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Friend of mine posted this poem on FB, which is about as much reflection I can handle today.
“So long as that woman from the Rijksmuseum
in painted quiet and concentration
keeps pouring milk day after day
from the pitcher to the bowl
the World hasn’t earned
the world’s end.”
—
"Vermeer" by Wislawa Szymborska, Nobel prize laureate (1996).
"Happy Friday" feels a bit off, so all I can say is everyone take good care of yourselves & loved ones.
So let’s talk about Marriage Not Dating! (This will be long.)
I’m really enjoying it! I laughed SO hard at episodes 3 and 4 (more so than I've laughed at a drama ever, I think) from KiTae handing JangMi He’s Just Not That Into You when she wondered why Jinwoon’s character was so hot and cold with her (she could really use that book!) to KiTae crashing their date to JangMi’s victory dance when she finished the jeon to her beating KiTae with a fish. I know a lot of people had issues with Jang Mi’s character because she can certainly go overboard (sneaking over to the restaurant to look for YeoReum– seriously, girlfriend needs to chill) and I do think that at times, she is played a bit broadly like when she walked into KiTae’s apartment and immediately jumped from thing to thing like a child but strangely enough, I don’t find her annoying. I cringe at times at the things she does and says but I don’t think she’s shallow or an airhead which is how I expected them to play her character and I think she’s got some great redeeming factors like she cares a lot about people and she’s earnest and she’s honest. Of course, she usually goes too far with all of those things but we all have our faults.
I also love that she and KiTae are pretty much diametrically opposed when it comes to relationships. I usually have a hard time getting into the main pairing but I love that they both call each other out on their flaws and their banter is so quick, hysterical and brutally honest. You can really see how they can eventually help each other find a middle ground where KiTae isn’t so aloof and guarded and JangMi doesn’t throw herself so completely into her relationships and obsess over her latest paramour. KiTae can definitely be harsh and jerky towards her (although he’s like that with everyone) but I can relate to his character in terms of being very guarded and having your hackles raise when someone gets too close so I can see what motivates his actions even if I don’t agree with them. (He really needs to be nicer to JangMi.) I do wonder how the show plans to have his family eventually accept JangMi now that so much damage has already been done. I loved JangMi calling out Kitae and his family for their rudeness and disregard and Kitae’s mother for her martyrdom (even though it was crazy rude) but I really felt that she went too far bringing the infidelity into it. Some things just need to be left off the table. (Also how does she not realize that everyone in the immediate family around knew?! This is how rich Korean drama families work! The patriarch steps out on his wife all the time and she just deals with it.) I also liked Kitae realizing that the way he treats people is not that different from his mother when he sees how her scolding of JangMi mirrors his own. Also did you notice him following Jang Mi just the way his family does to him? Apple, tree, folks.
And finally, why does KiTae claim to be financially...
OMG GERMANY DID IT =) I was ecstatic and mom and I screamed on top of our lungs when Götze scored^^ The cup stays in Europe and all is well =) I am just so glad they won bc they ARE a team! And there was so much cute after the ceremony with the kids of Klose, Podolski etc… Highlight: Podolski playing with his son in the empty stadium and the remaining German fans cheering for his son <3
Trot Lovers: Soo In and her mom can go to hell! Geun Woo you adorable thing you I’m sorry to say it but you don’t stand a chance against Joon Hyun. I hate the noble idiot route JH is going BUT all hope is not lost! It’ll just show Chun Hee how much she needs him and that she likes him too! But JH I need a word with you… You can’t just break up the adorable makeshift family you created! Just not cool! Drama continues to rock and it gets me right in the heart =) And whenever Eunji sings I’m cutting onions :P
HS King: Oh what a nice cliff-hanger at the end of ep 10!
My heart bleeds for Jin Woo and as assy he behaved towards Min Suk and Soo Young I just want to hug him and give him the affection he so clearly needs! JW is a really interesting character and I’m totally rooting for him though he does things that make it not so easy.
YAAS: I’m gonna miss them so much =( But THANK YOU for busting Yoo Moon Bae! I was screaming at my screen in the last episode whenever he was there -.-
That kiss of Soo Sun and Dae Gu though *rawr*
Joseon Gunman: MOAR! Lee Jun Ki in his gunman clothes is just… unbelievably hot! Also he is very, very pretty! But other than that I like that tensions are running high and I can’t wait for the next episodes =)
Marriage not Dating: This keeps getting better and better! With Gunman my new crack =) Han Groo is AWESOME and her drunk Nemo bit was amazingly hilarious :D And can I just say again how much I love Ki Tae’s grandma! Getting drunk on makgeolli and then sleeping it off at the hospital^^ Let the fun continue!
FTLY: So insane I love it^^ Jang Nara must be the most adorable woman in the whole wide world and you can just root for her character! (I love those glasses)
And can I just say that I was fully expecting Geon to belt out ‘Creep’ when he was singing!^^
High School Love On: ADORABLE! Kim Sae Ron rocks! I just hope they don’t go too much love line and more oppa-dongsaeng bc that would make it more comfortable to watch but we’ll have to see.
Variety:
RM: Oh Ryu Seung Soo you adorable ahjussi :D A nice episode with much cast interaction and bickering and I love it when the guests just blend in like RSS does! You can see that they are on really good terms with each other which makes it seem like he’s been part of he cast for a long time!
Happy Friday, everyone!
I am still on my lakhorn kick, having finished Sanaeha Sunya Kaen. Not the greatest one by any means, but it wasn’t bad.
The happiest note is that I actually am completely caught up with SqueeCapping Fall In Love With (Both Of) Me. I think it’s the first time I managed to post before the next episode! I blame it on the fact that finally we are doing something more than moping and sighing and looking thoughtful. True, the Li family is still a bunch of psycho rich people, but I’m still hoping for a Meteorite Of Doom onto their house.
I also marathoned HSK this week, finishing all 10 episodes in 3 days. Ah, SIG, you are doing a bang-up job, with your expressions and body language. But….will I be beaten if I hope that Jin-woo and Soo-young end up together? Min-seok is a pretty confident stand-alone guy, but I can see how the other two’s internal wounds can be healed by each other. But I don’t want our young executive hockey player with Stalker either.
Joseon Gunman. [sigh]. This one has me glued to my monitor. Sadly, I have not watched ep 8 yet (darn that work/real life!), but I feel bad for his enforced isolation. True, he is a wanted treasonous criminal, but his bangs are so cute! And I’m glad he can confide in at least one other chingu, who is loyal if not the brightest lantern.
Rounding out the rest of my watches: Love Myself Or You as my other TWDrama (thumbs up for the food porn and the likeable characters), Roommate (yes I am lusting after Mama Shin, but with all due respect, he’s at least within a decade of my age ;-) ), Dok Ruk Rim Tang (a lakhorn about a girl who disguises herself as a boy and gets a job on her late father’s estate to find the missing will), and The Night Shift, in case I forget my own language. I still have yet to watch more than a smidgen of Trot Lovers, MND, or YAAS, which finished this week.
Previously, I polled everybody about their eating habits when it comes to a green-based salad. The responses were interesting when looked at from a global point of view. I have another one this week: What do you use as your primary starch? When I cook for myself, my primary meal is usually brown rice (mixed veggies, and mostly beef for my protein). My NYC-raised Italian mom almost always has pasta or noodles, along with that after-meal salad. :-) I imagine other people might use potatoes, or beans, or something. What do you use, if anything?
Anyway, it’s another platelet donation day, as well as a meet-up dinner day for me and another KDrama nut for soondae and bibimbap.
Happy friday beanies!! Thanks to all who answered my question in name that drama.
My work has changed my time table again along with a lot of other things (so no new toddler stories this week). Starting o get nervouse about going to japan on my own on tuesday. Looking forward to it though.
This week has also ben taken over by watching the ninja warrior competition. Very addictive show. Though our assistant now assume thats all me and the good housemate do in the office.
Dramaland:
Marriage not love: still enjoying it. Not to keen on the ex though.
Highschool angel (or what the name was ): cute beginning. Think this one could be enjoyable. Just keep it cute and light.
Monster (with lee min ki) not watched all the way yet but liking it. Also min ki os damn creepy in this.
So, I dropped almost everything! I'm kinda sorta watching Joseon Gunman, though it's more like a few minutes of watching and then the recap. Also, when I just need something in the background, My Dear Cat. I like the two cousins in it, the one who wants to be a celebrity, and the tough jjang girl who is getting shipped with Sungmin's character. Everybody else, I pretty much ignore.
And I'm watching Flower Grandpas Investigation and Hi School Love On! (So, so cute, both of them.) Looking forward to them both tonight.
Still going through Nodame Cantabile. And I found a japanese drama, Jyuui-san, where the main character is a vet. I'm watching for the puppies. :-)
So, Temptation: is that like that Jang Hyuk money drama?
Sigh.
Oh these dramas. To be honest, I only seriously watch High School King. Been going to cinema instead. I saw On My Way with Catherine Deneuve playing the 62 year old restaurant owner Bettie, who suddenly drives out and goes on an adventure of a lifetime, it was hilarious. And then on an open terrace, with sparrows and ice coffee, I saw My week with Marilyn. Also a great movie and how jealous am I at the brits who just have everything lieing around to make movies with – castles, libraries, cars, pubs, parks, old time clothes etc. You know what.... ah, nothing. Such lucky friggin bastards. The scene with horny teenage Eton college boys stuck in there since the age of 8 and Marilyn just walking in – priceless.
High School Savvy .... oh blast. Oh man. He was going to be honest and all. Oh man. How will it ever be ok now? But I hope it will. Honestly, you all have been praising the sister relationship and Yoo-Ah, but I don´t feel anything about her. I tend to even think the story doesn´t need her. It could just be about the big lie. She doesnt have that drive. Min Seok, poor thing. But since he truly likes Soo Young....can´t they please end up together...DON´T START. Just in the drama. I am not saying real life, ok? But in a FANTASY, can´t they? Let´s not do the „But the age gap is in reality big bla bla bla” well, it is not real, so leave it be. That´s why dramas, books, films and make-believe exists.
Oh, in My week with Marilyn the guy was 23 and she was a little over 30... another noona romance! And in Betty, she was 62 and had a one night stand with a 30-year-old and her 10 year old grandchild Charlie saw her glowing and stuff.... now that was weird. How the hell did I end up picking such movies? Huh? K-drama infected movie preferences? But they were sweet, very human movies. Quietly touching. Not some big action...
Seo In Gook I just want to thank you. With a cake and a good photo book or something, for doing such a good job.
I also want to thank the You Are Surrounded team – especially „Gookie”. Agree with the final recaps´ conclusions. I find that maybe Ahn Jae Hyun gained most as a learning experience from such a great ensemble. Now quickly, do a spin-off with Pan Seok in the village and the weirdest crimes ever. Ok?
Next week is Viljandi Folk Music Festival so I won´t be on the net much. 4 days, 4 nights of concerts and party. I have a master Plan. But not sure if it will help me get to every concert. Can´t wait for the fun, so exited!!! (although I am not 20 any more....but I have been running hills and doing interval so to be fast when moving between concert locations. Still by the 4th morning I´ll probably be really out of it. )
Question: if you could send a present to your favorite star or someone you just want to thank, what would it be? And to whome, at this moment?
Hello, happy OT beanies!!
Pretty great week for me, passed the exam and now graduated from college (at least on paper).
