The man who can’t get ratings
This is an interesting article, in that it looks at the low numbers faced by current Monday-Tuesday drama The Man Who Can’t Get Married and analyzes it from a cultural perspective. Most low-rated dramas (that aren’t disasters of writing/acting) tend to explain their disappointing numbers in terms of being too complicated for the average viewer or lacking in “makjang” (convoluted, unrealistically dramatic) qualities, but The Man Who Can’t Get Married is a bit different in that it’s also adapted from a Japanese series that enjoyed quite a lot of popularity. So why is the Korean version faltering?
The Man Who Can’t Get Married can’t attract popularity
Hidden birth secrets, mother/daughter-in-law conflicts, a handsome chaebol who falls for an ajumma without reason — it has none of those. All it has is the “man who can’t get married” who has reached the age of forty as a bachelor because of his extremely fastidious temperament.
KBS’s Man Who Can’t Get Married, remade from the popular 2006 Japanese drama of the same name, has been unable to shake off its low single-digit ratings. Compared to other dramas that have been remade from Japanese series like White Tower and Boys Before Flowers, it’s a disappointing result.
Media critics point out the main factor in the drama’s ratings failure as “the absence of conventional Korean-style drama format or characters.” That means that it lacks a fierce battle between good and evil, sudden fatal illnesses, and other customary elements of Korean dramas. Without the pretty boys, chaebol daughters, plucky and hardworking young heroines, or devoted wives and mothers that Koreans tend to prefer, the characters haven’t been able to satisfy the tastes of the viewers.
Critic Kim Sung-soo analyzes the situation, saying, “In Boys Before Flowers and White Tower, the appearance of villains to cause and heighten the conflict was close to the Korean style of dramas, whereas The Man Who Can’t Get Married shows detailed emotional threads through calm episodes, and is a Japanese-style drama. Korean viewers who are used to dramatic structuring can’t help but feel bored.”
Sticking overly close to its original source means that the drama hasn’t been able to satisfy Korean sentiments. In the earlier part of the series, the drama message board wasn’t merely about the episodes but looked at how similar the Korean version was to the original, down to its smallest details, and viewers felt the Korean version lacked appeal.
In particular, although it is recognized that the episode where the male lead (Ji Jin-hee) goes to a barbecue restaurant alone is a device used to reveal his personality, some feel that it was an awkward setup given how we are not familiar with a culture of aloneness. One netizen criticized, “It feels like they took a Japanese drama and dubbed it over in Korean. It’s taken too exactly from the Japanese version so I can’t relate to the characters’ words or actions.”
Culture critic Choi Young-kyun said, “In the case of Boys Before Flowers, the drama was adapted to appeal to Korean tastes. Now that The Man Who Can’t Get Married is in its latter half, in order to gain popularity and connect with the public, it will need to try seasoning itself with a Korean flavor.”
What I find particularly interesting about this argument is that foreign dramas are quite popular in Korea, and never is the cultural difference an issue with enjoying them (e.g., Prison Break, Lost, Hana Yori Dango). But when adapting, “Korean-ness” — however one may define that broad, general sentiment — is an essential element. An ordinary citizen doesn’t necessarily have to have a horrible mother-in-law, a Cinderella complex, a vengeful ex, or a rich chaebol suitor to relate to those oft-seen kdrama characters in those unrealistic dramas that attract such high popularity. Even when the circumstances are completely off-the-wall, it’s the feelings that people respond to, and it seems that when viewers are unable to relate the Korean-ness of the emotions, the connection falls flat.
All that said, I think those who do like this drama aren’t hindered by those factors, and for those reasons I wonder if a foreign audience may be more open to the drama. When you can see it without worrying over the cultural dissonance factor, it’s probably a lot more fun.
Via Kuki News
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Tags: drama ratings, j-doramas, Ji Jin-hee, remakes, The Man Who Can't Get Married, Uhm Jung-hwa
well said java, I could not agree more. I actually think this drama is funny and quirky at the same time. Most Korean dramas do fall into those listed categories above. Most of them are very very cliche, but that is just the thing. It seems that Koreans are drawn to cliches. They like seeing an evil person act forward and for the heroine to be submissive.
Hopefully it will pick up when it broadcast to a wider audience.
this is one of the most entertaining comedies i’ve watched recently. it’s a shame that korean viewers are neglecting it.
‘He who can’t Marry’ is a breath of fesh air for me. why?
Because it gives me a break from all the ‘the pretty boys, chaebol daughters, plucky and hardworking young heroines, fierce battle between good and evil, sudden fatal illnesses, and other customary elements of Korean dramas’
I have a smile on my face, all the time, when i watch an episode…To me, that is good any day…any time.
I’ve been watching this on Viikii, and I LOVE it. Actually, one reason why I’ve really enjoyed it so far is b/c it’s not the typical Korean drama, ie overly dramatic plot lines, main girl dying from illness, etc. (Btw, I’m Korean-American). I’m hoping that low ratings won’t effect the drama or current story line.
Actually, my all-time favorite K-drama is Soulmate, which didn’t fit the conventional drama outline either.
JB,
Do you agree or disagree with the article?
As a general comment, you would think that with all the media testing technology available and adaptive-ness of Korean networks, that a network like KBS would have tested various formats and drama stories before releasing a style of drama that few people wanted to see. If the article is accurate in its portrayal of “korean” tastes, and this being the reason why ratings are low, then is it possible that KBS didn’t know this was going to happen, or knew it could happen but wanted to take the risk anyway?
There are a host of possibilities as to why a drama isn’t doing so well, and I don’t know if I like an article like this on page 1 (online) of a national newspaper like Kook Min Ilbo that give an opinion without actually going into whether the opinion is accurate, reasonable or just a wild-ass guess. Let’s see some analysis, some alternate theories, some relevant statistics.
Honestly, I have never seen the drama, so I can’t comment on it specifically. BUT, I can say that there is a tremendous amount of guess-work that goes into making dramas, and really, nobody, can be sure whether something will work or not. Take a look at American television and all the cancelled shows year after year. Nobody goes into a series thinking, “this will fail miserably.” But every year dozens of shows fail and I think, nobody can be quite sure why they do fail.
So, even if there were a ton of data on this particular subject, I am not sure that even then, anyone can be certain as to why people watch or don’t watch.
my gosh, this drama is really hilarious and cute <3 too bad korean viewers aren't very drawn to this series. it's kind of disappointing to hear that in order for a show to get ratings, it must have some form of "korean flavor" added to it, not that i dislike the overused cliches or other elements used in kdramas. what i like about this drama and the jdorama is the quirkiness – you just LOL at every episode.
This is one of the most entertaining dramas I’ve ever seen as well and I’m so glad I started watching it right after finishing City Hall. CH was perfect so it’s a tough act to follow, but it’s hard not to be completely charmed by a drama when you laugh like a crazy person every single time it’s on! Just like Story of a Man, this is one drama where the ratings absolutely do not reflect the quality of the show (in my humble opinion). I’ve never seen the Japanese version, so admittedly I can’t compare the two, but I think Ji Jin-hee is doing a fabulous job. He’s keeping me tuning in, that’s for sure.
