Still here! And still watching (and loving loving loving) When the Phone Rings. The progress between our leading two is just a damn pleasure to watch. They are still awkward at times, but so willing, so ready, and so desperate for each other that once the dam breaks (I’d argue that it’s coming crashing down as we speak) there will be no stopping it. All this angst and built up longing must be released (I’d argue it’s being damn unleashed as we speak)!
The progress is chef’s 😘. I was worried from last week’s episodes that I may be enjoying the thrill and suspense of this show more than the romance. But I’m glad to be proven wrong this episode.
Okay, I’m into it. It’s intense, fun, looks amazing, the chemistry between CSB and YYS is something else and there’s also orabeoni! What’s not to love?
Also, can somebody please explain what kind of romanisation “Paik” is supposed to be, when “Baek” is right there? Maybe it’s correct, but I hate it. Therefore, it is incorrect.
Good thing I’ve known about the first 2 episodes confusion, cause otherwise I might’ve given up on this absolute hidden gem of a drama. It was so warm, so unique, so gentle and genuine. At times it was leaving me a saddened mess and then lifted me up with the healing, lovely and unhurried relationship between the leads. I loved it, and can’t help but think what more it could be if the cut didn’t happen.
Now, since I’ve finished this one, the next choice for a drama is obvious. Hint: the title rhymes with when the lone sings, hee 😂
Honestly one of my all-time favorite Kdramas once I finished it. I remember bawling my eyes out during there “let’s take a break, but I love you very, very, very, very much and my heart now beats for you” scene— and then I went back to watch said scene all over again 2 more times 🥹🥹🥹🥹
I mean I knew was I was going into, but I went in anyway. You’re right, this wasn’t as bad but having been deprived of any heavier, more introspective shows for some time (sluuuump), I felt it all quite strongly. And now the hurt that this one gave me made me actively seek more hurt. I’m combing through my memory and to-watch lists in search of something that will make me cry. Hell of a way to get out of a slump if I do say so myself…
I rarely cry, but I think I actually shed a little tear for Kang-ju at the end of ep. 18 of Iron Family. Though it definitely wasn’t as tragic as this one. Usually, if it says “bittersweet”, I make a big detour. But id I was looking for sadness, I would find something sad with Jae-wook. I don’t know … he can be so, so sad. When he finally smiles, a little, downward smile, it’s like a gasp of air.
A plea to drama gods: please stop putting the 16 episode count on a pedestal. It is NOT sacred. Mom’s Friend’s Son is an absolutely perfect example of how drama suffers when you\’re trying to force it into the 16 episode frame.
As a general observation I think the 16 episode format is no longer sacrosanct. In one way you should be grateful MFS was only 16 episodes and not 20 episodes. I can remember in my early kdrama days having to plod through a number of 16 episode dramas bloated into 20 episode formats (2 in 2017 come to mind what were referred to as 40/20: SBS’s SUSPICIOUS PARTNER and MBC’s HOSPITAL SHIP).
In an opposite way this year tvN’s QUEEN OF TEARS was a 20 episode drama squeezed into the 16 episode format.
I have emerged from my semi-slump (still watching – or more accurately limping towards the finish line of – Mom’s Friend’s Son) just to say that I’m. In. Love. With. This. I smell an ending I will not like, but I’m all in, come hell or high water (made up of our collective tears I guess?) 💔
Yellow card, drama. You made me feel annoyed with the one and only Jung Hae-in. Bad, bad drama. He had none of the drama’s schemes though, and promptly brought me back with this scene ❤️
Encouraged by some Beanies, I gave Fake It Till You Make It a try, and well… Can’t say I like it more or less than You Are My Secret (Beanies mentioned Fake under my posts about it, hence the association), however, because these two couldn’t be more different!
This one had such a distinct style, I don’t think I’ve ever seen such unique directing in any drama (be it K, T, J or C); admittedly, sometimes I was a tad off-put by the The Office-like zoom-ins or bizzare fourth wall breaking, but it carried itself so unapologetically and with such gusto I couldn’t help but continue.
While directing and the vibe of the drama are definitely an absolute standout, the leads… They are a whole another story. Their effortless, playful, and oh so charged chemistry was leaving me entranced as much as they were with each other, annoyed with each setback between them, and desperate for as little as brush of hands. It was burning very slowly, but damn was it a spectacular flame.
Overall, this was an experience. I’m on the fence about it, unable to say with confidence that I liked it or didn’t (my other leg may be reaching towards the ‘like’ side of the fence just a liiiittle bit). Would I recommed it though? Absolutely.
– No past connection, just normal people meeting by chance
– They don’t work together, he’s not her boss (even if they shared a case once)
– They act like normal adults who flirts, have feelings and desires
– The chemistry between the leads was great!
But otherwise, I found the little sister’s arc really weird and wasn’t really interested in her coworkers.
For You Are My Secret, the second couple was my favorite part.
The sister/cousin can’t remember their relationship but she represents a type of character who pops up unnecessarily in romance dramas. In Remembrance of things past she was the odd one out in a group of really great down to earth female friends. These characters always leave me wondering why anyone would be friends with them as they rarely bring anything to any of their relationships regardless of whether they are a relative, friend or a partner.
What I liked about this is that it’s, as you say, a slow burn, but when it heats up, we get real payoff. And then, right at the perfect point, the drama ends. Very satisfying watch overall.
Ah, this was a good one! While I felt it got a teeny bit draggy towards the end, and would benefit from having 3-4 episodes less, You Are My Secret was nevertheless so much fun! We got a good script, nice directing, cute score and two absolutely lovely couples who spoke their mind, worked through their issues and grew stronger in the process (despite some voices pledging their loyalty to the secondary couple, my heart still belongs to the OTP; they were just too amazing for words). How refreshing is that? No unnecessary drama, just ordinary happiness made up of small things and sweet moments.
