CRICKET - It was glamorous and fun year of Test cricket. T20 cricket has taken lot of space of ODI cricket but Test cricket which is claimed to be not as much popular has actually provided uch more fun and exciting cricket compared to T20.

At start we had Australia vs. India in Australia - very very very exciting test matches that showed the the real value and beauty of test cricket once again.
Surprise was England winning in Sri Lanka. One of the most powerful performance came from west indies winning against Bangladesh in bangladesh and a left hand new batsman scoring most of runs in 4th inning.
And then the biggest moment - World Test Championship - The 1st ever one - Won by Nea Zealand their long waited ICC world trophy. Awesome matches and performances.
Test cricket has gained more stream.
ICC trying hard to get cricket in Olympics - even lobbying with 3 million dollars.
And we had controversies in almost all main cricket boards. Not with kiwis - they are too nice.
India has its own coach-captain-selection as well as conflict of interests drama.
England has its racism.
Australia has its coach and an ex-captain
South africa has racism and quota
West Indies - Sri Lanka - corruption n players tussle. Almost all boards have corruption and political tussle troubles. And yet cricket survives and even thrives.

Mostly Female Cricket that is taking game ahead in countries where no one knows about it much. Overall, in 2021 Cricket had lot of upswings but at the same time due to lack of people management and mostly due to power and money - cricket is struggling in the main competitive countries.

Our Beloved Summer This drama is a gem. “How have you been?” has never been so sad or heart fluttering. I so root for those two to work things out. I’m glad we are getting the POV of each of the main characters. I emphasize with Yeun-soo and Ji-woong much more now. Woong’s parents are awesome.

Uncle: This drama is also a gem. It has so much heart. Ji-hoo overcoming his stage fright to sing to his uncle will no doubt make my #2022Roundup. That kid breaks my heart. He’s been through so much and his book of song lyrics was troubling. I was glad to see the mom go to rehab. I like the little bar family. More people need to be watching this!

Bulgasal: Immortal Soul: The first two episodes were really good. The cinematography is impressive. I liked that they took their time with the backstory and world building. It gives it an epic feel.

The One and Only: This is a very weird drama. It feels like two separate dramas mashed together. I’m not sure it all works, but I do think the hospice side of the drama is very interesting. I don’t think the story needed a hitman with a heart of gold, a murder investigation, and a gambling ring after the dead guy’s phone.

The Silent Sea: Episodes 4/8: I’m underwhelmed. I thought the first two episodes were pretty slow, but the story did pick up in Episode 3. Every single character is underdeveloped. I can handwave bad science, but not that. I would have also liked for them to spend more time showing what life was like on Earth. Still, I don’t hate it. It reminds me of a Doctor Who episode.

Secret Royal Inspector and Joy: I don’t even remember what happened this week. I zoned out when the romance took center stage.

I had very little time for dramas this week (Xmas preparations, kids on holidays, family coming 😍)... I managed to watch the second episode of Bad and Crazy though... and I'm having fun 🙂 The murder/corruption story is meh and I'm not much interested in it... but I looooove comedic Lee Dong Wook... and his totally absurd situations with Helmet Guy (oil sliding? Really? 😆😆). I guess I'm in mood for this type of humor as I was even enjoying the red light speed line behind the bike! 😂

Anyway, I mainly came today to wish Merry Xmas to all who celebrate 🌲🌟 and great weekend to all! 😘
(Next time will be in the new year already! 😱 Where did the time go??)

NOW WE ARE BREAKING UP (Ep. 11) The leads have started to use the L word but their delivery is like the conflict of deciding between the house salad or the soup of the day. YE’s entire mindset is to make a few nice moments before ending the relationship before it gets sour. JK seems to hold onto her like an elementary school participation trophy for the worst kid on the team.

It is really hard to define what the writer is trying to convey. Korean culture has is own quirks. It is a couple culture; but the first school coupling is more about the person showing individual status, popularity and acceptance than love. Campus couples are more hanging out together to avoid the social awkwardness of young adulthood. First love and real dating is a supercharged hormonal amusement park ride until the infatuation wears off. The BF/GF “relationship” is an exclusive time to see if one is compatible for the long haul. Engagement is the commitment toward marriage and partner goals. YE and JK fit into none of those roles.

It was more symbolic that the movie they watched was pixelated to be meaningless as they had no sofa skinship in a basic romantic moment. The regretful husband’s touch towards his dying wife is more real. Director Hwang’s traditional courtship with the PR CEO is the proper slow burn to ignite future passion. The leads have no spark together.

ON AIR (2008) From what I read, this was a controversial show when it first aired on KTV. Rumors had the popular but bad actress/diva lead was based on a real actress who was allegedly aloof, demanding, mean, stubborn and possibly dating a director. Back then, the backstabbing agency deals and CF/PPL life blood for network stars would have jarred a naive public. But the story is really about the second lead, the star writer (Song Yoon Ah), who is pressured to have rating hit after hit or be doomed to failure as a divorced mother. She has her own diva issues but slowly allows others to help her become her best person.

