To My Star Season 2: Our Untold Stories

Grumpy/Sunshine, Hurt/Comfort, Opposites Attract, Forced Proximity, Breakup/Reunion

To My Star the original had to grow on me, eventually becoming one of my favorites of all time. To My Star 2 was not that show for me.

It’s brilliant, don’t get me wrong. The acting is excellent, really quite flawless. But sometimes too realistic for this genre (and me, one of the last hold outs who can’t take ITSAY), in that I felt their (especially SeoJoon’s) pain too much. Even though I identified strongly with JiWoo. If you have any kind of empathy for the complexities of desperate personalities trying to make a relationship work this show will hurt to watch. If you fall too far into feeling like either JiWoo (me) SeoJoon (lots of other people) you will fall into disliking one of the main characters (probubly JiWoo). And it is really difficult to watch a couple you loved seeing get together, seriously breaking up, in a realistically cutting way, lashing out and hurting each other an everything, and then whole heartedly struggling to come back together again.

The directing is really good, but the characters motivations are sometimes intentional obfuscated and the flashbacks felt manipulative. Well done, but I did feel a little jerked around, and like I was meant to wallow and dwell in the pain a little too much. Like all Kdramas of this type, the weight is given to the maudlin not the happiness. Although the use of doorways as transitions to the past/future was really well done. Like the original, the narrative is messy and sometimes difficult to follow.

So should you watch it?

If you like angst, wallowing, and realistic relationship struggles in your BL, watch this. If you prefer fluffy comforting BL, avoid like the plague. For me the pay out was not sufficient to the pain. I enjoyed the performances, directing, and chemistry - the leads’ comfort with each other is unprecedented in Korean BL, but that’s not enough for me to rise above the pain of the narrative.

RECOMMENDED WITH SERIOUS RESERVATIONS

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A masterpiece!

This show just hit the feels that I didn't know I would/could ever experience. Even though it hurt and it was a tough story to tell it was remarkable storytelling. It took you on a journey of self discovery that showed you the complexity of insecurities and the love you have for someone.

Both leads down a profoundly EPIC performance conveying many different emotions.

There is no one issue that I found with this story. I love how it was consistent and had resemblances to season 1. So much attention to detail that you miss on first watch.

It was just a beautifully told story.

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Best Series so far for 2022 for me

Startled for a series that got me hooked just on first two episodes.
Kangmin and Woohyun Did an awesome job portraying their roles. Their chemistry is solid. There’s no awkwardness even their BTS showed how comfortable they are with each other. This contributed to the sense of realness of the relationship portrayed on this series. The Director used tricks to make viewers feel hate, sadness then cry for the happy emotional ending. Great job Director. The writer must have suffered due to the way the story was written until episode 9. Writer did an awesome job. Don’t hate the haters 🙏🏻 It just means the work was done well to get that kind of reaction.
If this series wasn’t great, it wouldn’t produce fans who expressed hate towards Kangmin and emphatic towards Woo Hyun. To have that, the actors, writers, director and staff have done a really great job.
It is worth the time to watch but I suggest watch first season first before watching this one.
Congratulations Kangmin and Woohyun
Congratulation to all supporting casts!!!
Thank You to the production staff, producers and agency staff.
Hopefully there will be another season🙏🏻

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The more I think about it..

The more I think about this season, the more I like it. I watched the movie version of the 1st season, and that was fine, but didn't seem to go too in-depth on the characters, whereas the second season was the opposite.

The show started with the core of it, in a later revealed flashforward: Seo Joon saying "you need to express yourself more" and Ji Woon saying "I love you, I love you"

Then the following 10 episodes were just the painful way for how there two got to that point.

I don't know if I would call the show realistic, but I certainly think the characters are consistent and true to themselves.
If we start with Ji Woon as this season was mainly about him; he had been in a long relationship where he hurt someone and was badly hurt in return. This had left him feeling guilty and ashamed of himself, afraid to open up to another relationship. This led him to run away when things got rough, to cruelly push someone he loved away, not just to protect himself, but also to protect Seo Joon in the long run "he is better off without me".

Seo Joon on the other hand had gotten his heart broken but clung on because of his issues with abandonment, he tried to withstand the cruelties Ji Woon was doing to him because he could see the other one was hurting, but in the end he realised that he had to give up, had to stand up to himself to do what would be best for him, despite his love.

At the conclusion of their character journeys, Seo Joon gives up on Ji Woon, then forgives him - and Ji Woon who has been able to heal some of his past hurts throughout the show is finally able to express what he feels, and what he wants, leading the characters to build a relationship together that fits the both of them.

After Ji Woon has returned to Seo Joon in Seoul, I really like their apology/forgiveness scene; Ji Woon has let his walls break, is crying and speaking his mind "I am jealous, I don't want you to call or laugh with others" and while obviously that's not healthy, it's not the words he is saying that's important, just that he is expressing them, that marks his growth and shows that their relationship can work.
Then the lovely epilogue moments at the end show how they have adjusted, Ji Woon is vocal about his love, they are commuting back and forth and it feels like they are both now on much more equal footing. The makeout scenes were fun as always too 😄

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A Rollercoaster of Love and Loss

First, I would like to say sorry for I thought, more or less two years ago, that this will not be good and I'll hate it because idk season 1 is so perfect to me and I don't actually wanted a second season hence I didn't watched this while airing last year...boy I'm clearly missing out and I'm glad I had time and energy and decided to watch this... I did not write a review about season 1 so I'm writing this as an amend for doubting it. This might be long so here it is.

