So I really didn't know what this show would entail. Compare to other popular dramas I saw almost no promotion for it. Truth is, if I wasn't on this site and seen the cover picture for it and clicked it, it would have been one of those dramas that I'd just overlook. Which is what makes this site great. I'm usually bias when it comes to romance drama because in the drama world it's so overly done that many of them cheesy and super annoying to watch. But I'm really glad I picked this show up. It exceeded my expectations.
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Production:
PACE is the main reason why even though sometimes I may like a story as a whole, I still find myself fast-forwarding it. That and pointless arch stories or subplots with side characters that really does little to compliment the show. Which is why I'm glad this drama did NOT have any of those nuances. The production team who handled Come and Hug Me did it so to a marvelous pace. Every episode moved the show accordingly, every side characters had a relevant role all relating back to the two leads. And when I say relevant, I mean the side characters didn't take unnecessary screen time or given a sub-universe on their own causing the show to lag. If more romance/love dramas were better edited, I'd probably fast-forward less or even not at all. So perhaps others can learn from this one. This show gets my thumbs up for not boring me or causing me to move my cursor to the end of an episode.
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Story:
I wasn't sure what to make of it from the summary alone so when I decided to just watch on, I found that the writer applied the Shakespearean concept here. The infamous cross-star lovers' theme. The thing is, whether it's the Romeo&Juliet phenomenon or other classical romance, if done properly, will never feel redundant to watch because the truth is people love a good tragic tale of forbidden first love. This show did that very well.
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Characters:
I love the two leads. They were given such in-depth personas. Na Moo who struggles with his place in the world and Nak Won who is isolated by the tragedy that altered her life. These two are by far my favorite lead characters in the K-drama world this year. The other characters, Na Moo's family are very likable too. His stepmom who tries to make up for her past mistake, his stepsister who always supports him, and his brother who finally realizes what life is. Nak Won's stepbrother, he doesn't standout much, and has a shady background but we get to understand him by the end.
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Actors:
I read that Bae Suzy and Nam Joo-Hyuk were offered the lead roles and both turned it down. Bae Suzy who knows, but Nam Joo-Hyuk might be due to the low rating of his last romance drama. I don't think he wanted another one those project right afterwards. Too bad for them because this was one great story. Though it's probably great because of these new rising actors. I can't picture any face other than Chang Ki-Yong playing Na Moo. He's branded the role as his. I love how he managed to express his character's dual tendencies from a quiet pain to glimpses of psychopath facial expression to show viewers that he could become a killer if provoked to. And the actress Jin Ki-Joo is a fresh face to watch. She did very well in portraying her character's strength and weakness from bearing her pain alone, crying alone, to have to step out and face the world the second she dries her tears. These two are definitely actors to look forward to in future dramas - given they pick good ones.
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Music:
I was paying attention too much to the story and didn't care much for music. The only thing I notice was the instrumental score. Now that was one beautiful background instrumental music. It really draws you into Na Moo and NakWon's world.
Rewatch: YES
Overall & Suggestion:
So there is a little inconsistency or lack of, with the father's character. The father isn't given a background other than being a psycho and there's not much indicating any childhood of sorts and he just seems to act on impulse for no reason. And add on an annoying reporter who's motives are unclear, whether she hates Na Moo and Nak Won or likes them know knows, but she dies midway so meh. But those inconsistencies aren't a major bug and not the main focal point of the drama so anyone watching can do away with it. Other than that, this is a drama worth all its five stars. I recommend this if you like a blend of thriller and forbidden love story. Watch it. You won't be disappointed, or I don't think you would be.