COMPLETED
Chimera - The final confrontation between the Chairman and Chimera was so meh. Who thought it was a good idea to have all 3 leads offscreen for most of the finale? Didn't it feel like the finale was filmed piecemeal at different times?

Since it's holiday week, also managed to binge 4 J-dramas and 1 C-drama with Kieta Hatuskoi being the best.

ONGOING
Secret Royal Inspector & Joy - This is not as joyful as it used to be but the sisterhood is nice to see. Looks like there'll be some fun ghost shenanigans in the finale.

Our Beloved Summer - I un-paused and watched Eps. 4-6. I still don't love it like everyone else - Yeon-su's supremely unsurprising sad story didn't move me at all - but then there are moments when I just want to give these characters a hug.

Melancholia - Poor LDH looks like a kicked puppy half the time. I think they spent too much time on the big bad. She's not even particularly interesting - every scene she has with Ye-rin is the same scary-sweet tactic and it really doesn't work the 5th or so time.

Now We Are Breaking Up - Absolutely zero rationale for the last scene. What was the impetus? Visiting his brother's grave? He's done that half a dozen times already! Apparently this show is ending a week after Red Sleeve Cuff even though it has one episode less 😑.

Bad and Crazy - Watching LDW lose his mind in the first half of Ep. 3 was pretty funny but the ending was meh. They better not kill off the baby cop today.

The Red Sleeve Cuff - Still dehydrated from all the crying I did in Ep. 12. Looking forward to 3 episodes back-to-back.

STARTED
Moonshine - Humour didn't land for me - Hyeri's crazy-eyes schtick is not for me. But the rest was interesting enough and it's so good to see Yoo Seung Ho again (that voice!).

Decided not to watch Snowdrop with how politically problematic it is. Planning to watch The Silent Sea over the weekend.

🎄Merry Christmas!🎅

The makjang Real Life 2021 is nearing its end!🥳 I got more invested than I had initially anticipated, but at least I got to sneak in some other show’s episodes in between. As I plough on with these other current shows, I do wonder when I will finally be able to start a new one, and which one will get the honors.🤔

Bring It On Ghost💪👻(15/16): This show is mostly a relaxed watch for me, but the last quarter put me on the edge of my seat as the puzzle pieces were finally coming together. Episode 15 especially was nail-biting as we got our final showdown between our heroes and villain Hye-Sung. Kudos to Kwon Yul and the writing for making me fear for our good guys!👍🏻

Healer🕶️(4-6/20): *Ajumma voice* Helllooooo! Since I never pay 100% attention during group watches, I rewatch with the FF button and read recaps to make sure I have watched and understood everything afterwards. Healer certainly demands and deserves the extra focus, but it does take a lot of time to catch up!😄 The only highlight I do remember for now, is Moon-Ho buying our little news company. I cannot wait for all the reporter hijinks!☺️

The One and Only (Episode 1-2) - Mood: B-
Ever since I watched Chocolate a few years back, I’ve been anticipating the next hospice drama as I thought it was a setting that’s rarely explored. While it was quite an interesting premiere week having all 4 leads be complicit in a murder together, I’m not sure about whether the plot will be able to juggle the hospice life against the homicide case: it won’t be an easy balancing act and chances are that the hospice community would remain underdeveloped. Side note: I chuckled upon seeing Baek Hyun Jin cameo as a jerk once again. He’s really good but the typecasting is sad!

Bad and Crazy (Episode 1-2) - Mood: C-
There’s no doubt I’m intrigued by the reverse Jekyll and Hyde setup (knowledgeable commenters have also pointed out the similarities between this and the movie Fight Club), which already has so many questions that need to be answered going forward, such as what led to the manifestation of a separate personality and what exactly triggers the switch. At the same time, the police corruption and political conspiracy is just way too uninspired a setting to get excited about: it has 100% predictability in the characterisation. Also, the show needs an epilepsy warning: the opener’s way too flashy!

Our Beloved Summer (Episode 5-6) - Mood: D+
Sadly, Ji Ung’s character took a cliche turn: he and NJ are also being set up as each other’s consolation prize.

Bulgasal: Immortal Souls (Episode 1-2) - Mood: C
The fantasy is fine but nothing great. I’ve got a hunch that both leads didn’t actually kill each other’s families.

School 2021 (Episode 9-10) - Mood: D+
We could have avoided this pathetic love triangle if Ki Joon stopped assuming and started communicating?

Let Me Be Your Knight (Episode 7) - Mood: D+
Plot movement is negligible this week except for the cliffhanger: not sure if Woo Yeon will find out the truth next week.

The Red Sleeve Cuff (Episode 11-12) - Mood: D+
I’m somewhat relieved that the politics appear to be resolved? But the tutor’s still around to cause a ruckus next week.

Moonshine (Episode 1-2) - Mood: D
Pathetic brother? Court politics? Poison conspiracy? Alcohol monopolist villain? Love triangle? How much must I yawn?

Chimera (Episode 15-16) - Mood progression: C- / D / D / D- / D+ / D / D / D
Eugene was severely under-utilised as a main character: the show really went nowhere with her arc.