I thought I'd seen it all in Season 1, but this second installment dives even deeper into the turbulent world of Kang Seo Joon and Han Ji Woo.

The chemistry between Seo Joon and Ji Woo is like a magnetic force that draws you in. It's not just about their differences; it's about how those differences make their connection all the more powerful. The ups and downs of their love story feel so real that you can't help but root for them, and when they're happy, you're on cloud nine with them.

But just when you think they've found their fairy tale ending, bam! Life throws a curveball, and you're left holding your breath, wondering if true love can withstand the storms of life. The suspense is killer, and every episode leaves you hanging on the edge of your seat.

The cinematography is like poetry on screen, capturing the glitz of Seo Joon's celebrity life and the quiet, intimate moments with Ji Woo. The music? Don't even get me started. It's the kind that lingers in your soul, making you feel every emotion the characters are going through.

Now, don't get me wrong; it's not all rainbows and butterflies. There are moments when you want to shout at the screen, "No, don't do that!" The plot can be a tad predictable, and yeah, there are some clichés thrown in. But here's the thing – the actors pour so much heart into their roles that you forgive the drama's flaws. You're not just watching characters; you're feeling their joy and heartbreak like it's your own.

In the end, "To My Star Season 2: Our Untold Stories" is a tearjerker, a heartwarmer, and a testament to the crazy, unpredictable journey that love can take you on. So, brace yourself for the emotional rollercoaster, and get ready to fall in love all over again. I might rewatch this when I'm lonely idk.

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Wonderful storytelling and editing

Many don’t like where this headed but I have to say it’s epic. It’s a bit more real. Love isn’t complicated really, humans make it so. Just as love isn’t enough in certain aspects. It requires work, effort from all parties involved in the relationship. The writing has done a great job showcasing this and how lack of good communication can ruin something beautiful. Kudos to the writers, editors and actors. I’ve felt everything they’ve portrayed. My emotions have run the gamut. The reason JiWoo left was so out of left field and so relatable and understandable that I must applaud the writers once more. Instead of going the usual cliched route that many second seasons do, we are presented with something that is not so easily fixed or overlooked. Here’s to hoping we resolve this issue well for both Seo Joon and Ji Woo in a manner that is also realistic. Again, well done writers and actors. Seo Joon especially has twisted me up inside by his determination to keep Ji Woo and his utter devastation when he finally learned the truth of why Ji Woo left. Great acting. Also, bringing in more characters was a brilliant move. The secondary cast were all brilliantly portrayed. A true emotional journey. Can’t wait for the last ep. Hopefully there’s another season with these two as well

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Pain and loneliness is indeed invetible when you love

I avoided watching this show for as long as possible because of all the reviews about its sadness and heartbreak. I wasn’t ready to see Seojoon and Jinwoo go through such turmoil. But I finally faced it today, and I’m glad I did. Season 2 is truly a step up from Season 1. Seeing my favorite characters on the edge of their relationship is hard, but there’s so much to learn from their journey.

Key Takeaways:

1. Loneliness is inescapable, even in love.

No matter how healthy or loving a relationship is, we all yearn for something more. Seojoon poured everything he had into making time for Jinwoo, but in the end, they’re two people living very different lives. When Jinwoo said he couldn’t ask Seojoon to stop smiling or texting others, even though it made him jealous, he knew he couldn’t ask Seojoon to give up parts of himself for the relationship. That’s the reality of their different worlds and their sacrifices to keep each other.

2. Yoonseol’s character is a beautiful parallel to their relationship.

Usually, in BL dramas, ex-girlfriends tend to be portrayed negatively, but Yoonseol is different. She’s grounded, reasonable, and kind, and articulates her thoughts clearly, adding layers to the story. She isn’t just an obstacle; she represents the complexities of love and life in a very relatable way.

3. Love is compromise and commitment.

Relationships aren’t perfect; people aren’t perfect. Loving someone over time means you’ll face countless disagreements, and what matters most is choosing who you want to share those moments with. Who will you keep working things out with, who will you choose to love again and again, even when things don’t go as planned? Seojoon and Jinwoo’s relationship shows that love is choosing the same person despite imperfections.

In the end, no one else would have the patience to love Jinwoo the way Seojoon does, and no one would have the understanding and neediness to love Seojoon like Jinwoo.

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The best BL I can't get over with

I would give this drama more than all the stars! It completely melted my heart, and each episode shattered me. The emotions they conveyed, especially through their eyes, were simply unforgettable. I just can't get over it.

When Han Ji Woo acted like a black cat, Seo Jun turned into a golden retriever trying to win him over it was adorable! Their chemistry is amazing. Kang Seo Jun is just too cute, like a baby seeking attention and love.