It seriously was such a pleasant watch; I feel like C-dramas really can do low-stakes, everyday romantic stories so well ❤️
Agree on everything (but I ended up loving the secondary couple as much as the main one)! It has been a very enjoyable show. And the parents! Most of them (not all) were lovely people too.
This series is full of people I’d love to have as friends.
💯 The ensemble was lovely indeed! And the main romance was so good, too. 🫰 Yay for the best parents!
The second couple (🫰🫰🫰) helped to move the plot along later, but I also agree the last episodes could have been better paced.
„Very good everyday romantic stories“ – yep! I’m currently watching „Love me, love my voice“ (which I ignored before because of the title, lol, I sometimes have aversions I cannot explain… 🤪), and I’m in a state of constantly wanting to pinch everyone’s cheeks, because they’re all just as adorable. 😆
Oh, thank you for the rec 😆 You Are My Secret seems to have triggered my recurring C-dramas binge (that usually lasts for 4-5 titles) so I’ll add it to the list!
That was what I felt, the everyday romantic story which I enjoyed immensely. And now I am on the hunt for another Cdrama. I recently watched a mini cdrama Embrace you in the dark night. A fun steamy spicy drama where you leave your brain cells at the door to enjoy watching it. Check it out if you are interested and let me know your thoughts when you do.
Oh, I had a phase with those mini-dramas! They are so palatable and fun – very campy, but fun nonetheless. I discovered my beloved Dai Gao Zheng through them (still waiting for that full-length drama breakthrough for him…), so they do hold quite a special tiny place in my heart. Will check it out!
I recently stumbled upon them and I am immensely enjoying them. If you have more recommendations with happy ending please let me know. I have watch Forever love and Dusk love
Ok, this will not fit your criteria 100% (I still hate them for it), but I have to mention Maid’s Revenge. It obviously stars my one and only Dai Gao Zheng and bonus, his leading lady is the same actress who was with him in Forever Love, so that may give you an idea of what chemistry they have (absolutely electric, if I do say so myself). This one got me super hooked on the mini-dramas, which was unfortunately short-lived, cause I’m yet to find one which would give me the same amount of enjoyment.
Yes! They are very, very sweet with each other but it’s this mundane, everyday kind of sweetness. A cup of warm milk before bed, a secretive brush of hands, a meal prepared after a day of work, a grocery shopping date – these are so down to earth yet make you melt at how in tune and comfortable and attentive they are with each other. Domestic bliss ❤️❤️❤️
This is so me. I also so said they are killing me with the whole sweetness. I just finished watching it and to the end, they are still as sweet. I have been busy recommending this to everyone on reddit. So good to see the post here.
I decided to start You Are My Secret enticed by a clip from IG, and omaygosh I’ve never been more thankful to my broken algorithm. The ML lead is the most intense shade of green flag (one of the things he does in one of the first few episodes, and what turned me into a puddle: he googles how to break in shoes, and proceeds to do so because she off-handedly mentions that they gave her blisters, and don’t even get me started on the others, cause I will tell you how during shopping he immediately switched the colours of some bathroom accessories from white to green when he noticed that she chose green towels for herself – little things like that are driving me crazy, I tell you!) and the FL is just as amazing as him. And together? They are absolute perfection; they work though issues so goddamn well, and have the sweetest slow burn I’ve seen in a while 😍 I’m at episode 7, and I have to say: I’m in love with almost everything here 😍😍😍
P.S. After ruminating on it, I think I know why it clIcked so well with me. It reminds me of Hi Venus, another spectacular C-drama with close to no conflict, and absolutely winning leads. Even the MLs look kinda similar (had to do a double take, cause I thought I was seeing Joseph Zeng, lol). I reallyyyy hope it remains as good as its (almost) first third. Fingers freaking crossed…
I’m about to finish it. I have watched 30 episodes (out of 32) and I only can tell you the show keeps getting better.
They are a beautiful couple. They talk things, misunderstandings don’t last, they act like real people most of the time…
This C-drama has been a very good surprise.
I still prefer Fake It. It was more elegant and I think the script was better, and deeper. And the city was almost another character.
But You are my secret is a show I will recommend too.
It still befuddles my mind why it feels like Miles Wei (ML actor’s name) hasn’t “made it big”. He keeps getting— and choosing— typecast to do these small budget modern city dramas 🤔 Maybe he thinks it’s what works for him and has a “don’t fix what’s not broken” mindset 😊
I think he gained even more recognition after joining Call Me By Fire S3. Hmm also I feel like it’s hard for me, as a pleb, to tell what an artist “gets”.
Maybe he is already choosing the best scripts out of all the options he has. And he has had a few different roles just this year! The spirit in fox matchmaker, the editor in my marvellous fable (albeit this was 2023), the assistant professor in a suspense-ish show (19th floor), another few costume roles and a couple of CEO-types role 😆 Glad that I have something to watch of him constantly tho haha even if it’s an array of CEO-types role!
Maybe you’re right! Maybe his popularity picked up after his participation in Call Me by Fire and the networks of his dramas decided to take advantage of it and push out more of his dramas rather than let them sit in stockpile purgatory. I’m happy for him that things seem to have finally picked up, because he’s been acting since 2012 but didn’t seem to get a standout role (imho) until Unforgettable Love
He was great in Call Me By Fire S3, it was such a nice surprise that he can dance so well and having a ballroom background. So happy that more people get to know him after the show. He always has steady work since his debut and feeding his fans well. Can’t wait to see more roles in the future. Having a bias that has work out is better than one that doesn’t.