Melancholia (Episode 13-14) - Mood: D-
It’s ending next week presumably to the tune of good triumphs over evil and maybe some rushed romance? It can’t be that predictable, right?

Now We Are Breaking Up (Episode 11) - Mood: D-
Do Hoon’s conversation with Chi Sook at his house was the only one I watched at normal speed.

The only currently airing drama that I am enjoying is Moonshine. I enjoyed Hyeri's acting, the MLs confusion having to board with this family, and even the Prince and his traumatic memories. I like that it seems to be about down-on-their-luck noble families, and I hope it doesn't start centering too much on palace intrigue. I am looking forward to the next episodes, and I haven't been able to say that about any of the other new dramas.

Bad and Crazy: 6.5 Day 1 & 3: Good concept, the scripts and/or direction botch the details. Except the little kid - she's good. If we eventually decide we don't like the show we can always decide that the title describes it? Day 3: their gimmick is already getting a bit stale.

Bulgasal: Immortal Souls: 7.5 The early part was quite disappointing but it got better once they got to 2006, which was good because the news Sat & Sun had me worried that I might have a Snowdrop-size hole in my weekend watch list.

Snowdrop: __ I planned to watch it. I really did. Or at least start it. But I just couldn't bring myself to do it. At least I still have my one-beer-per-episode-that-airs-before-it-gets-cancelled drinking game to keep me amused while I follow the news.

Chimera: 8.0 Finished strong. You could almost say it finished with a bang.

Secret Royal Inspector & Joy: 7.0

Moonshine: 6.0 A mobile bar? A bar on a cart that pops up here and there? A Mystic Mobile Pop-Up Bar :)

Silent Sea: 3.4 for ep 1.

Crime Puzzle: 7.5 (ep 9 & 10) Not a bad show overall. It had a LOT of flaws, but most of them were typical of the genre, and in between those it was fairly well executed. I can't take off too many points for a kdrama being kdrama-y. More in a reply.

Battle of Changsha - so happy to find this on YouTube, and 1/3 of the way through, I'm really enjoying the complicated character, family and political dynamics (although I do kind of want to slap the entitled twins around about twice an episode).

Just finished USE FOR MY TALENT (Chinese) - meh. It was fluffy but extended too long at 24 episodes. I felt the length towards the middle and the strain of the typical edited audio characteristic of Chinese dramas.

Started SNOWDROP and I’m enjoying the cinematography. I don’t particularly care for the politics (both the wives and the men side) and I was so grossed out by the drink-your-own-blood scene. Ugh. I’m a bit apprehensive about where the show will take us now that it’s confirmed Hae-in’s character is from the north.

Also started WORK LATER, DRINK NOW. After 2 episodes, I realize I shouldn’t watch this hungry. Lol. It would be nice to watch with a friend with our own soju and chicken in front of us.

Hate to admit it but I’m still not motivated enough to finish JIRISAN and continue SECRET ROYAL INSPECTOR & JOY. Hopefully in the next few days.

RED SLEEVE: This week's episodes struck me as very sad. I wasn't expecting the time jump, but the two death scenes were powerful thanks to the incredible acting. Now that San is King, the main theme seems to have shifted to exploring the limits and dissatisfactions of the palace hierarchy directly through Deok-Im's story. To that end, the Head Court Lady's final words to the King, which focused on the tragedy of women living their lives vying for the attention and favor of one man, certainly weren't positive foreshadowing of Deok-Im's romantic future. I was surprised, though, that even three years later she and San apparently hadn't had a full, honest conversation about what they want from each other, or that they hadn't progressed beyond longing looks. They're clearly in love, but the drama is also showing that that likely isn't enough.

SCHOOL 2021: I'm behind on this. It's cute and easy to watch, but the limitations of some of the actors are starting to come more clearly into view, and the story--already pretty thin--is dragging for me.

OUR BELOVED SUMMER: This is a drama that just works on every level, and it goes to show that a romance doesn't need a complicated plot or even a fresh one. You just need to write two well developed lead characters, surround them with equally well developed supporting characters, give them good dialogue, cast strong actors with chemistry, and then trust the process.

MELANCHOLIA: As SailorJumun said, the main villain here is so cartoonish at this point that it's almost unbearable. In fact, most every character except for the leads barely registers as human. The two school director sisters vying for their father's affection are the worst, but the parents don't fare much better. As always, I wish this was better written. While I watch, I mostly think about ways the story could have been approached differently for this to be a worthwhile drama. For one, I wish ML's feelings had developed at the same time as the FL's--i.e. when they were adults, teaming up together to bring down the school's administration.

Oldie: DELICIOUS PROPOSAL. (Got it from the library). A very fun drama about dueling chefs and their families. I so enjoyed seeing the cast who are now big names in Kdramas, back when they were dewy-eyed twenty-somethings, like So Ji-seob (Oh My Venus) looking mighty fine, Ji Sung (Familiar Wife & Dr John) being sparkly instead of reserved, and Son Ye-jin elegant and polished even though inexperienced. The main male lead however, Jung Joon, although he was terrific, sort of disappeared after a few more dramas. Wonder what happened to him.
Waiting in Seattle for the big snow event of 2021. Merry Christmas, all....

