#the royal romance kdrama

[jessread-s]

Thanks to @fiercereadsya for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review

✩🏹🐺Review: 

A gripping murder mystery and swoonworthy romance set against the backdrop of a brutal period in Korean history. 

“A Crane Among Wolves” follows Iseul, a sheltered, privileged teenager, as she embarks on a dangerous journey to save her sister, who has been kidnapped by the tyrant King Yeonsan. Prince Daehyun, who is disgusted by his half-brother’s rampant abuse of the common folk, wants nothing more than to overthrow him.  Despite their initial disdain for each other, Iseul and Daehyun’s mutual hatred for the king results in a reluctant alliance to stage a coup.

June Hur’s historical reimagining centers around the fall of the Joseon dynasty in the Korean peninsula. As someone unfamiliar with this dark period in history, I was captivated and devastated by the widespread atrocities Hur’s characters navigated and the sacrifices they had to make to survive the abuse, kidnapping, enslavement, and execution that was prevalent during this time under King Yeonsan’s reign. I especially admired Iseul’s strength and her devotion to her sister. She goes to extreme lengths to save her sister from Yeonsan’s clutches and I enjoyed watching her develop from a spoiled girl to a selfless revolutionary.

I really enjoyed the murder mystery sub-plot woven into the story. It further drew me in and the suspense kept me on my toes. I tried and failed to identify the killer, but I loved trying to make sense of the clues Hur left throughout. 

Iseul and Daehyun’s begrudging allies-to-lovers romance had me in a chokehold! Their relationship development is very gradual with the two prioritizing their cause (usurping the king) over each other. Still,  they cannot resist giving in to their desires and I loved watching that play out from both of their perspectives. The tension, angst, and mutual pining Hur writes into their relationship made it all the better!

Cross-posted to: Instagram | Amazon | Goodreads | StoryGraph

[snickerdoodlles]

crash course in romance is cute, but i will never be able to suspend my disbelief for this one because this public cares more about Chi-yeol’s private dating life than my school/neighborhood did when a teacher was revealed to be dating a student

[sexlovelitpodcast]

Due to circumstances entirely within our control, we interrupt your regularly scheduled SLL programming for a special summer edition of our What’s Sparking Joy: Pop Culture Round Up.  As we check in about what we’ve been watching, reading, and listening to so far this year, we each share three pieces of media that continue to live rent free in our heads!

Discussed this Episode: Lost You Forever Season 2 (no spoilers), Challengers, There’s a Door in this Darkness, A Sign of Affection, The Princess Royal, The Bear, and The Midnight Romance in Hagwon

(Note: We recorded this episode before either of us had seen the last five episodes of LYF2...which we will no doubt discuss on our LYF2 episode. But enjoy this snapshot of when the drama still seemed entirely on track!)

[chaoticpersontale]

Kdrama: Secret royal inspector & Joy

[silviakundera]

I've seen you discuss this with other people but I've only made the jump from J dramas to C ones where it's mostly about romance and are c writers allergic women making the same effort in a relationship or... Granted I've only watched dramas from this year at first I thought it was just historical stuff but it's not it's practically every romance drama will love in spring-snowstorm-love endures-in blossom-double-shenli-royal princess-my boss-our interpreter and so on. If she's not outright treating him badly he's a cirque du Soleil contortionist trying to please her and she's not even in the circus don't they know balance is key to everything? Different dramas should have different bonds it's quite concerning that it's just one thing almost every time I think it speaks to a larger issue or maybe I'm overthinking it

idk what to tell you anon. It may simply be that chinese dramas are not to your taste and that's ok. I tried the occasional kdrama for years and didn't really fall in love with many... Most jdramas don't engage me. But when I tried a few cdramas it was like love at first sight. Something about the stories they want to tell, the themes they explore, and the characters they tend to portay just hooks me. And that's a very personal thing.

All I can share is that as a middle-aged corporate lesbian girlboss... a surprising amount cdramas have connected with me about how they explore a woman who is career focused & has to balance that with developing a romantic relationship and then maintaining one.

And when I'm consuming a romance storyline, what preocupies me is if I find it interesting, if the characters both feel vibrant & dynamic, if I can see how they might work together. Do their broken pieces fit? Can I see a path where eventually they can reach a point of mutual understanding, where both are fulfilled? Do I get their vibe? Do they have a unique vibe? Do I believe they like each other, as people? Or at least, do I see a clear path where they will be/have these things by the end of the story?

That's what dictates if I want to keep watching/reading a romance. Personally, I don't spend a lot of time weighing up perceived effort/favors and needing things to be perceived as "even". I would not want to date a person who thinks like that, because I find that idea stressful and off-putting! 🙈 If the people are happy, then they're happy! If neither feels abused & taken advantage of, if they're clearly content, then I don't need to calculate 'same effort' parity.

But that's just me! Everyone is different. And you don't have to overthink or justify what TV you like or don't like. Maybe cdramas aren't for you. That's all good. But please don't ask me to engage with romance this way, it kinda poisons it for me and makes things a bummer. 😔

I simply cannot say that I share your perspective. For instance, I thought Shen Li was a drama with a great otp who had priorities that did not always align but ultimately they ended up in a beautiful relationship with unconventional gender dynamics and in the finale they are clearly super happy & fulfilled together.

The Princess Royal isn't finished yet but lemme say their love in the novel is EPIC. Absolute one of the otps of all time for me. Better characters than most western historical romance novels I've read. If you look at the small stuff and try to weight who did this or that as a series of transactions, imo you are missing the beauty of how these 2 people took a lifetime of getting everything wrong before being ready for each other - but now they are ready, they are listening to each other and remembering to come back with kindness for each other and moving foward into a bond that's truly beautiful. Yeah, it takes almost the whole novel to get there. But IT DOES. No one loves Pei Wenxuan harder than Li Rong, sees the true value of Pei Wenxuan more than Li Rong, and no one will come to his ferocious rescue like Li Rong. I feel like I could cite 35 quotes to prove my point, it's that clear in the text.

a few of the modern cdrama couples who made me want to believe in love again:

Lighter & Princess - academic rivals to lovers to exes to ????, a drama that snuck up on me and slowly made me lose my mind. Best experience is to be unspoiled and thus surprised about where the story takes you. A long winding road, with some huge dips, before they reach a place where they have a beautiful hard-earned partnership. Makes me emotional just to think about them.

Hidden Love is a simple but beautifully acted tale about a sheltered & gently spoiled girl who falls in love with one of her older brother's best friends. Such a common romance plot but the execution is everything. The characters feel warm & real. FL's bittersweet young love tugs at your heart strings. I was impressed at how they crafted the platonic bond she forms with a lonely young man weighed down by financial & emotional family burdens, which later blooms into a mutual affection that enriches both their lives, and it all feels very natural. You really feel that their lives are immeasurably better by being together. Sang Zhi's protectiveness towards him is so !!!

