I think ep 21 is good. Usually 24 is quite popular for modern cdramas. I find the 40 eps for modern add in filler…
Yes, I also find 40 episodes to be too long, with unnecessary elements like breakups, annoying second leads, and misunderstandings, which make the watching experience less enjoyable. However, 21 episodes are still insufficient for this type of story, where the leads have their own traumas to overcome and become their best selves.
But atleast the Hongs got the money and some proof against the villains.
I hope not, because there are only 4 episodes left, and they should deal with the villains by episode 14. After that, the drama should focus on treating Hae In's illness.
Since Hae In has a psycho guy, Eunseong, who is obsessed with her, Hyunwoo should also have one. Otherwise their relationship dynamic is not balanced enough.