Is this drama currently being filmed? I’m worried that if filming is still in progress, the powers-that-be may decide to cut a few episodes as happened with Strike Love.
That would suck big time.
I love this drama! It takes away from all the “drama” but maybe that’s whats causing this drama to decline.
Blah. Oh well. They should put up Viikii or Mysoju ratings. Hahaha. A lot of people are watching it around the world.
pfft =.=
i’m really enjoying this drama and i really don’t understand why
people always want to have this ’stereotype’ drama
like Shining Inheritance…it’s not like i hate this drama but
sometimes it’s very exhausting (dunno if that’s the right word) to watch
TMWCGM is not so overly dramatic and stereotyped
i can lay back, laugh and enjoy it
I really enjoy this drama, but the low ratings is quite understanable.
Just as the article states, the style of the drama is different. But honestly, I don’t believe that’s the main reason for the low ratings.
If anyone has seen the original, viewers can by easily bored since nothing is new… at all.
It’s pretty much re-watching the entire drama (again) except now it’s just in Korean. Many have also said that Ji Jin Hee also lacks the portrayel of Kuwano Shinsuke compared Abe Hiroshi’s excellent portrayal of Kuwano Shinsuke… which I agree to an extent.
I wish they could have made a few more changes to not simply adapt it into the Korean audience, but not have to replicate each and every scene (it feels) of the original drama.
I actually like this drama compared to the line ups for the week or the slot. It’s purely entertaining and it doesn’t make your head hurt with trying to get all the facts straight.
maybe it was just the wrong timing for the drama to come out in korea, but i really do enjoy it.
Well, it’s a pity it’s not doing better in Korea, but as #7 Michy says, people are watching around the world online. I saw the Japanese version; yet I like this one very much because it’s not EXACTLY the same and adds its own little touches. I’ve only seen Eps 1–6 (was in a Story of a Man marathon!) and have to catch up, but I find it very funny, the cast is great, and production values are very, very good! After horrors like EOE and C&A, to mention a couple, this is a breath of fresh air… give it a try, people!
I wasn’t going to start this drama but got bored at the others and tried it.
I was so surprised how much I like it. I can’t compare it to other countries dramas and love the other side of Jin Jee- Hee after seeing him in Jewel of the Palace.
I hope they don’t ruin it by someone getting a brain tumor, cancer, finding a lost mother,father,sister or brother just to make it Korean-like.
I don’t really watch Korean dramas because of the typical overly dramatic story lines or cliche Cinderela stories. I started watching this drama with high expectations but really, my interest in this simply fizzled. And I don’t think the problem with the drama is the cultural disconnect either- I think the drama simply lacks in entertainment value period, whether you are Japanese, Korean or otherwise. As a case in point, I stopped watching the drama when they dedicated an entire episode to showing how “cute” the neighbor’s dog is without much to be added to the story line. People have attention deficit disorder and when you base an entire 60 minutes of a show focusing on different poses and pictures of a dog, people are bound to be bored. Either that or they really meant to convey a more subtle message and just did a very bad job at execution because this viewer surely missed it.
yeah, I agree that koreans like cliches and melodrama. Why else would dramas like autumn fairy tale, winter sonata, and stairway to heaven be so popular? For example, the current ratings winner shining inheritance is also a cinderella story about the wronged poor nice girl. Personally, I find these overwrought dramatics a bit tiring. A funny, quirky slice of life type of drama like The Man who can’t get married is a refreshing change.
this is my favorite current drama. boys before flowers, story of man, and now this drama. a string of number one picks for me personally.
i really like how this drama is shot. it’s very slick, like story of man. on the other hand, i think it’s a wonderful drama. i like it that it has none of the dramatic storylines (i for one cannot fathom a single plausible reason why brilliant legacy is so popular right now. i find the characters immensely annoying, especially han hyo joo and the grandmother). instead it’s kind of a mix of indie feel, focusing on little moments at times. kind of has a worlds within feel, too.
i don’t know how to describe it, but i feel like such dramas have not picked up popularity because of the lack of drama and like you (or was it the article) said, people can find it boring.
i think this is such a wonderful drama. it’s a mix of romance and comedy and family and there’s such a warmth to this drama. i love the cast! minus kim so eun. i feel like she is too conscious of the camera in this drama – it feels like she is almost imitating acting. i think chung ah from that fool would have played this part really nicely.
i hope you decide to recap this yourself! i love your recaps best
I am enjoying this drama so much…it should have much much better rating …All actors and actress do a great job… the writting is good. I don’t understand how they rate one drama with %40 plus and one with below two digit %. Don’t get discourage with the above article….Watch and enjoy.
Saw the original and the first episode of this version. It isn’t as funny and the main character isn’t quite ‘the’ character he should be. Thank god it isn’t ‘korean’ enough because BBF went downhill after it decided to be more like a korean drama.
I think the lack of original humor or comparative humor is what might be killing the ratings for this show. I don’t think the actors are delivering the punchline as well as the jdrama did. Plus, if the original drama already aired in Korea, this doesn’t seem to be bringing anything incredibly new to the story.
I’ve tried to get into this drama but having a difficult time. I find that Ji Jin Hee is not ocd enough like Abe Hiroshi, who perfected it to a T, and Uhm Jung Hwa is too pretty for the role.
I think it would have worked better with a plain Jane type of character. The japanese actress while not ugly, was able to portray a lonely, dowdy spinster which is lost in the korean version. A possible contender would be Lee Na Young, but maybe she’s too young,
Also, I don’t feel any chemistry between the main leads. They may have skinship moments, but of the unexpected kind.
Nothing to compare with BBF.
I saw the japanese version. For me the Korean version is great . I don’t think so this will be something big for rating. Same for Triple.
I was looking for rating in other country too.
In HK, TVB series sound low for they rating too.
I like THe Man who can’t get married. It’s silly and humorous. I started to watch the other version a while back but it didn’t interest me. I like this one and Yoo Ah In is a major cutie.
i agree that low rated dramas are usually the most unique/artistic and unconventional, some might argue the best ones but i started to watch this and i kind of forced myself through the first episode. nothing was wrong with it at all, i actually think it’s a mix of the unique type off drama and the traditional one, and it seemed like it was supposed to catch my attention with the smart comedy and good looking cast, but for SOME reasoni couldn’t stick to it. still don’t know why, but i just couldn’t stick to it.
i also don’t really like the leading lady, don’t know why =O
I really love this drama. It’s one of those down-to-earth ones whose scenarios can totally happen in real life, and there’s no ultimate resolution waiting for you at the end (cinderella becomes the princess and lives happily ever after). I actually enjoy each episode and each minute of it because of the amazing execution by the actors as well as the director/script writer who has set up the mood perfectly. I’m an American Vietnamese, and I actually enjoy all the antics of our characters. The Man (Ji Jin Hee) enjoys eating alone…you know what, when my boyfriend isn’t around and my friends are too tired from work, I like walking around on my own and grabbing a bite to eat. Not that it’s the most wonderful thing ever to be a college student eating dinner by yourself in a restaurant full of boisterous groups, but it’s a pretty special experience. You get lots and lots of times to reflect, so I enjoy every moment that epitomizes The Man’s loneliness (or singularity). I would say that after I finish this drama, I’m confident in finding its characters more endearing than Gu Jun Pyo himself (whom I’ve done some temporary fangirling on). I just hope the low ratings won’t hurt any of the actors and actresses in terms of their career, because I think most if not all of them portray their roles realistically.