Vid Rec: Seven by SakinaMv (who I've subscribed to for a long time)

You Are My Glory, which has a very silly sounding concept but ended up one of my fav comfort shows. Beautiful teen girl has a crush on the local school genius and asks him out; he politely rejects her, dismissing her efforts to connect because he can't see what they would have in common. 13 years later, he's a rocket scientist and she's become one of the top idols in china. She's at the peak of her profession but having a tiny PR mishap when caught repping a video game that she actually doesn't play. He's taking a leave from work as he struggles with the economic realities of picking a job that consumes your life but pays like shit. She's looking for help to learn this damn game & cover her ass; she still has his chat ID and he's online with nothing better to do. Once they start interacting, her crush on him returns & he starts to realize that that person he had discounted may actually be that confidant who can walk beside him? My dad was poor scientist who 'wasted' his intelligence following his passion, so I found ML's turmoil especially compelling. [Note: quite a bit of video game playing in the 1st half of the drama (as this is the driver for a celebrity and an unemployed scientist to hang out), then almost none in the second half]

Vid Rec: Stargazing by dramasaffair

Vid Rec: Flashlight by HânAlli (turn on CC)

The Road Home, a second chance romance of 2 people who come from rough home-lifes who fell in love when young but couldn't handle a long distance relationship. Then they meet many years later and try a long distance relationship again. I love me a couple who I can believe just get each other and make each other happier when they are together.

Meet Yourself - a slice-of-life story about a woman whose best friend dies, so she quits her job out of grief to go take the simple vacation that they would talk about doing but never got around to. And naturally she finds herself immersed in village drama and finds a soulmate (big city career woman goes to a small town and falls in love with small town boy is a HUGE american romance cliche, and one I've never enjoyed, so I was surprised at how much I liked this)

Vid Rec - MK916 can always be counted on to publish tons of quality cdrama couple vids

[dangermousie]

I just started watching Legend of Ruyi with my mom and she enjoys it. She REALLY prefers shows with lots of historically accurate details, including historical attitudes. That means no pining after the Emperor like a modern woman and expecting monogamy, essentially, which is the reason we had to stop Empress of China. Her favorites are Story of Yanxi Palace, Longest Day in Chang'an, and Goryeo-Khitan War, and Legend of Ruyi might also end up up there - she's enjoying it so far. Any other recommendations? I'm thinking Luoyang after we finish Ruyi but idk.

That depends how not modern she wants - Luoyang has a female policewoman (or equivalent) as one of the mains and I am pretty sure it was not a thing. If that's not an issue, then it's great!

CDRAMAS

Three Kingdoms 2010 is great at feeling period appropriate though there are very few female characters if that is an issue for your mother.

The Advisors Alliance is wonderful, does not have anachronistic attitudes towards either morality or polygamy but more prominent roles for women than Three Kingdoms.

The Story of Han Dynasty (2005) and The Legend of Chu and Han (also known as The King's War) from 2012 also feel period appropriate - the former is old so looks it but vvv solid and the latter is wonderful and that cast!

Any of the Qin Empire series (there are three) would fit the bill.

I've heard amazing things about Legend of Zhen Huan and I peeked at it and it looked very good, but I don't really do most harem dramas so I haven't watched it in full.

In general, because I am not a harem drama person, the recs I gave are more battle/politics/dude heavy so I am gonna throw this ask open to my mutuals who do watch harem dramas for more recs.

KDRAMAS

Most of these are gonna be somewhat older because clearly what your mom likes are traditional sageuks and those are sadly not made much any more.

If your mom liked GK War, then may I recommend King of Tears Lee Bang Won. It's by the same screenwriter, and has the same "adult people doing adult things in period appropriate manner" vibe. Not a pretty boy in sight.

Six Flying Dragons also deals with Lee Bang Won and is one of my favorite period dramas of all time. It's quite epic, has a huge cast of characters, more prominent female roles than King of Tears and to me feels period appropriate enough (no royals yearn for monogamy.)

Tree with Deep Roots - same people who did SFD, this one centers sort of on creation of written Korean alphabet and is not at all boring, surprisingly enough. It's actually intense and heartbreaking and very adult.

The Nokdu Flower - I am in the middle of it but from what I've heard it does not go off the rails. It's set during the Peasant Revolution in 1894-95 and centers around three main characters - a female trader, an illegitimate son of a noble family who's an enforcer, and a legitimate noble heir who goes down a dark path. It's grim and not at all court adjacent so may not be your mom's bag but it would quailfy otherwise.

Empress Ki - this is the closest I've seen a kdrama do a harem cdrama and it's glorious. There is harem and murders and what not and it's definitely female centric and does not feel modern to me (the emperor may be obsessed with the eventual Empress Ki - and historically he appeared to be so as well - but he has plenty of other wives.)

All the good older traditional sageuks about monarchs or their families - Jumong, Lee San Wind of the Palace, Queen Seon Duk, Dong Yi.

Slave Hunters - once again, not royalty centric at all, more dealing with dregs of society, but it's smart and adult and doesn't feel particularly anachronistic to me (the attitudes to slavery feel so tragically realistic.)

Bossam: Steal the Fate - it deals with the custom of kidnapping widows so they could remarry and is surprisingly gritty and real feeling with a lovely romance in it.

Haechi - it follows Yeongjo when he was still a prince. It's a bit of a mystery/investigative thing.

Damo - a police captain, a tea lady and a rebel leader all get entangled in a conspiracy. It's so grim and amazing and heartbreaking.

Conspiracy in the Court - a grownup mystery during Jeongjo's reign.

Eight Days - also set during Jeongjo's reign and centering around assassination attempts on the king. So smart.

My Dearest - it's set during the Qing invasion of Korea and not at all royalty adjacent in terms of the mains though the king and his heir are prominent supporting characters but the attitudes felt so period appropriate - class attitudes, attitudes towards women losing their honor etc. It was my favorite drama last year.

[marvelous-llama]

Seventeen recs

<<original book

most of the mentioned works is 18+ NSFW, MINORS DNI

pls don´t hesitate to hmu, if any of mentioned links doesn´t work or you have suggestions for more fics... thank you so much for all the love and comments

one shots

The Royal Gambit by @idyllic-ghost

Joshua x fem!reader (wc - 17.7k) royalty AU - angst, fluff, smut, romance Marriage should be a beautiful union between two lovers, but you did not love Prince Hong and he clearly did not love you. Everything you did, you did for your kingdoms - except when you started meeting him in quiet corners of the castle to take out your frustrations on each other. However, would this relationship be enough to hold together a marriage which your countries depended on?

an interview with an angel by @hannyoontify

Joshua x fem!reader (wc - 2.5k) 25 21 kdrama inspired, news reporter!Joshua, fencer!reader - fluff, comfort, meet cute for some people, when they’re in a dire situation, god sends them an angel. for you, he sent you an attractive young man who goes by the name of ‘Joshua’

Curse The Stars by @shuadotcom

Joshua x fem!reader (wc - 8.4k) strangers to lovers, 70´s Hollywood - fluff, smut, angst(ish) Meeting someone at the disco to take home for the night is customary for you, especially in your line of work. But meeting this man on this night at this disco feels more like fate as Joshua becomes much more than just your routine one night stand.

not according to plan by @the-boy-meets-evil

Joshua x fem!reader (wc - 22.1k) fake dating, strangers > friends > lovers - angst, fluff, smut, hurt/comfort your ex-fiance is getting married and everyone you know is going to be there. when he calls to ask if you're coming, you accidentally mention a boyfriend. which would be fine, if you weren't very single. thankfully your best friend comes through with the perfect solution when he sets you up with a friend of his. what could possibly go wrong?

series

city lights by @hannieween

Joshua x fem!reader neighbours to lovers - angst, fluff, smut Joshua Hong could be many things. For one, he is your next door neighbour. He is a rockstar, a relentless tease, a menace. But, ironically, he is always willing to lend a hand whenever you need it, regardless of the nature of your desires.

