Nat

Brilliant Acting and Costumes but Romance Needs More Screen Time

After binge-watching several of Ryan Chang’s dramas in 2025, I was really looking forward to How Dare You?

That trailer looked so promising. But they did us so dirty, including all that romance into the teaser material and not into the actual drama.

The early episodes were great—fast-paced and filled with action, with our leads getting plenty of screen time while pretending to be a couple while doing their shenanigans. However, after episode 10, things started to slow down considerably. Suddenly, supporting characters, who were not all that interesting to begin with, got way too much screen time. Those dragged-out scenes really could have been cut down simply to get the point across and not hog my TV.

I felt like I was watching less of a romance drama and more of a political drama with slight romance 2/3 of the scram a. The leads hardly interacted in the middle stretch of the drama. And there was a considerable lack of romantic situations, which was disappointing since the trailer set up expectations for a lot more romance.

Sure, there were some great emotional moments between our couple—like the intense post library fire scene early in the drama—so it was frustrating when romance took a backseat for many episodes. With all the intrigues and unnecessary character scheming being spoon fed to us as if we couldn’t read between the lines, it felt like those elements could have been implied rather than shown. It seemed like many characters were added just to be killed off.

And yes, be prepared – people drop like flies here. People who waste the screen for the third of the drama. I don’t mind it sometimes when the characters are interesting, but as I’ve said, maybe only one or two were actually interesting.

In the middle, it felt like I was waiting forever for anything to happen again between Xiahou Dan & Yu Wan Yin. They were just going in circles.

Things pick up a little bit in episode 19. Romance picks up in episode 20. Finally.

After episode 25 the plot picks up too and becomes interesting. Episode 30 has some great military action sequence. We get some really cool visuals of Xiahou Dan in disguise. A must rewatch scene right before they take the capital.

The addition of characters like Flower was cute, and I wish she had been introduced earlier. Even though she is not who she is she says. I think she was one of those interesting characters that I like to see in the dramas.

The final seven episodes are mostly satisfying, though the last two dragged a bit. Still, everyone who was still alive had their stories wrapped up reasonably well.

That said, some plot points—like Xiahou Dan's character and the fate of the little crown prince—are frustratingly overlooked. It feels like important elements were introduced but never fully explored. I mean, the guy spent half his life in this world which was mostly hell for him. Why Yu Wan Yin never asked Xiahou Dan about his actual biological son after she found out how long he had been inside the novel world beats me. I think any woman would ask, considering how he treated the boy. Yes, he has his reasons. Yes they showed us what happened in a very quick two second snippet that some may have overlooked, but Yu Wan Yin did not see that snippet. So I’m just wondering whether the writers introduced this bit but then glossed over it. Actually, I don’t think they glossed over it. I think they just ignored it. If you introduce something this difficult, then you need to really close this topic properly.

Another thing I did not really get is why make Xie Yong Er from a completely different world. I just did not see the point. Again if you introduce this bit, explore it better. Otherwise, just make it from the same world as the rest of the characters who transmigrated.

In summary, this is a good drama, but I’ve seen better. The pacing is all over the place, especially in the middle, where side characters take up too much valuable screen time that could have been better spent on the leads. If you're a fan of the lead actors, you will enjoy it, but if you're looking for heavy romance, you'll find How Dare You? May know that satisfy your craving.

I also want to comment on acting in this drama.

Acting here was amazing from pretty much everyone. That includes all the child actors.

Ryan Chang here is on fire. He is one of those versatile actors who really shines no matter what kind of emotion he has to play. But he is particularly good costume dramas. In this drama, his emperor has a unique dark tragic aura, and his performance in emotional scenes adds extra depth that makes you empathize with his character. He is just as good in comedic moments.

I also really enjoyed the soundtrack.

Another thing I really liked is that this is one of probably a few C-dramas where you see both characters with hair undone and without their outwear going too bad. I mean, they literally look like they’re wearing sleepwear and their hair is down. Everyone knows this a unicorn in Asian costume dramas. They also don’t make a fuss about sleeping in one bed. They gotta do what they gotta do so they just do it without being prude about it. Also a unicorn situation.

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A Binge-Worthy Body Swap Plot That Stumbles at the Finish but Remains Enjoyable

The Basics

The plot isn’t groundbreaking. You’ve got your classic romance, a little of comedic relief, and that ever-fun prince-meets-commoner trope, all set against the oh-so-familiar backdrop of palace intrigue and class struggles. The writing doesn’t break new ground; it checks the boxes like every other historical K-drama, and you know what? That’s fine by me!

- What I Liked -

Positive Vibes

Unlike sooo many sageuks where beloved supporting characters drop like flies for the emotional impact, this one keeps things relatively light. There are plenty of uplifting messages, and I genuinely appreciated that most characters managed to survive the chaos.

Body Swap

Here’s something I didn’t expect! Because we actually don’t have any indication that this is fantasy, and there are no other fantasy elements here except for the body swap trope. It’s typically used for cheesy romantic escapades and humor, but here it’s utilized for true character development. This was pretty meaningful use of the trope. Enjoyed it in this drama.

Supporting Characters

Usually, I'm not too keen on a bunch of side characters, but I found myself loving every quirky personality they threw at us. Especially Sin Hae Rim. Plus, it’s a relief to see everyone get a nice wrap-up. Those who need punishment get it—without any of our beloveds biting the dust!

Pacing and Engagement

The drama keeps you coming back for more! Yes, I spotted a few episodes somewhere in the middle, where the pacing kind of wobbles a little, but overall, the pacing was pretty good—until, *sigh*, the last two episodes.

The Romance

You’re going to have to wait until almost last episode for that kiss. But it’s worth it. Romance isn’t slow-burning; it feels more like “we get it, you like each other!” The characters spend plenty of time together, but they just can’t close the deal due to various factors. It’s more of a yearning romance than a sizzling slow burn. The characters like each other early on, they just don’t really reveal their feelings to each other until later into the show. Well, one of them reveals them earlier, but we need to wait longer for the actual closure.

The Not-So-Great Stuff

Before diving into critiques, let’s give a shout-out to the fact that despite being 16 episodes long, the drama doesn't waste our time on unnecessary side stories. It primarily focuses on the leads and their romance—thank you very much! None of those palace discussions from all those unnecessary antagonists. Thank you, but we can understand everything without you guys.

But here comes the bummer: the last two episodes hit a brick wall. Despite building intriguing overall backstory, once the throne situation is wrapped up, the show loses its steam. The pacing stumbles. I found myself rolling my eyes at some unnecessarily drawn-out scenes. And seriously, after all that buildup, we get a rush job on the main couple’s reunion? Just a couple of seconds of a hug? I wanted more than that! Their long journey deserved a grand finale, not an abrupt cut-off. It’s just the entire thing is a little bit anti-climatic.