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so I have the habit of watching dramas after they finish and boy for this one I controlled myself a lot, and 2days before the last 2 episode(29+30, 31+32) I start to watch it and I'm so happy that I waited so hard because there was no way I could have waited for every episode
as I said I loved"Come and Hug Me" first of all I am shocked that many actors turned this drama down, for sure their mistake
on to the drama, I must say very very well written just the fact that from the first episode you know everything is brilliant because this drama was different from the usual cliche in k-dramas the main characters know everything and there is no mysterious way that connects everyone to each other that they gonna found out in a sudden way all you need to know is out there and the carathers know it too which is not the usual k-drama way.
the acting was absolutely perfect from the stress and fear you get from Heo Joon Ho(Yoon Hui Jae) and the innocence, anger, and sweetness of Jang Ki Yong(Yoon Na Moo) to the bold, honest, and brave Jin Ki Joo(Gil Nak Won) everything is on to perfection
I think if I ever find a man who looks at me the way Na Moo Looks at Nak Won I can die happy I mean the eye contact killed me every time and I totally ship them if they become a real couple
while watching I didn't get tired or bored at any time the story had an amazing traction at all time
so I absolutely recommend you to watch"Come and Hug Me" as soon as possible because the later you watch the more you regret that why the hell you didn't watch it sooner.
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"We've all got both light and dark inside us. What matters is the part we choose to act on. That's who we really are." - Sirius Black (Harry Potter and the Order of Phoenix). And that is what I loved about Yoon Na Moo (Male Lead) that at first he thought he was like his psychopath father but eventually chose a path that lead to a greater good.
Story:
Plot was amazing and interesting enough to completely grasp my attention from the very start. As I watched this, I enjoyed the tragic love story with a deadly past. How it showed the thinking of a psychopath just wanting to quench his thirst for murder gave me the chills. I loved the fact that besides having their own anxieties and fears, the lead actors cared and loved each other and that was more than enough for both.
Acting:
Jang Ki Yong (Chae Do Jin) and Jin Ki Joo (Han Jae Yi) had an amazing chemistry. Jang Ki Yong displayed a perfect character of a boy trying to bear the burden of everyone around him and caring for them. He showed a passionate character trying to 'atone for his father's sins.' And after watching an episode or two, I liked him a lot. Jin Ki Joo had me falling for her from the very first scene. She was so cute, giving her sweet smile even in the time of hardship.
As I watched Heo Joon Ho (as Yoon Hui Jae), the more I realized the hate for him (or such people.) He portrayed a perfect role required for Yoon Hui Jae.
Music: It was top notch
Rewatch Value: Most people might not want to see such Serial killer Crime scene for the second time but I wouldn't mind watching the main couple together again.
Overall:
Definitely Recommended! 10/10
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The storyline was really unique, I haven't seen another drama that shows the assailant's families side of the story. The main characters were made perfectly. Usually, I end up getting really annoyed by the main female character but in this drama, I was pleasantly surprised. I was able to enjoy the presence of both of the main characters in the show. The storyline was well balanced so the serious theme of the drama didn't take away from the cute moments between the main characters, and the touching family scenes.
The actors were able to portray the characters feeling and personalities so well. (I especially think that Jang Ki Yong has a really good puppy face that he always looks at Nak Won with.) I don't think they could have chosen better actors for all of the roles; everyone fit perfectly. They also did such a good job at matching the child actors to adult actors. They all looked strikingly similar.
The soundtrack always fit perfectly with the scenes. Most of the songs were soft but when necessary they would get darker to complement the scene.
I couldn't have asked for anything more from the ending. Everything that I wanted to happen, happened. The ending was done perfectly. I have already gone through and rewatched my favourite parts of the series a second time even though I only finished watching it yesterday. This is going to be a drama that I frequently revisit.
Honestly, anything I say just can't do this series justice so I recommend to just watch it and find out for yourself.
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Dramas are mimicry of reality, an art form that has a wide range of possibilities. As such, harsh realities can be a point of interest and it can also be used in creating art, even with its level of intricacy. The writers of this show chose to create something from the rawness and realness of a human's reality, which ended in becoming a masterpiece.
One of the factors as to why this drama is lauded is because of its ironic complexity. Basing on its sypnosis, the drama can be seen as something linear, a pattern seen often in its genre. To stray from something familiar, character development was given priority than the development of the story which in turn created complex characters in a simple story of crime, romance, and healing. Another outstanding feat of this drama is that it was able to bring in the warmth despite the inherent nature of the show that has crime and trauma as its motif. I mean I cannot stress this enough but, THIS DRAMA'S SKILL WITH CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT IS SERIOUSLY OUTSTANDING AND DESERVES SOME APPLAUSE.