[starcrossed591]

CDrama Year in Review 2023

I'm still very much a CDrama beginner--I just started watching them in the summer of 2022--but since this is the first year I got into them in earnest, I figured I might as well do a year in review a la @dangermousie (whose lists I have found incredibly helpful in deciding which CDramas I really, really need to go back and watch as part of my CDrama education--so thank you!). So, without further adieu, here is my ranking of 2023 CDramas, in order of least enjoyed to most enjoyed*.

(See also: KDrama Year in Review 2023)

*Disclaimer: *not* a measure of objective quality

10. Royal Rumours: This drama was not great? Meng Zi Yi and Jeremy Tsui were fun, but the story started out messy and got messier. For some reason I still finished it, I think because I had a lingering cold and it was all my brain could handle at the time *shrug*

9. Gone with the Rain: I actually really enjoyed this one! The pacing was inconsistent, but Zhang Nan was fun as the irreverent Mo Xi, and we love a grizzled general. Special shout to the teacher who was not actually evil, just a sad lesbian whose gf disappeared on her

8. Love You Seven Times: Intriguing concept, not a strong enough FL to carry it through. The reincarnation stuff really worked for me at first, especially in their first mortal tribulation (as people, not CGI animals), but I got tired of it pretty quickly. I admit, the gifs of Ding Yu Xi as a sexy cat demon *did* pull me back in, but not enough for me to actually finish the thing, alas

7. Destined/Chang Feng Du: Started out really strong, and then stalled out on me. I think I only got up to about episode 22 or so, after their epic desert crossing and new start in a new state--they lost all narrative momentum for me there. I stopped watching and then just...didn't start again. I do, however, remain a big Bai Jing Ting fan, and will be keeping on eye out for whatever he does next

6. Hidden Love: (Contemporary) Age gap romances are hit or miss for me, but Zhao Lu Si absolutely stole/carried the show for me in this one. Although more fun imo when the main couple are in the the will-they-won't-they phase than in the family melodrama after they get together, still the only contemporary CDrama to get me to give it a go this year--and I'm glad I did

5. My Journey to You: Featuring my favorite murder girlies Esther Yu as Yun Wei Shan and Lu Yu Xiao as Shanguan Qian! Gorgeous costumes and sets, sweeping cinematography, and plot that kept me on the edge of my seat. Full disclosure, I have not actually watched the last two episodes because I got busy and then saw weird chatter about them, so I have no comment on the allegedly weird ending

4. Till the End of the Moon: Look, I know the ending wasn't ideal, but for the majority of its run, this drama owned my entire soul. It also introduced me to Bai Lu as Li Su Su, who inspired my first actual tumblr post (that wasn't a reblog) because I was so obsessed with her. And everyone knows that Tantai Jin is the CDrama ML of the year. 10/10, no regrets at letting it take over my life (and the OST my Spotify) from April to May of this year

3. The Story of Kunning Palace: More Bai Lu is always a good thing, and she's extra fun here as the transmigrated former evil empress and totally-over-your-nonsense Xiang Xue Ning here. The reverse haremness of it all totally shows why Bai Lu is the chemistry queen, especially with the princess (Liu Xie Ning) and cranky, morally grey, would-fail-gym-class strategist Xie Wie (Zhang Ling He). So glad this drama made it out of the CDrama vault and didn't languish indefinitely in censorship hell

2. A Journey to Love: Finished this one two days ago as of this writing and am still not normal about it. Ren Ruyi (Liu Shi Shi) and Ning Yuan Zhou (Liu Yu Ning) lead an exceptionally strong ensemble cast in this wuxia that explores the complicated relationships between love, duty, loyalty, loneliness, and companionship. Ruyi and Yuan Zhou are far and away one of my fave OTPs of the year, but just as compelling are the relationships between friends/brothers/fellow assassins Yu Shisan, Yuan Lu (ugh my heart), Qian Zhou, and Sun Lang. This drama definitely has one of the strongest ensemble casts of the year. And the character growth of Yang Ying from little princess abandoned in the cold palace to who she becomes by the end will stick with me for a long time. Plus another 10/10 OST!

1. Lost You Forever S1: I'm not normally a reverse harem girl, but the longing, loss, and hard resolve portrayed to perfection by Yang Zi as Xiao Yao really did it for me here. This whole drama struck an emotional chord for me, and where TTEOTM consumed my soul, LYF took over my heart. Xiao Yao's relationships with her power hungry, overprotective cousin Cang Xuan; hot snake demon Xiang Liu/playboy archery shufu Feng Feng Bei; and perfectly devoted Tushan Jing are all equally compelling to me, and while I may know who she ends up with in the end, who I *think* she should be with changes based on who's on screen at any given time. And A'Nian, my favorite bratty princess who really just needs some strong parenting, holds a special place in my heart. I know we may never get S2, and even if we do, censorship means it probably won't be what the drama makers are capable of, but I'm so glad for this little piece of absolute perfection. And, again, a top notch OST!

Fave Drama: Lost You Forever, by just a hair over A Journey to Love. See above.

Least Fave Drama: Royal Rumours--truly why did I finish this, what was past me thinking

Biggest Disappointment: 2023 is also the year I read Dreamer in the Spring Boudoir, my very first CNovel! But then I didn't even bother checking out its adaptation, Romance of a Twin Flower, because it got rid of everything that made the novel such an addicting read, including a brilliant, strategic, ice cold FL and an ML who actually kind of sucked at the beginning, only to grow on you very, very slowly over time. I'm grateful that the chatter around the drama is what brought the novel to my attention, but other than that, hard pass.

Favorite Male Character: Lots of good ones this year, but I'm gonna go with Cang Xuan (Zhang Wan Yi) from Lost You Forever. The conflict he faces between getting enough power to protect the people he loves the most and that power making him incompatible with those loved ones is so compelling, and his yearning for Xiao Yao even when she's right in front of him is wrenching. Full disclosure, I also just really love the sound of his voice

Favorite Female Character: This could easily have gone to Li Susu (TTEOTM), Xiao Yao (LYF), or Ren Ruyi (AJTL), but I'm gonna go with Bai Lu's Xiang Xue Ning in The Story of Kunning Palace. Something I really loved about this character was just how jaded Xue Ning really was, even in her second go round at life. Yeah, she wants to make amends for the harm done in her previous rise to power, but that has hardly turned her into a good--or even pleasant--person. Instead, she's incredibly skeptical and still plays most things ice cold, especially with her family. As a bonus, we got plenty of Bai Lu's fantastic side eye as she basically had to do high school all over again when she gets called into the palace despite her very best efforts not to be.

Favorite Ship: Ren Ruyi and Yuan Zhao from A Journey to Love have got to be it. They balance each other out so well, and over the course of the drama, learn to communicate effectively with each other whenever they have a problem. They also recognize that not all problems can be solved by ~love~, which makes their relationship even more compelling when they decide to prioritize each other in a way that respects what the other wants from life.

Favorite Secondary Ship: Little princess Yang Ying and Yuan Lu absolutely broke stole my heart in A Journey to Love. Doomed love even more than the main OTP, these two's youthful romance was such much fun to watch, especially as they egged their respective mentors on in their own romance. Yang Ying's recognition that her first love did not have to be her only love is also something I always love to see, even as it broke my heart that (spoiler) she and Yuan Lu never really had a chance at an HEA. Their relationship really exemplified a key theme of this drama: that you should love the people you love while they're still with you because tomorrow is never promised.

