It’s formally EOY season, which is after we look again on our drama years, and determine which dramas had been worthy of our love, and which dramas we possibly shouldn’t have spent as a lot time on, as we did. 😁
As earlier than, we’ll be seeing as much as 2 visitor posts per week, and it will unfold into January 2025, and my annual year-in-review will come out in early 2025, after all of the visitor posts have been printed.
This manner, by placing all our experiences collectively, we get a extra wholistic view of Dramaland in 2024. Fairly nice, sure? 🤩
For those who missed our earlier posts, you’ll be able to test them out right here: Sean, Deni+JJ, Natalia, Ele, j3ffc, MC, Elaine.
Immediately, I’m happy to announce that ABV’s sharing his drama yr!
Within the final yr or so since ABV’s joined our Patreon neighborhood, I’ve been marveling at each the amount and high quality, in his drama watching prowess.
He’s in a position to watch a truckload of dramas – and, in his feedback, demonstrates that he’s engaged with these dramas, in each coronary heart and thoughts. That’s fairly a expertise, in my books – particularly since he does truly work full-time, as effectively.
I believe he simply may be a space-time bender, kinda like Sean. 😁
For those who’d prefer to learn extra of ABV’s writing, you would possibly like to take a look at his EOY publish from final yr right here.
I hope you guys take pleasure in!
~ KFG ❤️
INTRODUCTION:
Whats up everybody. I’m ABV.
I’ve completely loved speaking to everybody on this pretty neighborhood right here and on Patreon. A large shout-out to the fantastic area that Kfangurl has created and saved going for 12 years!
I actually loved writing the end-of-year publish final yr, so right here I’m once more. The discussions on Patreon and the weblog, coupled with my notes all year long, made my job simpler this time.
I’m from India. I studied regulation, cleared the Firm Secretary course, and work as a Firm Secretary coping with company and secretarial compliance.
My journey with Asian dramas began in September 2022, and I’ve 268 drama completions as of the date of penning this publish. I really feel like I’m very late to hitch this, however higher late than by no means.
Earlier than watching Asian dramas, I avidly watched anime, learn manga, and consumed different Japanese media for over a decade.
I’m additionally a gamer, watch movies, and am an ardent fan of Liverpool Soccer Membership. One other sport I observe is cricket.
I’ve numerous pursuits, however ever since I stumbled onto Ok-dramas (and C-dramas in June 2022 and J-dramas in January 2024), it has been fairly the relentless experience. I began with Stranger (an ideal collection to start out this journey), and the remainder is historical past.
As for my style preferences, whereas I began with thrillers, what I like most about Ok-Dramas/C-Dramas/J-Dramas is that they’re character-centric, which fits my preferences.
My favorite genres are romance, slice of life, and drama. I additionally adore household dramas.
Nevertheless, I’ve no points watching most genres besides interval dramas; I nonetheless require a variety of incentive to look at them.
STATISTICS:
My viewing tempo considerably slowed in the course of the second half of 2024, apart from September and December, on account of many causes, however I nonetheless managed 110 completions, excluding multi-season entries.
Ok-Drama – 49
C-Drama – 25
J-Drama – 23
Ok-Film – 4
J-Film/Particular – 5
C-Film – 1
Re-watches – 3
A fast phrase on the re-watches accomplished in 2024:
1) Meet Your self (C-Drama) in July.
2) Ugly Alert (Ok-Drama) in August.
3) What Occurs to My Household? (Ok-Drama) in September.
I watched these three exhibits with my brother and lined all three of them in final yr’s EOY publish. The end result after re-watching is that I really like all three exhibits extra (if that’s even attainable). They’re my prime three dramas of all time.
I additionally watched 15 different exhibits with my brother in the course of the yr. A lot of them are a part of this publish.
Right here’s an image exhibiting all my completions, with color codes in your reference, in case you’re . I can solely discuss a choose few dramas on this publish, in spite of everything. They’re within the order of completions.
POST STRUCTURE:
This publish will cowl my drama yr from January 01, 2024 to December 31, 2024.
I’ll break up this publish into 4 classes:
I. High 10 Reveals from the yr 2024 which might include exhibits that aired (Reveals that started and concluded) in 2024;
II. High Non-2024 Reveals;
III. Honourable Mentions; and
IV. Particular Awards.
For the sake of selection and variety, I made a decision that this could be one of the simplest ways to cowl extra dramas. Additionally notice that I’ve ensured that there is no such thing as a overlap between the classes. That method, each listing will include new titles.
I are likely to do a variety of analysis earlier than selecting up a collection to look at. That is without doubt one of the fundamental explanation why I discover KFG’s weblog, The Fangirl Verdict, to be a useful useful resource. The probabilities of me being disenchanted by a collection that I watch to completion are fairly low.
I. TOP SHOWS FROM THE YEAR 2024:
No. 10: Pretty Runner (Ok-Drama):
The present was actually a breeze to look at. The second I began it, I knew I’d be performed with it in a short time. A big a part of it’s because it’s so filled with appeal, and the OTP is so cute.
I couldn’t get sufficient of Kim Hye Yoon as Im Sol.
From the very starting, I used to be captivated by her. She had wonderful comedic timing and fantastic chemistry with each Byeon Woo Seok (Ryu Solar Jae) and Music Geon Hee (Kim Tae Sung). I had beforehand solely seen her in SKY Fortress.