MoonShine: Tried and dropped. It was slightly amusing watching YSH be this uppity man, but it has a been there done that quality for me, so I am out.

Our Beloved Summer: Outshines everything right now. This is my favorite drama and I hope it continues that way. How can "how have you been" feel so damn right?

The One and Only: I was not expecting these characterizations and I love it. It is so random and sad, but upbeat.

School 2021: This drama is so cute. Our leads are adorable and it is nice and fluffy.

The Red Cuff Sleeve: So they are really going to drag this out. Deok Im's reasoning is solid and I can't fault her. The King is doing his best, but at the end of the day she loves herself the most, even if she loves him. We shall see how this pans out.

Now We Are Breaking Up: The romance and underlying issue with their relationship is both stupid and contrived. However, the reason I watch this is for the women's friendship, it is super sweet. I find her mother annoying, but I agree she needs to divorce that man and live in peace.

Snowdrop: I have no idea where they are going with this either. Jung Hae In is one of my faves, so I will continue to watch, but I'm not sure I understand what is actually happening with this drama.

Bulgasal: I don't know what is happening here either. I'm still watching though.

Happiness (Ep11 & 12) - I went into this drama with no expectations (given all the typical zombie shows) but I ended up liking it mostly due to the 2 main leads. Sae-bom & Yi-hyun together are super cute (yes this is a repeated statement :P)

Jirisan (Ep14 to 16) - I sort of figured Hyun-jo's fate already so I'm not really surprise with the outcome. Overall I felt that Jirisan could be better if they can really shoot it more outdoor (covid restriction I know) or maybe have better CGIs cos some I really can't unsee :P. Performance wise I find that the main supporting characters outshined the main leads. Not sure if this is due to the way the characters are flesh out but Yi-gang & Hyun-jo are quite flat imo...

Inspector Koo (Ep 11 & 12) - 'Quirky' summed up the whole show for me. I think it's a bit underrated compared to other shows airing at the same time. Not over the top great but it's a fun watch actually :)

Chimera (Ep12 to 16) - Didn't know there could be so many Chimera's around hahaha...seriously I get the motive of the original Chimera but the copycat is a bit far fetched. I get it if it's Jung-yeop but Hyo-kyung? I somehow felt that the story is a bit lacking. Probably better if it's a 12 eps series....

Our Beloved Summer I was a little bit disapointed by the backstory of the FL and the drawing show. But it was really nice to see the main characters finally showing their feelings.

Secret Royal Inspector and Joy I will finish it because there are only 2 more episodes, but neither the romance neither the investigation are interesting...

School 2021 I watch it only for the second leads and the love triangle is really useless.

The Red Sleeve Cuff The story is stagnating... At least, after 13 episodes, he finally asked her why!

Let Me Be Your Knight One more drama that could do without a love triangle...

Bad and Crazy I'm not sure to continue this one...

I need to try : Snowdrop, The One and Only, Bulgasal: Immortal Souls and the Silent Sea.

Our Beloved Summer: This drama has got my heart and is my most looked-forward-to drama these days. The characters are hella endearing, even with their faults. Yeon-su and Ung still have feelings for each other, but how that would pan out as a long-term relationship is still up in the air.

Lee Joon Hyuk's character is a bit of a jerk, but holy moly is he sexy in this! And Woong's parents are just the best!

Royal Inspector and Joy (up to ep 13): Just my bit of joy for the week. I'm glad the drama continues to have group of 3. We've got the 3 guys, the 3 gals, and the band of illegitimate sons (3 guys) and each grouping is a support network. I like how we have a heavy dose of friendship in this drama. Actor for Tae-seo remind me of Shin Hye-sun! They could play siblings!

Finally on vacation, so hope to catch up on some of the new releases and maybe finish some of the ones I've left off.

The Silent Sea (Completed) - Okay I must have enjoyed this since I didn't really ffw or skip anything :P. Water is the main issue in this show. A grp of specialist are given the task to retrieved a sample from a space station on the moon. Mishaps ensues soon after which leads to the true revelation on what really happened to all the personnel in it a few years prior. This is quite a standard sci-fi drama imo as I don't really see any aspect of the story that stood out from the rest. It's nice seeing Bae Doona & Gong Yoo in it though :)

Bad & Crazy (Ep1 to 3) - By ep 2, viewers will know who the identity of 'crazy' is :P. I'm watching this out of curiosity. Quite a good start so let's see how the story goes.....

Bulgasal: Immortal Souls (Ep 1 & 2) - Wow, this is elaborately bloody and sort of complicated at the start. Why on earth does Hwal brought his wife and son to hunt for the bulgasal is beyond me. It's probably true that he kept on making bad decisions that leads to bad karma then....pity the bulgasal that took his soul though :P

I agree that the jerks in Happiness were annoying as f. but at the end somehow it was satisfying to watch them because the actors wereso good at being bad. But I would not want to play a character like that, I think it would be traumatizing. I hope they are all ok after having to live as such vile creatures. it can perhaps leave them with nightmares.

