Beanie level: Rooftop room dweller

Ji Chang-wook 💕 is my Romance Bae. 🥰

Wae … Why…? Thank you for asking.

I am **ahem** cautiously optimistic about the return of my Romance Bae Ji Chang-wook in Welcome to Samdal-ri. The way he looked at Shin Hye-sun in the drama teaser with that besotted look gave me all kinds of feelz (yes the one with “z“).

My most-est favorite Ji Chang-wook is the Romance Bae from Suspicious Partner, my personal fan-fic version i.e. no relation to the actual drama.

1. My Romance Bae Wookie (“RBW” for all future references in this or any post henceforth) is soo soo excited to have ME as his girlfriend. 💕

2. My Wookie looks at me like this.

3. My Wookie absolutely refuses to leave me to go home.

4. Since it is late my Wookie suggest that we …

5. My Wookie is quick to reassure me.

6. But I’m excited to **cough** spend time together **cough** and I can’t help but channel Goblin’s Bride and er, … surprise my Wookie

7. Sadly My Romance Bae Wookie is totally and absolutely unimpressed with my ppoppo-ing skills.

8. But still the gentleman that he is, my Wookie consoles me.

9. And gives me the best-est ever hug.

Cont/- 👇

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#2023 Round Up
Male Lead I’ll Never Forget (for better AND worse).

Kim Young-kwang in Call it Love and Evilive.

Mesmerizing, bewitching, even his “back” can act!

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#2023 Round Up
Female Lead I’ll Never Forget:

Go Yoon Jung in Alchemy of Souls: Light and Shadow and Moving.

I found her luminous and unforgettable in both the dramas.

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Call it Love

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Am I the only one excited to see the thumbnail of Welcome to Samdal-ri in the Currently Recapping section.

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My Demon

Aww… he’s apologizing for not telling her about his devilish plan to drown her to try and transfer his tattoo back to his wrist.

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    I love that his expression is like sheepish puppy, like he just realised ‘ah right yes so I now see the problem with making someone else jump into river just a day or two after they had like two near death experiences ‘ 😂

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Also just a reminder that both Lee Sung-kyung and Kim Young-kwang were models. 🤩

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    I really love looking at photos of these two. Photoshoots where the aesthetic just hits on every level is something else 🤩

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Call It Love

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    Thank you so much for giffing this scene. I loved this scene and this quote ❤️ There was so much depth to this drama.

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      It was a pivotal scene, perhaps the first scene where we hear Dong-jin’s “voice”. We had only heard formalities or basic courtesies from him before. In this scene we “heard” his “heart”. The writing is also incredibly powerful. Even if it hadn’t earlier – with this one scene the drama captured my entire heart. Pink filter be damned. 😀

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        I just love your description of this scene and hearing his heart… yes, this was where he first revealed his heart and “real self” to her, and I believe this was the moment that truly started her on the path to falling in love. Truly one of the best dramas of the year, and one of my personal favorites ❤️

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          I think Woo-joo was already in love with him, this was the first time she admitted it to herself subconsciously. It would take few more episodes for her to verbalize it though.

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            That moment when she verbalizes it at the end of episode 7 is vivid in my mind! This was such a quiet drama, but with so many emotionally impactful moments.

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            @HopefulRomantic being an introvert this drama made one felt “heard”.

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            @seeker yes!! So true!!! 🥰

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            @HopefulRomantic it is always such a pleasure talking to you. How wonderful to be able to share our mutual love of dramas and be able to discuss them so minutely. Makes me feel overwhelmed and “heard”. Thank you.

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            @seeker thank you for your kind words!! I always enjoy discussing with you, too 😊 it’s so special to be able to talk about dramas with others like you who appreciate the introspective little details and the emotional beats!! 🥰

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            @HopefulRomantic Emotions are what make us human. To have them nuanced so beautifully in a drama was like watching a flower bloom. It takes time, lots of care, sunshine and love. That is what Call It Love made me feel.