Yay! So glad you are enjoying it. I like the leads but it’s another couple that has me shooting heart eyes. 😍 you will get there.
I am at ep 28 and it stays good till now.
I think I know who you mean… They sure are beginning to give the leads a run for their money, hee. For now though (ep. 16), my heart is yet to be stolen 😆
I loved these initial episodes when their romance was growing. It remained pretty sweet later on too but another couple stole their limelight. Having completed it, I’ll say it’s a solid watch overall.
Also confirming that You Are My Secret stays drama free until the end. I haven’t seen Hi Venus, but if it is similar, I will check it out.
Amidst a Snowstorm a Love also has the lovers working problems out and staying together. Falling Into Your Smile has some immaturity and green acting, but the tone and relationship is pretty even. I really like a long C-drama that is just mellow and pleasant.
I am really liking this too! I’m saving the last three episodes to binge together hehe.
Also, besides the leads, I enjoy almost everybody in it including the parents!
I could definitely feel it more here in ep. 2! He is 😍❤️🔥😍!!! The way he looks at her!! The umbrella!! The room remodel!! The flashback catch-and-fall!! 🫠
I’m about 90% sure he’s carried a torch for her for a long time. He may be just as bickery as she is, but the hidden little gestures, and lingering gaze… They tell a story.
Okay, I’m not won over completely, after all the ML is the ever amazing Choi Jin-hyuk. But our 2nd male lead here did get a few squeals outta me, lol + makes me wanna see the actor as a lead in some nice rom-com 😊
But … and that’s a huge but uri ML *also* jumped over the fence effortlessly while chasing that gamer lady’s drug dealer bf. So still it’s Choi Jin-hyuk FTW!! 👋
my heart just skipped a tiny beat there… he is sooo concerned towards her but then i see CJH being dashing handsome and poor chap disappointed at his hand.. am just sooo excited when actually his hand helps him in completing the task 😄
LOL I’m glad that I watch this show coz i don’t know that Lee Joon can do something so funny.. his cameo also made me forget that this show also got a 2nd male lead
It was by no means a bad drama – the entire cast had some pretty great performances, and it was shot very well, but somehow… I could not get into it until the very end. The latter half of the drama became almost a chore I stubbornly stuck to with barely a half-hearted interest. Maybe this was just not the time for a pensive, and introspective story such as Graduation for me (I refuse to call it by its English title because I consider it to be the stupidest thing I’ve ever seen, but let’s not go into details lest I get triggered and it turns into a full-blown rant); maybe it should’ve been a story that one watches on long winter evenings, snuggled under a blanket, when mood is as somber and unhurried as the one in the drama. Or maybe I am simply trying to justify the use of ff button with flowery words 😂
Oooh! I’ve never read such strong words from you my lady even in that disaster of a drama which led to a most exciting fun series of “What is he emoting”!?
I have strong feelings only in regards to the atrocious English title; the rest of my tirade is just an elaborate version of what could simply be summed up by “meh” 😂
Ah, good times… That drama at least gave me something to work with, lol.
“Graduation” is a way better title in general. It leaves some room for interpretation while encompassing the story and its themes. Viewers don’t need to be spoonfed everything, yet in English version we literally got 3/5 of “wh” questions answered, downright elementary style.
Yeah, it is. The original titles are always better.
Especially because the English title mislead people. I bet many people started this thinking it was about the romance. The same way I started Lovely Runner thinking it was a sports drama.
In other cases they give away info and change the focus for no reason. Like “The Woman Who Plays,” became “My Sweet Mobster.”
I personally prefer my own title “It’s always dark in Hagwon,” because the most prominent thought while watching the show was “I can’t see shirt,” but for the final episodes I would choose the OG “Graduation.” 😆
This was fun! By no means anything spectacular, but a cute, nice and easy fluff of a drama nonetheless. Bonus points for perfect chemistry between leads, and more bonus points for writer’s (and Jun’s!) fresh take on a “chaebol ML” type of role. (Even more bonus points for just Jun? No? Ok, I’ll stop with the points now.)
He is incredibly handsome indeed 😫
Worse, he has duality; one moment you almost get cut on his sharp features, and his cool guy charisma overwhelms you, the next he blinds you with this kind of smile and renders you a puddle of squees with his earnest goofiness.
ladykrueger
December 20, 2024 at 1:36 PM
Still here! And still watching (and loving loving loving) When the Phone Rings. The progress between our leading two is just a damn pleasure to watch. They are still awkward at times, but so willing, so ready, and so desperate for each other that once the dam breaks (I’d argue that it’s coming crashing down as we speak) there will be no stopping it. All this angst and built up longing must be released (I’d argue it’s being damn unleashed as we speak)!
wapz
December 20, 2024 at 2:06 PM
The progress is chef’s 😘. I was worried from last week’s episodes that I may be enjoying the thrill and suspense of this show more than the romance. But I’m glad to be proven wrong this episode.
ladykrueger
November 30, 2024 at 1:13 PM
Did I say that I’m into When the Phone Rings? Silly me, I meant to say I’m OBSESSED with it.
P.S. The ending of ep.4 is a crime. You expect me to wait for a week after this???
korfan
November 30, 2024 at 11:32 PM
The waiting is going to be a little difficult.
🌸 Seeker 🌸
December 3, 2024 at 10:05 AM
Obsessed sounds good. Healthy even. Er, are we going to get a collage of Baek Sa-oen’s expressions My Lady!? Pretty please. 😊❤
ladykrueger
December 3, 2024 at 12:47 PM
Hee, we just might. Once I recover from “she’s a whole new language” line that is 😍
ladykrueger
November 29, 2024 at 11:11 AM
Okay, I’m into it. It’s intense, fun, looks amazing, the chemistry between CSB and YYS is something else and there’s also orabeoni! What’s not to love?
ladykrueger
November 29, 2024 at 11:25 AM
Also, can somebody please explain what kind of romanisation “Paik” is supposed to be, when “Baek” is right there? Maybe it’s correct, but I hate it. Therefore, it is incorrect.
