Flex X Cop (재벌X형사/Chaebol X Detective) is one of the most complete Korean drama series I’ve ever watched. Anything you might want to find in a K-drama, you’ll find here. An effortless blend of mystery, drama and plenty of humor; the series is a fun, exciting and very satisfying experience. Ahn Bo Hyun and Park Ji Hyun lead an excellent ensemble cast who help to bring to life an intricate and well-rounded story alongside slick and purposeful direction. And it all comes together into this wonderful package.
There might be a tendency to judge a Korean BL series within a certain parameter. But Love for Love’s Sake (연애 지상주의 구역) is not just an excellent Korean BL drama. It is an excellent Korean drama period. The series is able to transcend and overcome the limitations and hurdles of the emerging Korean BL genre and online streaming format. This romantic fantasy features a higher concept in style, substance and execution than some might be used to, either in Korean BLs or Korean drama as a whole. And its total package makes it a standout and memorable experience.
The series promises engaging and inspiring stories as Lilet fights for justice and takes on various cases, showcasing the endless possibilities of the procedural format while also exploring traditional soap opera narratives involving Lilet’s personal life and relationships.
My Sweet Dear (마이 스윗 디어) is indeed a sweet treat.. Jang Eui Soo and Lee Chan Hyung’s undeniable chemistry power one of the seemingly few Korean web series that know how to properly use their short time. And this fluffy, feel-good series is able to come up with just the right ingredients to result in a fully satisfying and enjoyable experience
Mr. Heart (미스터 하트) is as bright and fluffy as you can get. A sweet and breezy series that might have a bit of unnecessary and awkwardly shoehorned conflict. But charming leads and an otherwise refreshingly simple story make for an easy and enjoyable watch
It’s always a welcome treat when a series like Welcome to Samdal-ri (웰컴투 삼달리) comes along and offers up a thoroughly enjoyable and wholesome viewing experience. The 2023-2024 JTBC drama is an excellent series that follows the journeys of an engaging and eclectic group of characters through healing, romance, self-discovery and community. Ji Chang Wook and Shin Hae Sun lead an outstanding ensemble cast that elevates the already strong material and breathtaking visuals.
Despite having all the necessary pieces, Happy Ending Romance is weighed down by its inability to build a strong narrative foundation to what should be an intriguing and affecting story. A good cast, solid production and great music carries some of the weight. But the series leaves a lot left on the table.
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.