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            @seeker oh that’s such a beautiful description of the magic of Call it Love. When I watched it, I cried at most of the episodes – not because I felt sad, or because the drama was sad, but because it touched me just like you said – feeling heard and understood, even though my experiences are not the same as those of the characters. That’s a really special form of connection and identification. This drama was very gentle with the hearts of both its viewers and its characters. ❤️

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            Aww. I love this exchange btwn you two esp. following our last conversation. It’s seeing those words and intentions in practice. 💕

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            @HopefulRomantic I too bawled my eyes out each episode and had to watch it with breaks in-between because it was so overwhelming. I didn’t know the meaning of “verklempt” then but that is what I felt. I believe the requirements of classical Greek tragedy as enunciated by Aristotle, to arouse “pity” for the characters and “fear” lest the same fate befalls us were well met. Luckily for us, the “modern” concept of hope in the plot saved us from **cough Heartbeat cough**.

            Indeed the drama dealt with each character very sympathetically. Even ML’s mom, we understood her insecurities and her search for new companions to ease her loneliness but it was her “selfish” decisions which led to her downfall and continued loneliness. Despite his neglect and intense loneliness from childhood uri Dong-jini took “selfless” decisions at all times which led to his being granted deep and meaningful companionships not just with Woo-joo but her entire family as we saw over the course of the drama. Ooh! discussing this with you is making me so 🥰 all over again.

            @indyfan Welcome and thank you. I loved your comment on that post today. I really appreciated your talking out the time to so clearly outline the implications behind that.

            Hopeful, Indy this conversation feels like a group hug. I feel so warm. You both are indeed my DB “found family”.

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            @seeker I LOVE your analysis!!!! Yay Aristotle!!! (And yay rhetorical theory and analysis!!!) I watched the same way, slowly drawing out the episodes, because I knew it was going to make me feel a lot of things. It was a great journey. Ah this conversation with you is making me waffle on my year-end vote for best drama!! I can’t decide between this and Twinkling Watermelon!

            Yes, @indyfan, Thank you for your warm words of support, and group hug right back at you both!🫂

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            Thanks Cera. I’m afraid it came off as patronizing unfortunately. But I’m glad at least one person found it helpful.

            You and Hopeful keep doing you. It will inspire the rest of us. 🤗

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            @HopefulRomantic My winner is both! ☺ 💕

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            @Indyfan I thought it was a very timely intervention, not patronizing at all. While unaware of the actual context it felt as if something was off. I got a feeling you stopped it from becoming a hot mess. 😀

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    This was one of the best dramas of the year and I kind of forgot about it in the daily hustle but this GIF set brought back all the feels that this show created. Defs need to rewatch soon! Thank you for making and sharing this! 💜

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      It is a life lesson I took away and remembered from this drama. 😀
      Also what is about K-drama leads that make you remember a lesson that one’s mother shrieking Think before you speak! your entire life couldn’t.

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    I clicked “follow” you a moment ago when I saw your display picture. 😅 It looks so beautiful and vibrant.

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Perfect Marriage Revenge

On November 29 at 6 p.m. PST (November 30 at 11 a.m. KST), Rakuten Viki will be hosting an Instagram Live broadcast with “Perfect Marriage Revenge” star Sung Hoon to celebrate International K-Drama Day.

https://www.soompi.com/article/1629130wpp/perfect-marriage-revenge-star-sung-hoon-to-take-part-in-live-interview-with-viki-for-international-k-drama-day

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    Ooooh, this might be interesting. He seems fun in interviews 🙂

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When K-drama meets K-Pop: Twin Trouble

It seems the all-seeing internet is convinced that Ji Chang-wook and Kim Tae-hyung (V from BTS) are actually, really and truly Twins. Is it really so?

Doppelganger Alert

The styling and camera angles may be somewhat similar but I certainly would not be confused between Ji Chang-wook and V. Perhaps non-fans may find them to be twinning. 🧑‍🤝‍🧑

As @panshel says: Pretty is a talent.

