Hae In is nicknamed a peacock by her subordinates whenever she dresses to the nines. It means she is on a “war” mode. Watch the red dress scene in Ep 7.
At this point, Master Lee could honestly say that the soul of the Sun-Baby from teletubbies also resides in the ice stone and we would be like, yup makes sense! It must be crowded in that stone lol 😂
My time to apologize now! I was away for about two weeks and so couldn’t respond to your message before!
Oh AoS!
They made us wait and wait some more. I am so looking forward to the reviews and asking questions.
Anyway, now we all know the Naksu lead is back and shooting began in July and they are saying that we might get the rest of the ten episodes by December (yet one never knows! Ice stone effects can cause more delays 😀 )
I am wondering what end will they put to JSM character or will we see glimpses of her similar to Medicine Master’s grand-daughter? Btw I keep asking this of anyone who can tell me, why is she there in this series? Did we really need her?
Hope you aren’t snowed under and are getting some time to enjoy some sunshine and rain (depending upon where on the earth you might be).
@noone There is no need to apologize! I’ve actually been feeling under the weather and thus, MIA. Thank you so much for checking in, it really does mean the world. 💖Sorry for taking long to respond.
After that finale, I am still recovering from the ice-stone effects. Not sure how Naksu and Uk do it! 😜
Honestly I don’t know the point of Master Yeom’s grand-daughter either, maybe to showcase Uk’s faithfulness to Mu Deok? Otherwise, she doesn’t add much to the story. Have you watched the finale? If so, what are your thoughts?
There is lots of sunshine where I am. I hope you’re keeping happy and healthy wherever you are! 😊
Tell me about it! I can’t watch that scene in the forest as it breaks my heart. So I don’t even know if I can say that I have seen this full season or not. I guess, I am weak-hearted. Her killing him… no!!
She had said in episode 2 that even if we are near, I will spare you. Isn’t that supposed to hold true with or without evil bells ringing! I just hope there is no memory loss. I wish they had the capacity to show some inner journey of the two as both have suffered trauma.
I have been wondering about Naksu/MD’s mental health after being killed thrice and Uk’s after being killed once and that too by someone he obviously loved to death!
In my mind divine justice will only be met if and only if Naksu does some chasing in season 2. Uk needs to be loved. Naksu needs to do some self-reflection and also be scared of how anyone can use her!
With the kind of changes in people and relationships that they have hinted for season 2, even I think 10 episodes won’t be enough. I just hope they focus!
To answer to your last to paragraphs: I didn’t watch episode 19 as I wanted answers to episode 18, which they didn’t show. I am here for the OTP but the drama doesn’t understand this. after entering Songrim the two don’t get enough space until episode 18! Even then all good scenes are restricted to the last 10-15 minutes.
I didn’t plan to see 20 either but then I saw spoilers and I thought let us just watch it but I can’t get through Naksu/MD’s fight sequence without avoiding the heartbreaking sequence.
I was wondering why is Jin dad still alive and why is no one questioning him. In this drama they use magic adhoc and without explanation, they stretch reveals and take the fun out of them (they could have shown the bells earlier in the day such that we would have been scared but no… suddenly pull out that trick); and they let the bad guys go (and bad guys are just not well developed!)
Poor CY, her dad saved the same fate except that her dad was stabbed while she tried suicide at the lake!
Scenes with Master Yeom’s grand-daughter just add unnecessary detail: episode 9 when she appears at the infirmary, why did we need that fanfare for her welcome? I think she will be Yul’s love interest or she will turn evil… we will see.
Finale was a bomb. But in my brain it felt that it was a bomb because the characters didn’t prepare for it or the creators didn’t want the characters to prepare… the connects at times are weak — characters don’t analyse or think about the consequences of their action. Uk for the first time tried to explore a library in episode 19.
@noone You’re not weak hearted! The way Uk was dispatched so heartlessly in the forest broke my heart, too. It was almost worse that Mu Deok was so unaware of what was happening, I am fed up of her being manipulated and puppeteered by Jin Mu. I wasn’t looking forward to seeing him again, but that’s pretty much a given, now with his miraculous twisting of the narrative.
