episode, which left me wanting more.

Acting/Cast: The actors did such an amazing job that I loved every interaction between them, even the ones I loved to hate (and there were a few of those). Jung Woo Sung playing the role of Yang Kang Chil was simply brilliant and he is a character I will not forget. Kim Bum as Gook Soo was also amazing.

Music: I loved the soundtrack of this drama, every song went perfectly with the moment and the story. It, also, helped enhance the emotions the cast kept throwing our way.

Rewatch: I would love to re-watch this, but it's not very likely any time soon. Not because I didn't like the drama and not because I thought it was average and not worthy of a re-watch. But because every aspect of the story, even the happy moments, were heartbreaking.

Overall, I give this drama a 10. I think it deserves it. It cast a magical spell which enthralled, amazed me and from which I could not escape. It is definitely worth a watch and make sure you have some tissue with you because it is a real tearjerker, especially towards the last episodes. read more
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Feb 10, 2012 20 of 20 episodes seen

Sammyx3
6 of 10 people found this review helpful
Other reviews by this user
- Overall 10
- Story 10
- Acting/Cast 10
- Music 10
- Rewatch Value 10
This drama. THIS drama. Honestly speaking, I only started watching it for Han Ji Min, but ever since the second episode, I have been so emotionally invested in this drama that it's ridiculous. I was really thinking that I was going to get let down, but I didn't. This drama is a lot more about fighting your way through life and never giving up. It's broken my heart and put it right back together again. It almost makes me wish I had lived a life like our main character had, so I could appreciate all the small things in life as he does. It's made me change the way I look at things, and it's so well developed and perfectly paced that it's, for lack of a better way to say it, perfection. The chemistry is unbelievable. I'd watch this drama a million times over if I could. read more
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Sep 4, 2012 20 of 20 episodes seen

MoseKnows_all
7 of 13 people found this review helpful
Other reviews by this user
- Overall 10
- Story 10
- Acting/Cast 10
- Music 10
- Rewatch Value 10
"Padam Padam" is hands down one of the greatest K-Drama I've ever watched, and sets the bar ridiculously high for dramas that follow it! The acting was sublime; every actor was perfectly cast for their role (even Tenngie). Jung Woo Sung's take on a wounded man was both refreshing & poignant. He has the ability to pull off a million and one emotions without ever going over the top, and his amazingly expressive face & eyes speak volumes even when he's silent. The story was so deeply engrossing, beautifully written, and wonderfully paced. This show gave me everything I needed; perfectly mixing fantasy, violence, heartbreak, comedy, & romance to create one single masterpiece. I don't throw that word around lightly: "Padam Padam" is quite truly a modern day masterpiece. I recommend this show to any & everyone! read more
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Feb 10, 2012 20 of 20 episodes seen

Jeaniessi
7 of 12 people found this review helpful
Other reviews by this user
- Overall 10
- Story 10
- Acting/Cast 10
- Music 10
- Rewatch Value 10
If I had to describe Padam Padam in three words I’d pick Sublime, Original and Perfection.

The writing is sublime. I haven’t ever come across a drama with such an original take on what could have been a standard plot. I cannot express with enough appreciation how fresh this story feels while watching. Even with some of the same drama tropes like cancer and entwined fates, I felt as if I was watching a Kdrama for the first time. If I could elaborate on how amazingly lovely, heart wrenching and yes, even humorous this story is, I would talk all day and spoil any reader of this review. Clever details in very well acted scenes, smart dialog, raw and real emotion elevate this drama above most I’ve seen. The editing is almost part of the story. You must watch to understand what I am saying.

Jung Woo Sung was amazing. He portrayed Kang Chil with incredible fearlessness. I would imagine an actor must be brave to throw himself into a role and portray a man so raw, vulnerable and having to overcome such fear of a world he thought never wanted him. His performance was a tour de force.

Kim Bum did a fine job in The Woman Who Still Wants To Marry but he matured in this drama. As he has grown up, his acting has come along for the ride; his portrayal of Gook Soo was intense, goofy, natural and totally convincing.

Na Moon Hee who portrayed Kang Chil’s Omma was simply amazing in every scene. Her cranky, rough portrayal of Mi Ja (Omma) was bursting with life. I could feel the undercurrent of her loving so much if she ceased being mean and tough, she might melt away. She was incredible.

Han Ji Min was great as the tough, wary, vulnerable Ji Na who fell head over heels for Kang Chil. This has to be my favorite thing she has done that I’ve seen.

Choi Tae Joon who portrayed Im Jung gave a charming and very touching performance. I will be watching out for him in the future.

The cinematography was eye catching all the way through. There are sweeping views of meadows, snow covered valleys, quaint village towns and crowded fishing wharfs. Every local was rich in detail and perfect. The set design really needs to win an award.

The music was another 10. The main love theme “In Order To Live” was pretty and dramatic. The song “You Idiot” stood out for me as well; both for its lovely music, lyrics and theme and also the humorous title. That is exactly Padam Padam; a mix of incredible, intense emotion but also much humor and heart.

I would watch this again in a heartbeat! As full as my drama watching plate is, there will come a time when I will want to return and see this again.