Non-2023 Dramas that I Watched: Two non-2023 dramas I watched that deserve a special shout out are Love and Redemption and The Sword and the Brocade. Love and Redemption prepared me to really appreciate the big swings that Till the End of the Moon took, and The Sword and the Brocade went a little way to filling the Story of Ming Lan shaped hole in my heart. The Sword and the Brocade also had absolutely searing critique of the concubine system, even as it featured one of the most genuinely good-hearted FLs I've seen. Would recommend both!

Most Looking Forward To: Yes, I'm a sucker and the censors (not to mention the characters) will probably break my heart, but I'm still crossing my fingers that Lost You Forever S2 will live up to the promise of part one. See above: still a CDrama beginner, have not yet had all the optimism knocked out of me. Sue me.

[salt-hag]

fall 2024 cdrama + kdrama check-in list

haven't done a check in/wrap up post of dramas watched in a while so wanted to do one before the end of the year ✨ hoping to have finished a lot of these and have a list of reviews at around new years

dramas watched

story of kunning palace (cdrama)

8.5/10 for me. This is my year of loving costume period cdramas and I kicked it off with sokp. Really enjoyed the time travel/redemption plot line and Bai Lu as a somewhat reformed evil empress.

the legend of shenli (cdrama)

9/10 for me. A little slow in places but this goes down in my list of fav drama romances. Badass and admirable female lead and quirky oddball male lead who simps for her (as he should). I found the fantasy somewhat goofy but lovably so. This is a *comfort* show for me now. Has the best happy ending/post finale last episode I've seen up to now.

the double (cdrama)

9.5/10 for me for the sheer melodrama. Is this technically a better drama than the legend of shenli? No, of course not. Is it entertaining as hell? Yes, so it's gets a .5 boost. Costume period one-woman's-revenge, absolutely delicious. Hilarious male lead who loves the drama of it all and is very handsome. I was telling a friend about this and she was confused. Weren't you just watching this earlier this year? No, dear reader, she had the revenge stuff confused with Story of Kunning Palace. I have a type, and that is conniving women getting what they want in beautiful period costumes while a handsome, competent man answers their beck and call and simps all the while.

currently watching

RIGHT NOW: Are You the One (cdrama) - ep 22/40

This started out as costume period brain popcorn for me but now there's intrigue and back-stabbing and a clever woman out-scheming men in power so. yeah i'm enjoying this i guess whatever...

RIGHT NOW: Cinderella at 2am (kdrama) - ep 3/10

I haven't watched a kdrama in a while and I wanted a comforting, brain-popcorn modern rom com. I think this will deliver.

My Journey to You (cdrama) - on ep 20/24

I am DETERMINED to finish the gorgeous scheming assassin ladies period drama. I WILL. It's just the main plotline made me snooze a bit at ep 20 so it's taking me a while.

The Princess Royal (cdrama) - ep 6/40

Snowfall (cdrama) - 17/24

dropped or on hold (I'm a mood watcher)

[on hold] Love Like the Galaxy part 2 (cdrama) - ep 12/29

[on hold] Meet you at the blossom (uncensored period BL, Thai) - ep 4/12

[on hold] Lost You Forever season one (cdrama) - ep 17/39

[on hold] In Blossom (cdrama) - ep 22/32

Another one I am DETERMINED to finish!! But I don't vibe with the main actress. I loved the one who played the female lead before the body swapping. Otherwise this drama has everything I would ever want: costume period murder mysteries, a very beautiful man who devotedly simps for his nice wife, a clever female lead with quirky interests, BODY SWAPPING AND IDENTITY SHENANIGANS.

[can't decide to drop or not] Only For Love (cdrama) - ep 21/36

I can't really stand modern-setting cdramas, I'm sorry. I was watching this one for Wang Hedi. I somehow made it to episode 21 despite the cringe. Might finish watching this while pmsing.

[can't decide] Tale of the Nine-tailed 1938 (kdrama) - ep 9/12

Idk why but I just found the plotline kind of boring?? I loved the extra character and world lore. But I had problems with the original TotNT too so.

[dropped] Till the End of the Moon (cdrama) - ep 20/40

This was gorgeous but I like sweet romance, I'm sorry. This was too dramatic for even me. I wanted Bai Lu to love her problematic malewife!!

[dropped] Miss Night and Day (kdrama) - ep 2/16

Loved the concept, found the show too painful to watch.

____

anyway hoping to get back into kdramas this fall or in 2025. we'll see!!

[kalena-henden]

These are all the shows I’ve watched in 2023 so far...

finished:

Alchemy of Souls: Light and Shadow - Fantastic finish to the story! Top 3 Kdrama.

Unlock My Boss - Chae Jong Hyeop shines as an aspiring actor who winds up taking the roll of a lifetime as the new CEO of a tech company when the soul of the previous CEO gets stuck inside his phone. Wild concept but fun found family, corporate intrigue, and a sweet little romance that brews between the young new CEO and his assistant.

The Forbidden Marriage - Top 5 Kdrama. If you want romance, comedy, angst, and alot of love, this is your show. I had so much fun and was rewatching while it was airing.

King2Hearts - An unlikely romance sparks between a South Korean prince and a top North Korean (female) soldier leads to potential reconciliation between their two countries that is threatened by a crazy arms dealer whose cover is a magician. This a James Bond inspired, enemies to lovers, family dynasty, international war games drama. The unhinged villain has his own lair and minions but the only one who can match his off kilter mind games is the wily prince, who is equal parts smart, asshole, and lovable. The North Korean soldier is one of the only one’s who can go toe-to-toe with the prince to eventually bring out the best in him as they fall in love that is literally ride or die. There’s also a secondary romance with the princess and a royal guard. I loved parts of this and liked the rest.

Poong the Joseon Psychiatrist (S1 & S2) - I’m a big Kim Min Jae fan. He shines as a medical doctor who experiences trauma that drives him to suicide. He is saved by a passing noble woman and a short while later he saves her from suicide due to her own trauma. Both of them end up working at a rural clinic with another exiled doctor to treat the locals physical needs but also begin a new practice to treat people’s mental health needs as they try to recover from their own traumas. I loved S1 but S2 brought on some annoying new antagonistic love interests. It is a happy ending though.

Lighter & Princess - A poor computer programing genius clashes with an ambitious rich girl in his college classes but sparks fly when they vie for control of the school’s entrepreneurial programming club leading to unlikely but hard won romance. This was excellent. 

Love to Hate You - A brash entertainment lawyer gets entangled with a romance actor who keeps his distance from women due to a trauma. A bit over the top, lots of role reversals but also fun. I liked it but didn’t love it. 

A Very Secret Service (Au Service De La France) - This a dry, witty French comedy about espionage and spies in the 1960s. Quirky and enjoyable with good character development. 

Taxi Driver (S1 & S2) - Lee Je Hoon leads this team of vigilantes who try to root out the evils of society for individuals in crisis that they were never able to do for themselves. The cases are mostly based on real life events. Violent, emotional, satisfying. I love this found family. 

Crash Course in Romance - A beloved, handsome math academy professor falls for the single mother of one of his students leading to an uproar amongst the parents. There’s a cute love triangle with the daughter and her classmates (I’m Team Geonhu) and a unsatisfying serial killer plotline. 

Gaus Electronics - This is an over the top, quirky, office comedy. It’s so crazy, especially at the beginning, that it’s almost too much but it’s smart and fun with an unlikely enemies to lovers romance that is quite sweet.

The Heavenly Idol - A high priest from another realm in the middle of a battle with the devil unexpectedly switches places with a failed idol grasping for his last chance at success. Kim Min Kyu is a great fish out of water but the story is a bit all over the place. I like his sweet healing romance with the band’s new manager though.