The time journey, in my view, was positive, and I had no points by any means. I believe the present saved feeding particulars alongside the best way, and so long as you catch them, you can be okay.
I do want there have been no serial killer on this collection (once more, in a romantic comedy…). I additionally had a large mushy spot for Kim Tae Sung. I believed he was an ideal second male lead. He genuinely had a beautiful smile.
No. 09. Household Issues (Ok-Drama):
This was the ultimate present I watched in 2024, and man, was it good.
Bae Doona was fabulous as at all times, and the found-family feels are so robust. Provided that it’s only six episodes lengthy, there may be completely no messing round by any means.
The present has a singular sense of humour, and the solid as a complete, delivered fantastic performances. So long as one can deal with blood, torture scenes, and a few violence, this can be a must-watch.
No. 08: A Store for Killers (Ok-Drama):
The collection was participating from the get-go.
It toggled between two timelines (previous and current, whereby we see our core characters’ backstories and the way they connect with present-day occasions) and linked the dots extraordinarily adeptly.
The motion sequences had been deft, slick, and well-thought-out. The soundtrack additionally will get the adrenaline pumping in the course of the motion scenes, and total, it has stable manufacturing values.
All of our core characters had been very effectively solid, and it’s simple to get behind these we’re alleged to be rooting for. I believe they had been fleshed out fairly effectively within the eight episodes.
The collection is tightly paced, and there aren’t any meaningless scenes by any means.
Lee Dong Wook and Kim Hye Joon nailed their roles as Jin Man and Jian, and even the youthful model of Jian’s character, performed by Ahn Se Bin, deserves a shout-out as a result of she got here throughout as cute, good, and strong-minded on the identical time. That’s not simple to tug off.
Even the antagonists—Lee Sung Jo (Website positioning Hyun Woo), Bae Jeong Min (Park Ji Bin), and Lee Yong Han (Ahn Kil Kang)—had been unbelievable. Lastly, Bale (Jo Han Solar) was simply deranged and terrifying.
On the great facet, I completely cherished Min Hye (Guem Hae Na), who was so sensible, and Pasin (Kim Min), who additionally showcased some witty comedic timing. Brother (Lee Tae Younger) additionally shone in his quirky position.
In the end, it was a really riveting expertise, and the collection managed to inform a private story whereas sustaining its leisure worth via well-choreographed motion sequences.
So long as one can deal with some brutality, violence (primarily gun and knife motion), and a few gore, I extremely suggest watching it. SEASON 2 AS SOON AS POSSIBLE PLEASE.
No. 07: Knight Flower (Ok-Drama):
So many people cherished this present immensely.
The characters had been excellent. The casting was excellent, in my view. All of them delivered fantastic performances.
Honey Lee’s expressions and comedian timing are second to none; she introduced her A-game and extra. The interactions between her and virtually anybody within the solid at all times had me grinning.
The pacing, episode depend, writing, plotting/courtroom politics, and romance had been all on level. It is rather uncommon for me to really feel this manner a couple of interval drama.
No. 06 Love Subsequent Door (Ok-Drama):
I loved this unreservedly. Thanks largely to KFG’s evaluation, which helped me set the proper expectations for this present.
I considered this as a household drama and a slow-healing journey, whereas the childhood-friends-to-romance improvement occurred finally.
I really like each Jung So-Min (Father is Unusual and As a result of This Is My First Life) and Jung Hae-in (One Spring Night time and A Piece of Your Thoughts) as actors.
Their chemistry was nice, particularly within the first half. I additionally discovered that their chemistry was the identical off-screen (because of some YouTube movies). I equally cherished the second couple, Mo-eum (Kim Ji Eun) and Dan-ho (Yun Ji On).
It had a little bit of every part. I saved ready to see once I would really feel that the present went off the rails, however for me, it by no means actually did. I favored actually each main character and all their relationships.
The friendships (between our major 4 characters, the moms, Lavender, and the fathers), OTP interactions (as mates and a pair), the household drama, the office relationships, and simply the general really feel of the present. Not even the exes bothered me.
Actually, I fairly favored Seung-hyo’s ex-girlfriend, particularly. She was so good at teasing him and knew when to throw within the towel. She was fairly perceptive. I believed Hyeon-jun would have extra display time, however aside from some minor irritating scenes, his arc felt significant too.
I’m actually shocked that I ended up liking it a lot, given the final reception. Possibly as a result of I saved anticipating the worst, regardless of the present did turned out effectively for my part. It’s unusual.
No. 05 You Are My Secret (C-Drama):
Few exhibits in 2024 had been as nice to look at as this one. This was my first time seeing Miles Wei and Karlina Zhang; each had been wonderful.
What impressed me most concerning the collection was the trustworthy communication between the characters, the office features being good and palatable, and the second couple.
This has been the case for fairly a number of 2024 exhibits, the place the second couple is sort of as spectacular as the primary couple, which was pleasing. I felt that this was additionally the case with You Are My Lover Buddy (C-Drama) and Love Subsequent Door.
There was even an epilogue episode to spherical issues off properly.
No. 4 Seoul Busters (Ok-Drama):
This present was so fulfilling. I actually can not recall any drama that made me snort as a lot as this one.
I watched it with my brother, and that added to the leisure.
From the get-go, it was obvious that the solid had excellent chemistry. All of them complemented one another completely, and I’ll actually miss this charming bunch of goofballs. It’s a gem.