Let’s talk characters!

Im Jae I was the shining star for me. He is a complex and twisted character who grows immensely during the drama. I rooted for him and sometimes shipped him with Eun Jo. It’s that damn bad boy charm. Unfortunately, she already had someone else she liked. But I wish he would have gotten a love interest too.

On the flip side, Nam Ji Hyun, while talented, doesn’t quite hit the mark in historical settings for me. She was phenomenal in Suspicious Partner, but her looks always dull when she is dressed in historical gowns, and get the matching hairstyle.

Moon Sang Min, on the contrary, was born for historical dramas! He’s got the look and the screen presence. He is still very young, so I’m sure he’s going to get a lot more historical dramas after this role.

Final Thoughts

Despite my nitpicking, the acting was top-notch. The leads delivered strong performances that I couldn’t truly fault—even if I had my personal preferences for different pairings. Overall, To My Beloved Thief might not break new ground, but it offers enough charm to keep you entertained if you are into historical romantic K-dramas and are not looking for anything elaborate.

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Cute Romance Story That Doesn't Take Itself Seriously with Beauty and The Beast Vibes

"The Princess and the Werewolf" is the perfect drama for those who aren't looking for anything overly extravagant or complicated. As a straightforward, fluffy romantic fantasy, it delivers exactly what you'd expect - a 70% romance, 30% adventure tale that doesn't try to reinvent the wheel.

It's obvious that this drama did not have a huge budget, so the quality of costumes, makeup, and CGI aren’t going to be top-notch here. So I adjust your expectations accordingly.

However, this did not take away from my viewing experience or overall enjoyment.

There were a few things that stood out to me, for better or worse. Like, the camera work had some really strange close-up angles that seemed to be the director's attempt to capture Kui Mulang’s emotions. Since I do have production experience, some of the camera work seemed like it didn't fit in this type of drama or at least in the scenes. But since this only happened a few times, I really do not think that's going to be a detriment for the fans of Chen Zhe Yuan. And let's be honest, most people will find this gem because they have seen something else with him. There aren't any other big names in that drama.

Now, some of the things I really liked is the amount of bare legs we got to see from Qi Pa. It was just hilarious. Or her antics. I thought she was funny and unlike most of the female leads I’ve seen in dramas. It was a little refreshing, to be honest.

The banter between all the characters was super fun, and I loved watching the female lead constantly trying to find her way back home. I think it started to slow down the romance part of the drama at some point. But again, since the drama is only 30 episodes long, it didn’t have enough screentime to get draggy.

I have to admit, I liked the "beast" look over Kui Mulang’s human form. There was just something about that red flag-esque vibe, haha. I also appreciated that Qi Pa kissed both of Kui Mulang’s forms. In a nutshell, this story shows you that looks don't always matter. Or that while you chase after something that may not be real can make you miss out on something that is very real.

Now, I will say, the drama did get a little heavier towards the end, and I was a bit surprised by the writer's decision to kill off one of the side characters. That felt a little brutal, considering the fluffy, feel-good vibe of the first three quarters of the drama. But it wouldn't be a true C-drama without somebody dying, am I right?

At least the story wrapped up with a happy, fluffy ending.

Overall, if you're in the mood for a light, uncomplicated fantasy romance and can look past the questionable CGI, "The Princess and the Werewolf" is definitely worth checking out. Just don't go in expecting anything too elaborate or complex – this one's all about the simple pleasures.

I am also going to add that this drama had a surprisingly great soundtrack. Some of the higher-budget dramas don't have such great music.

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A Story About War With A Sprinkle Of Romance And Brotherhood

This has been on my watchlist for two years now. I’ve heard things about the ending and kept don’t put it off. And I honestly wish I didn’t. It’s absolutely worth the watch.

You need to dive into this drama with the right mindset. This is not a drama about love, friendship, or palace intrigue. Sure it has all that but essentially, this is a serious drama about war and sacrifice. Everything that happened in the last 5 episodes was on par with the reality of the war-torn world the characters lived in.

Things I loved: soundtrack, acting, costumes, decent CGI (C-Drama is nowhere near Hollywood level CGI but it’s gotten better in recent years).

There was a lot of character development. Each one had a story to tell and I really liked how the writers did that.

I skip a lot when I watch C-Dramas during lengthy dialogues on monologues from the characters who are not needed at all and don’t bring anything new to the plot. I didn’t skip a single scene here. Which is a sign in itself.

Side note: I wish the romance between main leads wasn’t as tame. Yes, it starts off bold with her pursuing him, but it kind of just dies down real fast and moves on to more serious things. But that’s just me. I am a big believer that if you introduce a strong romance storyline, then you need to give it enough screen time to explore the intimacy in the relationship between the characters. Plus, all the promotional posters of the show and a cover has a couple on it. That sets a certain expectation for me for what the romance is going to be like. I could also be spoiled by too much BL content, haha. They do skinship way better. The kind of romance we had in Till the End of the Moon was actually right up my alley (considering how tame C-Dramas are in general). Dark, delicious, satisfying. But that’s just my personal preference. Others will have their own thing going for them. In the end, it doesn’t really make the show any worse because it is not a historical romance show.

Watch this drama for quality production, acting, fight scenes, awesome characters, poignant story, and amazing soundtrack.

P.S. The ending is actually not as bad if you pay close attention to details. You can take it as what you will. Use your imagination.

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Good Bones But Wasted Potential

Chinese BL dramas are like unicorns: they appear sporadically, like one good one every five years, then get hindered by new censorship regulations. And I always try to watch because some of them are real gems.

(Looking at you The Untamed)

2025 has brought us some promising entries like "Revenged Love" and "ABO Desire."
"To My Shore" caught my attention because I saw its trailer, but ultimately, it didn’t really meet my expectations.

After watching all 15 episodes, my take is that this drama serves as a decent option if you're looking for some skinship in a Chinese BL. Oh, they do it a lot in this drama. The foundation for a compelling story is there, but the script feels more like a rough draft than a polished narrative.

While the characters and their backstories are intriguing, the arcs seem underdeveloped, and I don't believe this falls on the actors. The writers had a fascinating premise but failed to deliver to execute. Although I can appreciate complex themes, the portrayal of toxic and abusive relationships here wasn’t handled in a way that allowed me to believe in genuine redemption.

I did enjoy some aspects of the dynamic between the leads. I’m so tired of the typical top-and-bottom roles with the bottom assumed to be the "wife material." It's refreshing to see characters who break away from these stereotypes. The push-and-pull interactions were enjoyable. They were both trying to be in control. At least at the beginning.