Currently watching list:
1. Joseon Gunman: still awesome. Although I don't like PYK treatment to his own sister. But of course he has valid reason if he doesn't want to blow up his secrets and revenge plan. I think the show does pretty nicely until now. LJK is a feast to watch.
2. Fated To Love You: this show never fails to make me laugh... HEUHAHAHA... The ep 5 was freaking hilarious and I really like Jang Hyuk and Jang Na Ra's chemistry. Jang Hyuk is killing it with his Lee Gun and JNR embodies Kim Mi Young well. I never watch the original, but I'm sure many people would love Korean remake. And maybe it's even better than the original.
3. You're All Surrounded: simplistic show with simple plots and characters. Watch it if you already watched the two above. I haven't watch ep 20 yet, but I think overall the show is a letdown. I have high expectations for the show to be funny and great and it delivers neither.
4. KARA Secret Love: It's KARA project in 2013 but just aired last week. I watched Ji Chang Wook part with Park Gyu Ri. Not bad, sometimes funny and JCW really did well in the drama.
Not yet watching other dramas, but planning to catch up Trot Lovers, High School King, and Marriage Not Dating. Also plan to watch It's Okay It's Love, Night Watchman (although still unsure on Yunho), and Three Musketeers.
Travelled home for a cousin’s wedding, apparently the whole family did too.
Family reunions are mostly fun but sometimes just burdensome what with all the drama. Lol I slightly regret coming home because now my very dramatic mother and sisters and basically everybody keep nagging me about getting married. 2 cousins are engaged, the other expecting, 3 others already with kids, one getting married tomorrow, and another in 2weeks. Now I have people setting me up on blind dates which I absolutely hate with passion, lol and they just don’t care(and told me so).
Having a huge family is a good thing, I have a group of people who support me(mostly) and the bad thing : Everybody is in everybody’s business, I mean deep in everyone’s business.
Dramas:
High school king of savvy : Sh*t abouta hit the fan. i think Soo-young is going to take the news of him been an high school student okay, not at first though and might even break up with him because of that, but she would still be on his side, if the beginning of the first episode was any indication. Hopefully, they don’t drag it out for too long.
Trot Lovers : I didn’t like Joon-Hyun at first, but in the last episode, I realized that I was slowly starting to root for him. I’ve jumped ship, now in the first lead’s ship, and as adorable as Geun-woo’s is, his actions lately just seem I don’t know manipulative? *shrugs*
Fated to love you : My new crack, I just love both leads so much. Lee Gun’s cackling at first irritated my ears so much, Lol this episode I found myself laughing along with him, its grown on me already. Please please, drama gods let this drama continue on its current good path, better yet a better path.
YAAS : It ended well, but a lot of questions were left unanswered. But there is one thing I have never been able to understand, why did boots go after Dae-gu again? and after so many years had passed. Dae-gu was going nowhere with his investigation, boots return only helped to blow the case open, I mean I can’t think of any reason why they couldn’t let sleeping dogs lie except “plot continuance”. And as for Dae-gu’s mother, i absolutely think there was no need to kill her because am pretty sure she wouldn’t have talked about who attacked her. And I never got Assemblyman Yoo’s insistence on having Dae-gu killed.
All in all, it was a good drama, not the best and definitely not bad too. Before it premiered, I was expecting a good dose of comedy and police precint hijinks and all that, but all that got tapered down with the whole “mystery” and whatnot.
Marriage not dating : Still giving this a shot, but the female lead just makes it so hard. That girl Jang-Mi has got to get a hold of herself, there was absolutely no reason to bring up the infidelity thing, it was so not her place to do so, girl knows no boundaries whatsoever. But I did love the way she got down after she was done with the pancakes. Oh! I don’t think that waiter...
The funding for polyglit started yesterday! If you are considering donating, sooner is better than later. You can find details and a link at Polyglit[dot]Com. Even if you don't plan on donating, I hope you will look forward to the website launch.
Jinx I thought it was an adorable and heartfelt movie, though it left tears in my eyes, it was not a melodrama, but had some interesting themes. I don't think the acting was stellar, but I would definitely watch it again.
Marriage, not Dating
Probably the best drama on K-drama TV, IMO. The plot is really heating up. I'm a little surprised it isn't being recapped, but I can understand bending time is really a difficult task and that it takes a long time.
Still keeping up with the TW dramas. Haven't really picked up on any new J-dramas, except Nobunaga no Chef 2. OMG. I love it already. It's cheesy with just enough appeal to get me going, plus I like food shows.
And lastly, Idol Hate. I think it needs to be addressed.
Let's get this straight. At least for ME, I do like pretty, but it is SECONDARY to acting ability. I don't care how that pretty came about, and who from, and I don't particularly care how popular an actor is, I just want them to be able to act their heart out on the screen or on stage so I can believe their emotions and what they said is real.
That said, I also understand in order to get funding for a project, you need famous actors and people who will autodraw a crowd. It's the double-side of the industry. The more of a name recognition you have, the more likely one will draw funds. But do I hate the existence of those people for that? I categorically don't.
If they can act, then they can make me happy. Period.
I didn't hate Yoona because she was an idol. I didn't hate Yoona personally. I disliked her in the role of Nodame because I thought her acting ability wasn't to par. And I would say that of any actress or actor, idol or no. Despite that, I can understand why producers wanted to try her out in the role, even if it was a week. They need a big name to bring in the budget for the production.
I'm not going to begrudge people's success, nor their ability to grow in their talent. I've been surprised over and over again, given people chances to grow on me. Seong Yuri (idol), for example, has two horrible, I mean OMG, you can make drinking games out of them dramas she acted horribly in, but I still gave her a chance. And she surprised me in Hong Gil Dong.
Daniel Henney (Non-idol), as much as I love him as a person, I didn't think could act that well. He inserts random smiles when he should be emoting, but then I was proven wrong in My Father.
Idol or no, I'm going to come back to that person on acting ability. The prettiest face can't engage me as much as acting ability. What is the point of hating a group of people anyway? Being a idol doesn't mean one didn't work hard and can't succeed.
Summer’s in full roar with 100 degrees all week long, although I am not complaining – I love the sun and heat.
Trot Lovers – it’s been a while since I’ve been in love equally with the first and second male leads. Eun-ji is adorable, too ~ how will our love triangle work out without even more hurt hearts?
Fated to Love You – there were so many yummy moments mixed in with the complicated relationship in the last episode – why did the runaway shower head scene make me laugh so hard? And then the one-of-a-kind-baby-clothes class, that was precious beyond words. I’m goo goo eyes over Gan. The laugh and the head back, shoulders squared downward stare CEO style – Jang Hyuk does that best. But wait, second lead Daniel, Really? How about other first lead.
Monster (movie) with Lee Min-ki – slated as a thriller, but in my book it borders on horror. It was crazy of me to watch it at midnight. Those eyes. Cold to the depths of hell.
High School Love On is magical.
Temptation – An interesting setup in the first two episodes. Although I’m not sure why Seok-hoon decided to buy Se-young’s time in the end – 3 hrs for $3 -
Jdrama Wacamonotachi – Adult Sibling Chaos works too. What a super powerful cast, I am blown away by the acting. The boxing ring – augh! The Virgin. The return of the second son (Eita). The camcorder message. Ginger pork. The siblings’ discussion about apologies. The lines:
“I don’t’ need a surprise so bad for my heart.’
“Infidelity is unacceptable. No one will be happy.”
“Many ideas and emotions that you can’t measure with your tiny ruler whirl around in this world.”
This drama is my go juice.
Check out my ongoing posts for Korean Lessons – FT Island’s Hangul Live, Roommate comments and ratings, and kdrama fan art at http://www.cimiart.wordpress.com
Thanks, db recappers, you keep us happily updated and feed our kdramaddiction. That’s not easy to do!
Happy Friday everyone......
watching Gunman in Joseon and Fated To Love You and seriously enjoying them more than ever....
I really haven't watched the Taiwanese version so its a little hard for me to avoid spoilers...I'll try to keep my eyes closed.
Good and bad things happened this week... and,I got admission in a great college in a great city(YAY)..
Last but not the least---saw a hilarious thing down my street here in India,where nobody has no idea what kpop is,....there I saw Kim Hyun Joong's BOF poster on a salon advertisement----literally laughed my gut out....now every time I cross the street my eyes go over that ad only....LOL...
Finally a reprieve from the hot, humid weather! It's been very lovely early fall-like here, so I'm definitely enjoying it :) I'm happy to say I caught up on Joseon Gunman and marathoned You're All Surrounded from ep6-finale...so it was a productive week for drama-watching, maybe not so much in others ;)
Triangle: The brother reveal is now complete, with 4eps to go. The extension can definitely be felt, with all the flashbacks, brooding and planning...which I expected, unfortunately. Still, I'd gladly watch it to be rewarded with those gem-like tidbits such as Young-dal and Jung-hee's family. While I do hope Elder Ahn can make it, will Yang-ha finally do something about Daddy Dearest mowing down whoever's in his way--since he's tasked with getting rid of his hyungs? I sure hope so, to wipe that smirk off of his face when he cackled with glee that Yang-ha was gonna have to kill his only flesh and blood without even knowing it (ugh).
Joseon Gunman: Yoon-kang-ah, why you so fine??? ;) I had put this on hold when I wasn't really in the drama-watching mood for the past few weeks. Now that I'm up to speed...seriously, why couldn't the writer have written Soo-in to have some of the qualities that Hye-won has? She seems like such a ditz, it's getting a bit annoying. She could sure use some of the cool, collected composure of Hye-won, and a bit of her smarts too. I still think the politics side of things are a total bore, and it makes me wonder why Hye-won lived the way she did. It's weird to me that is be more interested and intrigued with the second-lead...kinda telling that the writer made the mistake of making Soo-in so lacking in many ways, don't you think? In glad that Yeon-hwa got rescued from that perv, and I do hope that Yoon-kang will keep her safe. Meanwhile, Yoon-kang should stay in his gunman attire ;)
You're All Surrounded: I lost interest in this a while back, but decided to marathon it since it was ending. It was different than I expected, but once it all became about Yoo Moon-bae, it started hitting its stride. It further confirmed that in kdramaland. politicians will do anything for $, some prosecutors and cops are corrupt and in the pocket of the rich. And they'll frame somebody totally unrelated just to shift the blame. It still boggles me that Dae-gu's mom died just because Evil Yoon fed his crazybiatch of a daughter that lie.
I was flipping through the channels and saw a glimpse of Jo Seung-woo!! ;) It was Horse Doctor, which I faithfully watched just for Kwang-hyeon...guess I'll be tuning in to these reruns just to get my Jo Seung-woo fix ;)
Has anyone watched Temptation? I'm curious because I'd watch it solely for the main leads...and of course, the Stairway to Heaven reunion.
On hold: Wonderful Days, Feel Good Day, Endless Love.
To begin soon: High School King of Savvy, Temptation.
I've been enjoying the new shows and I'm finally loving one of them! :) What a relief, a kdrama season without a good romcom is just not the same for me. If anyone is curious, the one I'm addicted right now is HSK from which I expected absolutely nothing since I thought it would be a cliche story with an ugly leading man. I know, the same guy which now seems so charming to me. Ah well, I felt the same about Kim Woo-Bin and I few eps into Heirs also had a complete change of mind.:) I'm also loving FTLY just afraid of the commitment since I keep hearing about crazy melo turns later, figers crossed on that one! :)
One thing sometimes keeps bothering on the shows though, so here is my question this week.