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Tell Me That You Love Me

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Strong Girl Nam-soon

The drama came riding on a lot of goodwill. While initially wary, we were happy to welcome it. Somewhere, somehow instead of drugs it came a story of theft as the writer lost the plot!

Just some nice moments to say thank you and goodbye.

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    I did struggle with it because I did not find Nam-soon’s character or her businesswoman of a mother particularly appealing.

    If anything, while I don’t need characters to be geniuses, those two were surfing on the single IQ digit wave a little too much to my liking. Cue to absolutely every single thing Nam-soon does during 16 episodes… and certainly being 100% suspicious in her undercover mission. UNDER-flipping-COVER, you tragic moron. It means not acting openly weird all the time. I just wanted to facepalm her with a brick a few times. Not that I blame her, she gets her brain from mom who, as it happens, has none whatsoever.
    Second cue to mom actively asking the assassin sent to eliminate her at the hospital to let everybody know she is still alive and well. How idiotic is that, I ask you? Mom, how thick can one person be? Why did you not pretend you were dead instead? ! WAE??! *cries in Korean while slapping her in the face with wet kelp*

    Nan, on the other hand, I could sympathise with her desire to just be happy and loved in her later years. This got lost in the midst of a non-existent plot, but for once, we almost had a romance story between people who are not in their 20s and that would have been a nice change. The best we’ve seen in “older romance” was Crash Course in Romance where it was decided that the couple should be in their 30s (which is apparently the new old, now)

    And frankly, I cannot put in words how disappointingly soulless that ending was. Shi-oh, a man destined to solitude and pain his entire life and who still maintains his desire to believe in friendship. This was infinitely more pure and praise-worthy than a dumb little girl who’s faced literal zero challenges in life and who’s proven absolutely incapable to saving her own ass.

    I would say I hated Nam-soon with a passion, but this is too kind. It did not ignite any passion.

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      I wanted, really truly wanted to like it. 🤷‍♀️ You said it best. It did not ignite any passion.

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        same, I started wanting to like it. and, to be fair, at first, I thought, I would like it. I sort of enjoy her life in Mongolia, her doting adoptive Mongolian parents, her new start in South Korea. I even enjoyed the prospect of her dad immediately being able to spot fake Nam-soon from the real one. I loved the idea of a complex family living more or less together…

        But then, something got lost along the way and I am not quite sure what. at some point, watching Nam-soon’s adventures began to fell like a chore rather than a joyful evening watch. Like watching an accident in slow motion and you know that the only thing you can do is watch for the inevitable disaster.

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    Thanks for these reminders of when the show was charming and promising. It had some great moments and could’ve explored some interesting ideas, but then … 😬

    If there’s another sequel, maybe I’ll have learned my lesson and will approach with caution.

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Death’s Game

It would be an understatement to say that I am excited. 😄

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The Story of Park’s Marriage Contract

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    That was a pretty unexpected move, whichever era she’s from!

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      She is a strong and brave girl but this was totally unexpected. 🤣

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        We can add this to the discussion over the debate over the “realism” of the show. 😂

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          Is that a thing. I mean what is this debate.

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            No, no, no. Just some minor exchanges in the recaps.

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            @indyfan uh … okay then. You can correct me if I’m wrong but aren’t the recaps more “lively” these days. Obviously there were always contrasting opinions – and indeed there should be – but it seems to be getting a tad more abrasive these days. What do you think.

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            I have seen a few contentious drama recaps recently. But I haven’t been around long enough to say it’s a trend. Since you’ve been around longer, I would trust your judgement on the long term trend. Interesting that you think it’s become a bit more abrasive. That’d be a shame.