Everyone should give this drama a shot! It’s a tone of fun, and it gives my my daily dose of Korean-inspired laughter along with 1N2D. Fighting!
I watched the Japanese version and I liked it pretty much.
It was clever, hilarious in a subtle way, and didn’t make me think too hard.
And plus, it depicts a man’s life as it is, not some fairy tale.
A person who’s 40 years old probably doesn’t have the same expectations and desires that a late 20s-early 30s (the usual age range) have.
Plus, this drama is about a guy who ‘isn’t’ the typical bachelor.
He’s successful, strong, and charismatic in someways but is still not easily grasped when it comes to romance.
Sometimes it’s just better when a drama takes it slow with a bit of reality and see how the characters develop with each other.
Not every drama needs to be fast paced and dramatic…Korean dramas do need some variety…BOF seriously proves that point.
hey, I’m loving this drama too! It’s funny and it’s light. I don’t usually dig those uber dramatic koreanobelas : )
aja!
I read somewhere that the reruns are doing fairly well. I hope it’s true. And I also hope this show doesn’t meet the same unfortunate fate as Strike Love.
I’ll apologize now, this one is going to be a bit on the long side…
I find the issue of Cultural disparity in tv/film to be rather intriguing. The first non-“Westernized” drama I ever saw was the Japanese version of Hana Kimi, and it certainly threw me when I saw the first episode. However, a familiarity with Japanese manga and anime helped me to adjust pretty quickly to the angle they were presenting, and I have since fallen victim to/in love with a number of other J-dramas and branched out into K-dramas. A little while back, most likely in the BBF days, mention was made in a comment about the number of remakes of HanaDan that had been made, and whether or not it would succeed in an American market, which of course brought to mind all of the other failed attempts to remake Asian dramas and cinema by American companies, as well as the totally dreaded upcoming remakes like Sympathy for Lady Vengance.
While I haven’t seen most of the American remakes, I remember the first time I watched a foreign film and realized the absolute impossibility of translating it to an American audience. A group of friends and I had rented Kairo (Pulse) after learning that it would be the next J-horror film to be Hollywoodized. While this film was by no means your typical J-horror (in truth it wasn’t scary at all, a bonus for me, as I am not a fan of horror-genre films), it was rather culturally bound as it dealt with the growing problem of isolationism and the breakdown of familial bonds in Japan, as fostered by technological advances. Afterward we discussed the problems the American film crew would face with trying to translate this storyline, especially if they intended to market it to the typical horror-movie audiences here. I never saw the remake when it came out, never cared to, but I was in no way surprised to hear that it had barely recouped its production costs before leaving its theater run.
Now, how does this apply to The Man Who Can’t Get Married? Frankly, I can see why people cling to their norms in tv programming, it is after all, one of our ultimate security blankets. We want familiarity and the promise of a happy ending, no matter how tired the plot line may become, myself being of no exception here. I do however wonder why in situations like this one the audience can’t simply expand their horizons to appreciate the nuances of the drama with its original storyline/cultural representation. Of course, this is all dependent upon how well received the original Japanese drama was in Korea, for if it was well received, then making the new version in this manner would certainly seem redundant, but by no means hampered solely by cultural differences. It sounds to me, from the article above, that some viewers who had seen the original, were hoping for something new in the K-version, to help liven it up. However others, in the case of one comment quoted (“It feels like they took a Japanese drama and dubbed it over in Korean… I can’t relate to the characters’ words or actions.”), clearly were hoping for (what seems to me to be) a completely different storyline/character personality from the original screenplay, thus making the project no longer a remake, but rather something new and original. Frankly, if the article above is correct in its declaration that Cultural differences are the problem behind TMWCGM’s ratings and reception I would be more disappointed than if it were for anything else, especially if it results in an early truncation of the show, but perhaps that’s simply the anthropologist in me talking. I have yet to see either this version of the show, or the Japanese original, but it has been on my list of dramas to watch for a while now, and I suppose I’ll be adding the remake to that list as well, so that I can make my own assessment.
I am currently watching this drama, and I am having so much fun watching it. I find it funnier then the japanese version….
… IT IS a breather from the “fierce battle between good and evil, sudden fatal illnesses,the pretty boys, chaebol daughters, plucky and hardworking young heroines…etc.. ”
I have known how low the ratings have been….. I was thinking whenever i see the ratings that, probably this series has fierce competition with another series that is airing at the same time…., or, this isnt the season for this kind of drama…
@27 amhrancas -
Aren’t you assuming that people clinging to cultural norms is what is causing the ratings disappointment?
What if it is due to other factors, like type of audience who watches this particular drama tends to watch it on DVR or online rather than “live” and so they aren’t captured in the ratings numbers? Mon/Tues tends to have lower ratings than Wed/Thurs or Sat/Sun anyway, and combine that with other factors, like general economic climate (preference toward recognizable things), mild acting performances, confusing directing/editing, unoriginal storyboard editing, etc., the ratings may not be that great, which have nothing to do with whether cultural norms are being clung to or not.
Why can’t this series’ ratings disappointment be rooted in the same cause that is causing Ja Myung Go’s even lower ratings?
Maybe it’s because Queen Seondeok is like grabbing 30%+ ratings and so, if people are going to watch one drama in a given Mon-Tues evening after dinner, then they choose Queen Seondeok? Even if you preferred Man Who Can’T Get Married, you STILL might watch Queen Seondeok so that you can talk about it with your friends or co-workers the next day.
Cliche. That’s what it is. That’s what Korean viewers want. I’m actually glad this drama doesn’t include much of it.
@ amhrancas…and samsooki
oh.. you guys….,good point, good point….. just love this kind of debate! ^-^
im not korean and i really enjoy this show….different from the evil mother in law and the rich guy pursuing the poor girl…anyhow,i love it~
I love the drama…it’s someone realistic
i mean…i know people need hopes n all
but serious ! being poor n suddenly find a reach guy who falls in love
please !
umm, i’ve been enjoying this drama so far, although sometimes, i feel like uhm jung hwa’s acting shows that she’s completely aware that the camera’s there. and i hate that… but ji jin hee is so entertaining. he’s developed his character really well, and so has kim so eun ^^ it’s a good drama, but like jb said, it doesn’t have that typical good vs. evil type plot, and so a lot of people find it boring. i mean, i can’t say that it’s an outstanding drama, like a really memorable one, but it’s entertaining.
the only criticism i have is that the scriptwriter hasn’t really highlighted the conflict in the drama, and she’s shown jo jae hee’s personality to the audience, but, then what? there’s that last part that’s missing from this drama.