Do any bad acting bother you in your kdramas lately?
Maybe I'm being too demanding, too picky, maybe I'm totally wrong and these guys are just fine.:)
Among the ones I watched recently I often caught myself being annoyed with some actors. The police chief and the politician in YAAS, the leading guy in Hotel King and his mentor, Kang Ji Wan in Big Man, leading lady in Joseon Gunman and even Lee Jun Ki. I know, don't hate me if you are a fan. :) In a way I am too, he's so pretty and all but I get a feeling he does every scene following a map, one face for each emotion, like painting by numbers.
FTLY had a bittersweet flavor this week, with much laughs followed by much tears.
Among the many, many reasons why I love the drama is how the two main leads are converging. I've said from time to time how most stories have one of two premises:
(1) extraordinary circumstances befalling an extraordinary person; or
(2) extraordinary circumstances befalling an ordinary person.
Well, FTLY has both. Lee Gun is the ordinary person, and Kim MiYoung is the extraordinary. It appears to be backwards, because Lee Gun has had all the advantages and training to become really special, but it is Kim MiYoung who has really shown through as nearly unique in her character. She is the unknown and the invisible heroine, and only those who actually see her can begin appreciate who she is.
As Samsooki's wife said to me this morning, Lee Gun has really had many bad breaks to fall his way. In a subtle shift, unlike most stories where the plucky poor heroine has to battle through machinated obstacles - the story is really about Lee Gun's battle with himself, his erstwhile love, his future. Lee Gun has the resources to do whatever he wishes, but he cannot buy his own heart.
Lee Gun's story is so fragile, so delicate and so up in the air. Will he or won't he? Why does he care so much? Why should he care so much? What does he do with Sera? Lee Gun's growth is coming, but slowly and in spurts. Yet every positive step he takes is toward Kim MiYoung, because that's what happens when you gravitate toward a shining star.
Kim MiYoung's story is a little less interesting, if only because she is adrift in a sea of bad intentions, with only her own internal compass to keep her pointing true. Yet we gasp together and hold our hearts in our hands together, when we see Kim MiYoung sleeping on the couch, when we see her grasping at her earrings because they are hers, and when she protects her husband who does not acknowledge her. And yet, she cannot let her growing feelings toward Lee Gun compete with the growing life within her, because at the end of the road, regardless of the number of detours and stops along the way, there is a cliff where love goes to die.
The story lines are small but epic.
The laughter is all the more real and the drop from the mirth to the tears all the more deep.
Happy OT...if you are feeling it! My personal internet has been largely absent since last week. Plus a virus at work means no internet there either.
This will be short. No fashion rants or raves for the reasons above.
However, I just have to share what happened this morning. I took a couple of days off because my father had cataract surgery on his only functional eye. Sigh. My father...anyway.
Went to the Fancy Supermarket (read: $$$) I never shop at, since I was in the neighborhood. Read last Friday`s cooking blog recommendations and decided to make Dak Bulgogi (sp) because I have most of the ingrédients except Mirin. I think I found it but I am not sure.
While I was scrutinizing the *Ethnic Food* shelves (I am not fond of that appelation, esp in my own country...IN ENGLISH!!!), what do I hear? Omaaaaaa! in that particular wheedling/whiny tone that smacks of manipulation, LOL!
Didn`t work on the mother but I was sooo happy to hear the two grade school kids talking, I was grinning like a fool.
I kept meeting them all over the aisles (the kids were rather loud, truth be told) but I didn`t dare walk up to them, that would be rude and weird, I think.
Didn`t understand much beyond `anni` and that -gu/-ku for enumerations but what a cute surprise, right? I know that KOICA has been here since the EQ but not sure if there are other reasons for SK to be here.
I have to go, as this is not my internet or laptop, but I hope I can read this OT over the week-end.
One last thing, you know there are actors and there are ACTORS right? Add I said just got into the drama works last dec.
So, I started watching FTLY, watched first ep, and was like "darn, Jang Hyuk is AN ACTOR". I instantly went to look for other drama that he had been in and I actually just finished watching the second episode of Chuno and I'm so blown away. So, I'm just kind of sad happy because it just feels like I have been blind to this world for a very long time but also happy because it means that I have so much more to look forward to
Happy Friday! We've had some (slightly) cooler weather lately, which has been nice. As for dramas, etc...
Joseon Gunman: I'm still two episodes behind, but loving it so much.
Return of Iljimae: also continues to be awesome. (And wow, Jung Il Woo is pretty.)
God's Quiz 4: a very sad episode again, but also really sweet as usual. I still worry for Kyung Hee, but at least this cliff hanger left me more amused and even excited than afraid.
And Running Man: despite it being somewhat predictable, I found this episode quite hilarious. I did wonder when I saw the preview if they would just have Ji Hyo sleep the whole time, and I'm glad they didn't, even if her participation in the games didn't seem to count for much.
So my friend and I did not make kimchi this week, mostly because at our core we're both lazy and couldn't be bothered. We did however discover a wonderful soup restaurant, which I fondly refer to as the soup nazi.
Then we ran into his in-laws who hate him and apparently hate me now simply because I'm his friend. They actually remind me a bit of K-drama in-laws while I don't believe they've offered him money to leave or tried to kill him they do hate him for no reason other than getting their daughter pregnant, and being completely classless about it. Example, earlier this year around her birthday/mothers day they sent flowers to her work in her maiden name.
Well that feels better now that that's off my chest, on to dramas.
Trot Lovers- I still love it, even if I have to admit the fast pace worries me, a bit.
I'm behind on everything else time to go catch up.
Oh right, is anyone else here a gamer? I just found this browser game Fallen London! and while I just started it seems pretty interesting.
It's been a long time since I posted on Friday OT. Many events have come and gone these past few summer months.
I've finally graduated from 4 years of undergraduate life, onward to the university of life! The image of my crying self, wanting to give up on law school halfway through my journey, is seared in my mind. I survived!
Extremely grieved by the events of the past 24 hours. What more can I say than what has already been expressed? Catastrophic events that result in great human loss have been increasing in frequency and intensity. If you believe in the final judgment and other showdowns of the sort, you might think we are inching closer and closer to the end of the world.
I spent most of the past 2 months catching on American dramas, like Breaking Bad, House of Cards and Pretty Little Liars (a very guilty pleasure). Given the high quality of some of these shows, I was afraid I wouldn't be able to stand watching typical Korean (sometimes soppy) dramas, but I'm happy to report that I've just started catching up on Heirs, and it's pretty much my new crack. I mean, can you ever get enough of Lee Min Ho staring longingly into the distance?
Hi Everybody!
How are you doing? Dramawise, I am in a slump without much exciting things to watch.
I follow Triangle, Trot Lovers and Glorious Day. Oh, I also had a look at the opening episodes of Temptation.
The older shows are satisfying in their own ways - Triangle is a Jaejoong feast complete with the gangster family (I can't get enough of Manbong and Madam Min explaining everything going on in the drama, lol). Glorious Day is a feel good little drama which main asset for me is the dentist brother. I just love those snarky, teasing characters, who not only make witty comments but also are clever enough to help others confront their hysteric mothers ;). Trot Lovers is indeed for trot lovers - I realized that EunJi is one fine singer. The plot is nothing special, but I can live with it as it is. Though, I used to think that this drama will change a bit the image of trot music, so that it won't be considered a worse genre or something you would not admit to liking. And then I read that the very EunJi will release an album, but not with trot but "trendy" music. Sigh. The "trendy" pieces don't let her show off her skills, but who cares.
As for Temptation, I am still onboard and haven't decided to drop it yet. It is intriguing enough for me to keep watching. What I like about it is the psychological game the heroine seems to be playing - mostly with herself, I guess. And it's fun to wait and see what the characters do next.
Started: Love Myself or You (tdrama) A bit of a slow moving story, but the OTP is top notch!
Started/Finished: You're Beautiful. I can understand the love and hysteria when this first aired. After watching it, had the feeling of 'been there, done that' but of course when it aired, this may have been fresher.
Continuing: Glorious Day. I enjoy this drama, even though I told myself that I wouldn't watch a weekend/50 ep drama, didn't want to invest the time. Just when I think it is dragging, it perks back up and I'm invested again.
Is anyone watching Cdrama 'Boss & me' aka 'Shan comes to eat'? It seems really cute but I just can't find English subs anywhere. Any help or reviews, recaps would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
So much evil going on in the world. And we're killing our planet on top of it. No wonder I like to disappear into Dramaland...
YAAS: I really loved the ending. I was left wanting more of the show--you know, with more crimes for to solve and more growth in their different relationships. Just like would happen on American TV. This feeling is so much bet than when a drama ends and I feel like, whew! Glad that's over!
Trot Lovers: At first I was coming down with second lead syndrome really bad, but now, um no. I don't like how he is pushing himself (his declaration of love) on her. I mean, he is her BOSS, so if she doesn't reciprocate right away, I would think it would be wise to back off. I've often wondered about that in K-Dramas--with all the dating and love declarations that bosses do with their subordinates.
I'm glad I have Dramabeans to come read about Fated to Love You and Marriage, not Dating because sometimes I just don't understand them. Maybe because I am a strong-willed woman, so I wouldn't put up with the crap that the men are dishing out. I don't find it that funny when the characters insult each other non-stop.
As for ACTING, I definitely like watching good actors over pretty people. When two are combined, that's nice, but many times I like the character actors better than the leads.
I also noticed the drought in veteran actors. Probably they don't want to live the hectic TV actor's life anymore. In the US, the acting work day is regulated, so veteran actors like TV because they can have steady income and homes and families.
I've been avoiding the news so I just realized today is Friday. Have moved from our old town and are now in Albany. Trying to settle in.
High School King: I really don't know how I'll hold up for the next week. This drama is my crack. The people in it, the sense of it being a good "hang-out" drama which is populated by people who are accepting of each other and who have good will toward each other. Well, for the most part...Loooooooooove this drama.
Jin Woo is one of the most shamed/shaming/shame-based characters I've seen in kdrama. Am hoping he's not repeating with women what his dad did with his mother. Poor soul, he just doesn't seem to understand how to deal with relationships. I worry that he will totally crash and burn, go into rehab because of a nervous breakdown, or just attempt to kill himself. The shame and self-reproach he's under can't go on much longer. But this is kdrama so love alone could heal him. In real life if he hung out with Yoo Ah, I would worry that he would be the older abusive child molester type. But this is kdrama...so...well, she might heal him.
Am still trying to figure out why heroine and her sister don't have similar names. Looks as if the late Jung-soo who was chaufffeured around by Minseok's Dad and had a car accident might be Soo Young's dad who was killed in a car accident. Am i right? So would Minseok's Dad kinda sorta know Soo Young's Mom (when they came down from Seoul)? And are there other birth secrets out there, did Chairman have other mistresses? And where are Chairman's other "legitimate" kids and Chairman's wife? Why aren't we seeing how Jin Woo gets along or crashes with his half-sibs.
I saw a 2009 drama called NEXT which was really very good. It got a bit slow when the past life repetition didn't seem to progress...but in all, it was quite good. It's on kdrama.com
Nothing much else. Have a safe healthy weekend, all.
1. The Hospital I had surgery in has wifi... YAY
2. Going to Dramabeans to get my mind out of the pain once the anesthesia wore off. If I posted anything weird between Mon - Wed, I blame the anesthesia. lol
3. Watching HSKS, FTLY, YAAS, Avatar, The Legend of Korra, MND, Roommates, Running Man and Trot Lovers for helping me keep my sanity.