No. 3 Will Love in Spring (C-Drama):
This has every part I like in a romance drama.
The collection has a low price range and common manufacturing, however that issues little, because the flawed characters are excellent and, most significantly, they’re all actual.
It’s so simple to narrate to the characters, and each dialog is crammed with which means. Even on a regular basis interactions are participating.
For this reason I’ve such a mushy spot for slice-of-life dramas; it’s uncommon for me to not take pleasure in one.
Beloved the primary characters:
1. Two completely, top-quality, charismatic actors,
2. Scorching chemistry between the leads,
3. A feminine lead with such a naturally pretty smile and appeal, and
4. A male lead who is knowing, mature, and sort.
Zhou Yu Tong and Li Xian had been fabulous. There’s little doubt about it. Simply having the 2 of them on display was sufficient to mild issues up.
I actually thought all through the collection that they felt like an actual couple. Each interplay was so natural and pure. Now that’s chemistry.
I imply, they felt so comfy whatever the scene, whether or not they had been flirting, teasing, kissing, arguing, pulling one another’s leg, consoling one another, or simply cuddling.
No. 2 Great World (Ok-Drama):
The second this collection was introduced, I used to be as a result of I’m an enormous fan of Kim Nam-joo.
I’ve solely ever watched one different drama starring her, and that was My Husband Acquired a Household. That’s one in every of my favorite household dramas, and Kim Nam-joo single-handedly made the present for me.
She did so once more right here. What an excellent actor she is! Goodness me, simply having her on my display is a delight.
It is a story of an unjust demise, the ensuing revenge, the repercussions of that revenge, and the therapeutic journey of these affected. The therapeutic half is gradual and takes a really very long time.
The characters are consistently laid low with errors, the lack of family members, the implications of their actions, and their selections. They’re usually cornered and wrestle to seek out the proper path.
That’s what makes this present so emotionally participating—it accommodates flawed characters. Just about all of the characters are portrayed as actual human beings.
As nice as Kim Nam Joo was, the opposite characters on this collection had been unbelievable in their very own proper. It’s a extremely underrated collection, and I undoubtedly suggest checking it out.
SPECIAL AWARD:
Favorite Drama Character of 2024 –
Eun Soo Hyun (Kim Nam Joo) — No character on this story has it worse than Eun Soo Hyun.
On the happiest second in her life, she is struck by an unjust tragedy. Because of this, she chooses to precise her revenge and suffers the implications.
She is a kind-hearted and trustworthy one who cares deeply about others, particularly her family members. Nobody ought to undergo as she did.
Half the time, I discovered it onerous to look at her ache and anguish; it was gut-wrenching. She had individuals who cared about her deeply, however all of them had their very own issues, leading to her struggling snowballing because the present went on.
Regardless of every part, even in probably the most troublesome predicaments, she at all times tried to decide on the proper path. That was admirable. She by no means overreacted and at all times stood by her ideas.
Her poise, kind-hearted nature, maturity, the grace with which she carried herself, and her deep empathy for others had been why I adored her character.
I used to be in awe watching her take care of every state of affairs. She by no means wavered, and the immense thought she put into each motion was unbelievable.
I believe she might be up there as my favorite character in dramaland. To attain this in a 14-episode collection is sort of a feat.
I teared up fairly a number of occasions, particularly when she cried. All these scenes had been so emotionally charged. Her refined facial expressions, aura, understanding of her position, and her chemistry with all the opposite core characters had been standout options of her appearing. I used to be so connected to her character that I actually felt her feelings.
That’s why I loved the present a lot. She was magnificent.
P.S.: Kim Nam-joo must act in additional exhibits.
No. 1 Angels Fall Generally (C-Drama):
Shout-out to JJ for motivating me to select this drama up, and once I lastly did so in December, it made me marvel why I hadn’t watched it earlier.
This collection was merely unbelievable, really one thing particular. I anticipated an emotional rollercoaster, however it blew my expectations out of the water.
Because the synopsis signifies, this can be a story of the male lead battling a sudden onset of ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis). It’s about how he fights the terminal sickness alongside his lover, An Zique (Landy Li), mates, household, and colleagues.
Every dialog and every step in his journey carries a lot weight. The bonds cast between the couple, their tight-knit group of mates, colleagues, households, and fellow sufferers couldn’t have been higher.
The appearing is stellar. The collection is crammed with emotional, highly effective, and significant moments.
Mainly, the primary 9 to 10 episodes are heat and fluffy, containing many OTP moments, candy friendships, household moments, and our characters’ work lives.
The following seven episodes are about Lin Tuo’s (Lin Yi) prognosis, his reluctance to take care of it and lean on his family members, adopted by the aftermath of his family members discovering out.
The final seven episodes take care of how everybody bands collectively and cares for Lin Tuo.
Since I watched this at a time once I was going through a number of well being points myself, this one hit me doubly onerous.
I don’t wish to give an excessive amount of away. I’ll simply say that this is without doubt one of the finest dramas I’ve seen, and it actually hit onerous. Make sure you have some tissues prepared, as a result of it’s an actual tearjerker. Extremely suggest it!
II. TOP NON-2024 SHOWS:
No. 12: Love Surroundings (C-Drama – 2021):
This drama was extraordinarily light-hearted, had cute characters (particularly the leads and goofy male supporting characters), and wonderful music. Even the gaming-related sequences saved me engrossed, which is a primary.