Yay–I’m glad there are so many of us defending this drama.
Is it perfect? Of course not, but it’s free of so many of the cliches some of us mentioned. I actually find it cute–it has some of my favorite actors (Uhm Jung Hwa, Ji Jin Hee, Yoo Ah In, the chihuahua that plays Sang Goo, etc.)
It’s one of those, “I-can-sit-back-not-think-too-hard” light-hearted comedies that feels somewhat believable when you consider those mak-jangs.
It has these nice touches–the end of each episode with a candid camera of Ji Jin Hee, that music at the end of each episode, etc.
“I Came in Search of Flowers” also had low ratings so I’m not too worried–hopefully the cast and crew believe in what they’re doing and don’t compromise the 2nd half of the series.
There are dramas that seem to have very few of these “kdrama characteristics” and go on to succeed with a good fan base and sometimes good ratings. A drama that comes to mind is Alone in Love. The plot was simply two lovers who find that they are meant to be together. Although their marriage had problems, they still loved each other but were too stubborn to realize it. The plot was simple, and the storyline real; a more recent drama that lack the “kdrama characteristics” would be Triple and it seems to be doing quite well so far. I don’t think The man who can’t get married isn’t getting the ratings because of its lack of these characteristics but rather it appeals to less viewer, or the losing interest of the public to kdrama in general. This year and most of last seems to have given fewer popular and novel dramas than the years before. Although Boys Over Flowers was a big hit, it seems to be not a fascination over the drama itself but the male actors in the drama.
I am really shocked that this show is not getting good ratings. This is one of the few K-drama’s that I have enjoyed because it is not pulling at my heart strings and it is not real fantasy like (though at times I do enjoy those types). I think it is hilarious, and real. I am in the same boat with the doctor, I might one day be a 30 something wanting to get married but if I don’t get married I am not going to slit my wrist or anything. It is delightful and I am sad that it is not getting the ratings that it deserves. It is a smart, real- like, and enjoyable.
E.
I am not korean but I find the drama refreshing for a change
different from the stereotype korean dramas,
If they can watch western movies why cant they also try other “flavour”
like when eating ice cream.
Maybe rural folks still preffer those “traditional” dramatic dramas.
they are not ready for other “flavour” yet.
It is not popular in Korea but I think it gets good rating from oversea audience.
I dont know why the director, camera man like to take close shots of Miss Uhm
and Mr Jin but some shots are quite funny to watch.
This is more realistic to our daily lives now.
KBS still can market this drama oversea.
Will Korean men carry those bags???
Ha! ha! ha, perception…..
i’m really enjoying this series. i always look for updates for the online stream video. aside that it is light and entertaining i can somewhat relate to the dilemma of the singles here (Uhm Jung Hwa, Jin Ji Hee, the manager). your parent pressuring you to get married but you can’t find that someone. most of your friends are probably married that you eat alone, you watch drama to pass time. you’re co-workers talking about your being alone, you being very sensitive ( i think this happens to people who old and single), your life is just office, grocery, home (UJH) or work, home, hobbies and gadgets (JJH). in episode 8, when Uhm Jung Hwa heard that JJH is dating someone, she ask her father that she change her mind and will attend the blind date set-up for her. i felt i will probably do that too if irked that someone like JJH character have a date. it’s like if he can date why not me too.
I dont’ know if UJH and JJH don’t have chemistry but i feel there is because i’m sold to their bickering and future-togetherness
i just hope that the producers and the artists in HWCGM will know that there are people who appreciated the drama.
Wut wut??? I sure really do hope the lesson that media critics take away from this isn’t High Melodrama and Cliches: Essential for K-Drama Success. Please no!!!!!!!!!!!! There’s nothing I can think of that would hamper creativity more. And I don’t think that’s the reason the drama is so unpopular >_<! The Japanese version was popular because it was well-done; the korean version is less well done, and if I wasn't lazy I would take the time to pinpoint what exactly is lacking in the korean version that was present in the japanese version. But it sure isn't the lack of CANCER and BUCKETS OF TEARS and TRAGEDY and IN YOUR FACE BATHROOM HUMOR that's preventing this drama from resonating with the public or with critics. I think Korean viewers are just about as capable of appreciating quiet, calm, subtle dramas like everyone else. But, just as anywhere else, the drama has to be well executed– the idea, the acting, the pacing, the timing, the plot, the characters, the tone– it all has to work together, and there's a bunch of ways to screw any of those up.
Dont get me wrong. I'm one of the people who are enjoying this drama, but I recognize that there is a lot of things missing from it all the same that keeps it from being a stellar drama that could have wide appeal. And its not conventional dramatic structuring!!!! Buuu, media critics.
i also feel that types of singleness is represented here.
we have those likes of UJH character. single but know they are lonely–because they have experience love. while JJH is single and alone and happy with it (because, they might not have experience love yet)
I’m not Korean but I too like how light-hearted this series is. I didn’t know that this drama was suffering in ratings when I started watching, nor will I be bothered by it now that i know that the majority of peeps don’t like it in Korea.I certainly hope that the cast ain’t bothered by it, especially ji jin hee who now has back-to-back projects that “bombed” (spotlight and now this -.- wassap man? I actually think he’s one of the few actors out there who have versatility and maturity on his side to potray an array of characters very well)
Now i wonder what will happen if we have Abe Hiroshi special guest as ji jin hee’s characters long lost best buddy from overeseas * OCD galore*
THAT. Would be interesting to watch.
@19. I agree that although Abe Hiroshi has acted his character to a T, Ji jin hee has managed to add his own flavour to the character. You have to give it to him because i would imagine because there’s a precedent to follow, that it makes the job all the more difficult to complete (successfully, which Ji jin hee did).
I don’t know how to explain it to you but Abe Hiroshi’s version is one of calm almost nonchalant, introvert, “i know that i don’t what to get married no matter what anybody says so back off” kind of old guy OCD whereas Ji jin hee’s is more of the expressive, “i’m not afraid that you know i absolutely am not going to get married & that i’m going to rub it in your face” kind of OCD. He shows it through his eyebrows and how he narrows his eyes, his very obvious tone of mocking (in so many occasions other than the bickering with the doctor) you know?
Absolutely LOVED that one similarity where both characters totally scrubbed that damn cup and kitchen stove like their lives depended on it ROFL!!!
*Spoiler Ahead* Read at your own risk
Episode 6 had me LOL-ing all the way. This is the episode where they deviate a little from the japanese version and yet everything blends in pretty well
@ amhrancas #27
I think if the original was broadcast, it might actually do better because when you watch something “foreign” you understand the context is different.
Whereas if you have a remake, you would have to adapt it to your culture or else it would seem awkward.
So it’s not that the audience can’t accept something different. It’s just that when they see something different, they can associate it as, “that’s Japanese” or “that’s American.”