Unfortunately, the narrative did suffer from poor execution. The uneven acting in the first portion of the drama and so-so camera work throughout didn’t help, but the real issue lay with the script and the story's presentation. Again, I did not read the source material and I have no idea if the script differs from it much in terms of pacing, but I do think more cohesive storyline was needed because pacing wobbled throughout. Additionally, the romantic situations that typically drive the genre were lacking. Things between the characters developed fast and then stalled, and then we have a rushed ending and not enough time for the red redemption arc.

I think the point at least for me where I felt like drama well and a little bit downhill was when Shu Lang discovered the extent of Fan Xiao’s deceit.

Too many episodes were dedicated to rehashing the fallout from that revelation, with Shu Lang wallowing in despair far longer than necessary. It became tedious to watch, and the frequency of their sexual encounters, which felt non-consensual, didn’t need that much screen time. While I have no issue with dub-con in fiction(ABO Desire did it right), Fan Xiao became increasingly unredeemable as a result. What’s the point of doing things behind everyone’s back but being a dick to your loved one in front of him?

The notion that Shu Lang still loved Fan Xiao after he was hurt by him so badly was poorly conveyed, largely due to the script's shortcomings. The redemption arc for Fan Xiao should have been explored much earlier in the series.

I basically wanted for things to happen. For situations to happen. For interesting dialogues to happen. But most of it never did. I felt almost like the two of them were just going in circles.

Don’t get me wrong "To My Shore" isn’t a bad drama. It has some good bones, but the execution falls flat. The first half suffers from awkward acting, like they were still trying to get into the characters, though the emotional moments were somewhat effective. The cinematography is low-budget and forgettable, which is not an issue for me if the story is good. I wish the writers had focused more on refining the pacing of the story, which could have led to a more satisfying viewing experience. Some dialogue felt confusing, possibly due to poor subtitle translations. Or at least they felt confusing to me.

In summary, with a more polished script, "To My Shore" could have been an excellent drama. The conclusion felt rushed, highlighting the overall problem of mismanaged pacing. If it had been handled better, I think we would have a little bit more time to see the characters getting back together in a more organic way.

If you’re seeking a BL drama with a toxic relationship that ultimately results in a meaningful redemption arc, I recommend "My Stand-In." There are some true gems when it comes to Chinese BLs but Chinese BLs still have a long way to go to reach the level of Thai productions.

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Insane Face Card Royal Romance That’s Not Quite Hitting Its Mark

Perfect Crown was undoubtedly a highly anticipated drama backed by an incredibly talented cast, yet despite doing so many individual elements well, it ultimately feels like it missed that special something for me despite me mostly enjoying it as I watched.

That being said, don’t assume immediately that it’s bad. By all means, it’s not. If anything watch it for Byeon Woo-seok serving us his insane face card. All his previous modeling experience is very much needed here because he does a lot of fashion style walking along various palace corridors and grounds.

Let’s get to it now.

Set in an alternate-universe constitutional monarchy, the story follows a illegitimate prominent chaebol heiress and a prince who enter into a high-stakes contract marriage. For romance lovers this is a very clever and interesting premise supported by a decent script. On the surface, this has a lot of potential to be very good since royal romance in contemporary setting is not something we get a lot. And it does start out really well.

But is we continue watching you keep on waiting for something to happen and it’s not quite getting anywhere. While the top-notch cinematography and production design create a beautiful aesthetic, the romance itself leaves some room for improvement.

Seong Hui-ju and Grand Prince I-an certainly showcase their professional dedication, but writers really did 5hem dirty because they are rarely placed in the kind of uniquely engaging, chaotic situations that define classic K-dramas. It’s there, but it’s just not enough. Because it was distributed through Disney, the final product feels overly scrubbed and specifically prepared for a Western audience, completely missing out on much-needed comedic relief and other over the top situations couples usually get into in these romantic dramas.

Furthermore, our couple occasionally looked a bit too "plastic" in terms of visuals. While both are very capable actors, there were crucial scenes—with the exception of the final episode—where their facial expressions felt restrained when the emotional stakes demanded much more. Byeon Woo-seok, who was absolutely spectacular in Lovely Runner, felt unusually stiff in a lot of scenes, first leaving it unclear whether this was a strict directorial choice for a rigid prince or a limitation of the performance itself. Or the actual performance itself. But after watching the final episode, I think this was the direction the producers were going for to actually showcase the restrictions that were posed on our prince by the weight of the titlel. I think because he didn’t break through his limitations even once through the first 11 episodes to actually let us know that he was in fact human, it made me think that the acting was somewhat lacking, which I know is usually not the case because I’ve seen Byeon Woo-seok in few other dramas and he does well outside of being just a great fit for a romantic role.

The pacing also suffers heavily in the latter half. The drama starts strong and builds great momentum, but the narrative drags considerably after the divorce decision, lacking any truly exciting moments to carry the final episodes. Everything that’s happening makes total sense, but for some reason, it still feels draggy. I don’t know if it’s the way some of the scenes are shot where they add extra few seconds here and there without the music or the actual lack of exciting events both leads are involved. All of a sudden, other characters are starting to get extra screen time while we actually want for our lead couple to do things together. The second half of the last episode redeems the pacing a little bit, but it’s just not enough.

As far as romance goes, it is good. Not fire hot but still very satisfying. IU and Byeon Woo-seok have great on screen chemistry. The intimate moments feel very natural, but I just wish they would actually had more interesting on screen interactions. There are too many wasted opportunities for them to make the romance even better and more exciting. In some scenes, the relationship feels platonic, even after they confess their feelings.

On a side note, I find it extremely funny that 10 years ago both IU and Byeon Woo-seok were in Scarlet Heart whereas she played a lead role (she was pretty famous already back then) and he had a tiny role of her ex-boyfriend and literally less than a minute of screen time in the entire show. UI’s character ended up with some other prince then. In Perfect Crown, she is the one who is trying to marry a prince Byeon Woo-seok plays. Made me laugh a little. But he deserves all the acknowledgment he’s getting right now because he has been in the industry for a long time and he’s been working very hard.

The real highlights of the show belong to the phenomenal supporting cast. Gong Seung-yeon delivers a standout, stellar performance as the Queen Dowager, masterfully portraying a morally gray woman forced into a dark corner by her circumstances. She has a compelling character arc. And you hate her at the beginning of the show, but you start to understand her a lot better in the last three episodes. Equally impressive is Noh Sang-hyun as Prime Minister Min Jeong-woo; his transition from a dependable good guy into a calculated antagonist over the course of the show was brilliant, offering a transformation you absolutely would not have guessed from the start.