Although outstanding, I can also say that there were many rooms that the writers could've explored to make things better especially in building character relationships. It's unfortunate that they weren't able to open those doors. However, it doesn't make the drama bad. It's just sad because there were some wasted opportunities.
This drama is a masterpiece for its time. Not only did it served as a great drama, it also served as a commentary on the current social climate of our society.
And lastly, what was thought as something typical was actually a revelation as to what can be done from this kind of material.
- A Paradise For New Faces -
One of the things that the drama did is that it enabled new faces and new names to be discovered whether it be the child actors or the rookie actors. As such it made these actors challenge themselves in acting.
The leads Jang Ki-yong and Jin Ki-joo are relatively new to the acting scene but with this drama, they've established themselves as capable and outstanding artists.
Their childhood counterparts Nam Da-reum and Ryu Han-bi did really well in providing a strong foundation for the show and making the viewers hooked. Despite being young, they've proven themselves to be great artists and I must say that they deserve some applause (*cue Lady Gaga- Applause*)
Kim Kyung-Nam and Yoon Jong-hoon are such revelations and I must say they deserve to be known more. They were really excellent in their roles that they made me anticipate their scenes a lot.
Seo Jeong-yeon before this show has been appearing in a variety of dramas but she surely shined in this drama the most. Despite acting as mother for the first time ,(plus speaking in a dialect that she needed to study) she really did well.
Heo Joon-ho and Kim Seo-hyung are considered as veterans in their field, and we can see their greatness in this drama and I must say that they did great in acting as antagonist. One was great in instilling fear, one was great in instilling anger. (a/n: She was a bitch, bitcher than the Queen herself, CL of 2ne1.)
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This is one of those slow but meaningful story. Unfortunately it got caught to the FIFA period and was cancelled many time which ultimately made a small setback in the ratings. Although the ratings were on a less side, it still emerged top of its slots. I managed to watch each week which actually made it even more suspenseful for me.
This is the first time lead roles of both Jang Ki Young and Jin Ki Joo (If you don't count JKY's Boy Next Door. Guys check it out. It's a total 180 of this) and for me they did an amazing job. They managed to portray their characters well and honestly JKY was simply amazing. This boy needs alot more lead roles. Despite the grim nature of the story if you check the BTS you can see them having fun.
One of the biggest positive factor of this were the child actors. Especially Nam Da Reum. Damn this boy has grown up well. Hope when they grow up, both of them get another drama as a couple <3
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This review may contain spoilers
In Come and Hug me, almost every episode has a meaning. The plot itself was nicely done even if it was on the longer side. The concept of the story was amazing, and the tension was immaculate. You have to pay good attention to this drama to understand some of the things.The casting was amazing, as well as the acting (though there were some moments where the main male seemed dull). The main couple was very sweet and made the whole "star-crossed lovers" theme seem real-ish. The villain, Heo Joon Ho, was amazing, I love dramas with good villains! I wish the drama went a bit more in-depth to his character, but his character was really nice! Some moments touched me, some moments didn't really phase me.
Overall, I loved the romance and the psychological aspects of this drama. I held my breath a few times watching this one!
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masterpiece seris
Wow, I just finished it and my heart is still on speed 200.I came to the series following the talented actor Jang Ki-Yong, although it has been 6 years since the series came out, and it was followed by other high-quality series at an international level, and it is still a masterpiece, with a perfect casting of the entire cast (from the young to the adults), and the awards she won will also testify to that. No chapter is superfluous, the storyline is maintained with a level of tension. I must point out that the series has very violent and cruel parts, at the same time it also has love, healing and recovery, great chemistry between the actors (not only between the main characters but between parents and children).
The soundtrack is wonderful and fits the plot wonderfully
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A riveting romance in a compelling crime package
I would describe this as a romance-centric crime thriller. Even though there is plenty of action and the hunting down of the psychopathic serial killer father is very important, ultimately this is a love story. Everything is framed through the experience of these two people who love one another deeply despite their traumatic past together. It is their relationship that is the ultimate focus of the show.I think a viewer needs to adjust their expectations when approaching the show, because the pace can be slow and the romantic scenes long and dramatic. Well, they come off that way if you're watching exclusively for the crime element of the show. But if you can accept that really this is about love and romance that has been tainted and tested and forged through tragedy and trauma, then suddenly none of those scenes seem gratuitous or like they're dragging down the plot.