The japanese drama was incredibly suttle in how it did things. Very slowly you see the more people that enter his life the more his routine becomes to change. The drama is simple, grounded, no tacky villains or silly melodrama. I do love how people commented on not being able to relate to it, so we can relate to the cliche’s that riddle Korean dramas?
People tend to criticise Japanese dramas alot but it just goes to show how immature the Korean audiences can be and so close minded. No wonder the variety that exists in Japanese drama cannot be found in Korean dramas. Korean dramas can be extremely well written but interesting and new plots are hard to find, ratings matter far too much and so come out the tried and tested formula, no wonder theres so many love contracts, evil mothers and lukemia. Man how Korean housewives don;t bored of the same crap is beyond me. No wonder a show like Soulmate didn’t get a second series.
Having said all this the Man who can’t Marry really shouldn’t stick so close to the japanese version, there just seems no point if it does, even if the original version was so good.
Eventhough this is not my fav drama, but I still watch it when I have a free time , I’m not very fond at the lead actor and actress but I really like the dialog/script which is very funny and enjoyable.
@46
Not really. I don’t watch Japanese dramas because I find them to be incredibly boring, not because they’re sophisticated or difficult to comprehend. Maybe teenagers who like quirky comic book type stories would enjoy their series, but I watch dramas that have drama.
@ pencil! LOL. Jo Jae-shi and Kuwano-san BFF!!!
Eventhough many do not like japanese drama,
but their creativity is like – surprise !!!.
Sometimes it is beyond our imagination.
@30 samsooki:
Yes! Thank you, you brought up a lot of the other things I wanted to mention, but I already felt leery for taking up as big a chunk of space as I did. The reason I stuck with the Cultural norms angle was primarily because that seemed to be the angle the newspaper article was spinning, and like you had mentioned before my post, I’m not too sure about having that headline be a front-page runner (internet or hard-copy).
As for the DVR issue, I often wondered what impact that had on viewer ratings in other markets. I know it seems lately that I never watch anything live outside of the news or weather, and that a lot of the US broadcast companies are looking into ways to track online and DVR viewings to better represent the numbers who ARE watching (frankly, I have never cared for the Nielson ratings system, but what can you do?) I didn’t know if outside markets had a jump on that and could already account for at least some percentage, or margin of non-live viewers.
**”Maybe it’s because Queen Seondeok is like grabbing 30%+ ratings and so, if people are going to watch one drama in a given Mon-Tues evening after dinner, then they choose Queen Seondeok?” ** See, another excellent point, and yet one that was completely left out of the newspaper article. I have yet to see any of the episodes of Queen Seondeok, but from what stills and reviews I have seen it certainly looks like a force to be reckoned with, and therefore makes a good argument for the low numbers of MWCGM.
So, I suppose the ultimate question becomes one of why these equally valid reasons weren’t offered up as possibilities for the ratings in the article. I suppose I worded it poorly when I closed earlier, saying “if the article above is correct in its declaration that Cultural differences are the problem behind TMWCGM’s ratings and reception I would be more disappointed than if it were for anything else, especially if it results in an early truncation of the show”, because I completely understand the tendency to stick with what you know and have no qualms whatsoever with citing a cultural difference as a block in gaining viewership/translating markets. Like with the example of Kairo/Pulse, some times you just cannot do a successful transition without amping up the back story and exposition, which becomes a fine balancing act because when does it start to bog down the story? (or, you simply eliminate any and all cultural poignancy and up the splatter factor, as they did with Pulse).
Perhaps it just strikes me as a weak argument for the newspaper to offer, in light of the fact that they DID leave out all the other highly plausible possibilities for the low numbers. No doubt that in reality, it is likely due to a combination of all of these factors, cultural differences simply being one aspect of the issue, therefore I hate to see TMWCGM’s inability to rise in numbers be reduced by the press to be only a cultural issue.
@Jelle :
I think in the Korean version everyone seems so fashionable!
Ji Jin Hee’s character – Jae Hee is so trendy for a nerd. I don’t think someone with his character will care much about his clothes and bag.. Jae Hee’s outfits are so stylish ( which I really like ) and he brings tote bag around – I always think that only metrosexual men bring that kind of bag.
While Abe Hiroshi’s version is more like stereotyped nerd – simple shirts, solid and boring colors.
One thing that I find quite odd. But, i like his style – so I don’t really bothered with it.
I’ve seen the dorama – I can fully understand people who said that this Korean version can’t match up with it. Abe Hiroshi is great actor, he’s so believable as a nerd. Ji Jin Hee sometimes tries too hard – which makes him unnatural.
I enjoy the both versions – but I also agree this something that probably most drama viewers wouldn’t enjoy. It’s entertaining and refreshing.
Once again this is one of the reasons we should not really bothered by the low ratings – because many great dramas, with great quality are underrated.
I love the dynamic between Kim So Eun and Yoo Ah In here – and their story is different with the Japanese version..which is interesting, and I like it more.
Sanggu is cute! I usually don’t like chihuahua – too small! – but this one is cute. But I also like the pug on the dorama – which I usually think as ugly dog.
@46:
“it just goes to show how immature the Korean audiences can be and so close minded.”
Oh, I wouldn’t call the audience immature and close-minded…
It’s just that the tastes of Korean audiences and the taste of Japanese audience is different… and the Korean’s like their tastes so let them have it if they don’t care.
It’s like food.
My mom eats Korean food. Give her pizza, she must add it with Kimchi. Some may think it must be tiring to eat only Korean and she should eat other types, but for 40 years she’s been eating Korean, her taste buds are Korean, and so she just eats what she’s use to eating. And she has no problem with it.
If the audience doesn’t care about this “variety” and are obviously satisfied with what they have, why does it seem like it’s a crime that they go for something they are more accustomed to and prefer than for something they perhaps don’t have an interest for. Low ratings is not saying that they don’t like AMWCGM or anything is wrong with the drama, but perhaps they just rather spend that time watching something they enjoy more. It’s not immature or close minded… I’m not gonna sit through an hour of a drama when another drama that I like better is currently airing at the same time.
“No wonder the variety that exists in Japanese drama cannot be found in Korean dramas.”
While this is true, and I do enjoy them, sometimes it’s hard as >some< of them come off too comic-y (very comic-like). Too many adapted from mangas (particularly Shoujo).
So if you're going to talk about evil step-mothers, lukemia, chaebols overused in K-dramas, J-drama also has it's share of the dramas with numerous amount of rich people who live in mansions with French maids, countless of dramas based in high school, and JE boys who can't act.
On another note, MBC Drama Theater episodes are fun since they bring a new story each episodes and most are light hearted and fun.
I LOOOOOOOOOOOOOVE THIS DRAMA
Can’t understand why it get such a low rating
I watched the Japanese version months ago and I love it. The article correctly described the drama – it contains “calm episodes”, quite opposite to the histrionics found in the typical k-drama.