4. My mom and sisters who came and visited (and brought Starbucks). Family is awesome. hehe
5. The gorgeous nurse who was assigned to me. I was gonna act all suave and cool but that kinda fizzled out after she pulled the urinary catheter out of me. lol youch
Just a random thought, I wonder if it's possible for Dramabeans to put up the episode with 1 picture so us beanies can start discussions right away until the recap comes in? If it's a horrible idea then forget I said anything. lol
This kdrama season is quite an amazing one. Usually I follow probably 1 or 2 dramas and if i'm lucky i will be addicted to one of them. But this time I'm watching and addicted to 4 dramas. I feel like heaven has fallen on my lap (top).
So my addictions are:
Fated to love you (crazy addicted. I think JNR is playing one of my most detested type of characters in such a lovely way that I am head over heels in love with her now. And OMG Uri hero is so freaking adorable! )
You're all surrounded (My first Lee seung gi drama)
Hi School love on! - so sweet!
Joseon Gunman (This isnt a surprise - I love sagueks without too much court drama and this hits all the right spots for me. And I just adore LJK)
I'm also watching
Fated to love you: I was addicted to this till they went makjang. I love the concept - i think the whole "in love with the same guy but a different version of him" is very unique and could have had some lovely romantic angst. But they completely ruined it by not focusing on this.
I wish they remake it into korean and do a better job.
Can't say I can enjoy much drama watching this past week. I've been glued to the tragedies happening around the world, especially in the MidEast. I don't know about anyone else but when women, children, and the disabled are being killed by the hundreds, IT IS NOT OKAY. I can't fathom why most of the world has turned a blind eye to the situation there, which has been going on for decades. Where is the humanity? Why can't we all live in peace, regardless of our religious and ethnic differences?
And then the MH17 crash. My God, how horrible. Malaysia barely came back from the missing MH370 plane and now this. What is the world coming to?
I don't know what I can do except to offer my prayers for all. :(
HSKOS: Loving it. Moment of truth coming right at us.
MND: Need to watch ep 4. All kinds of love triangles ?
Trot Lovers: Just for my lovely Eun-ji. I loath lazy writers.
FTLY: Jang Nara ! She's a delight to watch.
Roommate: 2 wks behind. Will watch for Nana & Ga-yeon
Might check out Temptation.
J dramas:
Wakamonotachi; Can't lose with a cast like this. Ep 2 was full of surprises.
Ginnikan: 1st episode is good so far. Son of a samurai is orphaned and is "adopted" into a agar merchant's "family". Yay, features the wonderful child actress Ashida Mana.
It's been an awful week, I can't stand watching the news any more. First the Gaza situation (which disgusts me beyond belief, as excuses continue to be made and the so-called civilised world sits quietly by) and now the plane.....god rest those poor souls.
It's been a quiet week in kdrama for me - I only watched Triangle, Joseon Gunman and a few episodes of Let's Eat. Triangle still does that weird thing where it's slow and people talk too much, but I'm still hooked because of the brothers and the OTP.
Joseon Gunman - I'm totally hit by Second Lead Syndrome....for the female second lead. She has so much depth and presence that she didn't even need her backstory to make her interesting, but this is one show where I'm glad the plot takes precedence over romance, at least for now. I can tolerate Soo-in now, but only as long as she keeps the birdbrain voice and mannerisms in check.
But the real stars of the hour (besides the always-amazing Jeon Hye-bin) were Lee Jun-ki and Kim Hyun-soo as the siblings. For a kid with so little screentime, she's a champ at leaving a strong impression, is good at emoting, and she has adorable oppa-dongsaeng chemistry with Lee Jun-ki. And oppa is SO GOOD.
My respect for Lee Jun-ki has always been sky-high because he never coasted on his incredible good looks but instead gives 100 percent to his performances. Even as his fan, I always admit he isn't perhaps as naturally gifted an actor as some, but he produces performances as great as they do by sheer dint of hard work and committing to his role in every way. And when it comes to sageuks, he has earned his place as one of the best - plus he just keeps getting better with age. I'm so glad the ratings are in the double digits now and I hope they continue to rise - he deserves a proper mainstream successful drama after his comeback.
Let's Eat - I really adore this slice-of-life drama and everyone in it. I'm particularly impressed by the two young actors, Yoon So-hee and Yoon Doo-joon - one is from SM Entertainment and the other is an idol, but they fit their roles so perfectly, I hope to see them as true leads in more mainstream acting projects one day. (also Yoon Doo-joon is ridiculously handsome). And I love love LOVE Soo-kyung and her relationship with Barasshi, her dog.
I am done with J Gunman. I loved the poster. I waited impatiently for the first episode. I still like the actors and actresses. The writing is what I'm frustrated with. So I'm done. I won't be getting on the recap thread saying this, because I believe recaps threads are for those watching the shows. (I don't know, it's a courtesy thing--or basic manners. I don't bash shows that others like on their own threads.) But here, on the open thread, may I just (politely) say that I'm disappointed and if it gets better (starts making s.e.n.s.e), somebody tell me. Thanks.
Roommates is starting to tick me off. I like watching it but I really despise how they do those deceptive previews. This last episode showed some clips of what seems to be a real problem (with crying cast members to boot) and after watching it, it wasn't even on that episode. Stuff like that really undermines the integrity of the show. It feels like one of those used car sales adds where they show a really great deal on a car but when you show up to the lot, they are always sold out.
I feel like I have to share some more North Korean comedy to lighten up the mood, considering that North Korea is not a happy place.
Funniest thing is that North Korea has actually sent an official request to China to take the video down http://youtu.be/OIxqaqQUZFs
I follow North Korea pretty close (have been for years), and hard to find much that is funny about it, but that video certainly is, and Pyongyang is furious about it.
Speaking of WTF (!!!) dramas, this series just now got posted to Drama Fever: "When Heaven Burns" - "..When an accident leaves them stranded on a mountain, Ka Ming dies and his friends resort to cannibalism for survival.."
Reminds me of the Alfred Packer story in the late 1800 in Colorado. According to the story, at his trial the judge said, "Damn you, Alferd Packer! There were seven Demmycrats in Hinsdale County and you et five of 'em!"
I can still clearly picture the scene in the wax museum in Colorado Springs of Packer hunched over a campfire - very traumatizing to a 9 year old! The U of Colorado grill is named after him.
Marriage, Not Dating and Fated to Love You are my favorite dramas (and the only ones I'm seriously keeping up with) this season. They both have something in common I adore: female leads I'm in love with and seem real and a dynamic between the main couple that I love as well.
I like that Jang-Mi is in that fabled in-between of the crazy bitch and candy sweetheart. She just goes head first into things and feels everything with her whole heart and doesn't hold back. And it causes problems and may be embarrassing for other parties but she doesn't care. But she's a nice well meaning girl. She's a humanized second-lead character really, the type that is persistent and you want her to just go away and let the lead couple be. But she's the lead now ^^
And Mi Young isn't just a doormat. When people have crossed the line she'll say so, but she's a sweet accommodating person so her line isn't where most people's are. I cry when she cries and I'm happy when she is. Jang Nara is REALLY nailing this performance.
Anyone watching Endless Love? It is set in Korea 70s - 80s. Quite interesting times. Haven't come across a kdrama exploring that time. Would you know anyone blogging it? I'm interested in that period and I am wondering whether the script points to certain facts and events in RL at that time.
I wonder what makes an era interesting centuries or even just decades from now. We have saguek dramas still entertaining us. Pre democracy issues, as you live them, they are heart wrenching. In saguek, we find human interest in the heroes and love surviving palace intrigues. It must be that we have lukewarm interest on what we have gone through and find in historical dramas some interesting escape hatches. We even find heroines or women better portrayed than current ones. In the future, how can the era of 70s-90s be interesting to the millenials? How will they view the time we are living now? How will hope find its portrayal in dark times?
I've been reading alot of comments where people say that certain recent dramas have renewed their love for kdramas, or they have been in a kdrama viewing rut for awhile...etc, etc.
Those of you that have been feeling that way (now or in the recent past), what do you think were the factors in kdramas that made you feel that way? Or just why did you feel that way?
Pulled yet another all-nighter.... this time, the first 5 episodes of Sly Cunning Woman. I meant to watch just the first episode but then the episodes kept pulling me in and pulling me in. I was really oblivious as to the space time continuum when the rays of dawn hit me and I was on episode 5...
LMJ is not exactly new to me but she totally surprised me here. I was shocked by how comfortable she looked and felt in her role.
Really, really funny, with opposing points of view and heartache, it is a joy to watch.
Some parts of the first five episodes are hilarious, and anyone who has seen ToW (Temptation of Wife - all 122 or so episodes) like myself will be find this drama near and dear. I generally tire at meta references but this one was a complete hoot.
I alternatively root for and against all of the main characters, a testament to how balanced the whole drama is. I love it.
What a year 2014 is turning out to be for dramas.
Looks like I picked a good year to come back to the motherland.
![[Rate and Review] The Winning Try](https://dramabeans.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/TheWinningTry_reviewb.jpg)
![[Drama Chat] Same drama, different timelines](https://dramabeans.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/dramachat_august302025.jpg)
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1 ocommon
July 18, 2014 at 6:13 AM
Happy Friday to all! :D
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2 alua
July 18, 2014 at 6:15 AM
Yesterday was an awfully depressing day.
Friend of mine posted this poem on FB, which is about as much reflection I can handle today.
“So long as that woman from the Rijksmuseum
in painted quiet and concentration
keeps pouring milk day after day
from the pitcher to the bowl
the World hasn’t earned
the world’s end.”
—
"Vermeer" by Wislawa Szymborska, Nobel prize laureate (1996).
"Happy Friday" feels a bit off, so all I can say is everyone take good care of yourselves & loved ones.
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3 soprection
July 18, 2014 at 6:17 AM
Hi beanies! Happy weekend.
So let’s talk about Marriage Not Dating! (This will be long.)
I’m really enjoying it! I laughed SO hard at episodes 3 and 4 (more so than I've laughed at a drama ever, I think) from KiTae handing JangMi He’s Just Not That Into You when she wondered why Jinwoon’s character was so hot and cold with her (she could really use that book!) to KiTae crashing their date to JangMi’s victory dance when she finished the jeon to her beating KiTae with a fish. I know a lot of people had issues with Jang Mi’s character because she can certainly go overboard (sneaking over to the restaurant to look for YeoReum– seriously, girlfriend needs to chill) and I do think that at times, she is played a bit broadly like when she walked into KiTae’s apartment and immediately jumped from thing to thing like a child but strangely enough, I don’t find her annoying. I cringe at times at the things she does and says but I don’t think she’s shallow or an airhead which is how I expected them to play her character and I think she’s got some great redeeming factors like she cares a lot about people and she’s earnest and she’s honest. Of course, she usually goes too far with all of those things but we all have our faults.