I re-watched scenes from it many occasions over the course of the yr.
No. 11: Dying’s Sport (Ok-Drama – 2023-2024):
First, the collection was very entertaining. My brother and I had been hooked virtually instantly, and our enjoyment solely elevated with every episode.
Every life the protagonist experiences looks like a cleverly crafted brief story designed to maintain the viewer on the sting of their seat.
There’s an actual mixture of genres in every life he lives, and there have been a number of events after we had been genuinely shocked by how issues turned out. There’s additionally an overarching, linked plot to look ahead to.
The manufacturing values had been excessive and spectacular. Among the cinematography and motion scenes had been genuinely unbelievable. One sequence, particularly, was exhilarating and provided a rush of adrenaline.
I need to additionally touch upon the music. We thought it was excellent, and the soundtrack suited every scene completely, enhancing each significant one.
Surprisingly, the collection was additionally very shifting at occasions, significantly when characters pertaining to the protagonist’s life had been concerned. This was one thing I didn’t anticipate, however I used to be very glad that it evoked feelings.
The star-studded solid (rigorously chosen), antagonist, and so forth., all nailed their roles. I’m not going into specifics, although, as a result of the first-time expertise ought to be a shock.
As for the way the story comes full circle and the conclusion itself, I used to be personally glad. It was comparatively clear (as clear because it could possibly be), and the collection didn’t attempt to delve too deeply into thematic factors.
It conveyed what it wanted to, and for an eight-episode collection, not a single minute was wasted.
No. 10: Reside Up To Your Title (Ok-Drama – 2017):
After I picked this up, I had no thought or expectation of it being as nice because it turned out to be. I undoubtedly didn’t anticipate it to be such a robust character story or journey.
To prime all of it off, I personally thought that Kim Nam Gil as Heo Im was at his masterful finest.
My phrase, he put forth one heck of a efficiency! He nailed his position in all features: comedy, goofiness, type, medical information throughout oriental/conventional acupuncture therapies, romantic scenes, stoic scenes, and emotional scenes.
His expressions, mannerisms, and behavior had been at all times standout.
I believe Kim Ah Jung as Choi Yeon Kyung was additionally fairly wonderful. I’ve by no means seen her in a drama earlier than, and he or she isn’t a preferred actor from what I collect, however on this collection, she greater than held her personal.
She was so unbiased and competent at her job, and her character progress was probably the greatest features of the present. Initially, she had a little bit of vanity, however her want was at all times to avoid wasting as many individuals as she might and do her finest.
The collection’ deal with what it means to be a physician, whether or not in Joseon or Seoul, was very effectively portrayed.
It confirmed that there is no such thing as a finish to individuals’s greed, cash, want for energy, and affect. If one decides to go down that path, it’s onerous to show again.
Heo Im’s journey towards his future, as he struggled to seek out the proper path, was fairly one thing.
I don’t know if Kim Nam Gil has performed different romance dramas, however right here, it was fairly effectively performed. I believed the couple shared beliefs, and so they each helped one another discover the proper path.
The therapies had been fascinating to see, and I believed each the acupuncture scenes and trendy remedy scenes had been effectively portrayed.
Among the remedy scenes had been crude, and the Japanese invasion scenes had been brutal, however the present actually hit onerous on a number of events. There’s a lot to unpack relating to this present.
I additionally actually loved the model of humour the present used, and I laughed out loud on many events.
One other factor I didn’t anticipate was to be so emotionally engaged throughout this watch.
No. 09: First Love: Hatsukoi (J-Drama – 2022):
This was one of the distinctive exhibits I’ve watched to this point, and it’s a brilliantly advised love story. There’s a variety of type and panache in how the present tells its story.
Technically, there may be not a single fault, and the manufacturing is excellent. I used to be really amazed at how the OST had such an unbelievable variety of tracks, every used masterfully. My favorite tracks had been “Hatsukoi,” “First Love,” and “Previous Pine.”
Essentially the most distinctive facet of this present is the way it toggles between timelines seamlessly.
The lead characters, Noguchi Yae and Namiki Harumichi, had two separate units of actors portraying them in two major timelines (1997 and the current day). Nevertheless, the present additionally jumps to different timelines in between and afterwards with no hitch.
It may be a bit complicated initially, however when you watch the primary episode, issues ought to click on into place.
What’s fantastic concerning the present is how each single one in every of these characters will get their second within the highlight, with a devoted episode, all whereas leaping between timelines and nonetheless recounting the previous of our leads and their present story.
I additionally appreciated the episode titles. I don’t often pay a lot consideration to them, however right here, I felt they added one thing significant to the expertise.
Yae was my favorite character by far, particularly her present-day model. After every part she has been via, it was wonderful that she was nonetheless so level-headed and was grinding via life whereas discovering happiness in small issues.
I cherished the ultimate reunion between the leads, the prolonged epilogue, and the truth that they had been dwelling their respective desires. There was additionally a post-credits epilogue scene that was so cute.
I’ve been serious about it rather a lot since I completed it.
No. 08: Previous Rookie (J-Drama – 2022):
Heartfelt story and intensely lovable protagonist with a super-supportive household and colleagues. I really like how the sports activities administration facet was delved into. The range within the relationships between the administration brokers and athletes was wonderful.