Dali and Gamjatang Ep 11- 16 This drama is one of those "could have been" cases because it had one of the adorable pairings of 2021, but it was a chore to finish the drama mainly due to the boring real estate corruption plot. The drama had lead actors who fit the roles to a tee, had beautiful characterizations of FL and ML, humour that worked despite being silly and interesting premise of balance between classiness and pragmatism, but nope, since it is a kdrama it has to follow the current trend of mixing mystery with romance and ruin the experience for the viewers. The show had heart, like the time when ML consoled the FL after her lineage was revealed in the media or the time when ML was moved by the "coffin" art, but everything feels overshadowed by the unnecessary corruption angle and annoying side characters who were miraculously redeemed towards the end that the shift felt jarring rather than moving. It is the simple fact of "Too many cooks spoil the broth" that the dragged out "greediness" angle by the rich spoilt the entire second half of the show.

Uncle Ep 1-4 ❤ The bonding between the uncle and nephew is everything and there is nothing more to say because y'all need to watch it.

We have now watched the first four episodes of the new Sageuk THE KING OF TEARS, LEE BANG WON. This is the story of the end of Goryeo and the beginning of Joseon. It is tragic in tone, although we do get to see a hopeful side with the portrayal of the future King Se-jong The Great as a youngster in this tale- but it is a dark story on the whole. The acting is very good. It is one of those dramas that, once you start it you have to keep watching.

The new J-drama BEWITCHED BY MY SEXY BOYFRIEND continues to be one crazy comedy. But maybe not as insane as I originally thought: This week it struck me that, while the plot is much different the underlying themes echo those found in the Mozart opera COSI FAN TUTTE with two couples playing with sexual fire. It should not be forgotten that the opera was also a comedy- and that comedy can explore things more serious drama cannot. In any case I look forward to the remaining episodes.

The other J-drama that my wife and I are currently watching is A STORY TO READ WHEN YOU FIRST FALL IN LOVE. It is a charming comedy but my wife and I both find ourselves wondering how any woman could possibly be as totally clueless as our female lead.

RED SLEEVE is still our favorite show- and we are now entering the final stretch. In addition, my wife has been steadily working her way through the 2007 sageuk LEE SAN- WIND OF THE PALACE which has many of the same characters we find in RED SLEEVE CUFF- but covers much more of the life of King Jeongjo. She has about 10 more episodes to go- out of 77. Sageuks were once much longer in length.

SECRET ROYAL INSPECTOR AND JOY is still fun. We will be watching the penultimate episodes once episode 14 is fully subtitled, which should be today. But now we have a new Sageuk comedy: MOONSHINE. We have seen the first two episodes and so far it looks promising.

I am looking forward to the next episodes of the weekender YOUNG LADY AND GENTLEMAN. The amnesia story arc finally came to an abrupt end last week, its dramatic purpose having ended, leaving an awkward situation for our Gentleman and our Young Lady. But somehow the love story between out Gentleman’s half-sister and our Young Lady’s step-brother is back in play. Lots of future angst- I love it. The ratings for this show continue to climb with good reason.

I am not sure if this can save Snowdrop, but I voice out anyway ...

Make sure those characters either the North Korean spy and those in the South Korean security officers more personal, and not representing the organization. But I am not sure if it works. Other then the problem of the screenwriting as well public perception, there are a lot more problems in the drama then the controversy.

And by the way, I enjoy Our Beloved Summer then many other dramas in this period, I even think The Red Sleeves a bit too old style, and can't go on after Episode 9 (That palace maid gang is a bit turn me off as well).

Rainless Love in a Godless Land - ah, what a great twist. Really love it when they thrown everything on its head.

Now, We Are Breaking Up - I'm up to ep 11 and hopefully the mothers are given a rest because it feels like everyone is cycling over the same argument. It would have been interesting to see more conversations about them tackling the situation together instead of them avoiding the issue, just saying I love you, or doing things that confuses the other partner/or leaves them guessing... but I don't think the writing is up to it. Its also gross how they keep making the significant weight loss seem like a positive thing. And how she was angry at her kid wasn't tackled well either.

Bulgasal - The first two episodes drew me in more than I thought. Its actually kind of nice to have something plot heavy.

Our Beloved Summer - I rather wanted to hit him for belittling her goal to be in a position so her grandmother never has to work again.

Let Me Be Your Knight - I still don't really know how sleeping outside of his room is really going to help. Things are coming together nicely. Starting to wonder what her sister would think about her con and maybe holding onto the theory her sister is a actually secret softy.

Win The Future - there is a lack of focus on the romance initially. It doesn't really sell an underdog narrative and the characters are unfortunately lacking which makes it hard to care much if they do win or lose, especially to put all this work in for those bosses.

Paint with Love - they really had me thinking the two were former lovers and not step-siblings. Phab warming up to Maze is nice but it would have been fun if they were still a bit antagonistic with each other.