Midnight
November 29, 2024 at 11:30 AM
The romanizations have gotten very weird in recent months. There’s suddenly too many shapes and tastes to write a word.
zindigo
November 29, 2024 at 11:38 AM
It’s driving me crazy! I can’t imagine why the translator veered from the most common used romanization system.
panshel
November 29, 2024 at 1:53 PM
Baek Jong-won, a famous celebrity chef in Korea, romanizes his surname as “Paik” https://www.youtube.com/@paik_jongwon
Healer’s
November 29, 2024 at 4:12 PM
I think Disney+ puts it in the phonetic form.
Isa is always time travelling
November 29, 2024 at 1:04 PM
Honestly, “orabeoni” is the main reason why I’m watching this show. I liked his character in the first two episodes, that’s what I can say so far 😅
parkchuna 🍉
November 29, 2024 at 7:29 PM
He gets better in 3!
Isa is always time travelling
November 30, 2024 at 4:33 AM
I have already watched it 🙂
I hope he is not a bad guy, but I’m starting to suspect.
ladykrueger
November 29, 2024 at 4:23 AM
Good thing I’ve known about the first 2 episodes confusion, cause otherwise I might’ve given up on this absolute hidden gem of a drama. It was so warm, so unique, so gentle and genuine. At times it was leaving me a saddened mess and then lifted me up with the healing, lovely and unhurried relationship between the leads. I loved it, and can’t help but think what more it could be if the cut didn’t happen.
Now, since I’ve finished this one, the next choice for a drama is obvious. Hint: the title rhymes with when the lone sings, hee 😂
Safeenah
November 29, 2024 at 5:09 AM
I totally forgot about this drama. I remember I enjoyed it while it aired. I guess its time for a rewatch.
Nessa (Bebe) 🌹
November 29, 2024 at 6:37 AM
Honestly one of my all-time favorite Kdramas once I finished it. I remember bawling my eyes out during there “let’s take a break, but I love you very, very, very, very much and my heart now beats for you” scene— and then I went back to watch said scene all over again 2 more times 🥹🥹🥹🥹
Kurama
November 29, 2024 at 6:54 AM
The perfect drama for winter!
late as always
November 29, 2024 at 7:32 AM
What is it? Now I want to watch it but I don’t know what it is….
sonai
November 29, 2024 at 10:45 AM
It’s A PIECE OF YOUR MIND (available on Viki – at least in my region). Enjoy watching! 😉
ladykrueger
November 24, 2024 at 8:15 AM
Out of drama slump, and straight into depression. Thank you, Mr. Plankton.
Minnie🫘👩🏻🚀Pioneer and Teacher 👩🏻🏫🌱🏹
November 24, 2024 at 4:52 PM
That’s me. It’s beautiful….and a wreck.
PYC
November 25, 2024 at 5:21 AM
I love the road trip parts so much – and “all the leaves are brown”.
DK-Drama ❤️🎄 Giffing n Space Cadetting 👼🏻🌟
November 25, 2024 at 12:47 PM
I had imagined a much worse ending, so I was so relieved:
https://dramabeans.com/members/CecilieDK/activity/1651394/
I have seen and read stories that had that kind of bitter ending.
This was tragic, but still beautiful.
ladykrueger
November 26, 2024 at 1:52 PM
I mean I knew was I was going into, but I went in anyway. You’re right, this wasn’t as bad but having been deprived of any heavier, more introspective shows for some time (sluuuump), I felt it all quite strongly. And now the hurt that this one gave me made me actively seek more hurt. I’m combing through my memory and to-watch lists in search of something that will make me cry. Hell of a way to get out of a slump if I do say so myself…
DK-Drama ❤️🎄 Giffing n Space Cadetting 👼🏻🌟
November 26, 2024 at 3:44 PM
I rarely cry, but I think I actually shed a little tear for Kang-ju at the end of ep. 18 of Iron Family. Though it definitely wasn’t as tragic as this one. Usually, if it says “bittersweet”, I make a big detour. But id I was looking for sadness, I would find something sad with Jae-wook. I don’t know … he can be so, so sad. When he finally smiles, a little, downward smile, it’s like a gasp of air.
ladykrueger
October 7, 2024 at 11:18 AM
A plea to drama gods: please stop putting the 16 episode count on a pedestal. It is NOT sacred. Mom’s Friend’s Son is an absolutely perfect example of how drama suffers when you\’re trying to force it into the 16 episode frame.
alasecond
October 7, 2024 at 11:37 AM
lol.. at this point i think even 2 ep were a stretch.. they should have just made a 90 min movie
ladykrueger
October 9, 2024 at 5:44 AM
Meanwhile we got a 90 min movie two days a week…
parkchuna 🍉
October 9, 2024 at 7:17 AM
Which technically made it an unnecessary 24-episodes drama!
alasecond
October 9, 2024 at 9:52 AM
lol
bong-soo
October 7, 2024 at 4:28 PM
As a general observation I think the 16 episode format is no longer sacrosanct. In one way you should be grateful MFS was only 16 episodes and not 20 episodes. I can remember in my early kdrama days having to plod through a number of 16 episode dramas bloated into 20 episode formats (2 in 2017 come to mind what were referred to as 40/20: SBS’s SUSPICIOUS PARTNER and MBC’s HOSPITAL SHIP).
In an opposite way this year tvN’s QUEEN OF TEARS was a 20 episode drama squeezed into the 16 episode format.
