Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo (2016)

Sports stories were never my thing and I never thought this kind of scenario would be a special part of any drama in my opinion. Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo changed that for me. Even though that’s not the main focus of the story, it was an essential element of the story and I rooted for the characters and suffered with their (often problematic) training all along the show.

This is a very sweet and fresh slice of life romance and I recommend it to anyone that’s looking for a light-hearted coming of age romance. About that, my opinion is a bit biased because Nam Joo-hyuk is the ultimate eye-candy for me and his chemistry with the equally stunning (and loud) Lee Sung-kyung is very cutesy. Yes, there’s a bunch of whining and screaming, but, all of that seem very insignificant compared to all their loving moments and constant support.

One of the best things about this drama is that Kim Bok Joo doesn’t exist solely for her romantic interests, a common problem in rom-com stories. However, I feel like the characterization of Jung Joon-hyung felt short and this burden was transferred for him. Don’t get me wrong, I really like his character, but I pity that his background was under-explored considering what was initially presented. I wish we had seen more about his family and his relationship with swimming, dealing with his trauma.

I do have to write a word about the weight issues in this drama though. I don’t know a thing about weightlifting so I might be talking silly, but I felt Kim Bok Joo should be, at least, more muscly. Specially considering the athlete she’s based on (Jang Mi-Ran). It was nice to see a bit of light in the weight requirements both in sports and society - how draining and dangerous that can be. On the other hand, the character representing the “fat” and “chubby” was not even 60kg. Maybe that’s very accurate for South Korea, but it seemed a bit scary to consider that standard. All the eating and suffering was a bit relatable, but also a bit triggering too. However, the drama did discuss the topic and there are hints of self-love here and there.

When it comes to rewatch value, I think it falls under the category “rewatch favorite scenes only” - which I’ll certainly do. I’ll miss the “WHAT” sound effect and the “SWAG” of the girlfriends. I will miss our quirky Kim Bok-Joo. And my, oh my, I will surely miss Nam Joo-hyuk.

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I found weightlifting fairy to be a very lighthearted and fun-filled story. It had its share of moments that were very thoughtful and moved the viewers. The lack of particularly evil characters is a gigantic plus point for this drama. It avoids several cliches and shows the good relationships between people, their families and friends. The story lacks a major antagonist and beautifully displayed the struggles of athletes before they are exposed to fame. I was however disappointed with Lee sung Kyung being cast as bok joo. She doesn't have the figure of a weightlifter. This shows how even if the role demands a person who is not thin, a moderate sized actress with good arm strength could not be cast as bok joo. This goes back to the demands of a woman's figure by the industry even if the role demands the exact opposite. There were a few overdramatic scenes that I didn't like by a side characters (Nan hee). One of the crying scenes was also cringey as it sounded like a toddler screaming to me. But overall it was a good drama if the overdramatic bits were ignored as the story teaches us a lot. But the moral values depicted here can be interpreted in a sexist way too. This story shows us how weightlifters can express their feminity regardless of pursuing sports but it also in a way suggests that all girls care about the way they look and it should be expected of them if thry are really girls. ALSO FOR THOSE PEOPLE WHO HATED THE DRAMA SINCE THE CHARACTERS ATE A LOT AND THE PARENTS WERE ABUSIVE, PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS IS SUPER COMMON. ASIAN PARENTS OFTEN USE CORPORAL PUNISHMENT AND IT IS CONSIDERED A NORMAL WAY TO DISCIPLINE A CHILD AND IS ALSO A SIGN THAT PARENTS LOVE THEIR CHILD (I AM AGAINST IT BUT THIS IS A TOTALLY TRUE SITUATION). IT IS ALSO NORMAL TO EAT SO MUCH FOOD. EATING 3 PLATES LIKE HER, WOULD MAKE A PERSON HAVE A DECENTLY ABOVE AVERAGE DIET IN MANY ASIAN COUNTRIES.

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Review.

i was planning on re-watching it, and i am right now but i’ve already seen the drama so i’m writing my review now lol. anyways, i loved it. it was so so cute, the two main leads chemistry was no joke, they were perfect for the roles (i love them both very much). although, i did love the drama there were some things that were sort of cringe (not too cringe though) but it was worth finishing it. it’s one of those dramas you just don’t get bored off. i think they dude WELL not the best at depicting how athlete life is. i don’t think i really hated any character either … well … nevermind, but seriously. if you’re putting this drama to the side DON’T, it’s worth watching and it’s so cute and funny. this brings me to my conclusion, i want what they have.

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Awesome

Awesome
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Highly recommended! especially to youths.

Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo is a very heartwarming drama for me because it tackles about youth and their different problems encountering in school, friends, family and in life. All actors greatly did their job really well especially Lee Sung Kyung and Nam Joo Hyuk who are one of my favorites actor and actress in South Korea. The OST's are very refreshing and kind of warm vibes for me and also the production of this drama is very detailed and precise! One of the best Korean drama in 2017, greatly recommended especially to the youth aspirants who dwell hardship in school and in sports. GREAT DRAMA!

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Heartwarming, Charming, Hilarious

This was one of the most charming, feel good kdramas I've ever watched, and I cannot believe it took me 5 years to finally watch it.

So, so many good things about this drama, but the one that stands out the most to me was the chemistry between the two leads because .... y'all. Bok Joo and Joon Hyung are seriously SO cute. I can't even count the amount of times I smiled and laughed like an idiot because of these two. Cutest couple ever. I think what really got me was how natural their relationship was, nothing felt forced, and there was definitely more skinship than I expected for a kdrama.