I also love that she and KiTae are pretty much diametrically opposed when it comes to relationships. I usually have a hard time getting into the main pairing but I love that they both call each other out on their flaws and their banter is so quick, hysterical and brutally honest. You can really see how they can eventually help each other find a middle ground where KiTae isn’t so aloof and guarded and JangMi doesn’t throw herself so completely into her relationships and obsess over her latest paramour. KiTae can definitely be harsh and jerky towards her (although he’s like that with everyone) but I can relate to his character in terms of being very guarded and having your hackles raise when someone gets too close so I can see what motivates his actions even if I don’t agree with them. (He really needs to be nicer to JangMi.) I do wonder how the show plans to have his family eventually accept JangMi now that so much damage has already been done. I loved JangMi calling out Kitae and his family for their rudeness and disregard and Kitae’s mother for her martyrdom (even though it was crazy rude) but I really felt that she went too far bringing the infidelity into it. Some things just need to be left off the table. (Also how does she not realize that everyone in the immediate family around knew?! This is how rich Korean drama families work! The patriarch steps out on his wife all the time and she just deals with it.) I also liked Kitae realizing that the way he treats people is not that different from his mother when he sees how her scolding of JangMi mirrors his own. Also did you notice him following Jang Mi just the way his family does to him? Apple, tree, folks.
And finally, why does KiTae claim to be financially...
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4 zakin89
July 18, 2014 at 6:18 AM
Happy OT
OMG GERMANY DID IT =) I was ecstatic and mom and I screamed on top of our lungs when Götze scored^^ The cup stays in Europe and all is well =) I am just so glad they won bc they ARE a team! And there was so much cute after the ceremony with the kids of Klose, Podolski etc… Highlight: Podolski playing with his son in the empty stadium and the remaining German fans cheering for his son <3
Trot Lovers: Soo In and her mom can go to hell! Geun Woo you adorable thing you I’m sorry to say it but you don’t stand a chance against Joon Hyun. I hate the noble idiot route JH is going BUT all hope is not lost! It’ll just show Chun Hee how much she needs him and that she likes him too! But JH I need a word with you… You can’t just break up the adorable makeshift family you created! Just not cool! Drama continues to rock and it gets me right in the heart =) And whenever Eunji sings I’m cutting onions :P
HS King: Oh what a nice cliff-hanger at the end of ep 10!
My heart bleeds for Jin Woo and as assy he behaved towards Min Suk and Soo Young I just want to hug him and give him the affection he so clearly needs! JW is a really interesting character and I’m totally rooting for him though he does things that make it not so easy.
YAAS: I’m gonna miss them so much =( But THANK YOU for busting Yoo Moon Bae! I was screaming at my screen in the last episode whenever he was there -.-
That kiss of Soo Sun and Dae Gu though *rawr*
Joseon Gunman: MOAR! Lee Jun Ki in his gunman clothes is just… unbelievably hot! Also he is very, very pretty! But other than that I like that tensions are running high and I can’t wait for the next episodes =)
Marriage not Dating: This keeps getting better and better! With Gunman my new crack =) Han Groo is AWESOME and her drunk Nemo bit was amazingly hilarious :D And can I just say again how much I love Ki Tae’s grandma! Getting drunk on makgeolli and then sleeping it off at the hospital^^ Let the fun continue!
FTLY: So insane I love it^^ Jang Nara must be the most adorable woman in the whole wide world and you can just root for her character! (I love those glasses)
And can I just say that I was fully expecting Geon to belt out ‘Creep’ when he was singing!^^
High School Love On: ADORABLE! Kim Sae Ron rocks! I just hope they don’t go too much love line and more oppa-dongsaeng bc that would make it more comfortable to watch but we’ll have to see.
Variety:
RM: Oh Ryu Seung Soo you adorable ahjussi :D A nice episode with much cast interaction and bickering and I love it when the guests just blend in like RSS does! You can see that they are on really good terms with each other which makes it seem like he’s been part of he cast for a long time!
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5 shukmeister
July 18, 2014 at 6:19 AM
Happy Friday, everyone!
I am still on my lakhorn kick, having finished Sanaeha Sunya Kaen. Not the greatest one by any means, but it wasn’t bad.
The happiest note is that I actually am completely caught up with SqueeCapping Fall In Love With (Both Of) Me. I think it’s the first time I managed to post before the next episode! I blame it on the fact that finally we are doing something more than moping and sighing and looking thoughtful. True, the Li family is still a bunch of psycho rich people, but I’m still hoping for a Meteorite Of Doom onto their house.
I also marathoned HSK this week, finishing all 10 episodes in 3 days. Ah, SIG, you are doing a bang-up job, with your expressions and body language. But….will I be beaten if I hope that Jin-woo and Soo-young end up together? Min-seok is a pretty confident stand-alone guy, but I can see how the other two’s internal wounds can be healed by each other. But I don’t want our young executive hockey player with Stalker either.
Joseon Gunman. [sigh]. This one has me glued to my monitor. Sadly, I have not watched ep 8 yet (darn that work/real life!), but I feel bad for his enforced isolation. True, he is a wanted treasonous criminal, but his bangs are so cute! And I’m glad he can confide in at least one other chingu, who is loyal if not the brightest lantern.
Rounding out the rest of my watches: Love Myself Or You as my other TWDrama (thumbs up for the food porn and the likeable characters), Roommate (yes I am lusting after Mama Shin, but with all due respect, he’s at least within a decade of my age ;-) ), Dok Ruk Rim Tang (a lakhorn about a girl who disguises herself as a boy and gets a job on her late father’s estate to find the missing will), and The Night Shift, in case I forget my own language. I still have yet to watch more than a smidgen of Trot Lovers, MND, or YAAS, which finished this week.
Previously, I polled everybody about their eating habits when it comes to a green-based salad. The responses were interesting when looked at from a global point of view. I have another one this week: What do you use as your primary starch? When I cook for myself, my primary meal is usually brown rice (mixed veggies, and mostly beef for my protein). My NYC-raised Italian mom almost always has pasta or noodles, along with that after-meal salad. :-) I imagine other people might use potatoes, or beans, or something. What do you use, if anything?
Anyway, it’s another platelet donation day, as well as a meet-up dinner day for me and another KDrama nut for soondae and bibimbap.
Take care, everyone!
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6 Manin
July 18, 2014 at 6:19 AM
Happy friday beanies!! Thanks to all who answered my question in name that drama.
My work has changed my time table again along with a lot of other things (so no new toddler stories this week). Starting o get nervouse about going to japan on my own on tuesday. Looking forward to it though.
This week has also ben taken over by watching the ninja warrior competition. Very addictive show. Though our assistant now assume thats all me and the good housemate do in the office.
Dramaland:
Marriage not love: still enjoying it. Not to keen on the ex though.
Highschool angel (or what the name was ): cute beginning. Think this one could be enjoyable. Just keep it cute and light.
Monster (with lee min ki) not watched all the way yet but liking it. Also min ki os damn creepy in this.
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7 Tulipsaki
July 18, 2014 at 6:20 AM
Good morning! Am I first?
So, I dropped almost everything! I'm kinda sorta watching Joseon Gunman, though it's more like a few minutes of watching and then the recap. Also, when I just need something in the background, My Dear Cat. I like the two cousins in it, the one who wants to be a celebrity, and the tough jjang girl who is getting shipped with Sungmin's character. Everybody else, I pretty much ignore.
And I'm watching Flower Grandpas Investigation and Hi School Love On! (So, so cute, both of them.) Looking forward to them both tonight.
Still going through Nodame Cantabile. And I found a japanese drama, Jyuui-san, where the main character is a vet. I'm watching for the puppies. :-)
So, Temptation: is that like that Jang Hyuk money drama?
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8 xh
July 18, 2014 at 6:20 AM
Anyone watching Glorious/Feel-Good Day? Thoughts?
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9 redfox
July 18, 2014 at 6:26 AM
Sigh.
Oh these dramas. To be honest, I only seriously watch High School King. Been going to cinema instead. I saw On My Way with Catherine Deneuve playing the 62 year old restaurant owner Bettie, who suddenly drives out and goes on an adventure of a lifetime, it was hilarious. And then on an open terrace, with sparrows and ice coffee, I saw My week with Marilyn. Also a great movie and how jealous am I at the brits who just have everything lieing around to make movies with – castles, libraries, cars, pubs, parks, old time clothes etc. You know what.... ah, nothing. Such lucky friggin bastards. The scene with horny teenage Eton college boys stuck in there since the age of 8 and Marilyn just walking in – priceless.
High School Savvy .... oh blast. Oh man. He was going to be honest and all. Oh man. How will it ever be ok now? But I hope it will. Honestly, you all have been praising the sister relationship and Yoo-Ah, but I don´t feel anything about her. I tend to even think the story doesn´t need her. It could just be about the big lie. She doesnt have that drive. Min Seok, poor thing. But since he truly likes Soo Young....can´t they please end up together...DON´T START. Just in the drama. I am not saying real life, ok? But in a FANTASY, can´t they? Let´s not do the „But the age gap is in reality big bla bla bla” well, it is not real, so leave it be. That´s why dramas, books, films and make-believe exists.
Oh, in My week with Marilyn the guy was 23 and she was a little over 30... another noona romance! And in Betty, she was 62 and had a one night stand with a 30-year-old and her 10 year old grandchild Charlie saw her glowing and stuff.... now that was weird. How the hell did I end up picking such movies? Huh? K-drama infected movie preferences? But they were sweet, very human movies. Quietly touching. Not some big action...
Seo In Gook I just want to thank you. With a cake and a good photo book or something, for doing such a good job.
I also want to thank the You Are Surrounded team – especially „Gookie”. Agree with the final recaps´ conclusions. I find that maybe Ahn Jae Hyun gained most as a learning experience from such a great ensemble. Now quickly, do a spin-off with Pan Seok in the village and the weirdest crimes ever. Ok?
Next week is Viljandi Folk Music Festival so I won´t be on the net much. 4 days, 4 nights of concerts and party. I have a master Plan. But not sure if it will help me get to every concert. Can´t wait for the fun, so exited!!! (although I am not 20 any more....but I have been running hills and doing interval so to be fast when moving between concert locations. Still by the 4th morning I´ll probably be really out of it. )
Question: if you could send a present to your favorite star or someone you just want to thank, what would it be? And to whome, at this moment?
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10 kanz
July 18, 2014 at 6:30 AM
Hello, happy OT beanies!!
Pretty great week for me, passed the exam and now graduated from college (at least on paper).
Currently watching list:
1. Joseon Gunman: still awesome. Although I don't like PYK treatment to his own sister. But of course he has valid reason if he doesn't want to blow up his secrets and revenge plan. I think the show does pretty nicely until now. LJK is a feast to watch.
2. Fated To Love You: this show never fails to make me laugh... HEUHAHAHA... The ep 5 was freaking hilarious and I really like Jang Hyuk and Jang Na Ra's chemistry. Jang Hyuk is killing it with his Lee Gun and JNR embodies Kim Mi Young well. I never watch the original, but I'm sure many people would love Korean remake. And maybe it's even better than the original.
3. You're All Surrounded: simplistic show with simple plots and characters. Watch it if you already watched the two above. I haven't watch ep 20 yet, but I think overall the show is a letdown. I have high expectations for the show to be funny and great and it delivers neither.
4. KARA Secret Love: It's KARA project in 2013 but just aired last week. I watched Ji Chang Wook part with Park Gyu Ri. Not bad, sometimes funny and JCW really did well in the drama.
Not yet watching other dramas, but planning to catch up Trot Lovers, High School King, and Marriage Not Dating. Also plan to watch It's Okay It's Love, Night Watchman (although still unsure on Yunho), and Three Musketeers.
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11 korfan
July 18, 2014 at 6:33 AM
Hi Everyone!
I hope you are all doing well today.
Congratulations to all the Beanies in Deutschland, your team won the World Cup!
Watched this week:
Dr. Stranger - Only watched the first 10 minutes of ep 14., there was no need to watch more than that.