Lastly, Perfect Crown requires a massive suspension of belief to enjoy—such as overlooking the absurdity of a palace fire where not a single firefighter attempts to save an actual prince. Or husband and wife calling each other “your highness” even in private when no one is watching them. They could just use their real names. Otherwise it just removes the feel of intimacy between them. Or the fact that a nine-year-old child king has to actually perform official duties, despite having a regent.

If you can ignore basic common sense and turn off your brain, this serves as a decent "guilty pleasure" gateway drama for casual romance fans or devoted followers of the main actors. It’s certainly worth checking out and easily clears the bar compared to some far worse, unwatchable streaming originals, but seasoned K-drama veterans looking for over-the-top, classic storytelling may find it somewhat lacking.

If you like the idea of monarchy in a contemporary setting and wanted to watch a better K drama with this setting, I highly recommend to check out The King: Eternal Monarch with Lee Min-ho and Kim Go-eun. It’s a by far better watch with fantasy elements that gets hate for no reason. This was one of my first K-dramas with fantasy elements and I still think it’s a much better story.

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Great Fantasy Adventure with a Splash of Romance

Seven Relics of Ill Omen is a fantasy adventure that follows five ordinary young people who form an accidental alliance called the Phoenix Squad to hunt down seven evil ancient artifacts before they trigger a catastrophe of apocalyptic size. It's a wonderful show that explores human nature, inner demons, true friendship, and what it takes for broken people to become something extraordinary together.

I wanted to watch it when it first came out, but I kept putting this one off. The poster is dark, the title gives you ominous vibes, and the trailer is full of creepy moments. I'm not the kind of person who enjoys overly dark dramas or heavy horror elements, and that's exactly what the marketing fed me. But I’ve been on a Song Weilong binge for some strange reason lately LOL, so I figured I'd give it a shot and drop it if it got too scary. Surprisingly, it's not nearly as dark as you'd expect. The first stretch of episodes leans a little heavier into some creepy elements, but most of the show is actually shot with nice, bright colors and solid camera work. So if you've been avoiding it for the same reason — don't.

As far as entertainment goes, this drama kept me on my toes. I wanted to keep watching even when it was well past my bedtime. I don't usually enjoy large ensemble casts, but this one earned it. Each character has their own backstory, their own inner demons, and the drama gives every single one of them room to shine. We get genuine insight into their backgrounds and get to watch how, despite everything, they all develop into wonderful human beings. That's the heart of this show, and it's what kept me invested far more than any plot twist could.

Song Weilong is great as Luo Ren — fiercely protective, intense, and he gets to showcase some impressive fighting skills. Liu Haocun as Mu Dai goes through several transformations throughout the drama, making her one of the most dynamic characters to watch. I wouldn’t say she’s a stellar actress. She does have a long way to go to get to the point where she can get very nuanced with her facial expressions, but she worked for this role because this was adventure and action driven drama. Ao Ruipeng as Thirteen-Thousand and Zhang Yichi as Chubby bring a lot of comedic relief that's smartly written with genuinely witty lines. And comedy doesn't disappear in the second half of the drama like it usually does a lot of C-dramas as things get a lot more tense. Thirteen Thousand and Chubby continue making us laugh until the end. I actually quite enjoyed Ao Ruipeng's performance in this drama. And Yan Hongsha? An absolute badass. She works perfectly as an addition to the group a few episodes in.

The pacing is excellent. There was not a single boring episode. No filler scenes, no draggy unnecessary moments, no urge to fast-forward even once. Scenes with dialogue or slower, more mellow moments are all beautifully done and meaningful. The script is tightly written, and while there are some things left unexplored that I would have liked to see explained better at the end, I didn't care much because what I cared about most was these characters conquering their trauma and inner demons along with the defeating the evil, and the show delivered on that front completely.

Production-wise, the CGI is decent. I wouldn't call it amazing — I've definitely seen better — but it's solid quality work that doesn't feel cheap at all and never takes away from the enjoyment, instead, it enhances it. The fight scenes are well done, particularly between Mu Dai and Luo Ren. I don't usually watch contemporary dramas with martial arts, but I enjoyed seeing it in this setting. Their fight choreography together also adds a little extra chemistry to their romance, which is a nice bonus.

Now, to the loaded question — is there any romance? I’m sure a lot of you want to know.

Yes. It's not the main plot, because the main plot is five people hunting relics to prevent the apocalypse, but the romance between Mu Dai and Luo Ren is set up from the very first minutes of the first episode and it’s obvious. It's not the kind of romance you'd see in a romantic drama — it's very sweet, non-toxic, and doesn't take forever to develop. They become a couple less than halfway through, but they go through several hurdles that add real depth to their relationship. Since this is an adventure show for all audiences, don't expect skinship beyond hugging — but it's still satisfying to watch them fight for each other and for their future. There's also a secondary romantic subplot set up between Yan Hongsha and Thirteen-Thousand, though it doesn't fully develop until the very end. It's still fun to watch these two bicker throughout the drama and aggressively ignore the fact that they like each other. I think whether you like romance or prefer your adventure dramas without it, you will still enjoy The Seven Relics of Ill Omen because the romantic subplot and the actual main plot are intertwined very well and don’t take anything away from each other.

Overall, Seven Relics of Ill Omen is a very well-done character-driven fantasy adventure with a great cast, great pacing, and a story that will make you feel things you didn't sign up for. I recommend it to anyone who likes any of the actors, anyone who enjoys fantasy adventure, or anyone who just wants something different. This show definitely deserves a higher rating—go in with an open mind and let it surprise you.

P.S. Special award goes to Chubby’s fated pheasant. Oh, and the soundtrack is great.

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A cute BL rom-com with a pinch of the supernatural

Head 2 Head is a cute, cozy BL rom-com with a pinch of the supernatural that keeps things fun. There are two couples sharing the spotlight almost evenly, and both bring something different to the table.

Jinn and Jerome deliver a classic rivals-to-lovers energy, full of witty banter and playful tension. Their chemistry is warm and genuinely sweet. I honestly did not expect that much kissing and intimacy, but it’s handled in a healthy, respectful way that suits the young leads. The supernatural aspect with the Jerome being able to see the future and trying to prevent bad things from happening is what adds depth to the romance between him and Jinn.

Van and Farm’s pairing leans into more complex emotional territory. Their story has no supernatural elements and instead relies on heavier internal conflicts, producing a few intense, well-played scenes. I personally really felt for Van when he finally cried in the scene with the cigarette on the balcony after the fallout was also pretty good. You really do get all the feels too with Farm’s anger. Their intimacy is just a dash spicier. I think the actors match that level better.