I will definitely watch the Korean version, regardless of current ratings. I will probably wait until the series it over. I dont like waiting week after week for an episode or two.
There really is no huge dramatic element in The Man Who Can’t Get Married. But that is precisely why I like it—it shows how the ordinary can be funny and even charming. (I do understand that this formula doesn’t work for everyone though.)
I haven’t seen the Japanese version, but somehow Cho Jae Hee reminds of Jack Nicholson’s character in As Good As It Gets. And with the dog, whoa!
The drama is on episode 9 now, and it’s obvious that it is now very different to the japanese version. The plot was very similar up until about episode 4~5, but since then the Korean version has definitely been bringing its own charms.
Anyway, Ji Jin Hee is doing a great job. You can see he’s so into his character!
Love the series. It does not need a lot of emotions, not a lot of thinking. Just perfect when you need something to watch for relaxation purposes! The dog is adorable!
This is a good series to watch. I have seen it up to episode 8, and so far the series has been uniquely funny. I have to say though that this series, in my opinion, is pretty much ‘carried’ by Ji Jin-Hee entirely. He does an excellent job of bringing out the ‘oddball’ personality in the main character.
Uhm is a bit too plain. Kim So-Eun is cute and respectable. The assistant with the glasses is quite good as I can feel him being as a ‘character’ – love the coupons.
I can’t wait to see episode 9. BTW, is this a 16 series drama or more? Does anyone know?
hey, i’m filipino and i’ve watched the episodes..all i can say is that this series is so fun and hilarious!! it’s a shame that most of the koreans neglect it.. i can’t wait for the next episodes, i hope they won’t change the storyline just to makr it more korean-like-type-of drama. indeed, this series is very nice and there’s no episode wherein you won’t be able to laugh..
Both lead actor and actress lack chemistry. I guess, that’s the reasons. Also, the lead actor supposed to be a good actor, but not a comedian. The actress I think is simply could not act. It is a complete waste of time following this drama.
For entertainment, Ice Age 3 and Up are really good. ^__________^
As an American married to a Korean, the cultural differences in the appeal of this drama are obvious. I find it mildly entertaining, but my wife and her friends do not. The fact that the lead actress had plastic surgery appears to be a major factor in their dislike of the drama. For me, the writers did a poor job of developing the characters in the first couple of episode especially the with the doctor, but I also would have liked if Cho Jae Hee had flash backs to his youth explaining his behavior
“One netizen criticized, ‘It feels like they took a Japanese drama and dubbed it over in Korean. It’s taken too exactly from the Japanese version so I can’t relate to the characters’ words or actions.’”
I definitely agree with this statement. I’ve seen the Japanese one all the way through, and I loved every bit of it. However, I watched it in the context of it being a Japanese drama and understanding how it would appeal to its audience. With the Korean version, I was struck hard by the similarities that shouldn’t have been similar. I expected some things to remain the same (i.e. the plot), but I wanted to watch a Korean drama that made the storyline its own rather than trying to be exactly like its Japanese counterpart.
Well well well this series is very refreshing to me although I like drama with tragedy in it but still i luv this one too.Funny and entertaining and you don’t have to think twice what’s next as long as it makes me laugh…I don’t care about ratings and I don’t buy it when people said it is because the lead actress has a facial surgery co’z face it guys we all know that korean women loves surgery anyway and we don’t know who has surgery or not , although I don’t have evidence only just reading it from the news.
Remakes are in demand at present so we’ll just enjoy it while we can and it depends what are your preferences anyway.Just like when I watch ‘only you’ philippine version it’s very entertaining as well.
Currently aside from this I am watching BL and taiwan series Futune lead actress is the one in fated to love you.
I am an international watcher myself (watching from Texas!). I don’t/didn’t watch either the jdorama version or the kdrama version of this drama due to lack of interest. I prefered jdoramas with more humor like Atashinchi no Danshi which incidently is uber popular online (while it has low ratings in Japan).
I think this is very funny and entertaining drama. I’m just loving it. This drama tickles my European taste.
The first drama I watched was The Coffee Prince and I was so head over heel feeling about Kdramas.
The second drama was My Girl… enjoyed the drama
The third = little bride — hmm same plot
later BBF … ok
and the rest of dramas which carrying same plots = unable to watch and follow..
I’m sad that they are still experiencing low ratings cos this is a really entertaining drama
It bothers me how the dramas with the same clichés, stories and formula keeps getting high ratings. Do people in Korea really enjoy watching the same type of story over and over again? Some of these dramas with high ratings are basicly the same story, the only difference is the name of the characters, the actors and the type of fatal disease they have or the type of company they own or the secret of birth they have. Why people keep watching these dramas? I don’t understand. Why don’t they get tired of it? Why don’t they feel like watching something with a fresh story?
Anyway, I like Uhm Jung Hwa so if I have time I’ll watch this drama. I also like the story (that is different from most korean dramas) and the young cast (the girl from BOF and the boy of Antique).
I don’t get it either, I guess Korean housewives prefer the same drama’s afterall.
With the low ratings of Triple and MWCGM, I guess we should count out networks greenlighting such projects for a while.
My big complaint is with Korean newspapers in general.
I can’t differentiate between opinion and fact as I read, and if I can’t differentiate, and I am specifically looking for it, then how can anyone else who is reading casually? Part of this is Korean culture in general, that sort of slides together everything, mixing and matching depending on who is writing, who is reading, and who is paying for it.
In the end, nobody can really trust what is printed, and then EVERYBODY’s opinion, be it on a blog or in a newspaper, is equally valid (and equally invalid).
^Chinese newspapers is the same. They sometimes quote blogs or use random blogs as sources. Which is pretty annoying because we never know if the sources they used are reliable or just one of those fan blogs.
I LOVE this drama, esp. the male lead. He’s mean but he’s funny ! I totally agree with PENN, I also love Soulmate which is very different and off-beat. Hope to see more of these quirky types of dramas.
I am not korean, so why compare the jap version and the korean version
and also on the actors. The actors also have their strengths and weakness
and they are acting base on their experienced as actors. So just enjoy
it with laughter and soon the odds are going on vacation ……..
Ok my opinion is that it was funnier with Abe. Dunno just couldn’t sit through this one and the original I had a hard time sitting through too.
Why are my favorite kdramas doing bad in the ratings? First Triple, and now this…
69 maria – to this i will say that in general koreans do everything in a similar fashion. sad but true. from where i stand, it seems that its mob psychology gone overboard. so there really is no suprise if there IS something popular that is continuously used. that’s the *bitter* opinion coming from someone who is korean.
now, for my opinion of another possible reason for low ratings (that i could make without having seen the drama) is that there are newer sites that are similar to clubbox that probably dont count in the ratings (or $ made by the production companies). they watch the more popular shows on the day and watch the other ones some other time.
i can’t say it’s a total failure due to cultural cliches. this drama has it’s moments. i was intrigued in the first episode, but by the 4th one, i was bored of the plot, partly because it’s not moving fast enough and very little development. don’t get me wrong, i’ve enjoyed dramas that stray from the typical korean storylines like soulmate and have watched jdramas, cdramas, vdramas, pdramas, and fdramas, etc but this one is starting to lose my interest.
better them then me i would hate to watch the same thing over and over again GO U.S.A AT LEAST WE HAVE MORE VARIETY CAUSE SOMEDAY IM GONNA GET SICK K DRAMAS it jus
Mainland Korean kdrama viewers have been overexposed to ludicrous story premises, over the top characters (bad and good) and unrealistic plot lines. It’s no surprise that Kdramas are more or less a convenient form of escapism for those who indulge in it. Man Who Can’t Married offers a comedic twist on numerous social issues and does it delightfully well with a nice balance of emotion and realism.