Elinor, Team Glasses team co-captain
October 7, 2024 at 4:43 PM
There’s not much to be grateful for here on runtime, though – it was about the same as 20 one-hour episodes, just as QoT was.
I liked Suspicious Partner fine, but it could have been twice as good at half as long.
vienibenmio
October 8, 2024 at 7:38 AM
Agreed. Suspicious Partner IMO got awful at like ep 29
ladykrueger
October 2, 2024 at 10:05 AM
I have emerged from my semi-slump (still watching – or more accurately limping towards the finish line of – Mom’s Friend’s Son) just to say that I’m. In. Love. With. This. I smell an ending I will not like, but I’m all in, come hell or high water (made up of our collective tears I guess?) 💔
Lostpanda is celebrating My Ajusshi 💔
October 2, 2024 at 11:14 AM
I’m with you 💯 % on this.
ladykrueger
August 31, 2024 at 11:39 AM
Yellow card, drama. You made me feel annoyed with the one and only Jung Hae-in. Bad, bad drama. He had none of the drama’s schemes though, and promptly brought me back with this scene ❤️
ladykrueger
August 28, 2024 at 10:48 AM
Encouraged by some Beanies, I gave Fake It Till You Make It a try, and well… Can’t say I like it more or less than You Are My Secret (Beanies mentioned Fake under my posts about it, hence the association), however, because these two couldn’t be more different!
This one had such a distinct style, I don’t think I’ve ever seen such unique directing in any drama (be it K, T, J or C); admittedly, sometimes I was a tad off-put by the The Office-like zoom-ins or bizzare fourth wall breaking, but it carried itself so unapologetically and with such gusto I couldn’t help but continue.
While directing and the vibe of the drama are definitely an absolute standout, the leads… They are a whole another story. Their effortless, playful, and oh so charged chemistry was leaving me entranced as much as they were with each other, annoyed with each setback between them, and desperate for as little as brush of hands. It was burning very slowly, but damn was it a spectacular flame.
Overall, this was an experience. I’m on the fence about it, unable to say with confidence that I liked it or didn’t (my other leg may be reaching towards the ‘like’ side of the fence just a liiiittle bit). Would I recommed it though? Absolutely.
Isa is always time travelling
August 28, 2024 at 11:07 AM
What can I say? This is my favorite C-drama ever.
I was fascinated by the mood, visuals, music, script, and of course the main couple.
ladykrueger
August 28, 2024 at 11:15 AM
It’s unforgettable for sure. The vibe is just indescribable.
sonai
August 28, 2024 at 10:50 PM
This is my favorite cdrama as well. 👏🫰💯
I really loved everything about it, even all the side plots. The main couple was pure 🔥🔥🔥
Kurama
August 28, 2024 at 11:54 AM
I found it far better than You Are My Secret.
– No past connection, just normal people meeting by chance
– They don’t work together, he’s not her boss (even if they shared a case once)
– They act like normal adults who flirts, have feelings and desires
– The chemistry between the leads was great!
But otherwise, I found the little sister’s arc really weird and wasn’t really interested in her coworkers.
For You Are My Secret, the second couple was my favorite part.
Reply1988 -❣️Mother Bean❣️
August 28, 2024 at 1:28 PM
The sister/cousin can’t remember their relationship but she represents a type of character who pops up unnecessarily in romance dramas. In Remembrance of things past she was the odd one out in a group of really great down to earth female friends. These characters always leave me wondering why anyone would be friends with them as they rarely bring anything to any of their relationships regardless of whether they are a relative, friend or a partner.
LaurenSophie
August 28, 2024 at 1:09 PM
What I liked about this is that it’s, as you say, a slow burn, but when it heats up, we get real payoff. And then, right at the perfect point, the drama ends. Very satisfying watch overall.
ladykrueger
August 25, 2024 at 11:34 AM
😂😂😂
Emily Hewett
August 25, 2024 at 1:44 PM
Was just going to screenshot it & post it lol. Hallyu wave enhancing its categories XD.
ladykrueger
August 25, 2024 at 3:56 AM
Ah, this was a good one! While I felt it got a teeny bit draggy towards the end, and would benefit from having 3-4 episodes less, You Are My Secret was nevertheless so much fun! We got a good script, nice directing, cute score and two absolutely lovely couples who spoke their mind, worked through their issues and grew stronger in the process (despite some voices pledging their loyalty to the secondary couple, my heart still belongs to the OTP; they were just too amazing for words). How refreshing is that? No unnecessary drama, just ordinary happiness made up of small things and sweet moments.
It seriously was such a pleasant watch; I feel like C-dramas really can do low-stakes, everyday romantic stories so well ❤️
ladykrueger
August 25, 2024 at 3:58 AM
@feenah9895
(as per the request 😊)
Safeenah
August 25, 2024 at 9:44 AM
Thanks
Isa is always time travelling
August 25, 2024 at 4:33 AM
Agree on everything (but I ended up loving the secondary couple as much as the main one)! It has been a very enjoyable show. And the parents! Most of them (not all) were lovely people too.
This series is full of people I’d love to have as friends.
sonai
August 25, 2024 at 4:52 AM
💯 The ensemble was lovely indeed! And the main romance was so good, too. 🫰 Yay for the best parents!
The second couple (🫰🫰🫰) helped to move the plot along later, but I also agree the last episodes could have been better paced.
„Very good everyday romantic stories“ – yep! I’m currently watching „Love me, love my voice“ (which I ignored before because of the title, lol, I sometimes have aversions I cannot explain… 🤪), and I’m in a state of constantly wanting to pinch everyone’s cheeks, because they’re all just as adorable. 😆
ladykrueger
August 25, 2024 at 11:27 AM
Oh, thank you for the rec 😆 You Are My Secret seems to have triggered my recurring C-dramas binge (that usually lasts for 4-5 titles) so I’ll add it to the list!