I additionally appreciated how different the circumstances had been for every athlete and the way the protagonist and his colleagues dealt with every state of affairs.
A very worthwhile look ahead to anybody who enjoys a personality journey via sport and administration.
No. 07: Our Blues (Ok-Drama – 2022):
Mentioned this present over on Patreon with JJ, Deni, enapeters, and others.
It is a particular present. Little doubt about it. The surroundings and numerous photographs of the locations on Jeju Island are nothing wanting gorgeous, the soundtrack can be completely fantastic and the small neighborhood vibes are performed so effectively.
All of the arcs hit in a different way, however they’re all so filled with emotion and which means in their very own proper. Such a splendidly written and considerate present. It tackles these different topics with nous, tact, and sensitivity. Everybody has acted superlatively too.
No. 6: The Wind Blows (Ok-Drama – 2019):
I felt that Kam Woo-sung was completely solid because the male lead for this present. I had seen him in the same position in Ought to We Kiss First?, whereby he was affected by a terminal sickness. He’s masterful in delivering refined expressions on this kind of position.
Equally, the feminine lead, Lee Soo-jin (Kim Ha-neul), was additionally completely solid for her position.
Some Crucial Prior Information:
Some Synopsis Spoilers —
Going into this present, I used to be conscious that I wanted to brace myself for some irritating scenes within the first 4 to 6 episodes.
It’s because, as viewers, we’re conscious of Do Hun’s Alzheimer’s situation as early as episode two, however the characters within the present, significantly the feminine lead, are fully unaware.
The primary three or 4 episodes primarily arrange the premise, and the setup is full by the start of episode eight.
The actual payoff and the present’s precise significant emotional content material start in episode eight.
It’s useful to have this prior information; in any other case, it isn’t simple to know or digest the content material and the characters’ actions within the first half of the present.
The second half is stuffed with emotional, heartwarming, heartbreaking, and poignant moments between Do Hun and Soo Jin. It’s plain to see that they each love one another—at all times have, at all times will.
That is the place a number of the logic of the primary half turns into questionable.
I selected to disregard the logical loopholes relating to how Soo Jin pressured the divorce and harboured emotions of hatred for 5 years whereas Do Hun continued to do every part he might for her throughout that very same interval.
I personally felt that the payoff from episodes 8 to 16 was so immense that I might forgive Soo Jin and all of the uncomfortable occasions that transpired within the first half.
The way in which Soo Jin stays so robust within the second half and by no means doubts that they’d pull via collectively, even as soon as, is commendable. I can’t assist however respect how she manages to remain true to her phrase.
With Do Hun’s failing reminiscence and worsening situation, any and each inkling of a second collectively the place Do Hun exhibits affection or acknowledges Soo Jin turns into all of the extra valuable.
Even a nod, a smile, a easy sentence or notice, and even simply acknowledging a hug. You must see it to comprehend how a lot these moments imply to one another and what this present teaches you.
The current is a very powerful factor, and one ought to do one’s finest to remain pleased with family members and make reminiscences.
I had initially set a aim to achieve episode 8, however the activity was not very troublesome. I ended up watching episodes 3 to 10 in a single sitting.
The present was so participating that although I questioned a number of the characters’ early selections and felt annoyed, I couldn’t cease watching. That’s why having prior information of the present’s final aim is so worthwhile.
I used to be fully engrossed within the present from the start, and by the point I completed it, I knew it was one in every of my favorite underrated gems.
Alzheimer’s is terrifying, however this present dealt with the situation with a lot tact and sensitivity. I used to be reminded of how *Day by day Dose of Sunshine* handled psychological sicknesses, and that’s an enormous praise given how a lot I respect that collection.
The collection’ second half gives you all of the feels, and I slowed my viewing from episode 11 to 16 to pay shut consideration and respect each element. The present does an exemplary job.
The ending couldn’t be extra excellent. There’s a contact of bitter-sweetness, however it’s largely hopeful, heartwarming, and the overwhelming feeling is one in every of familial togetherness.
Briefly, the present takes its time with the setup, however the payoff is important, and I undoubtedly suggest it.
One have to be affected person till episode 8. The present teaches the worth of cherishing the current, creating moments with family members, and treasuring glad reminiscences.
The unwavering energy of every kind of affection—familial, friendship, or just caring for each other—actually shines via.
No. 5: Mr. Queen (Ok-Drama – 2020):
I’m at all times considerably reluctant to start out sageuk dramas.
I like Shin Hye-sun. She is unquestionably amongst my favorite feminine actors. I’ve watched so lots of her exhibits till now, however I at all times saved pushing aside this specific present, which is arguably her finest efficiency ever. I lastly did choose it up, although.
Shin Hye-sun because the Queen was sensible. I don’t suppose another actor might have pulled off this efficiency the best way she did.
I’ve mentioned this on quite a few events earlier than, however no person acts with their complete being like she does. I imply, the physique language, actions, comedic timing, vary of feelings, voice modulation, and flexibility are merely astonishing. I can not heap sufficient reward on her, to be trustworthy.
From episode 1 to the ultimate episode, we each perked up each single time she was on display.
I believe the collection had an ideal mixture of comedy, seriousness, political rigidity, romance, and motion.
Some soundtracks considerably impacted numerous scenes. What we favored most was {that a} lighthearted second at all times appeared when issues turned critical.