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            @indyfan I would say its an ebb and flow. DB does have a sweet country side vibe where everybody knows everybody (at least the regulars) and while they might not agree on all things between heaven and earth they are not too much into defending their choices or convincing all and sundry that only this is the best. It is perhaps best described as a more or less harmonious co-existance amongst contrasts. Ordinarily people coming to DB for the first time are a little thrown by it and are naturally abrasive as you indeed need to be on most of social media. The DB community embraces all and people do mellow down or rather temper their remarks somewhat over a period of time. It is a process, some take to it like a duck to water, others find it somewhat disconcerting. I find a respectful approach to all opinions is helpful in DB and by extension IRL. 😀

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            @seeker and @indyfan – interesting discussion 😊 That’s partially why I’ve been less active on the recap comment threads for dramas I live-watch (that, and it’s hard to keep up with along with a job Lol 😆) – I might want to discuss, but I generally don’t feel like arguing/critiquing, especially if that would rain on someone else’s parade. But it’s easier to discuss with Beanies I feel like I “know”!!! 👍

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            @seeker Oh! I thought I knew what you meant. That’s a great general insight into adapting into DB culture (tho always some, um, interesting old timers :). But are you specifically referring to this:
            https://www.dramabeans.com/members/DncingEmma/activity/1493168/

            That’s, that’s just… Splutters to a stop

            @hopefulromantic I hear you! I’m more into fanwall discussions too with Beanies as well. But the fan wall moves so fast (and hard to keep track of) and I’m hopping onto a plane for another week of low bandwidth living. I’ll probably miss all the action again. 😢

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            Dagnabbit, it told me I posted an inappropriate word again 😑 I might have forgotten and used f-i-r-s-t and an exclamation in the same sentence. *Sigh.*

            @indyfan the fanwall has become my favorite place to discuss!! The group watches of Mad Dog and Parallel World were such fun!!! Aw I’ll miss talking with you in the comments, but real life is always most important! I hope you have safe travels!

            @seeker, yes, thank you for the insights into the DB discussion culture!

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          @indyfan @HopefulRomantic
          My eyes widened and mind boggled. I just don’t have words for it. I did read the initial few posts but unsurprisingly missed the entire subsequent discussion. Unlike other threads which you can go back to even after many years, once you scroll past the fanwall, one would ordinarily not know about further comments unless someone replies to / tags you. It might be difficult to locate a post even if one knew which fanwall to see.

          Fanwall posts are usually light, fun, fluffy or general musing / rant on dramas. It great way to de-stress which in a way is why we come to DB. It is really comforting to discuss our dramas and anything and everything in a fun way on the fanwall. One usually comes across the same group of people and all are extremely supportive and positive.

          Just like K-dramas draw you in with the fluff and then go on to deliver some really tough life lessons, some Beanies have tough things to say which I appreciate. This is, really I have no words. I will however go on the fanwall to encourage the ongoing conversation. Thank you Indy for the link.

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          @indyfan
          With this new found knowledge my original post seems somewhat ironical. 🤣
          Do enjoy your travels and let us chat whenever, wherever on DB. 😀

          @HopefulRomantic in the limited time from the job and life in general that we get for “all things drama”, after actually watching the dramas, the fanwall is my happy place. I do try to keep up with the news and other discussion threads on DB but generally recaps, even for dramas I am watching get sidestepped unintentionally (Hermione is NOT lending me her time turner) because I am having fun on the fanwall.

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          @HopefulRomantic
          I might want to discuss, but I generally don’t feel like arguing/critiquing, especially if that would rain on someone else’s parade. But it’s easier to discuss with Beanies I feel like I “know”!!!

          Words to live by. I always appreciate your views. It reminds me of Han Dongjin’s dialogue in Call it Love.

          “It may seem to you that people hold themselves back because they’re stupid. But there’s people who really try not to say everything that’s on their minds because if they do, they have to watch the other person get hurt, which is far worse than them holding it in.”

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            What lovely words. One of my most favorite characters and shows of the year.

            I am not perfect, I’ll admit that. I do sometimes speak up, usually on real life issues I have a personal connection with. A lot of that has been about developing my voice, which I was most certainly not encouraged to do as a girl child.