The greatest strength of the show is the cast. It features excellent actors across the board, both leads and minor actors are so emotive and layered. I was also impressed by the young actors in the flashback scenes. I have rarely enjoyed flashbacks more than in this drama, where they actually felt poignant and necessary. The leads have some of the best chemistry I've ever seen in a drama and they really suffer so much in the show that it sometimes feels a little masochistic. I can't think of a romance where the two leads have suffered more just to be together.
I think this is a great drama. Maybe not the best crime drama, but one of the best melodramatic action romances you can find. Sure the pacing isn't always perfect and there are a lot of staring scenes, but if you want to feel some intense emotions, I can't recommend highly enough. I would have cut it down to 20 episodes though, if I could have.
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STORY: On the surface, This is a story about a serial killer who destroys everyone's life and the people who pick up the pieces after but this drama is SO MUCH MORE IN DEPTH THAN THAT. This drama is about family and the family dynamic. It asks us the question of does blood make you family or can you create and accept your own? I thought that was powerful question written into every character of this drama. That question is what makes this drama beautiful. What makes a family? Who makes a family? Does being related by blood make you family?
CASTING/ACTING: With such a harsh subject matter, the acting and casting for this drama was perfect! I heard about some of the other actors and actresses who first were given the option of being in this drama and turning it down and I am glad about that. The Main Leads were just perfect for the role and I can't picture anyone else playing them. They were so expressive with just the way they looked at the camera and each other. The actor who played the serial killer father should get an award for this performance because he played the part perfectly. Just his presence on screen created this aura that was undeniable. All the actors played multi-layered characters so well and expressed their emotions so well in a highly emotional story.
MUSIC: Loved the music. The music that played whenever the serial killer was on screen or when there was tension in the storyline made the tension and creepiness that much more. It was perfect!
REWATCH VALUE: The only reason I probably won't rewatch this is because my eyes hurt from crying so much haha
OVERALL: This is just a beautiful drama overall. It has so many layers and depth to it from the story to all of the characters. The cinematography and questions this drama asks are just breathtaking and everyone needs to watch this drama. Get your tissues out though because it is a doozy to watch.
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One of the most beautiful dramas I’ve seen
this is my first review and i will start it off by saying this: this drama is a work of art. i started it with high expectations: a detective atoning for his serial killer’s father’s sins and an aspiring actress whose dark past follows behind her. their love story transcends over a decade, fate bringing them apart. and i was not disappointed at all with this masterpiece.yoon na mu has faced pain the entirety of his life, being seen only as the son of a serial killer by everyone. despite the darkness of his past he maintains a pure heart, wanting to live well and serving the community as a detective. his character was written well and the development was noticeable especially after he met nak won; he was willing to risk everything, even standing up to his psychopathic father, to protect nak won. i found it so moving that despite the years that had passed by, na mu’s heart stayed with nak won. it made me feel emotional seeing him long for her so fervently, especially when he was having a hard time.
jang ki yong’s acting truly took my breath away in this drama; the way he spoke sadness through his eyes and looked utterly broken by guilt every time he gazed at nak won was enough to make me cry and share his pain with him. i only recently became a fan of jang ki yong’s works and without a doubt, JKY is a remarkable actor and his acting was truly an incredible addition to the drama. he acts so naturally and you can feel the emotions he portrays, hence why i believe he’s one of the most gifted actors in the kdrama industry.
overall, the plot was interesting and i was always on the edge of my seat wondering what would happen next, especially when nak won and na mu would encounter each other once again. the crime plot was a bit slow at times but still delivered a satisfying twist factor that was enough to continue on to the next episode. i loved seeing the love between the leads only blossom more beautifully as the story progressed, their love never dying out despite the world saying their love was strange and ugly. if you’re looking for a romance with hints of melo and no difficult obstacles restricting their relationship, this is the drama to watch. a wonderful performance by JKY and JKJ!
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