Both of these pairings are new to me, but they spark good chemistry. The acting was natural. It could use polish in places, but the performers show real promise and charm. I also have seen actors with a lot more industry experience acting worse. I am positive that these new actors are all working on their skills as they prepare for the next project.

If you want a college-set BL that focuses on romance, Head 2 Head doesn’t waste time. It devotes about 90% of its attention to the relationships and keeps the supporting cast lean so the love stories stay front and center.

The writing—especially the dialogue and jokes—is a highlight. There are plenty of laugh-out-loud moments and clever exchanges that make the show highly rewatchable.

Bottom line: If you want straightforward, feel-good romance without toxic baggage and without overthinking, Head 2 Head is a great pick.

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Sensual, Forbidden Love Drama That I Loved Way Too Much

Love in the Moonlight is a gorgeous, emotional, sometimes over-the-top dramatic love story between a prince and a musician set against the political turmoil of the 60s. This couple that will undoubtedly linger with you long after the credits roll.

The plot is nothing new but the drama left me speechless simply because of its execution. I wouldn’t say it’s particularly high-budget, and yes, it has some sound issues, but the way it’s shot—and the creators’ attempts to recreate that old-school lakorn feel—actually adds an interesting flavor to the overall packaging.

The story revolves around an extremely complicated love triangle (but not quite a triangle) between a young woman Pin, Prince Saenkaew, and Pin’s cousin Sasin.

Pin and Saenkaew are engaged (or rather forced to) for their families’ mutual benefit. Saenkaew’s family is running away from the new political regime and needs to have a Thai relative to transfer their assets to to avoid confiscation. Pin’s family is broke. So the parents get together and decide that marriage is the best option for each family to get what they need.

And while Pin likes Saenkaew, he doesn’t see her more than her little sister. Not because there’s something wrong with her—no, she is very wifey material—but simply because he doesn’t like women.

Enter Pin’s cousin, Sasin. The sparks fly right away, even if characters are clueless in the first few episodes.

This a tension filled forbidden love trope set against the political turmoil of the early 60s, a time when same-sex relationships were frowned upon and people faced judgment for their feelings. This is especially complicated for a royal family. With the political regime changing, dignity and respect is all Saenkaew’s father thinks their family has left as they are on the run from the new regime that does not recognizing royalty. He does not want anyone to find out that his only son is gay, so whether Saenkaew wants to get married or not the poor guy has to. It’s the only way for his father to ensure his son is safe. But his father really does it in such a roundabout way, using every method available to him, including violence.

Poor prince Saenkaew is stuck in a hopeless situation. He is caring the legacy of his entire family on his shoulders. The stakes get higher when Sasin turns into more than just Pin’s cousin. He eve irritates Saenkaew's planned out life, throwing his world into chaos.

Let’s be real: the characters aren’t perfect. In fact, they’re far from it. Saenkaew and Sasin pull some morally questionable stunts—not particularly in terms of loving one another but in their efforts to shield others, especially Pin, from the truth. They are trying to solve the problem without taking into account that it’s not just the two of them, but their respective families in the picture. Yet, toward the end of the drama they are redeemable because they come to terms with their flaws. That includes Pin, who probably shouldn’t have done what she did. But I could actually understand why she did it. I think many women in such situation would do exactly the same thing. There wasn’t much time for them to think anything through before the wedding.

The acting is superb, especially the intimate moments between Sasin and Saenkaew; they feel natural and genuine rather than acted out. And the music? Absolutely amazing! It enhances the overall emotional and melancholic vibe of the drama.

Sure, you'll find yourself hating the characters at times. There are some truly unredeemable individuals in this drama, but, spoiler alert, they get what’s coming to them. While there's a sprinkle of comic relief, don't expect the lighthearted banter typical of K-dramas. For the most part, Love in the Moonlight is dramatically over-the-top, which works well to ground viewers in the era the creators are depicting.

There are episodes, like the heart-wrenching sixth one, that reveal the depths of the character's struggles, it hits hard.

I truly loved this drama. I've been on a bit of a bad streak with new BL dramas lately—trying out several—and only one was decent. But Love in the Moonlight turned out absolutely amazing! I doubt anything can top it from 2025, except maybe Top Form, but that’s a whole different kettle of fish. I’m mostly talking about the emotional depth, the complexity of the characters, and how intimacy is portrayed on screen.

If you like dramas that rip your heart before putting it back together, this one’s for you. The on-screen chemistry is truly remarkable. You may need to suspend your disbelief a little, but that's par for the course in any romance drama. Definitely give this one a watch!

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Hilariously Absurd and Insanely Charming RomCom That Will Give You All the Fuzzy Feels

If you’re on the hunt for a BL romcom that’s both over-the-top and delightfully charming with insane actor facecards, look no further.

‘Me and Thee’ brilliantly combines silliness and heart with a dash of star power courtesy of Pond and Phuwin. Seriously, they are vibes in this drama. Phuwin needs to keep his hair long BTW.

This is a classic *opposites attract* story.

Thee is wealthy and impulsive (fake? mafia heir), diving headfirst into whatever his heart desires, regardless of whether he has a clue about what he’s doing. He is simping so hard. Peach is a photographer and a down-to-earth guy who is patient enough to handle Thee’s fiery personality. Plus he is Thee’s low-key life coach/dating coach/mental health counselor, you name it.

Together, these two create a perfect storm of ridiculousness and tenderness that makes for some major feels.

Most of the jokes here are punctuated by loud background sounds and we have absurd scene cuts that emphasize the hilarity. Yes, it’s intense. And perhaps not everyone’s cup of tea, but I implore you… Just persevere. Otherwise, you will miss a lot of swoony moments that come later on. But that’s—all the bell and whistles—part of the drama’s charm! Plus it’s making fun of itself and dramas in general. As the drama progresses, the characters experience growth and discovery, leaning on each other in the messiest yet most endearing ways.

Let’s talk chemistry. That’s Pond and Phuwin. Need I say more? I think they are synonymous of chemistry. But seriously, they radiate insane tension that doesn’t require constant skinship to keep the audience hooked. In fact, this is a slowburn romance. It’s more about the vibes they give off, and boy, do they bring it! Their interactions are respectful, making it feel like a safe space where love can unfold without boundaries. I actually appreciated that consent was brought into the picture. It’s always good to discuss it. It’s a nice departure from the old school romance dramas. We all know that dubious onscreen consent was a big thing 10 years ago. Just don’t kill the messenger.

