DryedMangoez recaps, reviews and commentary of Korean drama series.
When Big Bet devolved into some of the typical facets of the genre, it turned the series from being a refreshingly bold take on familiar themes into “just another one of those” in the end. The talented cast and the unique setting deserved much better material.
Jang Hyuk and Jang Na Ra, both on their own or when together, will always deliver. Their experience, especially together as an on-screen pair is definitely needed in tvN’s Family: The Unbreakable Bond (패밀리). And that’s because an interesting concept and lots of potential are unfortunately held back by a strong tonal imbalance that does what it can to pull you out of the action instead of reel you in for the ride.
Choco Milk Shake (사랑은 댕냥댕냥) is an absolutely sweet and fluffy BL series in all the best ways possible. A charming cast, a magical story and its dreamy aura make for a heartwarming and feel-good viewing experience.
So it was a little surprising to hear that there would be a season two of the series this year. But what’s even more surprising is that Tale of the Nine Tailed 1938 (구미호뎐1938) may actually be better than the first season. By a lot!
If I could, I would include His Man Season 2 (남의연애 시즌2) on my year-end list of favorite Korean dramas. But this series actually isn’t a Korean drama, even if it very much feels like it. Actually, His Man is a Korean reality dating show featuring eight men living together in a house for one week with the hopes of finding a love connection.
Netflix’s Doona! (이두나!) is an interesting melodrama focusing on the rocky romance between the titular Doona, a former idol and Won Jun, a boy next door university student. The series relies heavily on its dreamy visuals and appealing main cast as its narrative floats through predictable scenarios and contrived tension. And yet, the relatively short nine episodes never feels like the series is moving too fast. Nor does it feel like the series is moving too slow. But that brings up what might be the series’ biggest shortcoming.
Disney+ has had a couple of original Korean drama offerings so far. But Moving (무빙) just might be their best yet. And not only that, this webtoon adaptation from artist and screenwriter Kang Full has a very strong case for being named the year’s best overall. Moving is a thrilling, imaginative and emotionally affecting series that boasts an incredible ensemble cast and stunning direction.
Season 2 of Netflix’s D.P. (디피) picks up right where the first left off. And that’s not merely referring to the story itself, but also to the incredible performances, top-notch production and captivating, compassionate writing. Just like the first season, Jung Hae In and Koo Kyo Hwan deliver masterful, nuanced performances as they help bring to life the story of two military police officers tasked with pursuing deserters and in turn hoping to fight the injustices in a system that seems to be untouchable.
JTBC’s The Good Bad Mother (나쁜엄마) might just be my favorite Korean drama of 2023. I challenge anyone to not shed some tears at least once during the series’ excellent 14 episodes. And that’s tears from the series’ many emotional stories or from laughing so much at its welcome and well-placed humor. Ra Mi Ran and Lee Do Hyun deliver masterful and captivating performances, leading a strong ensemble cast as they help bring to life a truly breathtaking and beautiful story.
Woo Do Hwan and Lee Sang Yi are charismatic and captivating leading men as two boxers who get caught up in the dark and violent world of underground money lending. A strong mix of personal, character-driven stories and exciting, pulpy action make Netflix’s Bloodhounds (사냥개들) one fun, thrilling ride.