Arguments for and against the original Japanese version may be valid but it certainly is not the reason for the low ratings.
Culturally, do foreigners, in my case Americans, relate better to those TV characters and situations that are closer to what they would possibly encounter? Maybe Koreans are more aspirational in their viewing tendencies – wanting to be more of the kind-hearted daughter-in-law, the rich, cool and slick chaebol son, or the well-educated, attractive professional straight out of college or grad school.
i like this series, just a shame that it was not taken as just part of entertainment / comedy, didnt compare the korean or the japanese version although i’ve watched both, its still a good series with good acting, i do hope that this wont stop them from churning out fresh plots and ideas even quirky ones to the fact – in fact i found it hard to finish BBF and i gave up on shining inheritance after ep 18, as i cant stand the same plot over & over again..
Eh, it’s a nicely written, gentle drama, which is already played up as “Mania” drama. It’ll have its rabid followers, while most people will watch the crazy stuff BECAUSE they’re crazy. (they’ll watch the makjang while talking crap about it. “OMG they didn’t!”- *switches to watch*)
It’s already written up as one of those “quiet jewels” by those who like, anyway.
I mean, in the US, Pushing Daisies gets canceled, Arrested Development has its still-die-hard fans, etc etc… but the most popular stuff is always bad. Otherwise, why are all those reality shows at the top? And Dancing with the Stars? (What, we say, oh, those stupid Americans now? Pulease. It’s just popular taste — the shit will float)
Anyway, the media writers like it. Even if everyone’s watching Seon-Duk. Which isn’t makjang. btw.
My wife and I really liked Pushing Daisies, and we were sad to see it go. It had a k-drama feel to the general premise, which is that people who are destined to have their lives intertwined will have that happen to them, seemingly regardless (or directly because, depending on your viewpoint) of choices they make. All the other elements, the bringing back to life bits, the detective work, the side characters – they revolve around the two main characters whose paths will never really separate but continue to collide.
This idea of intertwined fates, as it were, is comforting, because it is based on the notion that there is a greater force at work, writing our futures like a history, and we are all connected in some way, and ultimately, we are not alone.
That is really all you need for a story.
If you want a “hit” drama though, I guess you have to add in a few requited and unrequited love stories, a few chaebol arrogant jerks with selfless and poor orphan beauties, a few family conspiracies involving corporate stock or debt and greedy uncles who cheat on their wives, and you have yourself a majang mania drama.
hehe.
I would hate to live in S Korean for the simple fact that. Almost everything on south Korean tv has been done to death most all there dramas are the same. At least in japan you can see medical,cop,dark,comedy some real variety they always try something new which is one reasons Korea taiwanese are always remaking there dramas.
I love it I’m on ep 9 now! When ever I watch dramas or movies I don’t think “oh lets pick out things that have to do with my life or how I live” because it’s just so diff from Media world or tv world whatever. It’s a new world and a light comedy at that! I wouldn’t consider issues unless they are strongly representing something such as the Russian movie ‘Lilya 4-ever’
I may not understand caus I haven’t lived in Korea but in terms of my own dramas, I hate British soaps cause htye try to hard to make it seem like outside my door. If I wanted to see that, I’d just go stand in my town centre and let it all take place and hope not to get stabbed whilst doing it. Same with big brother!
I currently watch this drama. It kinda sad when i heard the rating is not good in korea. although korean don’t like this drama but foreign people watch this online.
korean ver is more refreshing.
Good article and a very valid argument that some people are more inclined with cliche type dramas. I moderate this kdrama in ViiKii.com and we’re getting over 14,000 views per episode within the first 24 hours of uploading. This drama has developed a very large fan base and some actually have compared it to the japanese version. Although the kdrama is longer (16 episodes) but some has mentioned that it has a different texture of viewership as it gives viewers a sense of refreshness compared to the other kdramas. I’m not saying that other dramas are not good, but this drama definitely deserves better.
A copy cat drama I do agree with this one……..And it lacks chemistry to main lead plus the fact that Kim So Eun and Yo Ah In has no chemistry whether you accept it or not.. They tend to put crazy encounters like a Kiss scene in episode 5 which I think isnt really appealing and it doesnt cost much a stir onsidering that it is not much needed in the scene .Even in Korean dramas I dont see much kissing scene but more of skinship which is more appealing and it creates more stir and excitement. The drama caters to mature audiences as well and after watching the episodes you will felt bored and lost interest in it since they have already showed up more than is needed to be shown
Well, I am an American who cannot get enough of Korean dramas. I find the Man Who Can’t Get Married refreshingly amusing, touching & so, so, so much better than many American comedy/dramas!!!! I can’t wait to see the rest of the episodes! All of the performers are so honest in the portrayal of their characters, which makes the series so believable. Just think, we are living in an age where people do not have a lot of dating experiences, due to lack of human contact (outside of technology), & who are waiting much longer to experience one on one relationships. These characters remind me so much of people that I have met, or known. The story line is original, and is just good fun!! I wish all involved with this show, the best of success. There is so much more depressing news in this world, this show is a welcome relief! I hope to view, with the help of English sub-titles, more shows like this one.
All BoF live action versions are craps. It’s kind of hard to like this after watching the JP version. Abe Hiroshi is the man who can’t get married. As much as I love Sir Ming in DJG, JJH can’t pull this character off. I’m not surprised at the low rating.
yea i agree. i think this is a GREAT drama!!! i love all the characters and i can totally relate to this. what i cant relate to are the typical korean drama with all the “Hidden birth secrets, mother/daughter-in-law conflicts, a handsome chaebol who falls for an ajumma without reason” etc etc. that’s not real life but then again, i think people want to get away from real life that’s why they watch these “fantasy” dramas.
overall, i enjoy this drama very much (im from US btw) it is one of my top 5 fav. drama now. and those who say the japanese version is better is because that’s the original one and probably the one you watched first. i’ve never watched the japanese version but for me this is MY original one and if i watched the japanese one now, i would probably prefer the korean one. it’s like all these pop artists remaking old classic songs but they usually fail hardcore. and to those who say they “copied” too exactly from the japanese version, im sure there would be people who would complain if they changed the story to fit korea. people would be like “they shouldnt have changed it. it’s not the same. they ruined it by changing. the original story is better. etc etc” so think about that.