You're All Surrounded - Still enjoying this. Chief Kang is an intriguing character.
Trot Lovers - Geon-woo, you continue to crack me up! ...... and so do the loan sharks!
A New Leaf - The president of the firm, Attorney Cha, is certainly quite interesting.
Joseon Gunman - Occasionally catching a couple of minutes of this here and there. I'll have to catch full eps at a later time.
That's about it for now. Everyone take care and have a great Friday!
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12 Mystique
July 18, 2014 at 6:59 AM
Hello Beanies, Happy OT/ Happy Friday.
Travelled home for a cousin’s wedding, apparently the whole family did too.
Family reunions are mostly fun but sometimes just burdensome what with all the drama. Lol I slightly regret coming home because now my very dramatic mother and sisters and basically everybody keep nagging me about getting married. 2 cousins are engaged, the other expecting, 3 others already with kids, one getting married tomorrow, and another in 2weeks. Now I have people setting me up on blind dates which I absolutely hate with passion, lol and they just don’t care(and told me so).
Having a huge family is a good thing, I have a group of people who support me(mostly) and the bad thing : Everybody is in everybody’s business, I mean deep in everyone’s business.
Dramas:
High school king of savvy : Sh*t abouta hit the fan. i think Soo-young is going to take the news of him been an high school student okay, not at first though and might even break up with him because of that, but she would still be on his side, if the beginning of the first episode was any indication. Hopefully, they don’t drag it out for too long.
Trot Lovers : I didn’t like Joon-Hyun at first, but in the last episode, I realized that I was slowly starting to root for him. I’ve jumped ship, now in the first lead’s ship, and as adorable as Geun-woo’s is, his actions lately just seem I don’t know manipulative? *shrugs*
Fated to love you : My new crack, I just love both leads so much. Lee Gun’s cackling at first irritated my ears so much, Lol this episode I found myself laughing along with him, its grown on me already. Please please, drama gods let this drama continue on its current good path, better yet a better path.
YAAS : It ended well, but a lot of questions were left unanswered. But there is one thing I have never been able to understand, why did boots go after Dae-gu again? and after so many years had passed. Dae-gu was going nowhere with his investigation, boots return only helped to blow the case open, I mean I can’t think of any reason why they couldn’t let sleeping dogs lie except “plot continuance”. And as for Dae-gu’s mother, i absolutely think there was no need to kill her because am pretty sure she wouldn’t have talked about who attacked her. And I never got Assemblyman Yoo’s insistence on having Dae-gu killed.
All in all, it was a good drama, not the best and definitely not bad too. Before it premiered, I was expecting a good dose of comedy and police precint hijinks and all that, but all that got tapered down with the whole “mystery” and whatnot.
Marriage not dating : Still giving this a shot, but the female lead just makes it so hard. That girl Jang-Mi has got to get a hold of herself, there was absolutely no reason to bring up the infidelity thing, it was so not her place to do so, girl knows no boundaries whatsoever. But I did love the way she got down after she was done with the pancakes. Oh! I don’t think that waiter...
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13 Kim Yoonmi
July 18, 2014 at 7:06 AM
The funding for polyglit started yesterday! If you are considering donating, sooner is better than later. You can find details and a link at Polyglit[dot]Com. Even if you don't plan on donating, I hope you will look forward to the website launch.
Jinx I thought it was an adorable and heartfelt movie, though it left tears in my eyes, it was not a melodrama, but had some interesting themes. I don't think the acting was stellar, but I would definitely watch it again.
Marriage, not Dating
Probably the best drama on K-drama TV, IMO. The plot is really heating up. I'm a little surprised it isn't being recapped, but I can understand bending time is really a difficult task and that it takes a long time.
Still keeping up with the TW dramas. Haven't really picked up on any new J-dramas, except Nobunaga no Chef 2. OMG. I love it already. It's cheesy with just enough appeal to get me going, plus I like food shows.
And lastly, Idol Hate. I think it needs to be addressed.
Let's get this straight. At least for ME, I do like pretty, but it is SECONDARY to acting ability. I don't care how that pretty came about, and who from, and I don't particularly care how popular an actor is, I just want them to be able to act their heart out on the screen or on stage so I can believe their emotions and what they said is real.
That said, I also understand in order to get funding for a project, you need famous actors and people who will autodraw a crowd. It's the double-side of the industry. The more of a name recognition you have, the more likely one will draw funds. But do I hate the existence of those people for that? I categorically don't.
If they can act, then they can make me happy. Period.
I didn't hate Yoona because she was an idol. I didn't hate Yoona personally. I disliked her in the role of Nodame because I thought her acting ability wasn't to par. And I would say that of any actress or actor, idol or no. Despite that, I can understand why producers wanted to try her out in the role, even if it was a week. They need a big name to bring in the budget for the production.
I'm not going to begrudge people's success, nor their ability to grow in their talent. I've been surprised over and over again, given people chances to grow on me. Seong Yuri (idol), for example, has two horrible, I mean OMG, you can make drinking games out of them dramas she acted horribly in, but I still gave her a chance. And she surprised me in Hong Gil Dong.
Daniel Henney (Non-idol), as much as I love him as a person, I didn't think could act that well. He inserts random smiles when he should be emoting, but then I was proven wrong in My Father.
Idol or no, I'm going to come back to that person on acting ability. The prettiest face can't engage me as much as acting ability. What is the point of hating a group of people anyway? Being a idol doesn't mean one didn't work hard and can't succeed.
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14 owl 🦉 🫰
July 18, 2014 at 7:07 AM
Summer’s in full roar with 100 degrees all week long, although I am not complaining – I love the sun and heat.
Trot Lovers – it’s been a while since I’ve been in love equally with the first and second male leads. Eun-ji is adorable, too ~ how will our love triangle work out without even more hurt hearts?
Fated to Love You – there were so many yummy moments mixed in with the complicated relationship in the last episode – why did the runaway shower head scene make me laugh so hard? And then the one-of-a-kind-baby-clothes class, that was precious beyond words. I’m goo goo eyes over Gan. The laugh and the head back, shoulders squared downward stare CEO style – Jang Hyuk does that best. But wait, second lead Daniel, Really? How about other first lead.
Monster (movie) with Lee Min-ki – slated as a thriller, but in my book it borders on horror. It was crazy of me to watch it at midnight. Those eyes. Cold to the depths of hell.
High School Love On is magical.
Temptation – An interesting setup in the first two episodes. Although I’m not sure why Seok-hoon decided to buy Se-young’s time in the end – 3 hrs for $3 -
Jdrama Wacamonotachi – Adult Sibling Chaos works too. What a super powerful cast, I am blown away by the acting. The boxing ring – augh! The Virgin. The return of the second son (Eita). The camcorder message. Ginger pork. The siblings’ discussion about apologies. The lines:
“I don’t’ need a surprise so bad for my heart.’
“Infidelity is unacceptable. No one will be happy.”
“Many ideas and emotions that you can’t measure with your tiny ruler whirl around in this world.”
This drama is my go juice.
Check out my ongoing posts for Korean Lessons – FT Island’s Hangul Live, Roommate comments and ratings, and kdrama fan art at http://www.cimiart.wordpress.com
Thanks, db recappers, you keep us happily updated and feed our kdramaddiction. That’s not easy to do!
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15 Chhavi
July 18, 2014 at 7:07 AM
Happy Friday everyone......
watching Gunman in Joseon and Fated To Love You and seriously enjoying them more than ever....
I really haven't watched the Taiwanese version so its a little hard for me to avoid spoilers...I'll try to keep my eyes closed.
Good and bad things happened this week... and,I got admission in a great college in a great city(YAY)..
Last but not the least---saw a hilarious thing down my street here in India,where nobody has no idea what kpop is,....there I saw Kim Hyun Joong's BOF poster on a salon advertisement----literally laughed my gut out....now every time I cross the street my eyes go over that ad only....LOL...
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16 Tara
July 18, 2014 at 7:10 AM
Hey everyone...happy OT!
Finally a reprieve from the hot, humid weather! It's been very lovely early fall-like here, so I'm definitely enjoying it :) I'm happy to say I caught up on Joseon Gunman and marathoned You're All Surrounded from ep6-finale...so it was a productive week for drama-watching, maybe not so much in others ;)
Triangle: The brother reveal is now complete, with 4eps to go. The extension can definitely be felt, with all the flashbacks, brooding and planning...which I expected, unfortunately. Still, I'd gladly watch it to be rewarded with those gem-like tidbits such as Young-dal and Jung-hee's family. While I do hope Elder Ahn can make it, will Yang-ha finally do something about Daddy Dearest mowing down whoever's in his way--since he's tasked with getting rid of his hyungs? I sure hope so, to wipe that smirk off of his face when he cackled with glee that Yang-ha was gonna have to kill his only flesh and blood without even knowing it (ugh).
Joseon Gunman: Yoon-kang-ah, why you so fine??? ;) I had put this on hold when I wasn't really in the drama-watching mood for the past few weeks. Now that I'm up to speed...seriously, why couldn't the writer have written Soo-in to have some of the qualities that Hye-won has? She seems like such a ditz, it's getting a bit annoying. She could sure use some of the cool, collected composure of Hye-won, and a bit of her smarts too. I still think the politics side of things are a total bore, and it makes me wonder why Hye-won lived the way she did. It's weird to me that is be more interested and intrigued with the second-lead...kinda telling that the writer made the mistake of making Soo-in so lacking in many ways, don't you think? In glad that Yeon-hwa got rescued from that perv, and I do hope that Yoon-kang will keep her safe. Meanwhile, Yoon-kang should stay in his gunman attire ;)
You're All Surrounded: I lost interest in this a while back, but decided to marathon it since it was ending. It was different than I expected, but once it all became about Yoo Moon-bae, it started hitting its stride. It further confirmed that in kdramaland. politicians will do anything for $, some prosecutors and cops are corrupt and in the pocket of the rich. And they'll frame somebody totally unrelated just to shift the blame. It still boggles me that Dae-gu's mom died just because Evil Yoon fed his crazybiatch of a daughter that lie.
I was flipping through the channels and saw a glimpse of Jo Seung-woo!! ;) It was Horse Doctor, which I faithfully watched just for Kwang-hyeon...guess I'll be tuning in to these reruns just to get my Jo Seung-woo fix ;)
Has anyone watched Temptation? I'm curious because I'd watch it solely for the main leads...and of course, the Stairway to Heaven reunion.
On hold: Wonderful Days, Feel Good Day, Endless Love.
To begin soon: High School King of Savvy, Temptation.
Have a great weekend, yall!
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17 Lixie
July 18, 2014 at 7:11 AM
Hello Beanies!
I've been enjoying the new shows and I'm finally loving one of them! :) What a relief, a kdrama season without a good romcom is just not the same for me. If anyone is curious, the one I'm addicted right now is HSK from which I expected absolutely nothing since I thought it would be a cliche story with an ugly leading man. I know, the same guy which now seems so charming to me. Ah well, I felt the same about Kim Woo-Bin and I few eps into Heirs also had a complete change of mind.:) I'm also loving FTLY just afraid of the commitment since I keep hearing about crazy melo turns later, figers crossed on that one! :)
One thing sometimes keeps bothering on the shows though, so here is my question this week.
Do any bad acting bother you in your kdramas lately?