The King: Eternal Monarch - Parallel worlds, time travel, doppelgängers. Lee Min Ho, Kim Go Eun, Woo Do Hwan. There were some great concepts and good execution but it lacked the follow through to make it truly satisfying. 

Dr. Romantic (S1, S2, & S3) - Top 10 Kdrama. A small town hospital where a visionary maverick doctor, Master Kim, mentors 30-something year old doctors with his unorthodox methods while they fall in love with each other. It has a huge found Doldam Family with the hospital workers of all ages and their complex relationships with each other. I love this show!

Our Blooming Youth - Park Hyung Shik leads this Joeson-era mystery romance. It’s okay but it’s too slow and doesn’t develop the characters enough. It should have been 16 episodes, not 20. 

Call It Love - Introverted adults in their 30s try to overcome childhood trauma inflicted by their parents as they unwittingly fall in love while working together. This one is slower, complex and compelling. It’s one of my favorite dramas of 2023.

Please Don’t Date Him - I watched this solely for Lee Junyoung as a young firefigher who falls in love with a woman who works with A.I. in home appliances and stumbles upon a government spy program. It’s a light comedy if you’re looking for fluff. 

Find Me in Your Memory - An actress who’s lost her memory and an anchorman who can never forget fall in love. I mainly watched this because of the actors cameo as these character in Sh**ting Stars. It was okay.

Healer - I know this is a fan fave but I liked it, didn’t love it. 

Bora! Deborah (True to Love) - So much potential but a bit of a let down. I like both Yoo In Na and Yoon Hyun Min.

When the Weather is Fine - I was here for the small town romance with the local bookstore owner and the fun found family of their all ages book club. However, the last third of the story wallowed in the revealed family trauma too much and lost sight of everything else. 

Tale of the Nine-Tailed 1938 - When this was on point, it was compelling, funny and so much darn fun! There was bromance, romance, adventure, healing, friendship, and battles both personal and national. It had some slow times but overall Lee Dong Wook was clearing having the time of his life and Kim Bum stole the show as Lee Rang came into his own. 

Thirty But Seventeen - 10/10. Top 5 Kdrama. A teenage violinist gets into an accident and wakes up from her coma 13 year later to find the world vastly different. This was so much darn fun, great found family, cute romance, angst, and healing. Even when it was sad, I was so happy watching it. Shin Hye Sun, Yang Se Jong, and Ahn Hyo Seop are fantastic!

Something in the Rain -  I wanted so much to like noona romance with Son Ye Jin and Jung Hae In but man did it drag. Her mother is especially heinous. I completed it which was difficult.

See You in My 19th Life - I weirdly dislike-watched this in one weekend cause I wanted to see what all the fuss was about. It was okay. There were some interesting things about it with the relationships and past lives stuff but not for me.

King the Land - Lee Junho acted his heart out in this fluffy romcom and Im Yoona was a worthy partner in crime. I came to have a good time and they gave it to me. 

Heartbeat - Ok Taecyeon did a good job of carrying this unsteady vampire show that had some good moments but didn’t deliver on its premise. 

Legend of the Blue Sea - I really do like Lee Min Ho. He has a casual charisma that is undeniable. Jun Ji Hyun was an excellent literal fish out of water. While I liked the intertwining of the past and present lives, the story never quite hit the mark for me. Liked it, didn’t love it.

Never Have I Ever (S4) - This show never let me down. A satisfying finale season!

Meteor Garden (2018) - I needed more Dylan Wang after Love Between Fairy and Devil. This was an unexpected crazy fun ride. It was so outrageous at times. It inspired me to one day watch all the adaptations of Boys Over Flowers, as I’ve already seen 3 now. 

Hidden Love - A slow burn, age gap romance between a college girl and her older brother’s longtime friend. I really liked this but I wasn’t in love with it like everyone seems to be.

Nadiya’s Time to Eat - A fave Great British Bake Off winner’s cooking show. Inspiring.

Nadiya Bakes - And her baking show too.

Shadow and Bone (S2) - I think it improved on some things from the first season but they really crammed the second two books into one and some of Six of Crows too. Still a bit too fast-paced but I enjoyed it.

The Night Agent - An FBI agent gets an emergency call that starts a race to find a government mole and protect the informant. I binged this almost straight through. A good watch.

Queen Charlotte - This Bridgerton spinoff sheds light on royal power dynamics, mental illness, and social and racial divides.

LuLaRich - This is a compelling documentary on the rise and fall of Lularoe’s multi-level-marketing scheme. A must watch.

Sweet Magnolias (S3) - This is a comfort drama. I’m just here checking in to see how the little town is doing.

Star Trek: Picard (S3) - Showrunner Terry Matalas brings some of his 12 Monkeys (the tv series) magic to the final reuniting of the Next Generation cast while setting up a compelling potential Legacy spinoff.

My Lovely Liar - I enjoyed the romance between Hwang Minhyun and Kim So Hyun but the show itself is okay.

Destined With You - Magic, Curses, Past Lives, Symbolism, Spells, Fated Love. I thought it was going to be the next great fantasy romance but it chucked the fantasy halfway through and left a million unanswered questions at the end. At least we got a decent romance, even if the story lost its way. A big disappointment for me but I would recommend to see Rowoon acting his heart out in a cute romance.

The Uncanny Counter 2 - I was back to see the demon hunters fight for their humanity and loved ones again.

Celebrity - A solid takedown of influencer culture with mystery, intrigue, and a tiny bit of romance.

It’s Okay Not To Be Okay - I’ve been hearing about how good this drama is forever and it lived up to expectations. Great characters and development. I was surprised at how funny it was and enjoyed the romance too. Highly recommend.

True Beauty - This has been on my list for a long time and I needed more Cha Eun Woo while waiting for new episodes of A Good Day To Be A Dog. A great high school romcom with angst about a girl bullied for her acne getting a second chance at a new school who turns into a ‘goddess’ when she learns to do her own makeup. Love the romance, bromance and friendships! I love the second male lead as a character but never got second lead syndrome because I loved the main romance. I enjoyed the whole way through. 

Beckham - A docuseries about soccer (football to the rest of the world) star David Beckham that made you feel like you had front row seat to his past triumphs and struggles through the reflective lens of the present.

[vrnicky]

What are Polvora; Gunner; Kroy; Den like personality wise? Their hobbies? Favorite animals? Along with any other information you’re willing to share about these four!

Are you gonna seduce one? Lol

Pólvora: is quite what you expect him to be, cold, awkward and really quiet, he just.. listens and observes. Around people he grew fond of/comfortable around he jokes a little, he has a darker humor. Totally the "my trauma my jokes" type of guy. He talks to Sombra in private and you'd be surprised by the information he could gather from Sombra...

His hobby could be reading or just meditation, maybe some videogames with the others but he gets pity if he doesn't win. He also sometimes helps with a small garden, avoiding the kitchen.

His favorite animal I would say is.. the wolf! Any surprise? Lol. They could be lonely but they work better with a group... Yeah, that's him.

He takes medication for the lvl, he's in a dangerous stage so while also taking the therapy, he takes medication, his old self is coming back.. or that's what everyone says.

Gunner: oh boy.. a tease, a mess and flirty. He's such a gremlin, a chaotic one. Always teasing and bothering the ones he likes because he can be a threat to the ones he doesn't trust or he just doesn't like lol. He's in a neutral state but still going to therapy and on medication to keep him stable, yeah.. he has some mood swings due to that.