The second Korean drama I watched was Coffee Prince, and I thought it was exceptionally good. I had seen a Mexican drama with the same topic before (the girl who lies about her sex in order to work) However I thought that the Korean drama was much better in terms of EVERYTHING. After Coffee Prince, I have watched a considerable amount of Korean comedy dramas. However, Coffee Prince still takes the number one spot when it comes to comedies. Why? I think I need not to explain, lol.
When I read about “The Man Who cant get Married” I was overjoyed because one of my favorite films is “As Good as it Gets” and I read that this drama follows somewhat the same idea as the movie. I started watching the drama and I got addicted right away after five minutes. After reading most of the comments here, I don’t have to say why I’m addicted to it. I think everybody gets the picture.
This is by far one of the best, if not the best, comedies I have watch. Excellent script; the actors did a great job. Very sublet, no overacting, especially from the male lead whose character has all the probabilities of taking the actor down that road, because of all the little details. These are all possible in fact due to a good director, writer, and producer. There is nothing bad about this drama. It entertains, absolutely, and makes you laugh till no end.
I have seen the Japanese version, and I think the Korean version is much, much better.
Now this drama has reached the number 6 spot on my 10 favorite korean dramas list. Four spots over Coffee Prince. YEP! I like it that much.
seriously, this drama is hilarious and i love it sooo much!!! kdramas about love is interesting to watch but too much of this “love” storyline kinda gets abit boring….if all the storyline is about the same, or so called ” longwinded” what is the point of watching all the long eps,waste ur time only, y dun they just see the 1st and last ep? lolsXD sorry for sounding sacastic . i mean , y dun they watch something new and fresh for just 16 eps? and can laugh all time when seeing this show?[recommend for all persons that is very stress, lol] am i right? i just hope that this drama is well-loved by all for all the coming epsXD cherries:) and blow candles…. makes a wish….HaHa
I don’t usually comment but I feel compelled to make my opinion be heard. I personally feel that this is a really, really good drama. i am shocked and half amused that it’s getting low ratings. And contrary to what people have been saying here, I think the couple had awesome chemistry. They were so cute together! And JJH did a good interpretation of the original character. It was slightly different from Abe Hiroshi’s but I wouldn’t say that he was ‘inferior’ in that sense. His acting (and his butt) was so cute , I was grinning like, half the time! This drama makes me smile and laugh so much. It’s refreshing too. Nobody dies of cancer, leukemia and there are no ‘long lost’ siblings who get reunited and what have you. THIS IS AN AWESOME DRAMA.
I just love this drama! It’s light and uncomplicated yet it remains to be very entertaining. The cast is great especially the main characters. You can feel their chemistry which makes the audience want to know what will happen to them in the end. Definitely a drama I would watch over and over! Wish they could do a sequel of their married life haha!
Cute drama…so much better than the japanese version! Hope it gains popularity in other countries!
JI Jin Hee does a superb job playing the role and his female counterpart Uhm Jung Hwa as Dr. Jang complements him. Cool change from the typical korean dramas…He who can’t marry is an awesome drama!
this drama was entertaining in its quirky jokes and plot. but i think the lead actor and actress didnt have much chemistry and all throughout the drama all they did was fight back and forth, i didnt think the characters developed much, and i found it hard to believe he actually changed almost 360 degrees by the end of it. although i stil managed to finish watching all of it cause it was funny and i liked yoo jin and jae hee. i found the ending rather disappointing. it was an ok drama but with the storyline they could have made it much much better!!
i LOVED this drama – mainly because there was a LACK of typical, cliche korean storylines. that basically explains why i stopped watching the popular drama, brilliant legacy. i got annoyed with getting worked up and deeply angry at my tv because the characters in the drama were acting like idiots. anyway, the japanese version of the man who can’t get married was amazing and the korean one didn’t fail. i thoroughly enjoyed how all the characters played out – and i was never sick of ANY OF THEM. a rare feat. i will watch this drama whenever i miss it – which will be often. btw, i love ji jin hee’s man bags. i want them.
the drama says it well (maybe not all) about Asian culture where man & woman are expected to get married at certain age (20s-30s) and if they hit that age limit..they are hard to sell, hence all the pressurize. I think more so in Korea, even though it’s modern and all that. I have a Korean friend that always pestering me when to get married, said that i’m too choosy and work up the ladder and no guy dares to have me. Watching the drama really helps me to understand culture and expectations. And it’s different from lots of Korean drama that i’ve seen, you know that three generations in one house, love triangles (ahhh they do here), the hero/heroine is terminally sick ..mean in laws etc. Watching it in Viiki…it’s more fun to read all those comments. I like all the actors/actresses..i like Uhm Jung Hwa here–looks more graceful (compare in Seducing Mr.Perfect), the hair is nicer and natural (with that in Oh Vs Karl)..at least clean image for her. Ohhh Kim So Eun is so natural & fresh…hope for Korean Film Industry …No Plastic Surgery…I will give this drama A+
dang! this drama series makes me lol.
never EVER ever underestimate this tv show. it BRIGHTENS mah day. 
at least you it gives us a break from the korean cliches and storylines.
Fantastic comedy!
Loved Sangoo!
Well presented by all the actors and actresses in “He Who Can’t Marry”, especially on acting the subtlety of certain emotions e.g. embarassment, fear, agitated, happiness on the little things in life that make it all wonderful.
A refreshing topic “getting hitch at a ripe old age” that is of concern to parents and people of the age alike. ehemmm i was there ;p
Jae Hee, although annoying at first, does grow on one.
Romantic and awkward scenes of Dr Jang and Jae Hee…so funny and loving.
Thanks for an interesting, full of fun comedy, and not the common “dying” and sobbing Korean drama. You gave me and my husband interesting few weeks of drama dates
. Cheers!
I was hoping that you would know which are the brand(s) of bags that the character of Jae Hee carries in the series? I especially love the white tote bag that he carries at the last scene with the doctor in the hospital, and the blue version of it. If you know where I can get them that would be fantastic!!! <3
Back to topic, this was the funniest drama I've seen so far. My mom and I were so hooked on it we did a marathon from 6pm to 330am to finish the last 8 episodes !!!
I'm surprised that the Korean audience weren't as hooked as we were!
As an American thoroughly enchanted and addicted to KDrama, I LOVE this
one! is it because it has mature actors and storyline? maybe…I mean really the only alternative to growing older is death…I digress
Jin Ji Hee is so handsome…and I am a fan of Uhm Jung Hwa…I loved the cast and the cute dog.
This is an all time favorite and is at the top of my list to own. I look forward to watching it again…it’s so funny and endearing, and I was surprised that the ratings were low. This was just an excellent series. I also enjoyed the little snips in between the episodes of Jae Hee…brilliant…even now I get tickled thinking about it…
I like this drama ,more realistic
i also watched this drama and liked it a lot!
I love Uhm Jung Hwa. She’s so adorable in that show while hinting Ji Jin Hee that she likes him. Go Uhm Jung Hwa!