The political machinations and rigidity had been at an inexpensive stage, and I believe the right mix with the romance and comedy made this work.
I do know the present has a extremely controversial ending. Nevertheless, I didn’t thoughts it and thought it was a becoming conclusion.
No. 4: Good Supervisor (Ok-Drama – 2017):
Deni, P. Jasmine, and I raved concerning the brilliance on show on this present, by way of writing, comedy, wit, and a superlative efficiency by the excellent Namgoong Min, over on Patreon.
Significantly, we had a lot enjoyable in our mini-group watch discussing this present. All I’ll say is, watch it in case you haven’t already.
No. 3: Full-time Spouse Escapist + Film (J-Drama – 2016):
My first J-drama. It was at all times going to be this one. Ever since I occurred to come back throughout it final yr when it made its option to Netflix, I knew I needed to watch it.
I used to be a large fan of the manga. I learn it method again in November 2017. So a few years in the past. To this present day, I nonetheless take into account it one in every of my all-time favorite manga. So once I noticed that it received a live-action launch and a whole adaptation, it was only a matter of time.
Yui Aragaki is totally excellent as Mikuri Moriyama. She is gorgeous and cute on the identical time. It took me a couple of minutes to get again into how Japanese interactions and conversations really feel, as I hadn’t watched any Japanese collection shortly, however as soon as I used to be within the groove, it was clean crusing.
So the premise is easy: our leads, Hiramasa Tsuzaki and Mikuri Moriyama, enter right into a common-law contract marriage (and an employer-employee relationship) on account of numerous circumstances and, in fact, progressively fall in love.
The entire course of is superbly explored, and their interactions are so quirky. The way in which they arrive to phrases with one another’s emotions is tackled so tactfully.
This couple is so distinctive, and so they each have such different personalities. Mikuri is constructive, filled with imaginative concepts, and he or she is at all times the primary to take the initiative. Did I say that she was cute? Can’t stress that sufficient.
I really like all of the fantastical imaginations she has all through the present. So joyous to look at these sequences.
Hiramasa is stoic, critical, and values rationality. He has at all times been a loner and embraces the bachelor life.
Nevertheless, as soon as the 2 begin to really feel comfy with one another and slowly develop new emotions, their worlds primarily change. They slowly (taking child steps) develop nearer to one another.
By no means have I felt that hugs alone could possibly be so romantic as they had been on this drama. We’re so used to skinship and kisses being a mark of chemistry.
On this collection, although, each time our characters get nearer to one another via easy interactions, it feels so satisfying. The extent of gratification I received was one thing else.
What I respect and respect a lot about this collection is how the characters speak to one another, have trustworthy conversations, and attempt to resolve points by understanding the state of affairs from each views.
There have been so many points that they tackled simply by having a correct dialog over dinner and sorting issues out. How cool is that? No bottling up of pointless ideas and misunderstandings.
Even when there was some stage of angst of their relationship (primarily on account of low vanity in Hiramasa’s case or not wanting to repeatedly take the initiative in Mikuri’s case), it was completely comprehensible given the state of affairs, and so they at all times needed to type issues out.
That’s the reason this collection is so particular. It balances comedy, romance, and thoughtfulness whereas sustaining such a excessive stage of consideration to element.
The office setting, the meals they eat, the on a regular basis chores—all of them are so intricately filmed. You actually really feel like you’re observing their on a regular basis lives. Each interplay, nonetheless mundane, feels significant.
The Full Time Spouse Escapist New Yr’s Particular (2021) –
There was one other particular episode launched years after the drama, and this one was once more unbelievable.
It was extra critical in tone however equally handled many necessary life occasions: being pregnant, childcare, well being points, COVID, and balancing work and household life. As typical, it was subtly performed. It actually hits dwelling!
I really like how distinctive the collection is in its dealing with of the leads’ lives whereas nonetheless exhibiting their quirks and the shifting love they’ve for one another.
The OTP was dorky, charming, adorably awkward, and lovable. The pair married in actual life, and it’s no marvel. They felt like an actual couple within the drama and film, a testomony to how fantastic they had been collectively.
Additionally, the ending music in each the common collection and the particular episode, the place the entire solid sings and dances, is charming and cute. It at all times brings a smile.
No. 2: If You Want Upon Me (Ok-Drama – 2022):
I watched this late final yr, and boy, did this hit onerous. Ji Chang Wook, Choi Soo Younger, and Sung Dong Il had been so good. I believe that is his finest efficiency alongside Healer.
It’s so onerous to not root for him right here, given the circumstances. I don’t know what it’s about these terminal sickness exhibits, however they only appear to work for me.
The relationships constructed within the hospital and the character progress all through the collection—for a lot of characters, not simply the leads—are so effectively performed.
The soundtrack was additionally fairly apt for the present, and there are such a lot of memorable, emotional scenes. I simply have a tendency to love exhibits that get me emotionally, and this one did that constantly.
No. 1: Lovely World (Ok-Drama – 2019):
I’m undecided if anybody right here has watched this drama, however I needed to unfold the phrase and let everybody know that this can be a particular drama.
I had beforehand watched *Great World* this yr and questioned why the present was named that when it was primarily concerning the protagonist’s struggling after a horrendous tragedy.
That is a lot the identical; nonetheless, this time, a whole household is struggling the impression of the tragedy collectively.
The entire story is about how the household makes it via to the opposite facet with love, empathy, and compassion.