While the plot isn’t groundbreaking, the delivery is where the magic lies. The series refuses to take itself too seriously, creating an atmosphere that feels more like a group of friends goofing around rather than a rigid production. You can tell the crew had a blast filming this—which, let’s be honest, makes for better viewing.

The cinematography is great! The colors pop, and the camera work keeps the energy high. Plus the sets are so beautiful.

As for the ending, it leaves you with a sense of satisfaction despite the familiarity of the plot. You might think you’ve seen this story before, and maybe some past dramas have presented it better but honestly, Me and Thee packs a silly romantic punch in its short ten episodes. The way Thee tries to win over Peach, often throwing money around (literally), is both endearing and hilarious as he learns the ropes of being in a relationship.

In summary, if you’re a fan of Pond and Phuwin or looking for something funny and uncomplicated—a breezy watch with cool visuals and great chemistry, you’ll love this. So grab your popcorn and prepare to ride the laughter-fueled wave of Me and Thee! You won't regret it!

P.S. Plus you get to see William seducing Est for at least 4 episodes. And Mr. Thee buying GMMTV to film his love story with Peach.

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Clean and Cutesy RomCom If You Want Something Uncomplicated

‘My Boss’ has been popping up on my Viki for the longest time, but for some reason, I just continued skipping over it. After finishing ‘Love Between Lines’ with Chen Xing Xu, I just let the algorithm feed me the next best thing with him, which was I finally clicked on ‘My Boss’ because, well, it was there and I had nothing else to watch. So here we are!

First things first: this is a cute, silly, romcom that thrives on the opposites-attract trope, packed with characters misunderstanding each other for the most of the drama and a classic cohabitation setup. The romcom vibes are STRONG here, and you’ll need to suspend your belief for almost every episode. The fun atmosphere is maintained throughout the drama—except for the last three episodes, where things took a turn.

‘My Boss’ doesn’t take itself too seriously. No time wasted on unnecessary side characters or convoluted side stories. We mostly focus on our main couple, Cheng Yao (played by Zhang Ruo Nan) and Qian Heng (played by Chen Xing Xu). There’s a side couple, but they don’t hog the screen time and the supporting female lead’s story is actually quite interesting.

The secondary couple’s role is important to the overall story, and everything ties together nicely in the end.

But honestly, the real highlight for me was the banter between Cheng Yao Qian Heng and the hilarious situations they find themselves in. Let’s just say I laughed a lot!

If you're expecting a passionate romance, though, temper your expectations. This drama doesn’t dive into physical romance much—there are a couple of moments and yes, they do kiss a few times, but overall, the story is focused on the emotional connection rather than the physical. Cheng Yao and Qian Heng are adorable together, and their romance feels believable, but I'll be upfront: Zhang Ruo Nan doesn’t have the same chemistry with Chen Xing Xu here as she does with Bai Jing Ting in ‘The First Frost.’

Now, on to some things that could use improvement. Whoever styled Cheng Yao... yikes! I get that they’re trying to showcase that she’s different from other women in the industry, but some of her hairstyles and outfits made her look downright unappealing and unattractive at times. This is an extremely outdated take on female characters in fiction. There's absolutely nothing wrong with a female lead being dressing well! It feels like the writers wanted us to focus solely on her skills rather than her looks. I can’t fault them too much for this formula, since it sells, but still—come on! I stand by my opinion. It is an outdated notion.

The last three episodes were a bit of a downer for me. The characters kind of drifted apart, which wasn’t quite a breakup—more like a break. I get Cheng Yao wanting some space, but those episodes slowed the show’s funky pace significantly. I don’t have the problem with the idea the writers were trying to convey through their separation. I do understand if you are trying to stand on your own 2 feet and you’re over wearing boyfriend is trying to make decisions for you. it’s definitely necessary to put some space between each other. But I think the way the situation was delivered to the viewer made it boring. The drama lost its spark for the duration of that separation.
It recovers toward the end and the final episode was a nice wrap-up to watch. It was just a tad anticlimactic the way everything was presented to us before the final episode and how things fizzled out—mainly due to Cheng Yao's insecurity. Honestly, if she dressed better, she might not have felt so insecure! Sorry, but I said what I said. Wearing nice clothes and having your hair done properly makes a big difference in woman’s overall wellbeing.

That said, these little quirks didn’t overly affect my score because I still had plenty of fun watching the drama. I just hoped that this drama would not be like the rest of the C-dramas where toward the end they all get all teary-eyed after two thirds of romcom. The story was interesting and well-written. Writers didn’t squander time on side stories(I was so happy parents did not get any independent scenes and only appeared when the lead characters were the picture), and the business setting was just enough for us to grasp that this was a drama set against a legal backdrop. Plus, I absolutely loved the vibe of their apartment scenes and the night cityscape scenery. Very pretty!

Overall, I think this will be a great drama for someone looking for something uncomplicated—just pure laughs and a typical, clean C-drama romcom.

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Captivating Contemporary C-Drama with Fantastic Chemistry Between the Leads

Speed and Love is all about semi-forbidden romance, fast cars, hot male lead, and a good story that’ll have you tearing up. And it’s definitely worth the hype. I watched it as soon as the final episode aired—because waiting? Not my style! I am a bing-it kinda girl.

Let’s dive in. Everyone's been buzzing about this drama for He Yu‘s Zhao Zhao, and honestly, that’s exactly why I started watching. I totally get it. He is the rugged, bad boy kind of a guy you instantly fall for. Side note: It's refreshing to see a trend in Asian shows where male leads actually look masculine and fit and a little bit like they’re from the wrong side of the tracks—quite a shift from older dramas where the men often appeared to look like they were afraid of going to the gym, had to have a college education, wear only acceptable clothes, and a lot of other things I won’t list. Anyway, Zhao Zhao has been occupying my entire Instagram feed for the past month.

As for our female lead, I like Esther Yu, so I have nothing but good things to say. I find her talented despite being consistently typecast for bubbly roles. Don’t get me wrong; she’s great in those parts, but I wish we could see her versatility shine even more. She needs to do more things like My Journey to You.

However, I do understand why she was cast as Mu Mu. In Speed and Love, her youthful charm fits the character perfectly, at least at the beginning of the drama, and she does evolve as the storyline progresses, which adds depth and we also get to see her acting abilities. I think this was done deliberately to showcase the age difference between the leads.

Speed and Love incorporates all the romance tropes I love.

Step-siblings to Lovers: While they aren’t biological siblings, the dynamics add angst.
Age Gap: The slight age difference between the leads brings a different flavor to their relationship dynamics
Opposites Attract: The classic bad boy/good girl vibe is alive and well here, creating a compelling push and pull between the characters.
And of course, we can’t overlook all the fast cars and crazy driving

Things I loved:

I appreciate that the show focuses solely on the main couple, without unnecessary side plots or additional romances.