Safeenah
August 25, 2024 at 9:48 AM
That was what I felt, the everyday romantic story which I enjoyed immensely. And now I am on the hunt for another Cdrama. I recently watched a mini cdrama Embrace you in the dark night. A fun steamy spicy drama where you leave your brain cells at the door to enjoy watching it. Check it out if you are interested and let me know your thoughts when you do.
ladykrueger
August 25, 2024 at 11:32 AM
Oh, I had a phase with those mini-dramas! They are so palatable and fun – very campy, but fun nonetheless. I discovered my beloved Dai Gao Zheng through them (still waiting for that full-length drama breakthrough for him…), so they do hold quite a special tiny place in my heart. Will check it out!
Safeenah
August 26, 2024 at 6:24 AM
I recently stumbled upon them and I am immensely enjoying them. If you have more recommendations with happy ending please let me know. I have watch Forever love and Dusk love
ladykrueger
August 28, 2024 at 11:13 AM
Ok, this will not fit your criteria 100% (I still hate them for it), but I have to mention Maid’s Revenge. It obviously stars my one and only Dai Gao Zheng and bonus, his leading lady is the same actress who was with him in Forever Love, so that may give you an idea of what chemistry they have (absolutely electric, if I do say so myself). This one got me super hooked on the mini-dramas, which was unfortunately short-lived, cause I’m yet to find one which would give me the same amount of enjoyment.
Safeenah
August 28, 2024 at 12:52 PM
I heard about but because of the ending, I did not watch it just clips.
ladykrueger
August 21, 2024 at 12:56 PM
Being this cute should be a crime. Why isn’t this illegal? They are killing me here!
Isa is always time travelling
August 21, 2024 at 1:47 PM
They are so lovely!
But fortunately this C-drama isn’t too oversweet to be annoying (as others where the level of “sugar” in the couple was too much).
ladykrueger
August 23, 2024 at 1:07 PM
Yes! They are very, very sweet with each other but it’s this mundane, everyday kind of sweetness. A cup of warm milk before bed, a secretive brush of hands, a meal prepared after a day of work, a grocery shopping date – these are so down to earth yet make you melt at how in tune and comfortable and attentive they are with each other. Domestic bliss ❤️❤️❤️
Isa is always time travelling
August 23, 2024 at 1:18 PM
Exactly!! Here it’s this kind of common gestures which are sweet but not cloying.
When I mean oversweet I think of something like My love, enlighten me 😅
Safeenah
August 21, 2024 at 2:52 PM
This is so me. I also so said they are killing me with the whole sweetness. I just finished watching it and to the end, they are still as sweet. I have been busy recommending this to everyone on reddit. So good to see the post here.
ladykrueger
August 23, 2024 at 1:09 PM
I’m at episode 26, so I’ll definitely post about it at least once before I finish 😀 Let’s spread that You Are My Secret love!
Safeenah
August 24, 2024 at 5:16 AM
Great. Please do tag me when you post it. Thanks.
ladykrueger
August 20, 2024 at 1:52 PM
I decided to start You Are My Secret enticed by a clip from IG, and omaygosh I’ve never been more thankful to my broken algorithm. The ML lead is the most intense shade of green flag (one of the things he does in one of the first few episodes, and what turned me into a puddle: he googles how to break in shoes, and proceeds to do so because she off-handedly mentions that they gave her blisters, and don’t even get me started on the others, cause I will tell you how during shopping he immediately switched the colours of some bathroom accessories from white to green when he noticed that she chose green towels for herself – little things like that are driving me crazy, I tell you!) and the FL is just as amazing as him. And together? They are absolute perfection; they work though issues so goddamn well, and have the sweetest slow burn I’ve seen in a while 😍 I’m at episode 7, and I have to say: I’m in love with almost everything here 😍😍😍
P.S. After ruminating on it, I think I know why it clIcked so well with me. It reminds me of Hi Venus, another spectacular C-drama with close to no conflict, and absolutely winning leads. Even the MLs look kinda similar (had to do a double take, cause I thought I was seeing Joseph Zeng, lol). I reallyyyy hope it remains as good as its (almost) first third. Fingers freaking crossed…
Isa is always time travelling
August 20, 2024 at 2:31 PM
I’m about to finish it. I have watched 30 episodes (out of 32) and I only can tell you the show keeps getting better.
They are a beautiful couple. They talk things, misunderstandings don’t last, they act like real people most of the time…
This C-drama has been a very good surprise.
zindigo
August 20, 2024 at 2:56 PM
Ditto ditto ditto!! 😀
This is just as good as Fake It Til You Make It. I’m so glad I decided to watch it.
Isa is always time travelling
August 20, 2024 at 3:32 PM
I still prefer Fake It. It was more elegant and I think the script was better, and deeper. And the city was almost another character.
But You are my secret is a show I will recommend too.
Blue (@mayhemf)
August 20, 2024 at 6:33 PM
Fake it was a way superior drama!!. This nevertheless is a wonderful drama with some very adult and mature people.
Procrasti-NationFirstCitizen
August 22, 2024 at 12:56 AM
And the music was so good too!
Isa is always time travelling
August 22, 2024 at 12:57 AM
The music and the songs are a delight.
I never skipped the ending credits.
ladykrueger
August 21, 2024 at 12:45 PM
Okay, turns out I checked Fake It Til You Make It before, cause my search bar remembered it, lol. Will give it a try after this one!
zindigo
August 21, 2024 at 8:00 PM
It’s really, really good!