Padam Padam is a complete GEM of a drama and I recommend it highly to everyone! read more
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Feb 10, 2012 20 of 20 episodes seen

purplenette
6 of 11 people found this review helpful
Other reviews by this user
- Overall 10
- Story 10
- Acting/Cast 10
- Music 10
- Rewatch Value 10
I love this drama, because the story, acting, music, and directing all come together to make what has now become my favorite KD ever. The story is really well written. There was never a point where I was bored or upset with the direction the story was going. The acting is awesome!!! I fell in love with Yang Kang Cheol/Jung Woo Sung in this KD. Jung Ji Na/Han Ji Min is a great actress and she is beautiful. Kim Bum of course is a hotie, but he can also act and does a great job in this KD. I cried, laughed, and yelled at my screen...all the great emotions that make a drama worth watching. The ending was AWESOME!!! I would rewatch thid KD in a heartbeat and I recomend that everyone watch it too. read more
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Jun 28, 2012 20 of 20 episodes seen

wiz2knight
5 of 10 people found this review helpful
Other reviews by this user
- Overall 8
- Story 7
- Acting/Cast 8
- Music 7
- Rewatch Value 1
Firstly, I must say that I am not a fan of melodrama and I almost skipped this drama after watching the first two episodes. The starting was a bit confusing and too slow for my liking. However, I must say that the cast saved the day, I thought the acting by the three main casts were fantastic and they can really roused your emotion.

The backdrop of the entire drama potrays a gloomy feeling, not the typical bright and cheerful type of backdrop for the usual kdramas. I think this suits the drama's plot perfectly but again it does make my heart heavier after returning home from a heart day's work expecting something lighter and more cheerful. Having said that, there are various great scenaries up for showcase in the drama so much so that it makes you feel like visiting Korea.

I can't really appreciate the fantasy part of the drama but I guess its necessary for the entire plot. Having said that, I would have given this drama a rating of 7 if not for the last episode, which I felt was very meaningful in how we should approach life's every moment and treasure what we have.

Overall, this is a meaningful drama to watch but be prepared to watch with a heavy heart. The acting was excellent. If you are looking for something light and funny to spend your leisure time, stay away from it though. read more
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Oct 20, 2012 20 of 20 episodes seen

PrettyCarEye
3 of 6 people found this review helpful
Other reviews by this user
- Overall 9
- Story 10
- Acting/Cast 10
- Music 7
- Rewatch Value 6
This was my first ever K-drama and I loved it with a heavy heart. I have just started to watch South Korean films/dramas and was not aware how dark and morbid so many of them tend to be.

Padam Padam was an amazingly well conceived drama all around. With well drafted, fully developed, flawed characters, an original complex story with elements of crime, fantasy and a whole lot of emotion, this show was able to pack such punch it'll leave you wanting long after the final episode. Exactly my type of drama. I jumped into watching this because I love a good redemption story, and having completely fallen in love with Jung Woo-sung after seeing him in A Moment to Remember and Season of Good Rain, I did not hesitate. The acting, especially his, was just superb.

From the opening scene to the final montages, I was hooked. Even when I wanted to stop watching and run away from all the emotional turmoil this show unleashed.

Jung Woo-sung plays adorable, working class man-child Yang Kang Chil. Loyal and tough he isn't afraid to take on anyone who threatens his loved ones, but having lost his youth to the Korean prison system he looks at life through the eyes of a child, discovering and marveling at such simple pleasures as owning his first car, riding the train or going to the zoo. I adored Kang Chil's innocent world weariness. In this role Jung Woo-sung gave one of his bravest, most poignant performances. I loved the relationship he had with his family, esp his mom, who was so movingly portrayed by actress Na Moon Hee. The way she nurtured Kang Chil with her tough love was heartwarming to watch, and there were some hilariously funny scenes between them too.

Unlike many of the mostly western dramas that I've seen where the leads fall in love on sight and get together within the first 2-3 episodes, this was not the case in Padam Padam. The love story between Kang Chil and Ji Na took time to develop (over 10 episodes to be exact). This was torture for me because I was practically foaming at the mouth to see them together, so mad was their on-screen chemistry. In hindsight, though, their budding relationship was appropriately played out.

After all, here are two people, each with their own emotional baggage to overcome. It's only natural that they would look at the prospect of a having a relationship together from completely different standpoints, and this was what you got from Kang Chil and Ji Na. They had to overcome both internal and external obstacles before they could come together as a couple. When they finally did, their love story was so sweet and romantic it'll take your breath away. As usual, I wish there was more physicality between these characters. After making us wait so long, what we got was too tame. Of course, I wasn't looking for explicit sex, but some deep, ardent kisses would have suffice. That said though, their interactions were all heartwarming and beautiful.

I can not praise this drama enough. This is a show that will impart valuable life lessons. I wished I had known certain things before investing so much of myself in the characters. This drama took me on an emotional roller coaster ride that I'm not sure I liked. It weighed heavily on me days after I had seen it, but this was a good quality production. I'd recommend it. There's a lot of sadness and heartbreak, but I think it's manageable if you know going in that that's coming. I'll probably be able to re-watch it after many months have passed. read more
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