Maybe I'm being too demanding, too picky, maybe I'm totally wrong and these guys are just fine.:)
Among the ones I watched recently I often caught myself being annoyed with some actors. The police chief and the politician in YAAS, the leading guy in Hotel King and his mentor, Kang Ji Wan in Big Man, leading lady in Joseon Gunman and even Lee Jun Ki. I know, don't hate me if you are a fan. :) In a way I am too, he's so pretty and all but I get a feeling he does every scene following a map, one face for each emotion, like painting by numbers.
So is there anyone else having the same feeling?
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18 samsooki
July 18, 2014 at 7:24 AM
FTLY had a bittersweet flavor this week, with much laughs followed by much tears.
Among the many, many reasons why I love the drama is how the two main leads are converging. I've said from time to time how most stories have one of two premises:
(1) extraordinary circumstances befalling an extraordinary person; or
(2) extraordinary circumstances befalling an ordinary person.
Well, FTLY has both. Lee Gun is the ordinary person, and Kim MiYoung is the extraordinary. It appears to be backwards, because Lee Gun has had all the advantages and training to become really special, but it is Kim MiYoung who has really shown through as nearly unique in her character. She is the unknown and the invisible heroine, and only those who actually see her can begin appreciate who she is.
As Samsooki's wife said to me this morning, Lee Gun has really had many bad breaks to fall his way. In a subtle shift, unlike most stories where the plucky poor heroine has to battle through machinated obstacles - the story is really about Lee Gun's battle with himself, his erstwhile love, his future. Lee Gun has the resources to do whatever he wishes, but he cannot buy his own heart.
Lee Gun's story is so fragile, so delicate and so up in the air. Will he or won't he? Why does he care so much? Why should he care so much? What does he do with Sera? Lee Gun's growth is coming, but slowly and in spurts. Yet every positive step he takes is toward Kim MiYoung, because that's what happens when you gravitate toward a shining star.
Kim MiYoung's story is a little less interesting, if only because she is adrift in a sea of bad intentions, with only her own internal compass to keep her pointing true. Yet we gasp together and hold our hearts in our hands together, when we see Kim MiYoung sleeping on the couch, when we see her grasping at her earrings because they are hers, and when she protects her husband who does not acknowledge her. And yet, she cannot let her growing feelings toward Lee Gun compete with the growing life within her, because at the end of the road, regardless of the number of detours and stops along the way, there is a cliff where love goes to die.
The story lines are small but epic.
The laughter is all the more real and the drop from the mirth to the tears all the more deep.
I love this drama, and Happy Friday OT everyone!
Gummi and HN2 아자 아자 화이팅!
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19 lakaribane
July 18, 2014 at 7:26 AM
Happy OT...if you are feeling it! My personal internet has been largely absent since last week. Plus a virus at work means no internet there either.
This will be short. No fashion rants or raves for the reasons above.
However, I just have to share what happened this morning. I took a couple of days off because my father had cataract surgery on his only functional eye. Sigh. My father...anyway.
Went to the Fancy Supermarket (read: $$$) I never shop at, since I was in the neighborhood. Read last Friday`s cooking blog recommendations and decided to make Dak Bulgogi (sp) because I have most of the ingrédients except Mirin. I think I found it but I am not sure.
While I was scrutinizing the *Ethnic Food* shelves (I am not fond of that appelation, esp in my own country...IN ENGLISH!!!), what do I hear? Omaaaaaa! in that particular wheedling/whiny tone that smacks of manipulation, LOL!
Didn`t work on the mother but I was sooo happy to hear the two grade school kids talking, I was grinning like a fool.
I kept meeting them all over the aisles (the kids were rather loud, truth be told) but I didn`t dare walk up to them, that would be rude and weird, I think.
Didn`t understand much beyond `anni` and that -gu/-ku for enumerations but what a cute surprise, right? I know that KOICA has been here since the EQ but not sure if there are other reasons for SK to be here.
I have to go, as this is not my internet or laptop, but I hope I can read this OT over the week-end.
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20 dpanda
July 18, 2014 at 7:46 AM
One last thing, you know there are actors and there are ACTORS right? Add I said just got into the drama works last dec.
So, I started watching FTLY, watched first ep, and was like "darn, Jang Hyuk is AN ACTOR". I instantly went to look for other drama that he had been in and I actually just finished watching the second episode of Chuno and I'm so blown away. So, I'm just kind of sad happy because it just feels like I have been blind to this world for a very long time but also happy because it means that I have so much more to look forward to
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21 MistyIes
July 18, 2014 at 7:55 AM
Happy Friday! We've had some (slightly) cooler weather lately, which has been nice. As for dramas, etc...
Joseon Gunman: I'm still two episodes behind, but loving it so much.
Return of Iljimae: also continues to be awesome. (And wow, Jung Il Woo is pretty.)
God's Quiz 4: a very sad episode again, but also really sweet as usual. I still worry for Kyung Hee, but at least this cliff hanger left me more amused and even excited than afraid.
And Running Man: despite it being somewhat predictable, I found this episode quite hilarious. I did wonder when I saw the preview if they would just have Ji Hyo sleep the whole time, and I'm glad they didn't, even if her participation in the games didn't seem to count for much.
Have a great weekend, everyone!
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22 Sajen
July 18, 2014 at 7:57 AM
So my friend and I did not make kimchi this week, mostly because at our core we're both lazy and couldn't be bothered. We did however discover a wonderful soup restaurant, which I fondly refer to as the soup nazi.
Then we ran into his in-laws who hate him and apparently hate me now simply because I'm his friend. They actually remind me a bit of K-drama in-laws while I don't believe they've offered him money to leave or tried to kill him they do hate him for no reason other than getting their daughter pregnant, and being completely classless about it. Example, earlier this year around her birthday/mothers day they sent flowers to her work in her maiden name.
Well that feels better now that that's off my chest, on to dramas.
Trot Lovers- I still love it, even if I have to admit the fast pace worries me, a bit.
I'm behind on everything else time to go catch up.
Oh right, is anyone else here a gamer? I just found this browser game Fallen London! and while I just started it seems pretty interesting.
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23 Rachel
July 18, 2014 at 8:23 AM
It's been a long time since I posted on Friday OT. Many events have come and gone these past few summer months.
I've finally graduated from 4 years of undergraduate life, onward to the university of life! The image of my crying self, wanting to give up on law school halfway through my journey, is seared in my mind. I survived!
Extremely grieved by the events of the past 24 hours. What more can I say than what has already been expressed? Catastrophic events that result in great human loss have been increasing in frequency and intensity. If you believe in the final judgment and other showdowns of the sort, you might think we are inching closer and closer to the end of the world.
I spent most of the past 2 months catching on American dramas, like Breaking Bad, House of Cards and Pretty Little Liars (a very guilty pleasure). Given the high quality of some of these shows, I was afraid I wouldn't be able to stand watching typical Korean (sometimes soppy) dramas, but I'm happy to report that I've just started catching up on Heirs, and it's pretty much my new crack. I mean, can you ever get enough of Lee Min Ho staring longingly into the distance?
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24 snow
July 18, 2014 at 8:28 AM
My three favorites right now:
Marriage Not Dating....so much fun
High School King Of Savvy....warm and charming...I'm on ep 7 right now....
Fated To Love You....♥
basically my dramaland is filled with romance and cuteness...
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25 kopytko
July 18, 2014 at 8:35 AM
Hi Everybody!
How are you doing? Dramawise, I am in a slump without much exciting things to watch.
I follow Triangle, Trot Lovers and Glorious Day. Oh, I also had a look at the opening episodes of Temptation.
The older shows are satisfying in their own ways - Triangle is a Jaejoong feast complete with the gangster family (I can't get enough of Manbong and Madam Min explaining everything going on in the drama, lol). Glorious Day is a feel good little drama which main asset for me is the dentist brother. I just love those snarky, teasing characters, who not only make witty comments but also are clever enough to help others confront their hysteric mothers ;). Trot Lovers is indeed for trot lovers - I realized that EunJi is one fine singer. The plot is nothing special, but I can live with it as it is. Though, I used to think that this drama will change a bit the image of trot music, so that it won't be considered a worse genre or something you would not admit to liking. And then I read that the very EunJi will release an album, but not with trot but "trendy" music. Sigh. The "trendy" pieces don't let her show off her skills, but who cares.
As for Temptation, I am still onboard and haven't decided to drop it yet. It is intriguing enough for me to keep watching. What I like about it is the psychological game the heroine seems to be playing - mostly with herself, I guess. And it's fun to wait and see what the characters do next.
Have a lovely weekend!
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26 Trapper
July 18, 2014 at 8:57 AM
Hi Beanies-
Been doing a bit of binge watching this week:
Started: Love Myself or You (tdrama) A bit of a slow moving story, but the OTP is top notch!
Started/Finished: You're Beautiful. I can understand the love and hysteria when this first aired. After watching it, had the feeling of 'been there, done that' but of course when it aired, this may have been fresher.
Continuing: Glorious Day. I enjoy this drama, even though I told myself that I wouldn't watch a weekend/50 ep drama, didn't want to invest the time. Just when I think it is dragging, it perks back up and I'm invested again.
That's all for now, thanks for reading!
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27 sebsob
July 18, 2014 at 8:59 AM
Is anyone watching Cdrama 'Boss & me' aka 'Shan comes to eat'? It seems really cute but I just can't find English subs anywhere. Any help or reviews, recaps would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
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28 ktiep2003
July 18, 2014 at 9:23 AM
So much evil going on in the world. And we're killing our planet on top of it. No wonder I like to disappear into Dramaland...
YAAS: I really loved the ending. I was left wanting more of the show--you know, with more crimes for to solve and more growth in their different relationships. Just like would happen on American TV. This feeling is so much bet than when a drama ends and I feel like, whew! Glad that's over!
Trot Lovers: At first I was coming down with second lead syndrome really bad, but now, um no. I don't like how he is pushing himself (his declaration of love) on her. I mean, he is her BOSS, so if she doesn't reciprocate right away, I would think it would be wise to back off. I've often wondered about that in K-Dramas--with all the dating and love declarations that bosses do with their subordinates.
I'm glad I have Dramabeans to come read about Fated to Love You and Marriage, not Dating because sometimes I just don't understand them. Maybe because I am a strong-willed woman, so I wouldn't put up with the crap that the men are dishing out. I don't find it that funny when the characters insult each other non-stop.
As for ACTING, I definitely like watching good actors over pretty people. When two are combined, that's nice, but many times I like the character actors better than the leads.
I also noticed the drought in veteran actors. Probably they don't want to live the hectic TV actor's life anymore. In the US, the acting work day is regulated, so veteran actors like TV because they can have steady income and homes and families.
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29 CaroleMcDonnell
July 18, 2014 at 9:31 AM
Hello all!
I've been avoiding the news so I just realized today is Friday. Have moved from our old town and are now in Albany. Trying to settle in.
High School King: I really don't know how I'll hold up for the next week. This drama is my crack. The people in it, the sense of it being a good "hang-out" drama which is populated by people who are accepting of each other and who have good will toward each other. Well, for the most part...Loooooooooove this drama.
Jin Woo is one of the most shamed/shaming/shame-based characters I've seen in kdrama. Am hoping he's not repeating with women what his dad did with his mother. Poor soul, he just doesn't seem to understand how to deal with relationships. I worry that he will totally crash and burn, go into rehab because of a nervous breakdown, or just attempt to kill himself. The shame and self-reproach he's under can't go on much longer. But this is kdrama so love alone could heal him. In real life if he hung out with Yoo Ah, I would worry that he would be the older abusive child molester type. But this is kdrama...so...well, she might heal him.