Nessa (Bebe) 🌹
August 20, 2024 at 3:28 PM
It still befuddles my mind why it feels like Miles Wei (ML actor’s name) hasn’t “made it big”. He keeps getting— and choosing— typecast to do these small budget modern city dramas 🤔 Maybe he thinks it’s what works for him and has a “don’t fix what’s not broken” mindset 😊
bp
August 20, 2024 at 11:46 PM
I think he gained even more recognition after joining Call Me By Fire S3. Hmm also I feel like it’s hard for me, as a pleb, to tell what an artist “gets”.
Maybe he is already choosing the best scripts out of all the options he has. And he has had a few different roles just this year! The spirit in fox matchmaker, the editor in my marvellous fable (albeit this was 2023), the assistant professor in a suspense-ish show (19th floor), another few costume roles and a couple of CEO-types role 😆 Glad that I have something to watch of him constantly tho haha even if it’s an array of CEO-types role!
Nessa (Bebe) 🌹
August 21, 2024 at 2:11 AM
Maybe you’re right! Maybe his popularity picked up after his participation in Call Me by Fire and the networks of his dramas decided to take advantage of it and push out more of his dramas rather than let them sit in stockpile purgatory. I’m happy for him that things seem to have finally picked up, because he’s been acting since 2012 but didn’t seem to get a standout role (imho) until Unforgettable Love
Seriously Moon
August 21, 2024 at 9:37 PM
He was great in Call Me By Fire S3, it was such a nice surprise that he can dance so well and having a ballroom background. So happy that more people get to know him after the show. He always has steady work since his debut and feeding his fans well. Can’t wait to see more roles in the future. Having a bias that has work out is better than one that doesn’t.
Blue (@mayhemf)
August 20, 2024 at 3:44 PM
Yay! So glad you are enjoying it. I like the leads but it’s another couple that has me shooting heart eyes. 😍 you will get there.
I am at ep 28 and it stays good till now.
ladykrueger
August 21, 2024 at 12:49 PM
I think I know who you mean… They sure are beginning to give the leads a run for their money, hee. For now though (ep. 16), my heart is yet to be stolen 😆
wapz
August 20, 2024 at 4:23 PM
I loved these initial episodes when their romance was growing. It remained pretty sweet later on too but another couple stole their limelight. Having completed it, I’ll say it’s a solid watch overall.
abalyn
August 20, 2024 at 4:31 PM
Also confirming that You Are My Secret stays drama free until the end. I haven’t seen Hi Venus, but if it is similar, I will check it out.
Amidst a Snowstorm a Love also has the lovers working problems out and staying together. Falling Into Your Smile has some immaturity and green acting, but the tone and relationship is pretty even. I really like a long C-drama that is just mellow and pleasant.
Kurama
August 20, 2024 at 10:39 PM
I like it but I find it a little bit bland.
bp
August 20, 2024 at 11:48 PM
I am really liking this too! I’m saving the last three episodes to binge together hehe.
Also, besides the leads, I enjoy almost everybody in it including the parents!
ladykrueger
August 21, 2024 at 12:47 PM
Yes! The key characters are all super good!
ladykrueger
August 18, 2024 at 1:02 PM
I have only one thing to say: the chemistry! Is! To die for!
HopefulRomantic 🦋 Tigermoth 🦞
August 18, 2024 at 1:24 PM
I could definitely feel it more here in ep. 2! He is 😍❤️🔥😍!!! The way he looks at her!! The umbrella!! The room remodel!! The flashback catch-and-fall!! 🫠
ladykrueger
August 19, 2024 at 2:27 AM
I’m about 90% sure he’s carried a torch for her for a long time. He may be just as bickery as she is, but the hidden little gestures, and lingering gaze… They tell a story.
HopefulRomantic 🦋 Tigermoth 🦞
August 19, 2024 at 5:14 AM
Oh I’m with you on that 100%!!!
Kurama
August 18, 2024 at 1:47 PM
The way they go from bantering to serious subject looks so natural.
🌸 Seeker 🌸
August 18, 2024 at 9:34 PM
That is high praise indeed My Lady. I better scurry along to have a glimpse.
ladykrueger
August 19, 2024 at 2:29 AM
Please do! They really are amazing together 😊
🌸 Seeker 🌸
August 20, 2024 at 7:37 AM
🫶🏻
RenOIshi
August 19, 2024 at 5:23 AM
Still in the middle of ep 2 and I bet she broke off the engagement because of him 😍
ladykrueger
July 14, 2024 at 2:42 PM
He tilted the umbrella… And the scale of my loyalty to Choi Jin-hyuk tilted right with it.
🌸 Seeker 🌸
July 14, 2024 at 9:32 PM
😱🙈 Andwae … say it isn’t so My Lady. 🫰
ladykrueger
July 15, 2024 at 12:29 PM
Okay, I’m not won over completely, after all the ML is the ever amazing Choi Jin-hyuk. But our 2nd male lead here did get a few squeals outta me, lol + makes me wanna see the actor as a lead in some nice rom-com 😊
🌸 Seeker 🌸
July 15, 2024 at 5:43 PM
I gotta say that Gene Kelly style dancing complete with jumping over benches seemed endearing.
🌸 Seeker 🌸
July 15, 2024 at 5:45 PM
But … and that’s a huge but uri ML *also* jumped over the fence effortlessly while chasing that gamer lady’s drug dealer bf. So still it’s Choi Jin-hyuk FTW!! 👋
KS stuck on 🥰 Aegiya KHAAJA🥰
July 16, 2024 at 9:29 AM
my heart just skipped a tiny beat there… he is sooo concerned towards her but then i see CJH being dashing handsome and poor chap disappointed at his hand.. am just sooo excited when actually his hand helps him in completing the task 😄
🌸 Seeker 🌸
July 17, 2024 at 10:18 AM
You mean the ML’s hand which he put in front of his face!? What task did he complete.