It was extraordinary, and I believed the characters had been written so effectively. It is a highly effective and significant story, and the ultimate message is that everybody makes errors, however the necessary factor is what one does after the error is made—i.e., repentance.
This isn’t simple to look at early on. The primary 4 episodes had been excruciating as a result of the household’s struggling is portrayed in such a uncooked vogue. They can not get justice and should struggle tooth and nail for each victory. However they do. That’s the very best half.
They by no means hand over and lean on one another for help. Halfway via, they get help, and I can not downplay how delighted I used to be with everybody who helped.
Each character is human and attempting to guard one thing. Adults wish to defend their kids and can go to any lengths to take action. There’s a vicious cycle of lies, deceit, and the usage of monetary energy to cowl issues up. However the reality will finally prevail, and the way!
The ultimate episode is without doubt one of the finest I’ve seen in a drama. It ties up all free ends superbly. Everybody will get what they deserve, and the ending is extraordinarily uplifting.
The characters are relatable, and I cherished all of them, together with the antagonists. The performances are excellent, and the soundtracks, “Over the Moon” and “Tears of Love,” are excellent for this collection.
It made me emotional on the finish and on a number of events. Even amidst the despair, a single heartwarming second was sufficient to make issues appear alright once more.
III. HONOURABLE MENTIONS IN NO PARTICULAR ORDER WITH BRIEF WRITEUPS:
Good Accomplice (Ok-Drama – 2024) –
I actually loved this one. It’s principally the Cha Eun-yeong (Jang Na-ra) and Han Yu-ri (Nam Ji-hyun) present. I watched it for them, and so they had been each completely excellent. I used to be hooked inside the first 5 minutes and raced via it.
So, the drama is about how the connection between the 2 leads goes from senior-junior with opposing viewpoints to colleagues who belief one another, to mates with mutual respect, to good companions (and shut mates) who’re at all times there for one another as thorough professionals.
There’s wonderful chemistry between the 2, and the sismance on this one actually takes the highlight.
There’s one main case—or ought to I say arc—that runs from about episode 3 to episode 10. (I initially thought this was method too lengthy, however in the long run, it labored out.)
There are a number of different fascinating circumstances every episode that present a platform for our results in develop whereas studying about themselves and one another.
The present would possibly attempt to do a bit an excessive amount of or meander at occasions, however on the finish of the day, the leads are gold collectively, so I might look the opposite method.
Pyramid Sport (Ok-Drama – 2024) –
The three lead characters (and actresses), Sung Soo Ji (Bona), Myung Ja Eun (Ryu Da In), and Baek Ha Rin (Jang Da A), had been fairly excellent.
The story is actually set in an all-girls highschool, and the theme is that the varsity is a microcosm of society.
Sung Soo Ji transfers to a category positioned in a constructing annex, and the entire class performs a recreation referred to as the Pyramid Sport to determine the category hierarchy. The very best-ranking college students obtain particular privileges, whereas the lowest-ranking college students are handled as cannon fodder and bullied.
Whereas not all women actively take part within the bullying, their bystander standing successfully constitutes consent. Not solely the scholars but in addition the adults flip a blind eye to this.
The idea is that hierarchies and pyramids exist in all walks of life. The story follows Sung Soo Ji as she challenges this method, strives to get rid of the sport, and faces the repercussions for all concerned.
There’s violence and a few uncomfortable scenes, however that’s not all. There are additionally loads of heartwarming scenes and camaraderie among the many group of mates and classmates that finally kinds.
The back-and-forth between the ladies who made the sport and the ladies who determine to take a stand towards it’s fairly riveting. There are thoughts video games, tactical warfare, and manipulation—utilizing any data or individual to 1’s benefit.
In the long run, I believe we get a sensible and satisfying conclusion.
Marry My Husband (Ok-Drama – 2024) –
I believed the present was a variety of enjoyable. Certain, issues took a darkish flip towards the top, however that didn’t have an effect on my total impression an excessive amount of.
I haven’t seen Park Min Younger this good since Healer.
I additionally thought Music Ha Yoon and Lee Yi Kyung had been excellent. Their antics had a comedic really feel, and their deliveries made a large distinction.
Queen of Tears (Ok-Drama – 2024) –
Aside from the OTP and the household drama feels, this deserves a point out for the music alone. What an OST! It was additionally the collection I revisited probably the most for scene rewatches all year long.
Parasyte: The Gray (Ok-Drama – 2024) –
As a fan of the manga and anime, I’m more than happy that this collection maintained the essential theme whereas additionally producing its personal unique story. The price range, manufacturing, and motion sequences had been all stable. Thumbs up from me for certain.
A Virtuous Enterprise (Ok-Drama – 2024) –
Kim So Yeon’s character made this present click on for me, and the sisterhood between the 4 feminine leads was definitely the spotlight. All of them had been nice, and that was probably the most fulfilling a part of the drama.
You Are My Lover Buddy (C-Drama – 2024) –
The star points of interest are leads Jiang Shiyan (Zhang Xin Cheng) and Tang Yang (Wang Yu Wen), and I favored the refined however particular evolution of their relationship from mates to lovers.
I cherished the ultimate stretch, and it was a really nice watch.
I admittedly have an enormous mushy spot for the second couple. I like how down-to-earth Sheng Nina (Luo Qin Yun) was, regardless of her celeb standing, and the way perceptive and thoughtful Cheng Hui (Wu Jun Ting) was.