Am still trying to figure out why heroine and her sister don't have similar names. Looks as if the late Jung-soo who was chaufffeured around by Minseok's Dad and had a car accident might be Soo Young's dad who was killed in a car accident. Am i right? So would Minseok's Dad kinda sorta know Soo Young's Mom (when they came down from Seoul)? And are there other birth secrets out there, did Chairman have other mistresses? And where are Chairman's other "legitimate" kids and Chairman's wife? Why aren't we seeing how Jin Woo gets along or crashes with his half-sibs.
I saw a 2009 drama called NEXT which was really very good. It got a bit slow when the past life repetition didn't seem to progress...but in all, it was quite good. It's on kdrama.com
Nothing much else. Have a safe healthy weekend, all.
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30 Aigoooo
July 18, 2014 at 10:26 AM
Things I am grateful for this week:
1. The Hospital I had surgery in has wifi... YAY
2. Going to Dramabeans to get my mind out of the pain once the anesthesia wore off. If I posted anything weird between Mon - Wed, I blame the anesthesia. lol
3. Watching HSKS, FTLY, YAAS, Avatar, The Legend of Korra, MND, Roommates, Running Man and Trot Lovers for helping me keep my sanity.
4. My mom and sisters who came and visited (and brought Starbucks). Family is awesome. hehe
5. The gorgeous nurse who was assigned to me. I was gonna act all suave and cool but that kinda fizzled out after she pulled the urinary catheter out of me. lol youch
Just a random thought, I wonder if it's possible for Dramabeans to put up the episode with 1 picture so us beanies can start discussions right away until the recap comes in? If it's a horrible idea then forget I said anything. lol
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31 aoiaheen
July 18, 2014 at 10:51 AM
Hi everyone!
This kdrama season is quite an amazing one. Usually I follow probably 1 or 2 dramas and if i'm lucky i will be addicted to one of them. But this time I'm watching and addicted to 4 dramas. I feel like heaven has fallen on my lap (top).
So my addictions are:
Fated to love you (crazy addicted. I think JNR is playing one of my most detested type of characters in such a lovely way that I am head over heels in love with her now. And OMG Uri hero is so freaking adorable! )
You're all surrounded (My first Lee seung gi drama)
Hi School love on! - so sweet!
Joseon Gunman (This isnt a surprise - I love sagueks without too much court drama and this hits all the right spots for me. And I just adore LJK)
I'm also watching
Fated to love you: I was addicted to this till they went makjang. I love the concept - i think the whole "in love with the same guy but a different version of him" is very unique and could have had some lovely romantic angst. But they completely ruined it by not focusing on this.
I wish they remake it into korean and do a better job.
Happy friday everyone!
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32 meenuby
July 18, 2014 at 11:32 AM
Happy OT Friday, all.
Can't say I can enjoy much drama watching this past week. I've been glued to the tragedies happening around the world, especially in the MidEast. I don't know about anyone else but when women, children, and the disabled are being killed by the hundreds, IT IS NOT OKAY. I can't fathom why most of the world has turned a blind eye to the situation there, which has been going on for decades. Where is the humanity? Why can't we all live in peace, regardless of our religious and ethnic differences?
And then the MH17 crash. My God, how horrible. Malaysia barely came back from the missing MH370 plane and now this. What is the world coming to?
I don't know what I can do except to offer my prayers for all. :(
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33 john
July 18, 2014 at 11:36 AM
Watching:
Joseon Gunman: Starting to pick up
HSKOS: Loving it. Moment of truth coming right at us.
MND: Need to watch ep 4. All kinds of love triangles ?
Trot Lovers: Just for my lovely Eun-ji. I loath lazy writers.
FTLY: Jang Nara ! She's a delight to watch.
Roommate: 2 wks behind. Will watch for Nana & Ga-yeon
Might check out Temptation.
J dramas:
Wakamonotachi; Can't lose with a cast like this. Ep 2 was full of surprises.
Ginnikan: 1st episode is good so far. Son of a samurai is orphaned and is "adopted" into a agar merchant's "family". Yay, features the wonderful child actress Ashida Mana.
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34 pogo 🍉
July 18, 2014 at 12:53 PM
It's been an awful week, I can't stand watching the news any more. First the Gaza situation (which disgusts me beyond belief, as excuses continue to be made and the so-called civilised world sits quietly by) and now the plane.....god rest those poor souls.
It's been a quiet week in kdrama for me - I only watched Triangle, Joseon Gunman and a few episodes of Let's Eat. Triangle still does that weird thing where it's slow and people talk too much, but I'm still hooked because of the brothers and the OTP.
Joseon Gunman - I'm totally hit by Second Lead Syndrome....for the female second lead. She has so much depth and presence that she didn't even need her backstory to make her interesting, but this is one show where I'm glad the plot takes precedence over romance, at least for now. I can tolerate Soo-in now, but only as long as she keeps the birdbrain voice and mannerisms in check.
But the real stars of the hour (besides the always-amazing Jeon Hye-bin) were Lee Jun-ki and Kim Hyun-soo as the siblings. For a kid with so little screentime, she's a champ at leaving a strong impression, is good at emoting, and she has adorable oppa-dongsaeng chemistry with Lee Jun-ki. And oppa is SO GOOD.
My respect for Lee Jun-ki has always been sky-high because he never coasted on his incredible good looks but instead gives 100 percent to his performances. Even as his fan, I always admit he isn't perhaps as naturally gifted an actor as some, but he produces performances as great as they do by sheer dint of hard work and committing to his role in every way. And when it comes to sageuks, he has earned his place as one of the best - plus he just keeps getting better with age. I'm so glad the ratings are in the double digits now and I hope they continue to rise - he deserves a proper mainstream successful drama after his comeback.
Let's Eat - I really adore this slice-of-life drama and everyone in it. I'm particularly impressed by the two young actors, Yoon So-hee and Yoon Doo-joon - one is from SM Entertainment and the other is an idol, but they fit their roles so perfectly, I hope to see them as true leads in more mainstream acting projects one day. (also Yoon Doo-joon is ridiculously handsome). And I love love LOVE Soo-kyung and her relationship with Barasshi, her dog.
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35 JJK
July 18, 2014 at 2:02 PM
Anyone's watching Battle of Changsha on viki? Officer Gu is giving me a Mr. Darcy's aura :P
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36 Wag_a_Muffin
July 18, 2014 at 2:10 PM
I am done with J Gunman. I loved the poster. I waited impatiently for the first episode. I still like the actors and actresses. The writing is what I'm frustrated with. So I'm done. I won't be getting on the recap thread saying this, because I believe recaps threads are for those watching the shows. (I don't know, it's a courtesy thing--or basic manners. I don't bash shows that others like on their own threads.) But here, on the open thread, may I just (politely) say that I'm disappointed and if it gets better (starts making s.e.n.s.e), somebody tell me. Thanks.
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37 Aigoooo
July 18, 2014 at 3:38 PM
Roommates is starting to tick me off. I like watching it but I really despise how they do those deceptive previews. This last episode showed some clips of what seems to be a real problem (with crying cast members to boot) and after watching it, it wasn't even on that episode. Stuff like that really undermines the integrity of the show. It feels like one of those used car sales adds where they show a really great deal on a car but when you show up to the lot, they are always sold out.
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38 windsun33
July 18, 2014 at 3:49 PM
I feel like I have to share some more North Korean comedy to lighten up the mood, considering that North Korea is not a happy place.
Funniest thing is that North Korea has actually sent an official request to China to take the video down http://youtu.be/OIxqaqQUZFs
I follow North Korea pretty close (have been for years), and hard to find much that is funny about it, but that video certainly is, and Pyongyang is furious about it.
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39 windsun33
July 18, 2014 at 5:59 PM
Speaking of WTF (!!!) dramas, this series just now got posted to Drama Fever: "When Heaven Burns" - "..When an accident leaves them stranded on a mountain, Ka Ming dies and his friends resort to cannibalism for survival.."
Anyone know anything about that one?
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40 owl 🦉 🫰
July 18, 2014 at 6:56 PM
Reminds me of the Alfred Packer story in the late 1800 in Colorado. According to the story, at his trial the judge said, "Damn you, Alferd Packer! There were seven Demmycrats in Hinsdale County and you et five of 'em!"
I can still clearly picture the scene in the wax museum in Colorado Springs of Packer hunched over a campfire - very traumatizing to a 9 year old! The U of Colorado grill is named after him.
http://www.leftcoastcrime.org/2008/packer.htm
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41 magnus
July 18, 2014 at 7:45 PM
Marriage, Not Dating and Fated to Love You are my favorite dramas (and the only ones I'm seriously keeping up with) this season. They both have something in common I adore: female leads I'm in love with and seem real and a dynamic between the main couple that I love as well.
I like that Jang-Mi is in that fabled in-between of the crazy bitch and candy sweetheart. She just goes head first into things and feels everything with her whole heart and doesn't hold back. And it causes problems and may be embarrassing for other parties but she doesn't care. But she's a nice well meaning girl. She's a humanized second-lead character really, the type that is persistent and you want her to just go away and let the lead couple be. But she's the lead now ^^
And Mi Young isn't just a doormat. When people have crossed the line she'll say so, but she's a sweet accommodating person so her line isn't where most people's are. I cry when she cries and I'm happy when she is. Jang Nara is REALLY nailing this performance.
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42 merry
July 18, 2014 at 8:25 PM
Anyone watching Endless Love? It is set in Korea 70s - 80s. Quite interesting times. Haven't come across a kdrama exploring that time. Would you know anyone blogging it? I'm interested in that period and I am wondering whether the script points to certain facts and events in RL at that time.
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43 merry
July 19, 2014 at 10:02 PM
I wonder what makes an era interesting centuries or even just decades from now. We have saguek dramas still entertaining us. Pre democracy issues, as you live them, they are heart wrenching. In saguek, we find human interest in the heroes and love surviving palace intrigues. It must be that we have lukewarm interest on what we have gone through and find in historical dramas some interesting escape hatches. We even find heroines or women better portrayed than current ones. In the future, how can the era of 70s-90s be interesting to the millenials? How will they view the time we are living now? How will hope find its portrayal in dark times?
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44 iamdeb
July 19, 2014 at 11:02 PM
I've been reading alot of comments where people say that certain recent dramas have renewed their love for kdramas, or they have been in a kdrama viewing rut for awhile...etc, etc.
Those of you that have been feeling that way (now or in the recent past), what do you think were the factors in kdramas that made you feel that way? Or just why did you feel that way?
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45 samsooki
July 21, 2014 at 6:17 AM
Pulled yet another all-nighter.... this time, the first 5 episodes of Sly Cunning Woman. I meant to watch just the first episode but then the episodes kept pulling me in and pulling me in. I was really oblivious as to the space time continuum when the rays of dawn hit me and I was on episode 5...
LMJ is not exactly new to me but she totally surprised me here. I was shocked by how comfortable she looked and felt in her role.
Really, really funny, with opposing points of view and heartache, it is a joy to watch.
Some parts of the first five episodes are hilarious, and anyone who has seen ToW (Temptation of Wife - all 122 or so episodes) like myself will be find this drama near and dear. I generally tire at meta references but this one was a complete hoot.
I alternatively root for and against all of the main characters, a testament to how balanced the whole drama is. I love it.
What a year 2014 is turning out to be for dramas.
Looks like I picked a good year to come back to the motherland.
=D
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