His hobby is carving on wood with his knife, he finds it.. weirdly distracting and has made figures with it!! No one understands what it is except him. Oh and watching/reading romance novels or kdramas lol

His favorite animal gotta be a polar bear, aggressive but nice looking! Gunner what

He wasn't gonna take the medication, was really opposed to the therapy but the royals forced everyone, his gang forced him to take the medication since they also took some at some point...

Kroy: he's just a guy, he's the type of guy to try and joke but when someone doesn't laugh he gets so awkward and nervous, he's trying his best. He isn't exactly in the gang of Torment but sometimes visits them. He can actually be more serious than you think and make you regret your decisions as he doesn't hesitate to fight, that's when he forgets he is awkward lol.

His hobby is surprisingly baking sweets and playing videogames, he's the one that invites Polvora to play and also the one that suffers the consequences of winning against him lol

His favorite animal mmm.. I think the dog! A german shepherd to be more specific! Yeah yeah, common but he just likes them.

He's the one telling the gang to do what the royals say, suggestions and everything. He wasn't that affected as them but he wants them well.

Den: in short, he's a horror Sans that didn't have a good change, Zen wanted to change after what happened, Den.. doesn't, he was forced to change. He is more bold and crude in terms of humor and speaking, also quite scary... he suffers from headaches but no memory loss, at the moment.

His favorite hobby.. he likes photography, capturing moments.. he looks like a stalker but he isn't!! I think. He just takes photos because he has a sight problem due to having just one eye light.

His favorite animal, the grizzly bear, because he's aggressive and a total threat if you put him on alert... Like him.

In difference at Zen, he doesn't have memory loss at the moment but big migraines, and his right eye light is totally gone, no magic could regenerate it again. He didn't want to change his behavior or appearance but was forced to because it was "healthy". (He didn't know he was going to die)

[fakeyellow]

what exactly is the plot of the drama they're filming? if it's too spoilery, how about just a short description like you'd see when browsing netflix? and we already know it's historical, but is it more romance/court intrigue/melodrama?

It's going to be based on the actual kdrama The Red Sleeve, which admittedly I haven't watched haha. Long post ahead based on recaps I've read:

The title refers to the red sleeve cuff worn by court ladies to represent how they are the king's women. They are similar to ladies in waiting.

Essentially, it's the story of a Joseon dynasty king (Crown Prince Yi San who becomes King Jeongjo) and a court lady (Deok Im). It's based on historical records that mention how the court lady rejected the king twice, and how the king loved the court lady dearly. It has a mixture of romance, light-hearted shenanigans, melodrama, and courtly intrigue (i.e. everything you mentioned).

Deok Im is a smart and free-spirited orphan who was brought into the palace to become a court lady. As a child, she unknowingly rejects Yi San and when they coincidentally reunite as adults, she rejects his advances because she wants to live her life as freely as she can (while being a court lady) as opposed to the heavily restricted life of a royal concubine. The drama dives into the lives of court ladies by showing Deok Im's journey.

Yi San is the son of the allegedly mentally ill Prince Sado, who was ultimately executed by his own father, King Yeongjo (this is historically accurate). Because of this, Yi San faces difficulty with his own emotional trauma, his relationship with his grandfather, and trouble regarding whether he can inherit the throne or not.

Despite many barriers, they develop a strong relationship with each other and Deok Im struggles between choosing her love or her freedom.

SPOILERS FOR THE ENDING:

In the last few episodes of the drama, Deok Im eventually decides to be with Yi San, now King Jeongjo, and becomes his concubine. They no longer have to hide their love but now she is unable to leave the palace or hang out with her dear friends (fellow court ladies). She loves him but she's also lost a fundamental part of her identity. Her first child with the King falls ill and dies, and the resulting trauma of this leads to Deok Im dying while pregnant with her second child. Before she dies, she requests to see her friends but her wish is not granted. She then asks the king to please pass her by in their next lives so that she can live her life freely, and she dies.

Years later, the king (who's shown to never have fully recovered from her death) falls ill. He dreams of Deok Im and he decides to stay with her forever (and die) rather than wake up.

I'll be adapting the drama a lot more for Female Lee Seol than I will for Male Lee Seol.

[tellywoodtrash]

hi TT, this might be random but i'm looking for something new to watch so do you have any recommendations for angst filled romance dramas? maybe enemies to lovers but that's optional.

Hi friend!

Are you looking for Tellywood specific recs? In that case, I have just super old shows to tell you about, like all of the early 4 Lions canon (IPK, Qubool Hai, Ishqbaaaz, etc.) or Sony shows like Kaisa Yeh Pyaar Hai, Ek Duje Ke Vaaste, Katha Ankahee, etc.

More varied recs, including Thai BL, Kdrama, English series: Bad Buddy (Thai BL), Hometown Cha Cha Cha (Kdrama), Semantic Error (Korean BL), Bridgerton (S2), Military Prosecutor Doberman (Kdrama), Adult Trainee (Kdrama; eps 3 - 5), Dr. Romantic (Kdrama), The Eclipse (Thai BL), The Acolyte, The Sign (Thai BL), Cutie Pie (Thai BL), Sh**ting Stars (Kdrama), Kiseki: Dear to Me (Taiwanese BL; particularly the second couple omg, hit so so so good - not enemies to lover, but unrequited to requited), Cursed in Love (Japanese), This Love Doesn't Have Long Beans (Thai BL; not one, but TWO enemies to lovers couples!!!!), Red White and Royal Blue, Love Next Door (Kdrama that just started over the weekend - more frenemies to lovers).

I think these should keep you occupied for now! Enjoy!!!

[ryusunmoon365]

20 Historical KDramas That Will Take You on an Echanting Journey

Briefly introduce the popularity and appeal of Korean dramas (Kdramas) worldwide.Highlight the enduring fascination with historical Kdramas, which transport viewers to different eras and cultures.Mention the intention to present a curated list of 20 historical Kdramas that have captivated audiences with their compelling storylines, stunning visuals, and exceptional performance

"Moon Embracing the Sun" (2012)Set in the Joseon era, this drama tells the story of a crown prince and a shaman who were childhood sweethearts, separated by political conspiracies.Discuss the intense romance, intricate plot twists, and stellar performances that earned it critical acclaim and a massive fan following

2."Scarlet Heart: Ryeo" (2016)Delve into the time-traveling adventures of a modern-day woman who finds herself transported back to the Goryeo dynasty.Explore the heart-wrenching love triangle and the political intrigues that make this drama a rollercoaster ride of emotions..

3." Empress Ki" (2013-2014 Highlight the epic tale of a Goryeo-born woman who rises to become the powerful Empress Ki of the Yuan dynasty. Discuss the breathtaking cinematography, strong character development, and the historical accuracy that make this drama a must-watch.

4."The Moon That Embraces the Sun" (2012)Present the story of a crown prince who falls in love with a shaman, leading to a forbidden romance amidst palace politics.

5."Love in the Moonlight" (2016)Explore the blossoming romance between a crown prince and a cross-dressing eunuch during the Joseon era.Discuss the refreshing take on gender roles, the endearing chemistry between the leads, and the delightful humor that make this drama a fan favorite.