The stunning Thai scenery adds to the drama's vibe, and while I enjoyed the bromance between Zhao Zhao and Drunk, I sometimes found myself torn between rooting for them or for Zhao Zhao and Mu Mu. Then I reminded myself—this is a Chinese production! 😂

The comedic elements were spot on, providing plenty of laughs throughout the series.

In terms of skinship, the show excels—there are plenty of cute and steamy moments between the leads. Long gone are the days with a single dead fish kiss at the end of the drama. These two ate. Literally. Each other.

Really good cinematography.

Did I mention? Zhao Zhao?

High quality driving and fighting scenes. Almost Hollywood level. I was surprised considering I hardly ever see those in Chinese dramas.

Things that I did not enjoy as much or they baffled me:

I had some issues with the pacing. The transition between the first and second arcs felt uneven. Too much time was spent on the Thailand arc before the mood shifted drastically, leaving me feeling like I was being pulled out of one narrative only to rush into another just as the series neared its end. C-dramas often stretch out their stories—yet here, they needed more episodes to give each (and I mean second) arc to give it the attention it deserved.

I also found some medical inaccuracies hard to overlook, particularly in the episode where Mu Mu and Zhao Zhao part ways in Thailand. If he had multiple broken bones and a spinal injury, I can’t accept the fact that he could just stand up there in front of her, hiding his pain to make sure she doesn’t know the extent of his injuries. (And please do not give me that crap that love made him do that just for the sake of her. sanity ) While I can suspend belief for love stories, a little grounding in reality goes a long way. I kept on asking myself how he could stand and then sit down in front of her if later on it’s shown he can’t even walk.

Further into the drama when Mu Mu and his doctor talk about his difficult recovery he was still going through, I expected that Mu Mu would be helping Zhao Zhao with whatever medical needs he still had. But as soon as they got back together, he recovered. Unless there was some inaccurate translation they had made it sound like he hadn’t recovered yet when they reconnected, I can only explain this by lazy writing or lazy editing. It didn’t really affect my enjoyment but it was a glaring inconsistency. I think this was a missed opportunity for the writers. This is one of those shows that actually could use a few more extra episodes.

In conclusion:

Speed and Love is a solid contemporary C-drama that deserves all the praise it’s receiving. The chemistry between the characters is palpable, the cinematography is absolutely breathtaking (as a cinematography enthusiast, I give major kudos to the camera team), the color grading is top notch, the acting is great, all the stunts performed well. The small flaws I noticed here and there (like strange/poorly written dialogues at the beginning of the drama) didn’t affect my opinion that this is still one of the better C-dramas. The plot is streamlined, free of unnecessary subplots or antagonistic characters with excessive monologues.

And let’s be real—it’s all about He Yu! The boy is going places. I’d never seen him in anything else before Speed and Love. I’m looking forward to see what else he’ll have coming out soon.

If you are looking for an exciting contemporary C-drama with great chemistry and high production value, I totally recommend. Enjoy the ride!

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Visual Storytelling at Its Best

This drama has truly earned its praise, and for good reason. If you're just getting into Chinese dramas and looking for an amazing female-centric revenge story, "The Double" is the one to see. The visuals are stunning, featuring amazing cinematography, beautifully choreographed fight scenes, and only a few slow episodes (and that’s always a blast in my book with historical C dramas). It stands out as a top-notch palace intrigue drama.

The story centers on Xue Fangfei, who faces betrayal by her husband and adopts a new identity to seek revenge. While the romance with Duke Su unfolds as a slow burn, it is ultimately satisfying. The chemistry between the leads is truly remarkable, and some of the best moments come from their interactions.

I liked the parallels the drama was trying to show us with what it would be like for our female lead to actually be with the man who cared for her as opposed to the disaster of her first marriage.

However, I do want to warn viewers who are seeking a heavy romance—this drama isn't that. This is a revenge-heavy drama about a woman hell-bent on restoring justice for everyone who didn’t get it.

Romance, here is just a cherry on top. I do think that some of the best episodes were of Duke Su and Xue Fangfei interactions.


I do have things to mention I believe were unnecessary.

Several elements I found less enjoyable, particularly after episode 30, where too much time becomes focused on the backstories of the villains, especially the Eldest Princess. Although it's important to understand her character, the amount of screen time felt excessive and could have been better balanced throughout the series. Those scenes were draggy and dialogues could have been cut in half.

One point of frustration was the abrupt cut of a kissing scene between the main leads near the end (it was somewhere after episode 30). Their romance doesn't feel fully bloomed until the final episode where the director finally chooses to include proper kissing scene. I think reason why it threw me off is because the drama itself does not gloss over bloody and violent scenes and sexual violence. So cutting off intimate interaction between main leads seemed extremely strange. But this is just me because I like my romance with lots of skinship if there is romance. otherwise, I don’t want any teasing with romantic upload if we are not going to get it in full.

For those who crave a clear happy ending, my recommendation is to stop watching the last episode after the marriage scene. The last ten minutes felt unnecessary and out of the left field.

While I appreciated the aesthetics of the closing moments and understood why the writers decided to go in that direction, I couldn't shake the feeling that the leads deserved a more definitive conclusion. After being so invested in their struggles for 40 episodes, the final twist—suggesting a meeting in the afterlife—felt like a punch to the gut. Our heroine ends up in misery, which feels undeserved after all she's been through.

I understand that some dramas aim for realistic endings, but after 40 episodes of suspension of my belief, I wanted a clear at least happy for now ending. Therefore, I docked half a point for that creator’s choice.

Overall, despite a few missteps, the cinematography, writing, and production value make "The Double" a must-watch.

Memorable episodes for me or episode 17 where our female lead is drunk. That scene in the rain was amazing.

Another memorable scene was when Xue Fangfei played a folk piece at the academy exam.

Despite my dislike of the ending, I actually did like the way the last 10 minutes were executed. Aesthetically that last sequence was very touching.

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One of the Best Xianxias You’ll Ever Watch with an Amazing Soundtrack

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is hands down one of the best xianxias out there! I remember binge-watching it while it was still airing on Netflix only to scramble for an IQIYI subscription when Netflix’s episode release schedule lagged behind.

The setting isn’t groundbreaking—it’s your classic opposites attract trope featuring a dark, brooding male lead and a bubbly, somewhat childish female lead. But everything from character, arcs and costumes and dialogues in this drama will blow you away.

I also have to give you guys a fair warning. If this is your first drama with Esther Yu, don’t let her voice or the way her character acts be a dealbreaker! It just takes some time to warm up to her.