Love with Benefits - the opposite of plot heavy. I saw someone post that this was actually a very cheap production of a zombie story... and I can't argue. Except the leads had better chemistry in the last ep than I was expecting.

Rewatched:
Flower of Evil: I just love their acting and chemistry. I need another drama with Joon Ki and Chae Won (I don't count Criminal Minds).
Waikiki: I was thinking of rewatching Waiki or Pegasus and Waikiki won. I laughed a lot yesterday.

On Air:
The Red Sleeve (ep 10): Can San just get rid of Deok Rok already? He annoys me more than the actual villians of the show.
Uncle (ep 4): Our teacher deserves better. And our baby made me cry with the song. This show always makes me think "I want an uncle", but I actually have like 10 already lol.
Our Beloved Summer (ep 4): THAT FINALE. YEEEES!!!
Silent Sea (ep 1): To be honest I don't know where is this going at all. Trailers show more information than the first episode of this show.
Bad and Crazy (ep 3): I actually was hoping K appeared in that club, I can't believe he didn't appear even after that jerk showed YS the video and he remember what the girl said to him :(

Oldie:
No limit - 2009 (ep 1): I love Go A Ra and Sang Yoon so I'll keep watching even if I'm not into sports.

Our Beloved Summer I love this show. I knew it was about time we get to see Yeon Soo's point of view. Poor girl. She had such a tough life. I can understand where she is coming from and just feel so bad for her. I can't fully blame her for her past choices since it may have been all too much for her that she had to just shut down. But since she is older and wiser now I hope she has the courage to ask for help when she need it.

Bad and Crazy I watched the first two episodes and I have mixed feelings about it. Right off the bat, Helmet guy was suspicious since only Soo Yeol is the one that can see him. So its interesting that the show revealed SY's psychosis. I have yet to see ep3 and 4 to see if I will continue watching this.

Bulgasal Weirdly enough, I liked the world building in episode 1 even if there was too much going on. I felt for Sol more than either of the leads tbh. I didnt particularly like ep2 since I don't care for either of the twins or Hwal. I do want to know how Gong Seung Yoon and Lee Joon's characters fit into all these.

I put my sagueks on pause (Haechi, SRIAJ and TRS) and hopefully I can get to it soon.

Yumi's cells: I decided to watch this after seeing so many beans for it in the annual bean count! And definitely this would have taken at least 3 of my beans! I loved it and I can't wait for season 2. The cells are hilarious (fashion cell was my favorite) and added a dimension to the viewing that was particularly interesting. I was actually happy about the ending, because though we all love happy endings, it feels quite nice to see that getting together is not always a good thing. Both Yumi and Woong need individual growth before getting together. I could not comprehend why Yumi's happiness was so tied to her being in a relationship! I thought that was quite sad and I wanted the drama to address this a bit more. This is not normal, it is not normal to be bored, lonely and unhappy when not in a relationship. And I also did not agree when Woong's priority shifted to be Yumi's. I think everyone's priority should be themselves. Anyway, I liked it and glad I watched it!

Red sleeve: still enjoying this, though the last two episodes I thought were a bit slow and uneven. But still enjoying this and patiently waiting for both episodes to be out!

Dropped: Now we are breaking up, the king's affection

On hold: Rainless love in a godless land (this show hits too close to home; I mean it is so real with the kawas leaving, the earth polluted, people disappearing left and right, I kept questionning and thinking this is our world right now, is this really the end of the World? Did the kawas already left? Lol, and then I get kinda scared and then... lol, anyways I had to take a break, but will pick it up again soon)

watched 5 episodes of Silent Sea last night... might finish the last few tonight, but it's not exactly a good holiday watch...

i like Snowdrop -- don't know what the fuss is, but then i don't know the ACTUAL history this fictional story is supposedly deviating from... i like the nostalgic color palatte, but it makes the set look older than 1987, if you ask me. not complaining, i like the look and feel. love the "warden" type dorm mistress - she reminds me of the one in Roald Dahl's Matilda...

Happy Christmas to all who observe! New Year tidings to all, even though we have a few days till that point.

Bulgasal: started last week and I loved it! I understand there are some mixed reviews. I liked Lee Jin-wook in Sweet Home and was curious about the premise. Kwon Nara is a bit of an oddball but she grew on me in Itaewon Clas. Looking forward to the 3rd episode tonight!

Move to Heaven: I had heard so much about this series, but never watched it when it was on. Started this on a whim a couple of days ago...and oh am really enjoying it!

My Country and The Crowned Clown: I put these in the same category as historicals with a corruption and greed angle.

Next up is Beloved Summer.