KS stuck on 🥰 Aegiya KHAAJA🥰
July 17, 2024 at 10:48 AM
yes yes ML and his hand..
task means future kiss when he might hold her face with his hand (my absolute silliest ideas after Mobster kiss ) 🤣🤣🤣
🌸 Seeker 🌸
July 17, 2024 at 11:56 AM
Sounds like a perfect plan!! 😂👌👍
ladykrueger
July 11, 2024 at 7:16 AM
Best. Cameo. EVER!
HopefulRomantic 🦋 Tigermoth 🦞
July 11, 2024 at 7:32 AM
I was giggling and squeeing maniacally the whole time!!! 😆🥰😂
LaurenSophie
July 11, 2024 at 8:41 AM
I readily admit my bias (I basically watched “Bulgasal” just because he was in it) but I agree.
Actor aside, this cameo works because it fits seamlessly into the plot while moving it forward, and is pure fun from start to finish.
ryunami
July 11, 2024 at 11:18 AM
LOL I’m glad that I watch this show coz i don’t know that Lee Joon can do something so funny.. his cameo also made me forget that this show also got a 2nd male lead
Siona ⭐️ (@DramaticFoodie)
July 11, 2024 at 5:36 PM
Oh yes, the entire body shake🤣🤣. I’m sure most would have got SLS if he was the SL.
ryunami
July 11, 2024 at 10:40 PM
Now I really want LJ as the SL 🤣
🌸 Seeker 🌸
July 12, 2024 at 4:23 AM
Joon-ah!! ❤
ladykrueger
June 30, 2024 at 12:08 PM
It was by no means a bad drama – the entire cast had some pretty great performances, and it was shot very well, but somehow… I could not get into it until the very end. The latter half of the drama became almost a chore I stubbornly stuck to with barely a half-hearted interest. Maybe this was just not the time for a pensive, and introspective story such as Graduation for me (I refuse to call it by its English title because I consider it to be the stupidest thing I’ve ever seen, but let’s not go into details lest I get triggered and it turns into a full-blown rant); maybe it should’ve been a story that one watches on long winter evenings, snuggled under a blanket, when mood is as somber and unhurried as the one in the drama. Or maybe I am simply trying to justify the use of ff button with flowery words 😂
🌸 Seeker 🌸
June 30, 2024 at 5:04 PM
Oooh! I’ve never read such strong words from you my lady even in that disaster of a drama which led to a most exciting fun series of “What is he emoting”!?
ladykrueger
July 1, 2024 at 11:28 AM
I have strong feelings only in regards to the atrocious English title; the rest of my tirade is just an elaborate version of what could simply be summed up by “meh” 😂
Ah, good times… That drama at least gave me something to work with, lol.
tabong is ironing the crosswalk
July 1, 2024 at 1:21 AM
Graduation is a way more appropriate title for the last two episodes of the show. With the “give me my diploma,” promise and all.
ladykrueger
July 1, 2024 at 11:24 AM
“Graduation” is a way better title in general. It leaves some room for interpretation while encompassing the story and its themes. Viewers don’t need to be spoonfed everything, yet in English version we literally got 3/5 of “wh” questions answered, downright elementary style.
tabong is ironing the crosswalk
July 1, 2024 at 12:00 PM
Yeah, it is. The original titles are always better.
Especially because the English title mislead people. I bet many people started this thinking it was about the romance. The same way I started Lovely Runner thinking it was a sports drama.
In other cases they give away info and change the focus for no reason. Like “The Woman Who Plays,” became “My Sweet Mobster.”
I personally prefer my own title “It’s always dark in Hagwon,” because the most prominent thought while watching the show was “I can’t see shirt,” but for the final episodes I would choose the OG “Graduation.” 😆
🌸 Seeker 🌸
July 1, 2024 at 11:49 AM
^^ “That drama at least gave me something to work with”
Well, as Tabong says
#It’sAlwaysDarkInHagwon
so its a wonder if you can actually see anything.
tabong is ironing the crosswalk
July 1, 2024 at 12:03 PM
🤣🤣😂
ladykrueger
June 28, 2024 at 12:12 PM
This was fun! By no means anything spectacular, but a cute, nice and easy fluff of a drama nonetheless. Bonus points for perfect chemistry between leads, and more bonus points for writer’s (and Jun’s!) fresh take on a “chaebol ML” type of role. (Even more bonus points for just Jun? No? Ok, I’ll stop with the points now.)
🌸 Seeker 🌸
June 28, 2024 at 12:30 PM
My Lady how about 💯 bonus points for the moral of the story about the forever Prince Cha-min in your life!?
ladykrueger
June 26, 2024 at 1:59 PM
+the GASP that escaped me when I saw this gorgeousness…
🌸 Seeker 🌸
June 26, 2024 at 11:31 PM
He is so genuinely handsome!! I thought I had seen many handsome men in my K-drama watching career 😅 but he takes the cake, baker and bakery!!
ladykrueger
June 27, 2024 at 2:43 AM
Comment was deleted
ladykrueger
June 27, 2024 at 2:44 AM
He is incredibly handsome indeed 😫
Worse, he has duality; one moment you almost get cut on his sharp features, and his cool guy charisma overwhelms you, the next he blinds you with this kind of smile and renders you a puddle of squees with his earnest goofiness.
🌸 Seeker 🌸
June 27, 2024 at 3:57 AM
IKR!? He’s totally scary as the Gang leader, protective mother hen with the deerlings and an absolute teddy bear with the FL.
ladykrueger
June 26, 2024 at 1:57 PM
I agree, Hyun-woo. 100% 😍
🌸 Seeker 🌸
June 26, 2024 at 11:22 PM
💯👍😍🥰🥵