6." Jewel in the Palace" (2003)Highlight the inspiring story of a young woman who becomes a royal physician during the Joseon era.Discuss the meticulous attention to historical details, the strong female protagonist, and the cultural significance of this drama

7." Mr. Sunshine" (2018) Set in the late 19th century, this drama follows the journey of a Korean-born U.S. Marine officer who returns to his homeland.Discuss the grand scale production, the complex characters, and the exploration of Korea's turbulent history

8."The Princess' Man" (2011) Present the tragic love story between the daughter of a powerful nobleman and the son of her father's sworn enemy during the Joseon era. Discuss the intense performances, the political intrigue, and the poignant portrayal of love amidst a backdrop of her father's sworn enemy during the Joseon era.

9."Queen In Hyun's Man" (2012)Explore the time-travel romance between a 17th-century scholar and an aspiring actress from the present day. Discuss the charming chemistry between the leads, the clever blend of historical

"10.Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth" (2016-2017)Present the story of an elite group of young men who become the legendary Hwarang warriors during the Silla dynasty.

11."Dong Yi" (2010)Explore the life of a commoner who rises to become a concubine and eventually the mother of a king during the Joseon era.Discuss the meticulous attention to historical accuracy, the strong female lead, and the emotional depth of this drama.

12."Sungkyunkwan Scandal" (2010)Present the tale of a girl who disguises herself as a boy to enter a prestigious all-male academy during the Joseon era.

13."The Great Queen Seondeok" (2009)Highlight the historical epic that tells the story of Queen Seondeok, the first female ruler of the Silla dynasty.Discuss the grand scale production, the strong female characters, and the exploration of power struggles and political maneuvering.

14." "The Princess' Man" (2011)Present the tale of star-crossed lovers from rival noble families during the Joseon era.Discuss the intense performances, the political conspiracies, and the tragic romance that captivated viewer

15."Iljimae" (2008)Explore the adventures of a masked vigilante who fights for justice during the Joseon era.Discuss the swashbuckling action, the charismatic lead, and the exploration of themes such as identity and social inequality.

16.""The Painter of the Wind" (2008)Present the story of a talented female painter who disguises herself as a man to pursue her passion during the Joseon era.

17." The Princess' Man" (2011)Explore the forbidden love story between a princess and a nobleman during the Joseon era.Discuss the breathtaking visuals, the political intrigue, and the heart-wrenching romance that made this drama a fan favorite

18." Arang and the Magistrate" (2012)Present the supernatural romance between a ghost and a magistrate during the Joseon era.Discuss the unique blend of fantasy and historical elements, the captivating performances, and the suspenseful plot twists.

19. "The Rebel" (2017)Highlight the story of a former prince who becomes a bandit leader during the Joseon era, fighting against corruption and tyranny.Discuss the action-packed sequences, the exploration of social justice, and the charismatic performances that make this drama a thrilling watch.

20. "Six Flying Dragons" (2015-2016)Explore the epic historical drama that chronicles the rise of six influential figures during the early Joseon era.Discuss the intricate storytelling, the stellar ensemble cast, and the exploration of power, ambition, and loyalty.

Conclusion

Recap the 20 historical Kdramas that have been presented, showcasing their diverse settings, captivating storylines, and exceptional performances.Encourage readers to embark on an enchanting journey through these dramas and experience the rich history and culture of Korea in a unique and entertaining way.

[silviakundera]

silvia's drama watching queue for 2024: a somewhat random assortment of stuff that was rec'd and for some reason feels it might scratch an itch

in progress - started & I swear I'm gonna finish

* Empresses in the Palace - I'M DOING IT BABYYYYY. 9 episodes down. Yes, the emperor looks like your grandpa and so far has the personality of stale toast. But as long as I don't imagine him naked (no, grandpa, no! it's time for your nap!) then it has this vibe of those Masterpiece Theatre productions I watched as a preteen and I already am recognizing tons of famous tropes (some elements of Job of Imperial Concubine already 3x funnier). Also I appreciate a horror story with a high body count and we have 3 victims already 👌

* Derailment - Modern cdrama that I know is great. I'm 3 ep in, just gotta be in the right mood

* Legend of Fei - Wuxia; got distracted halfway through last year but love the 2 lead actors. Not their best work but still.

* Fireworks of my Heart - what if china did a modern Persuasion adaption but he's a fireman and she's a nurse, basically. kinda. idk man, it has those same vibes for me. I like both lead actors (yes I'm on the YY Can Act Sometimes, When He Feels Like It defense squad. fight me). I'm like 1/3 of the way thru, need to be in that melancholy romantic wallow mood. But mmm I do love second chance + pining.

* Secret Romantic Guesthouse - a wild kdrama appears! Historical drama about saving your inn from debtors by finding a missing royal & turning him over to be murdered. you know, just girlboss things. 💁 Some mystery, some romance. I like the FL. Not much slapstick humor or people screaming at each other so far, which will make me tap out. 4 episodes in and it's quite watchable. I'll probably finish.

not started

* The Left Ear because why not? teens being realistically messy 👌

* Go Ahead - so this may sound strange but I've been holding back on this one a long time, until my work hours were less insane & I can focus. Universally beloved, one of the top cdramas. I'll sink my teeth into this Modern in 2024.

* The Blessed Girl cause it sounds like my jam

* Fake It Till You Make It - modern romance that I've seen rave reviews for. Pretty confident I'll love it.

* Gone with the Rain cause dangermousie's posts seduced me. Costume drama.

* West out of Yeman/Parallel World - multi-verse modern with a lil sci fi? I love multiverse and time travel \o/

* Wonderland of Love - historical romance with generals and some court intrigue, a happy ending. On paper, my kind of stuff. But will I make it thru 40 ep depends on how much I vibe with the otp

Maybe

Choice Husband (12 eps romantic comedy, then turns into blood and manipulation? sounds intriguing)

Moonlight - modern workplace drama, editor/author. Reviews are mixed but I have affection for how cdrama scriptwriters will obsessively research a topic in the style of an AO3 fic writer. I expect to learn more than I ever wanted to know about the toils of being an editor.

Marry My Husband - I don't watch many kdramas but I turn up for tropey reborn every time. If they deliver on the promise of a ridiculous but entertaining romance revenge then I'm there.

[dangermousie]

Dramas for the first half of 2023

Now that we are six months into 2023, time to do one of these posts. I am gonna include both Korean and Chinese dramas, because why not and any drama I even checked out is on it.

DRAMAS WATCHED

29. Romance of Twin Flower  (China) - make it cease existing! My favorite het web novel got murdered and then had its grave spat on.

28. Dominator of Martial Gods  (China) - if MST3K still existed, this drama would be prime material for it.

27. Wanru’s Journey  (China) - acting. Try it!

26. Royal Rumors  (China) - they tried acting. But forgot to try having a functional screenplay on top.

25. The Last Princess  (China) - acting is nonexistent and the story is trash but it never aspired to be what it wasn’t and was kinda cute.

24. Oasis  (Korea) - great acting in a story with a screenplay that goes round and round fruitlessly like a hamster in a cage.

23. The Trust  (China) - the OTP in this one swaps bodies but it would have been better for everyone if whoever made this and an actual competent writer swapped theirs.

22. Snow Eagle Lord  (China) - yet another drama in which Xu Kai does his best to keep acting opposite a wooden costar and through a terrible screenplay. There is something seriously wrong with that man’s career choices.

21. Heartbeat  (Korea) - the good: it’s harmless. The bad: it’s harmless.

20. Back from the Brink  (China) - ummm the people are pretty? And if I were 10 I’d be all about this show but as is...

19. Joseon Attorney  (Korea) - slightly less fun than reading a legal treatise.

18. The Starry Love  (China) - the definition of a xianxia playing it safe and pastel; I did love the secondary couple a lot but it was not enough to save that snoozefest of a drama.

