DryedMangoez recaps, reviews and commentary of Korean drama series.
Jun Jong Seo, Moon Sang Min and Kim Do Wan do their best to try and elevate simple, though mostly enjoyable rom-com fluff in Wedding Impossible (웨딩 임파서블). The series features a refreshing approach to a familiar Korean drama set-up. But unsteady pacing and missed opportunities with depth and nuance hold Wedding Impossible from being something much more than it is.
The 2022 Korean web series Once Again (다시나를찾아와) is such a refreshing entry into the growing BL genre. A relatively high concept premise allows for a unique approach to familiar stories that ultimately results in what is an emotional and heartfelt experience.
Powered by engaging storytelling, compelling characters, stunning visuals and a talented ensemble cast; Like Flowers in Sand absolutely deserves end of the year consideration.
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.
Last season, one of my hopes for any future season was to shift the team Quests to the beginning of the competition. That way, we would be able to meet more of the contestants and the competition would be a bit more balanced and unpredictable. The one-on-ones for the very first elimination send off half of the contestants. And due to that, we lose some very interesting potential characters.
Netflix’s breakout Korean reality-competition program Physical: 100 (피지컬: 100) is back for its 2nd season. And this first episode easily showed why it had such a huge impact last year.
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.