            But I agree with you and Hopeful for the most part. And I do not participate on shows that do not work for me. Let others be. But it is trickier when you have mixed reactions and still engaged with a show. It’s a good reminder to choose your words with care.

            And I’m sorry. I thought you were referring to this thread earlier or I wouldn’t have linked it. While I’ve seen some contention on drama threads, this is the most I’ve seen on IRL issues. But I also wouldn’t have seen it if I wasn’t tagged either (the fan wall does indeed just roll on by). I hope it didn’t leave a bad taste in your mouth.

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            @indyfan
            Thank you for sending me the link which I would have otherwise missed. While on DB I intentionally try a light approach as RL has quite enough angst thank you very much. 😀
            Like you, I too have had to develop my voice. In fact many people were amazed (and secretly intimidated) by the profession I chose.
            I agree with you, there are shows that I want to discuss, talk about and engage with everybody and this is usually possible only on recap threads. But as we have seen more often than not even a slight rant / dissatisfaction on a minor plot point can blow up on one’s face.
            It is indeed a thin line we tread. Frankly humor and fanwalling is my defense mechanism cum shield against all RL angst and I cannot abide any more angst online. And I really want to protect this happy place.

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            @seeker I LOVE that quote from Han Dong-jin! Thank you for sharing that. They’re good words to live by. I agree with you that the fanwall has become my happy place, too! Cera and @indyfan, you’re both so thoughtful in your responses and replies, I enjoy reading your comments, and I enjoy discussing with you both 😊 I hope this site continues to stay a safe and mild place to talk about the shows we love.

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            I will not ask but know I am now curious about your profession that surprised and intimated all you know! 😀

            Yes. We will keep it a happy place as best as we can. That’s why I hopped on today. MM #8 just tickled me pink! I’m so glad I stuck with this little drama.

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            @HopefulRomantic @Indyfan I love interacting with you both. This is me praying to keep DB a happy and safe place for all of us Happy Beans.

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            @Indyfan sorry I got a bit ahead of myself with the tmi. Can I request you to please use your amnesia inducing wand and forget I said anything to make you curious.  🙏

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            @seeker Wait, what, what? What’re you talking about? 😉

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            **pats your head lovingly**
            Now who’s a good girl.

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      She shoot an arrow that almost hit an ahjumma once (they showed it as one of the things she did that made her get the nickname “crazy lady”). She’s wild. Hahaha.

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My Demon

How to be stunning in motion.

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My Demon

How to be stunning.

How to be stunned.

🤣 🤣 🤣 Why can I not stop laughing!

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Perfect Marriage Revenge

Episodes 09 and 10

1. What are these pink heart lights encasing Do-guk.

2. This is my job application too – can I send it to K-dramas who have been overloading me with “work” over the weekends.

3. Secretary Kim is serving superhero vibes er, … also brooding oppa?

4. Beaded bridal shoes to go with bridal dresses for evil step-mom.

5. THIS is my screensaver on ALL my devices.

PS: What was the red heart comb PPL just before this? Got to give it to the man, he is a PPL champion.
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    That red heart hairbrush 🤣🤣🤣
    It felt like, omg only 2.5 episodes left for all the PPL!*

    *production team realization

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Perfect Marriage Revenge

**Realizes that there are only TWO more episodes of PMR.**

Next makjang drama.

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My Demon:
Lessons on blind dating, car accidents and how to live like a Demon

#1 Important questions to ponder on during the blind date.

#2 How to be pleasant to your date afterwards. # no mutual recriminations.

#3 Perfectly valid and appropriate reaction to marriage talks after said blind date. Turn around with a resounding NO.

#4 Because I\’m a demon

How to react when you lose your demonic powers to your blind date.

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My Demon is a Barbie

Because there cannot be too much PRETTY and PINK in my life.

And because I\’m watching My Demon with heart-shaped rose-tinted glasses.

All I can see is Pretty and Pink and Picture Perfect. The sea, sun, water arch. All is PINK in my fairy tale world.

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