17. Chong Zi  (China) - badly acted and a screenplay that somehow manages to be both repetitive and disjointed. But I am a sucker for the shizunfucker trope so here we are.

16. Island  (Korea) - a mess but Kim Nam Gil is hot with a sword.

15. Circle of Love  (China) - rationally, a hot mess. But so entertaining and addicting and fall of make outs of epicness!

14. Lady Durian  (Korea) - makjang from the Queen of Makjang and with that scrumptious cast! This is gonna be GOOD!

13. The Forbidden Marriage  (Korea) - sweet and oddly charming despite nobody in it bothering to act much.

12. Pledge of Allegiance  (China) - the way they had to edit it likely due to censorship made it less than it what could have been but still more than most dramas this year.

11. Choice Husband (China) - delicious cliches and tropes and angst in the rain!

10. Hidden Love  (China) - to make ME of all people to care about a fluffy modern is a bona fide miracle but the two mains are chemistry machines who portray longing so well.

9. Gone with the Rain  (China) - wildly uneven but our heroine and the sexy general she eventually chooses are pure gold!

8. The Secret Romantic Guest House (Korea) - how to do youth sageuk right. Everything about this just works!

7. Alchemy of Souls: Light and Shadow  (Korea) - it has flaws but is so gorgeous and full of longing and grief and everything good!

6. Tale of the Nine Tailed 1938  (Korea) - a sequel/prequel that is almost as good as the original, how often does that happen?

5. See You In My 19th Life  (Korea) - wacky and grieving, delicate and odd, this is everything I ever want in a kdrama.

4. Call It Love  (Korea) - a truly exquisite story of trauma and loneliness and healing and love.

3. Till the End of the Moon  (China) - gloriously messy in every way this is just MORE. The ending is enraging and there are issues but when it hits, it hits so hard the rest of it does not matter - the dark characters, the dysfunctional love story, the battles, the insane visuals, the EVERYTHING of it. This is what fantasy should be like.

2. Chang Feng Du/Destined  (China) - came out of nowhere to own my heart via its story of growing up and finding love and slow organic relationship building and keeping your soul in a world of horrors.

1. The Ingenuous One  (China) - the best one, so I am gonna talk about it below.

FAVORITE DRAMA

The Ingenuous One - so impossibly solid, from acting to visuals to screenplay to EVERYTHING! Adult characters with adult issues and choices, both moral dilemmas and battles equally compelling. The love stories, the friendships, the shades of grey. This is utterly and completely adult.

WORST DRAMA

Romance of the Twin Flower - if I could make one drama cease to exist, this would be it.

FAVORITE MALE CHARACTER

Tantai Jin, Till The End of the Moon - the best character this year hands down - by turns (and timelines) unhinged monster, a contained saint, a victim of abuse trying to attain being viewed as human, a schemer, a ruler, grief personified, curiosity and monstrosity and nobility all mingled.

Runner up: Jang Uk, Alchemy of Souls - sunshine boy gone dark and grieving, but still with that same core of steel.

FAVORITE FEMALE CHARACTER

Shim Woo Joo, Call It Love - she’s damaged and impulsive and relationship-phobic and revenge driven and glorious!

Runner Up:  Shu Ya Nan (The Ingenuous One) - allowed to be tough and dark and with her own agenda and not a member of a good sect and just so cool.

NEEDS TO BE MURDERED

Han Dong Jin’s Mom, Call It Love - that woman was horrifying and the source of so much of his trauma; a real realistic monster petty in all ways except for the damage she inflicted.

FAVORITE SHIP

Gu Jiusi/Liu Yuru, Chang Feng Du - wholesome and helping each other grow and talking it out but also there is blood feeding and midnight rescues and everything. They are good but not in the least boring.

Runner Up: Woo Joo/Dong Jin, Call It Love - two wounded souls finding such slow but such amazing healing with each other.

FAVORITE SECONDARY OTP

Su Ming Yu/Ke Menglan, The Ingenuous One - there’s actually been a lot of good secondary OTPs this year (General x Fox in TTEOTM, Investigator x Princess, TIO, Rang/Mermaid, TOTNT1938) but these two owned my heart - gentleman merchant x gambling hostess ftw.

NOTP

Romance of Twin Flower - they took my favorite het novel OTP, smart and coldblooded and forces of nature and turned them into THAT?

SHIRTLESSNESS AWARD

Xiao Hong Ye, Circle of Love - guy was a terrible abuser but those pecs were the real sin!

CRAZIEST FUNFEST

Circle of Love - screenplay written by rabid monkeys and populated by a bunch of psychos but such ridiculous, irresistible fun!

FAVORITE SCENE

Tantai Jin confronting Li Susu in jail, Till the End of the Moon - the energy, the intensity, the darkness the EVERYTHING.

BIGGEST CRUSH

Li Gong Quan, The Ingenuous One - yeah whatever, I realize he’s a minor character but I loved him so much! The whole having to bring down your benefactor who’s gone evil tho you are in love with his daughter should have been a whole other drama!

BEST SCENE STEALER CHARACTER

Chen Wende, Gone with the Rain - most of this drama is not that exciting but whenever his King of Trolls hot general shows up, I sit up and pay attention. I am 35 eps deep because of him.

NEEDS A SEQUEL

The Ingenuous One - I am dying to see what happens to royal investigator and supposedly dead princess, how our OTP will travel the world, the merchant and his lady, Ten Taels and his orphans and his girl and just everything. I loved these people so!

NEEDS A DIRECTOR’S CUT

Till the End of the Moon - it was clear they cut a BUNCH in the last third to fit the ridiculous new “40 eps or bust” rule and it would flow so much more smoothly if it was allowed to breathe.

NEEDS SCISSORS TAKEN TO IT

Romance of Twin Flower - it should have been shredded into nonexistence sorry not sorry.

TOO MANY SCISSORS TAKEN TO IT

Pledge of Allegiance - this drama was good but had gaping lacunae where too many scissors were taken to it for censorship reasons; I am surprised even what’s left was allowed to air tbh but still...

TROPE THAT NEEDS TO DIE

Shrill = cute - I see it every year, I hate it every year.

FAVORITE TROPE WE’VE SEEN A LOT OF

Hot Men Whump - come one, TTEOTM alone would fill the quota but we also had CFD, Call It Love, See You in my 19th life etc etc.

BIGGEST DISAPPOINTMENT

Back from the Brink - it’s based on a novel by an author whose other novels (Zhao Yao, Blue Whispers, Mulberry Song) I adore and the novelist was the screenwriter so I was so excited. But it was a juvenile, flat mess that de-powered the heroine and taught me that yeah, sometimes the writer should not adopt their work.

BIGGEST GOOD SURPRISE

Chang Feng Du - I loved the novel but the trailers were a fluffy bland disaster and I checked it out with zero expectations. However, this is a glorious adaptation, a lesson in how to transport a massive novel on screen into slim 40 eps and to account for changes in medium and stricter censorship restrictions for dramas versus books while keeping the essential vibe of the original.

BEST NON-2023 DRAMA I’VE WATCHED IN 2023

The Imperial Doctress (China) - the pining the pining by the Hot Emperor! This is like all my web novel dreams come true!

MOST ANTICIPATED

A Journey to Love/Prisoner of Beauty/My Journey to You/Kunning Palace - maybe one of them will air before the world ends.