DryedMangoez recaps, reviews and commentary of Korean drama series.
Evilive (악인전기) is a dark exploration of morality wrapped up in suspenseful and gritty package. Shin Ha Kyun, Kim Young Kwang and Shin Jae Ha deliver captivating performances in this slowburn of a story. You may not know exactly what you’re getting into when you first begin the series. But as our main characters’ stories become more intertwined, the dark path they eventually embark upon reveals some interesting and thought provoking ideas.
If there was a webseries that best exemplifies the drawbacks of the platform and format, it is Behind Cut (비하인드 컷). This BL series, like many a webseries, has a solid premise. But the limitations of the platform and format keep it from being a more well-put together series. Its story, execution and the performances of its promising cast are held back. And ultimately, while a quick watch, leaves you unsatisfied in the end.
Originally a 20-minute short film released in 2022 and just released on YouTube via three parts, Happy Ending has a familiar story. But its charismatic leads, poetic storytelling and pitch perfect direction make it a memorable and impactful watch.
Writers and directors Werner du Plessis and Inu Baek deliver a revelatory narrative and visual experience in the series The Eighth Sense (여덟 번째 감각). Its careful, nuanced and unflinching portrayal of young love, friendships and mental health offer a different, though very welcome change of pace. And not just for the Korean BL genre, but perhaps Korean drama as a whole.
I regret waiting so long to finally watch this series. Because if I had been able to watch Twinkling Watermelon (반짝이는 워터멜론/ Sparkling Watermelon) last year, it absolutely would’ve made my year-end favorites list. Nostalgic and heartwarming. Fun and dramatic. An excellent, charming cast. Great music. What an incredible treat this series is.
Nobleman Ryu’s Wedding (류선비의 혼례식) might not be able to maximize the potential it has. But a charming cast and fluffy story still make the series an enjoyable time.
Sing My Crush (따라바람) easily contends as my favorite Korean BL series. That title for me goes to Light On Me. But Sing My Crush features many of the same things that endeared the former to me and still resonates even today. This feel-good, heartwarming, cute, sweet and fluffy series doesn’t aim to reinvent the genre. But it successfully delivers the dreamy adventure into young romance and sincere friendship. With the excellent leads Jang Do Yoon and Son Hyun Woo leading the way, Sing My Crush is easily one of the most satisfying series you’ll get the chance to enjoy.
Disney+’s Soundtrack #2 (사운드트랙#2) is a thoughtful, introspective series about love. Whether that is love for another person or love for yourself, the series is able to tell a story about the many complicated feelings that can come about because of it. Noh Sang Hyun, Keum Sae Rok and Sohn Jeong Hyuck (aka Demian) are excellent leads as they bring the simple, though engaging story to life.
Unintentional Love Story (비의도적 연애담) might have a familiar story, but its refreshing approach, charming cast and solid execution make it a thoroughly enjoyable and fulfilling watch.
Another season of sexy singles finding love on a deserted island has come and gone. It’s now become an annual event for Netflix’s Single’s Inferno to become a reliably buzzed-about series during the Christmas and New Year’s holidays. And season three delivered the same not-so-guilty pleasure that can be so fun and frustrating at the same time.