Marry Me Now? (Ok-Drama – 2018) –
One of many few lengthy household dramas I watched this yr, and it’s the very best one too. Because of Sean for recommending it. I actually favored it; the {couples} had been all cute, and it was fairly a satisfying expertise.
Sizzling Range League (Ok-Drama – 2019) –
I’d watch any Namgoong Min or Park Eun-bin present. Placing the 2 collectively is already a successful method.
I didn’t suppose there could be so little baseball on this present. This was fully concerning the administration facet of baseball—the franchise’s administration, not the crew itself.
Very good performances throughout the board. Each Namgoong Min and Park Eun-bin had been exemplary. That is an underdog story performed proper. Nearly forgot to say, Oh Jung-se was additionally unbelievable because the villain.
Bravo, My Life (Ok-Drama – 2022) –
This was solely the second lengthy household drama I watched and favored in 2024, after Marry Me Now? So it undoubtedly deserves a point out.
This one had a variety of drama, however it was alwayss participating and never irritating. The OTP had been cute collectively. I had not seen both actor in another present. No different notable {couples} stood out to me. There have been sufficient complexities to maintain issues fascinating.
SPECIAL AWARDS:
1) BEST OTP OF 2024:
I actually did mull this over fairly a bit. The contenders had been the Pretty Runner couple, the You Are My Secret couple, the Will Love in Spring couple, and the Angels Fall Generally couple.
I made a decision to present it to Lin Tuo (Lin Yi) and An Zique (Landi Li) from Angels Fall Generally.
The reason being easy: this OTP tugs at my heartstrings a lot extra. They’re so cute collectively within the present’s preliminary half and stand by one another within the second half when issues are most troublesome.
It’s so heartwarming to see how a lot they imply to one another. As cute as the opposite contenders had been, this couple really wins right here.
2) BEST OTP OF A NON-2024 DRAMA:
Some critical competitors right here, too. The Fulltime Spouse Escapist, First Love: Hatsukoi, Love Surroundings, and I additionally personally cherished the OTP in If You Want Upon Me.
After due deliberation, I’ll give it to the First Love: Hatsukoi OTP. There wasn’t a lot between them and The Fulltime Spouse Escapist couple, who’re even married in actual life. Love Surroundings’s Lin Yi and Xu Lu had been additionally so cute collectively.
It’s simply that I’ve a large mushy spot for the craving that Noguchi Yae (Mitsushima Hikari) and Namiki Harumichi (Satoh Takeru) had for one another. They’re simply too memorable. I actually do respect the present extra lengthy after finishing it.
3) BEST SECONDARY COUPLE OF 2024:
Solely made this class as a result of there have been three genuinely nice secondary {couples}. This actually is a three-way tie. I can’t separate the secondary {couples} from You Are My Secret, You Are My Lover Buddy, and Love Subsequent Door.
So right here they’re:
Rao Zing (Wang Zhen Er) and Zhao Fang Gang (Zhou Cheng Ao) from You Are My Secret
Sheng Nina (Luo Qiu Yun) and Cheng Hui (Wu Jun Ting) from You Are My Lover Buddy
Jung Mo Eum (Kim Ji Eun) and Kang Dan Ho (Yun Ji On) from Love Subsequent Door
4) BEST MALE ACTOR OF 2024:
It’s very onerous to contemplate anybody aside from Lin Yi from Angels Fall Generally. I’ve seen him earlier than in Love Surroundings and Put Your Head on My Shoulder, however his efficiency right here actually blows every part else out of the water. Really standout.
5) BEST FEMALE ACTOR OF 2024:
I already wrote about this in my Great World write-up, however Kim Nam-joo once more. Landy Li from Angels Fall Generally and Honey Lee from Knight Flower had been contenders, although.
6) BEST MALE ACTOR OF A NON-2024 DRAMA:
Best choose. I’m certain that Deni and P. Jasmine will agree. Namgoong Min from Good Supervisor. So eccentric, so charismatic, and simply so excellent for the collection. That is not like any of his different roles.
I believed he was distinctive in Sizzling Range League too, which I watched in 2024.
I need to hasten so as to add that, in another circumstance, Ji Chang Wook could be in with a shout for his efficiency in If You Want Upon Me, and the identical with Kim Nam Gil for Reside As much as Your Title. Nevertheless, Chief Kim was simply too memorable.
7) BEST FEMALE ACTOR OF A NON-2024 DRAMA:
It’s very troublesome to look previous Shin Hye Solar from Mr. Queen. I don’t even have to elaborate.
8) BEST OST OF 2024:
Queen of Tears.
9) BEST OST OF A NON-2024 DRAMA
Our Blues.
10) BEST ENSEMBLE OF ANY DRAMA WATCHED IN 2024:
Our Blues. No want for any rationalization. Simply have a look at the star-studded solid.
11) WORST DRAMA OF 2024:
In contrast to final yr, I do have an entry right here: Love Me, Love My Voice. I went off on this present on Patreon and simply needed to point out it right here. It was a painful look ahead to me.
CLOSING:
Thanks all for patiently making it thus far. It was an extended publish, however I hope it was an fulfilling learn and also you had been capable of finding some dramas that piqued your curiosity.
Thanks! I want you all a beautiful 2025! Joyful drama watching. Till subsequent time.
~ABV
Associated