I’m not usually a fan of childlike characters, but her Orchid evolves significantly throughout the series. Trust me, Esther is talented! (If in doubt, check out "My Journey to You.") So, even if you’re not a fan of her character at the beginning, hang in there—it’s absolutely worth it.

Now, onto our male lead! Dylan Wang’s performance really impressed me, especially when I reflect on his earlier work. I believe I saw something with him before LBFAD and he wasn’t all that amazing. But his portrayal of Dongfang QingCang was captivating—his facial micro-expressions and character growth kept me thoroughly entertained, especially when he was in his bad boy era. His acting really improved.

At its core, this drama narrates a love story between a cold and ruthless male who has his people to protect—justifiably so even if his means are not that great—and a clueless yet endearing female lead.

There's a love triangle too, which is actually something I enjoy a lot as long as both mail leads are on the same level.

I must admit, I struggled between my preference between Dylan Wang and Zhang Ling He. they are both very flawed and they both grow throughout the show. The bromance later in the series was cherry on top.

In a nutshell, it’s a tale about characters evolving beyond their own selfish desires and willing to sacrifice those desires for the greater good.

The series combines various beloved tropes like opposites attract and body swap delivering intriguing situations while allowing the actors to showcase their skills. The CGI is visually appealing, and the costumes are stunning! Sure, I noticed a few uneven CGI moments, but that’s expected in most C-dramas.

I have several favorite scenes that I often revisit:
- **Episode 9**: Dongfang QingCang being a bad$$
- **Episode 13**: Captivating and emotional.
- **Episodes 25/26**: Pure magic.
- **Episode 28**: Just incredible!
- **Episode 31**: An emotional rollercoaster—prepare to be crushed!

That said, I agree with others who felt the last few episodes dragged a bit. After episode 31, the pacing slowed down, and while I understand the creative choices behind it, I believe the execution could have been improved. The finale felt rushed, and after investing in this emotionally draining journey, we deserved a stronger resolution. Sometimes, a mere 30 seconds of characters basking in their happy ending just doesn’t cut it!

Nevertheless, this remains one of my favorite xianxia dramas. I seldom rewatch shows, but I recently dove back into this one. The emotional impact was just as potent, and I actually discovered nuances I overlooked the first time.

My verdict: I highly recommend "Love Between Fairy and Devil" to all xianxia lovers! 🎉

PS I think every single person who watched and enjoyed this drama will agree with me. LBFAD has one of the best soundtracks you will probably ever hear in a C-drama. I mean, I hope that they will make something even better. But so far from everything I’ve seen music from this drama tops everything else.

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A Delightful Blend of Laughs, Romance, and Superpowers

If you're in the mood for a romantic comedy that's firing on all cylinders, then look no further. The 2017 K-drama "Strong Woman Do Bong Soon" delivers just that.

This is one of those rare shows with no bad/boring episodes. It has it all: plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, sizzling chemistry between all three leads, swoon-worthy romance, and a dash of superhero-esque fantasy.

The premise is simple. Do Bong Soon (played by Park Bo Young) is a petite and kind-hearted woman who just so happens to possess Herculean strength, a gift passed down through the women in her family. When she catches the eye of the handsome and eccentric CEO of a gaming company Ahn Min Hyuk (played by Park Hyung Sik), who is in need of a bodyguard, Bong Sun's life is thrown into chaos.

Ahn Min Hyuk is a simp for our girl from the moment he sees her. He probably doesn’t even get yet that’s he’s fallen, but it doesn’t take him long. What’s stopping their relationship from flourishing early on is her crush on her childhood friend, policeman In Guk Du (played by Kim Ji Soo). Gu Do however keeps our girl Bong Soon in the friendzone while seeing someone else. Still, he’s a caring friend and when Ahn Min Hyuk enters the picture, we have a crash of that alpha energy… and really hilarious moments between all three due to the little misunderstanding about Ahn Min Hyuk’s sexual orientation. There are so many opportunities here to make it entertaining and the writers do just that.

Love triangle (if done right) is my favorite trope and this drama delivers. Our heroine is confused and has to make a choice between the two and they are both equally great man.

We also have a serial kidnapper in the neighborhood and our characters get entangled in that as well. This add a little more flair to the show.

The writing is top-notch, with countless little details that all come together in a cohesive and compelling way. Bong Soon is an incredibly relatable heroine, and we can't help but root for her as she undergoes a wonderful journey of self-discovery and empowerment, learning how to use her powers for good. The two male leads—the playful Min Hyuk and the earnest police officer In Guk Du—provide the perfect foils, each bringing their own unique charms to the table. I’m also going to say that the chemistry between male leads is amazing. Sometimes, I had no idea if I wanted either one of them to end up with our girl.
Check out what I’m talking about here.

Park Hyung Sik was born to do comedy, in my opinion. He’s a charming, silly, smitten, and adorable in this role. He and Park Bo Young sparkle on screen, delivering gut-busting moments that never feel forced. And the way the show balances the humor with heartfelt themes of family, friendship, and justice is nothing short of masterful.

I honestly, enjoyed this drama so much, I can talk about it for days. I can’t remember when I laughed so hard when I watched romantic comedy. K-dramas also tend to get all mushy toward the end with the comedic elements being pushed back to give room for other things. Here, it’s not the case and I think this was the right choice.

Kim Won Hae who played Team Leader O and his gangster doppelgänger needs an award for his dual role in this. He nailed it. I think Team Leader O is my favorite side character in all of the K-dramas I’ve seen. And I’ve seen a lot.

Overall, if you're in the market for a romantic comedy that will keep you thoroughly entertained from start to finish, "Strong Woman Do Bong Soon" is an absolute must-watch. With its winning combination of relatable characters, swoon-worthy romance, and just the right amount of superhero flair, this drama is pure perfection. We also have a really good wrap with with everyone involved and no loose ends or unnecessary break up between the lead couple. You’ll have that awesome fuzzy feeling after finishing that will lift up your mood for sure.

P.S. I do have to say that while I’d like to see Ji Soo (he was great in Moon Lovers) return to screen, you need to make your own decision about the actor and if you want to support him. In 2021, school bullying and assault accusations were made against him and his career stalled. While, it appears that most of the accusations were cleared out, the controversy caused him to lose his contract. I find it sad. I think there are worse (and proven) things actors in Korean industry has done. Compared to some, this is in my opinion is not worth losing a career if the person is truly sorry and tries to somehow atone for what he’s done. In any case, this is just my opinion. I encourage everyone to think for themselves.

Otherwise, enjoy the drama and laugh a little.

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