The plot is well-written, and the music and direction are exceptional. The director did a great job keeping the characters realistic without overacting. The acting felt 100% natural at times, I felt like I was living inside the drama! ♥️

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I have no words to describe how much I loved this second season, I was kinda disappointed when the chef ditched his bf and left to create a new restaurant without any words to him, and of course his ex bf went to go look for him and the chef didn’t want him there…
but they definitely stepped up their level with the kiss scenes because I was so shocked when both of the scenes came up.
I loved this season more than the first one
and the chef was also playing hard to get which kinda made me mad but it’s what made it interesting.
Would definitely recommend

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Better than season 1

This season is a breaking up story between the two main characters. With Jiwon, a chef, having ran away from this boyfriend that’s an actor.

My only problem with season 1 is that it didn’t feel special and kind of like everything else I’ve seen. But this season being a breaking up story that feels fresh with characters finally addressing their trauma. The old characters don’t just feel like they’re inherited from season 1 and actually have character moments and the new characters are a nice addition to give the time jump and new location more weight. Honestly everything about this season is perfect. I understand and empathize heavily with these characters. Beautifully executed and a masterclass at romance!

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Beautiful angst

While it can be debated whether this really fits the themes of a classic BL, the story, if you're into angst, is one to watch for. Yes, there are some plot points which make you wonder the realism of it all (such as financing of the restaurant, taking long breaks from work, etc), the core story is lovely.
The overlying themes of self-sacrifice -- the extent and the ways of self-sacrifice -- are showcased really beautifully here. If you're okay with watching something painful, and raw with a happy ending, this is the show for you!

PS: Kudos to the actors for singing songs in this, so so cool!

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Stellar!

“To My Star” is a standout in the world of South Korean BL (Boys' Love) series, and it has certainly earned its place as my favorite. Spanning two seasons, this show delivers a captivating mix of romance, drama, and personal growth that kept me thoroughly engaged. What's fascinating is how each season offers a distinctly different theme, mood, and feel, making it impossible not to get hooked.

The first season, which premiered in 2021, introduces us to Kang Seo Joon, a once-famous actor whose star has dimmed. His career may be on the decline, but his life takes an unexpected turn when he meets Han Ji Woo, a young and talented chef. Despite their polar opposite personalities—Seo Joon being free-spirited and Ji Woo more conservative—their attraction to each other is undeniable, leading them into a relationship. However, the differences in their outlooks on life and love soon pose a significant challenge to their budding romance.

Season 1 of “To My Star” is everything I want from a romantic comedy short story. The plot is simple yet deeply connected to the characters, and the chemistry between the leads is nothing short of electric. The acting is top-notch, the soundtrack is a bop, and the cinematography is aesthetically pleasing. What really stands out is how well-crafted the show is—there's no unnecessary drama or convoluted subplots. Everything ties together beautifully, with no loose ends left hanging by the finale. The supporting cast also deserves a mention for adding depth and fun to the story without ever feeling redundant.

Visually, the show is a feast for the eyes. The still shots allow you to fully appreciate the scenes without the distraction of excessive cuts and changes in angles. It’s a refreshing change from the shaky camera work that’s become so common. The soundtrack, too, deserves high praise—every song enhances the emotional depth of the scenes, and I found myself Googling the tracks afterward, which is rare for me.

However, as much as I loved Season 1, it’s not without its minor flaws. There were a few poorly delivered English lines that took me out of the moment, but these are small issues that most viewers might not even notice. Despite this, “To My Star” remains one of my favorite BL series and rom-coms. Its simple, chill vibe, wholesome feels, and high production value make it a joy to watch.

Season 2, titled “To My Star Season 2: Our Untold Stories,” takes a more dramatic turn. After a note and a disappearance threaten the happiness that Seo Joon and Ji Woo found in Season 1, we’re left wondering whether their fairy tale romance will survive. This season is like revisiting a restaurant only to find that the chef has leveled up—the flavors are stronger, the presentation is even more beautiful, and the emotional depth is more profound.

Unlike the feel-good vibes of the first season, Season 2 takes you on an emotional rollercoaster. It’s a painful but beautiful story about love, regret, growth, and loss, perfectly balanced with well-timed flashbacks, music, and lighting. The show does an excellent job of showing the reality of “happily ever after” and how relationships require hard work and sacrifice. The new characters introduced in this season add a bit of sweetness to soften the emotional blows.

The leads have grown, both as characters and as a couple. They’re still lovable and slightly broken, but their struggles feel more real and relatable. If you’re looking for feel-good fluff, this season isn’t for you—it’s more like “Our Beloved Summer” meets “Touch Your Heart,” but with shorter episodes. It’s easy to binge, easy to fall in love with, and it leaves you with a lump in your throat by the end.

Overall, “To My Star” is a must-watch for fans of BL and romantic dramas alike. Both seasons offer something unique, and the series as a whole is a testament to the power of simple, well-executed storytelling. Whether you’re in it for the romance, the drama, or the stunning visuals, you won’t be disappointed.

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