There were some things about the drama that I was kind of iffy on, such as the way they dealt with weight/diet/disordered eating etc. and the uh.... questionable coaching methods, but I did feel like the issues I had with the show were minor gripes in comparison to how happy this drama made me feel while watching it. I loved pretty much all the relationships they had with each other, especially Bok Joo's relationship with her two best friends and with her dad, as well as Joon Hyung's relationship with his aunt and uncle.

A+, would definitely consider watching again.

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I just finished this and absolutely loved it with one exception to be mentioned momentarily. Another strong independent female lead and potential gold medalist weight lifter who has her own goals and has to come to terms with her feelings about her childhood friend who is also a promising medalist swimmer at the same college as her make for a dynamic plot. It was great to see the two navigate through early adulthood as she is first annoyed by his antics while pursuing an unattainable, one-sided relationship and while he is goofy yet a supportive friend and unaware of his true feelings for her. And, in this one too, there are great supporting cast members surrounding both leads who are multi-dimensional and fun. The one part that I absolutely hated and which shocked me was the use of corporal punishment on Kim Bok Joo. WTF?!?! This is a series filmed in 2016! This actually goes on? What?!?! I am an American, no experience with the Korean culture really, but this seemed WAAAYYYY out of line. And then Coach Choi finds out the real reason that she was running off and she's nice to her again? That was weird. If I was the subject of corporal punishment and physical discipline, I'd be suing Coach Choi! Putting that aside, it was momentary, and seemed like an artificial construct, but was upsetting frankly. Otherwise, great series!

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Story - 9/10: I really love how it progresses throughout all 16 episodes. It has a really good balance between the romantic side and the strive for your dreams side. When I watched it, there was no scenes that were skippable and it was enjoyable throughout the whole drama. It was also interesting because it shows a career (weightlifting) that is not often shown, especially for girls. You'll see a whole new side of a world you wouldn't have known. It's refreshing to see the main girl lead being tough and strong.

Acting/Cast - 10/10: The main leads are super fitting. Sung Kyung's hair is suitable for the role she's playing and I am now convinced that she can play any role given to her. I really hated her character in Cheese in the Trap so it's so nice so see her play this kind of role. Moving on, I am very impressed by the side characters. I admire Nan Hee's passion to put on weight so her appearance would fit with her character. I'm impressed how she played Hye Jung! I've watched some videos of her during interviews and she is a whole different person! Also, this is the first drama I've seen from Joo Young and I am can say I fell for her charm. The people casted are amazing and I've started watching other series they've been on.

Music - 9.5/10: Most of the music are bright and happy! I really enjoyed listening to the music and I've even added them to my playlist :) I can say that it will definitely add to your enjoyment while watching as it evokes more emotion.

Rewatch Value - 8/10: I wouldn't rewatch it as I feel like it should be a one time enjoyment thing for me. It's a little heavy in some section and I only like to rewatch something light. I think that if you do rewatch it, there will be moments that you would look forward to!

I definitely recommend this to everyone. I watched this a few years ago and I probably forgot a lot of things but I have not forgotten how much I've like it while watching. The ending is also satisfying; it closes up very nicely!

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The story is simple but has a unique setting which made it refreshing to watch. The romance also didn't drag unnecessarily in places that nowadays I expect romances to drag. Nor was there unnecessary villains or drama. I couldn't stop watching and this is now rare for me, especially for simple, romcom type of dramas.

The acting was phenomenal. I fell in love with all the characters. Lee Sung Kyung is so pretty and talented. She easily became the reason I continued to watch this along with Nam Joo Hyuk.

This entire drama is just...feel good and heartwarming. The characters are endearing and the story progression effortless and perfect that keeps you engrossed until the end. Personally, one of the best romantic comedy dramas I have watched.

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Very cute sports college rom-com drama

Well this drama has been famous for a long time and so there are tons of reviews on it and I don't think I can add anything new to that. I am just surprised that it took me so long to decide to watch this drama. I am one of those who has watched almost all of the dramas in the Top Drama list. But for some reason I have never come around to watch this one.

It is a very cute drama. It is nothing special considering the rom-com genre. But if you watch a lot of rom-com dramas then you would know that for most rom-com dramas other aspects beside the plot is what sets them apart from one another. And this one is one of those dramas which did almost everything right on every aspects. It has a lot of clichés, but they did the clichés right, so that it didn't become too awkward and cheesy. They kept it fresh. They paced the plot nicely and had enough comedy, feels and cuteness in them to keep the viewers occupied. The story wasn't too deep. The two things the plot heavily depended on were the sports and campus romance (perks of both leads studying in the same college). They highlighted the triumphs and problems professional athletes face. I always like sports based things and it being a college romance was a plus for me.

I have to admit, I usually don't like the romance scenes in dramas as I find them too cheesy and awkward to look at, but this drama made every romance scene too cute to dislike. Bok Joo in the oversized fluffy jackets with mufflers on looked like a doll. The two of them looked like a perfect couple.
The OST was beautiful.

If I had to think about something that I disliked about this drama then it would be Si Ho's arcs. I understand that it was necessary to show some of the problems in some athlete's life, but sometimes she seemed forgotten and her arc felt incomplete. The writer seemed to have created a nice backstory for her but ultimately left her to the sidelines. Same for one of the ML's classmates as if they just totally forgot about him near the last few episodes.

Well, If you are like me and still haven't watched the drama, then just watch it. It's a good drama.

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