OUR BELOVED SUMMER
Absolutely loved the premiere week, still like the following episodes, but a bit over all the stone-faces and mysterious staring…nah but for real, it’s quite an introspective drama and I’m looking forward for them to be more serious with each now that the petty fighting seems to be over temporarily. But I do wonder how the plot is going to progress since the big project tying all the characters together seems to be finished…
BULGUSAL: IMMORTAL SOULS
cinematography is amazing, the wide shots of bleak snowy forests and mountains, all the blood… but that’s a bout it. The plot points progress very fast in the first episode but somehow the way it was shot made it drag on for so long. At one point I started playing it at 1.5x the speed lol. Like was said above, it’s a lot of abrupt and heavy-handed exposition that doesn’t explain much of the lore and thought behind the story. Like what on earth is a bulgasal? what’s the curse? if Hwal is cursed because of something he did in his past life then this isn’t actually the beginning of the whole story? And it took me forever to figure out what the twins meant in relation to the bulgasal. Reading the recaps apparently she was split apart into each twin, but whether it’s only her appearance that’s split or her actual soul, I have no idea just watching the drama.
WORK LATER DRINK NOW
Binge watched it over the weekend. Loved it!! Happy that there’s going to be a second season. All 3 of our protaganists are such solid characters and they all had great storylines. Kudos especially to Sunhwa! Been around since her Secret days and I think her acting as these bright, crazy characters is so much more impressive than her previous work playing colder, aloof characters.

The Silent Sea: Binge watched this with my mum Christmas Eve and absolutely loved it. I can't really explain why I loved it so much other than my bias for sci-fi and the fact that I would take a bullet for Bae Doona.

It was a decent, interesting watch and it was one of those stories that when an episode came to an end you always had to watch juuuuust one more until before you know it you've finished the whole thing.

(I also can forgive bad fictional science because tbh I don't understand real science lol)

It also reminded me a little of the Alien franchise, more the vibe and less the story itself... the suspense and curiosity maybe?

Also I really enjoyed Lee Joon's performance in this! I've only ever seen him in Father is Strange before so it was nice to see him again and performing so well at that.

Gonna pick up Moonshine this week I think and pick Inspector Joy back up now that I finally have some free time again.

THE RED SLEEVE CUFF (ep14): While I still love the show, Deok-im is starting to grate on my nerves. If she really wanted to escape San, she'd asked to be relocated to the queen dowager's palace. But no. She lingers, she looks at him with a ton of love in her eyes and then she rejects him again. Enough! This is why I'm so happy with the ending of ep 14, because now the emotional stand-still of xx episodes has come to an end.

THE ONE AND ONLY: First episode in, I surprisingly like this quite a bit. Especially the FL. I'm looking forward to her building a relationship with her roommates. But honestly, someone comb KKN's hair. Please?

This has been a slow drama week for me as the re-watch of RUN ON and Junho fancam have stolen some of my attention. Of course, really looking forward to today's episode of RAINLESS LOVE. Although it's somewhat frustrating to wait each week, I find myself savoring each of the episodes a lot more.

Our Beloved Summer - Getting sweeter by every episode. This time, I wish I can hug Yeon Soo during her hard time. When I first judged her; why didn't she share about her hardship with Ung? They've been together for 5 years! I was later reminded that that's how a relationship grows. Looking at myself, I'm now happily married for 10+ years. But during our first 3-5 years, although the years were sweet, many times I can't find a way how to open up about my own insecurity to my husband who's already accepted me for everything I am. It's a feeling of afraid of losing our loved ones' trust and more... Eventually we need to try one tiny step at a time, things will get better. I really wish Yeon Soo & Ung will get back together and their relationship will grow stronger.

The Red Sleeve - Currently on episode 13. I love the bromance between uri Crown Prince & Royal Guard. But Dok Im's rejection has somehow made me think, does she really love the Crown Prince, or were all of her effort to protect the Crown Prince in previous episodes are just because she's a court maid; if the Crown Prince is harmed, she has to leave the palace. Is that it? Because I can't see her cried in hiding while learning about Queen Won Bin, or shed a tears frustrated with how this thing has to go... Despite these, I'm continuing to watch because everything else is beautiful in this drama. I love Queen Dowager subtleness, her alliance with Queen mother (haha), the scheme or Master Hong, and everything else is so beautifully portrayed.

Bad and Crazy : Glad I picked up the later half of episode 1, now my husband and I are addicted to this show! It's hilarious yet thrilling. But... can we keep K around even if they're able to save Hui Gyeom? His petty childish crazy behavior is entertaining, especially him swooning over Hui Gyeom.

Let Me Be Your Knight : When will they reveal the doctor's true identity?

Watching a bunch of shows currently!

Bulgasal: Watched episode 3, and didn’t see that bit at the end coming. I don’t know how I didn’t, but it was strangely affecting.

Bad and Crazy: Our main duo are great, and it’s good to see at least some bad guys get some comeuppance but good LORD the corruption is off the charts. You couldn’t throw a rock out the window without hitting a corrupt officer in that police department.

The Silent Sea: 3 episodes in! The cast is bonkers in this one, so I knew I’d be checking it out. Also Netflix dramas have always been strong imo so I’m expecting great things. It’s not blowing my socks off, but it’s solidly done thus far at least. It’s light on the music and really lets the silence hang in moments of isolation.

School 2021: Wow, already 10 episodes in. I’m surprised at how much I’m still enjoying this one. Especially for a production that was so packed with delays and problems. This is the first time I’ve seen the FL in anything, but she’s making a good impression on me even if she’s playing a fairly standard character.

Snowdrop: Only seen the first episode so far. These episodes are LONG. I don’t mind the setup, but obviously the political intricacies are a bit lost on me not being korean or growing up in that turbulent time. It’s alright so far, and it’s got a lot of talented actors so I’ll be checking out at least a few more episodes.

Moonshine: Watched the first pair of episodes and again, I’m not blown away. It’s an okay start but I just feel like I’ve watched this show before (not with these exact details of course). Now I’m okay if a show has a fairly bog standard premise, as long as it’s done really well (lots of Shonen anime pull this off pretty well) but nothings gripping me. I’ve been a fan of other shows these leads have been in, so I’m cautiously optimistic it will improve.

Happy holidays all, hope everyone is closing out this garbage fire of a year with some family and/or friends. And if not that, then at least some good kdramas!

Our Beloved Summer: Last week made me go from "ah cute" to "awwwww let me hug you both and keep you safe and warm and close to my bosom"~ I love that the show thoughtfully reveals more details in increments, and that Yeonsoo was fully aware of her pride and insecurities, so despite her (unsurprising) backstory I couldn't help but feel bad for her and Woong. It also helps that Dami and Wooshik play off each other incredibly well.

Snowdrop: I've yet to finish episode 1. Not a fan of the blood drinking and rich wives hoo-ha, but for the rest, all I can say is that it's very pleasing to the eyes. The dorm 207 girls' dynamic is fun to watch. This is my first time watching Jung Shin-hye — she's killing it so far.

The Silent Sea: I think this one requires a better headspace. I already tried twice and fell asleep. (Excellent intro btw!)

Merry Christmas everyone!

This week I just start with:
1) Crime Puzzle - just found this drama with English sub; 1st episode is so confusing with a cop turns into a killer, so i need 2nd ep (i bet i will bingwatch it till ep 10).

2) Uncle - watch it coz i cant get enough of Oh Jeong Se after Jirisan. Lee Sang Wo's character seems has a hidden motive; please drama we have enough the evil mommies, and now not the father too.

3) Bad and Crazy
LDW is having fun with his dopplegangger characters but what i'm craved here is WHJ's big smile whenever he appears out of nowhere.

4) Snowdrop
Read about the controversy but im still going to give it a try coz i like watching the students life in the university dorms. Which reminds me of my time in the female dorms in college.

5) Bulgasal
The 1st and 2nd ep are messy, and im still confused about the Bulgasal but since i love drama with myth creatures, will give 3rd ep a try.

6) Moonshine
Not a big fan of Yoo Seung ho but im sold on the chemistry between Kang Ro Seo and the rebellious Crown Prince.

Other than the above, I also watch Secret Royal Inspector and Joy, and School 2021.

Red Sleeve Cuff </b) Enough with the angst already. Can we have two eps of happy to make up for it?
Beloved Summer is doing romcom right; no serial killers, real estate mysteries or corrupt chaebols. Isn't life complicated enough already?
Silent Sea Sigh, I really tried and maybe I just paused? Kurt Vonnegut wrote about how much he hated being labeled a science fiction writer. Most scifi, he said, are ..."stories that are weak on dialogue and motivation and characterization and common sense." Sadly, this might apply.
Rewatch of My Mister with hubby has been so rewarding. Greatness exists in kdramaland, it's what keeps pulling us back.
Lastly, having taught a course called Natural Disasters to theater and creative writing majors, I'm finding Don't Look Up to be very amusing - at least the first half hour when they are trying to get through to people who have no idea about the natural world.

Secret Inspector and Joy - I don't know why I still watch it, I almost drop it. I just miss the 'real saeguk', not just modern story with people wearing hanbok and that when Red Sleeve come to rescue

Red Sleeve - The angst, the heart wrenching is what I miss from Saeguk drama. It compete with Bossam this year.
Eps 15 left me drain that I barely breath for the entire episode. I still don't understand why Deok Im keeps rejecting the King even though the King himself multiple times showing his affection.
Is that only because she wants to be a free court lady? Or because her dad is Prince Sado bodyguard so she is basically like traitor daughter? I still don't get it. We only have 2 episodes left, please drama, give this couple some happiness will you??!! I really hope it won't end up like the history told because watching 15 episodes when they are not a happy couple already frustrating enough. I demand a redemption for their sad days!!

Happiness: Completed the last 2 episodes of the drama . One of the best dramas of this year. A memorable one indeed. The thrill factor was amazing and kept me on edge in every episode. I love that the leads got a happy ending after such a disastrous days they had witnessed and experienced earlier. Yi Hyun is the best husband ever.

Bad and Crazy : This is show is eccentric on many levels and i am not complaining. Funny and hella crazy and the show is getting even more interesting.

As to "What is wrong with secretary Kim", the big deal is that Young-joo is shown eventually to have been the most considerate, sentimental, person to both his brother and especially to Mi-So, since their childhood. He is not just about his shiny AURA!!!! :-) The Mi-So character has worked really hard, but she has also won the lottery with Young-joo. But the whole series is really funny on how this develops and the surprises, one of the best I have seen.