My big gripe was that Bu Yeon was absolutely powerless, MIA and, benched. I was expecting a Deus Ex Machina with her inexplicably saving the day and Mu Deok dying as consequence of her sacrifice, but to see Bu Yeon muted during such dire scenes left me at a loss for words.
I think we’re in the era of Dark Uk and this whole upcoming season will be a complete 180 in terms of what we’ve come to expect from the characters as a whole. No one looks happy and I’m relieved that the darkness and onslaught of episode 20 won’t be magically erased.
With that, I hope the show will do a better job at answering questions and filling holes. There were some things that just didn’t fit, like the Jin father coming back only to die…what was the point? He could have just stayed dead 🙄 The Bells of Doom also came out of nowhere, probably just to remind us that Jin Mu can do whatever he wants, whenever he feels like it.
Our expectations were raised only to have them plummet with no satisfying resolution. I needed more.
Hola @mewcrazy
Sorry, was just too busy rewatching clips and trying to think how I would have improved AoS.
My takes:
Episode 20 is good on its own in so many ways. But I still think that the story meandered and lots of subplots that were added didn’t deliver their full blow!
So I- her attaching the ice stone and then the entire transfusion bit and then disappearing until in 20 we have some odd showings.
Jin Dad— don’t even get me started. I mean what kind of justice system does Daeho have that the shaman and her brother are considered convicts but because he is married to Jin family, he gets special treatment at the infirmary and his daughter doesn’t really know the full extent of his crimes?
She doesn’t know that her dad caused her sister’s murder!
The entire bubble gum like stretch of BY mystery is too much. A part of me thinks, BY is similar to the fly in Hotel Del Luna. Except that they hyped BY up and now I am not sure if they can take the hype. This is almost like they JG hype.
Like what was the JG bit all about?
The more I rewatch clips and think about it, the more annoyed I become. The series had a great premise. They could have kept it tighter, removed some of the lose subplots, concentrated on the main characters+their strengths. I really think HS don’t do thrill or suspense that well. They are good at emotional buildups and dialogues/bickering.
Anyway, at this point I have decided I will not care about the ice stone or anyone. I am watching S2 for a dark Uk and How UK would recognize Naksu. The reuinion, I don’t know. I am curious about their take but am also scared… they can just introduce anything and in the name of fantasy ask me accept 🙁
It is like we all knew there was more to Mage Cho’s death and they only revealed in ep20. But isn’t the timeline for it weird? JM did not have access to the ice stone or soul ejectors for 10 years while CHo was used before JG went off on exile!
@noone A huge apology for going radio silent, this has been a full month, but we thank God! Sorry for the wait. I hope you and your family are keeping safe and doing well. 💖
With regards to Cho Yeon, I don’t know if she was unaware of her father’s crimes, or if she just didn’t care. The Jin family are elitists and probably think that because the dad is tied to their name, he gets an automatic get-out-of-jail free card. Had he lived, I am convinced his punishment would not have been severe.
I almost wish they hadn’t hyped up Bu Yeon as much as they did since she definitely didn’t deliver. I agree with your assessment of the Hong Sisters! They shine in rom-coms with banter, i.e. Master’s Sun, My Girlfriend is a Gumiho and even Greatest Love. I didn’t watch Hwayugi, and can’t really comment, but they lost the plot with Alchemy of Souls. I look forward to season 2 since hopefully they’ll get it together.
I wonder what Jang Uk will do with all of his rage since Jin Mu got off scot-free. I hope it isn’t all bluster and broody long shots next season lol.
My sincere wishes for Alchemy of Souls Season 2:
🎀The tying up of loose ends, please either leave Bu Yeon in Season 1, or round up the lore surrounding her powers in a believable way.
🎀Better chemistry between the leads. I said it! The chemistry with the original Mu Deok and Uk is great when they banter, but not really my cup of tea with the romance. I need more compelling chemistry between the main leads.
🎀Jin Mu punished for his evil deeds. No fade to black or vague ending for this baddy, they could burn him at the stake for all I care, but this man needs a whooping.
🎀Vindication for Cho Young and her father. I don’t want them to be known as criminals, please let the truth be fully revealed.
🎀An explanation on where the fake queen went. I doubt one will come, but a girl can hope, especially since she seemed knocked out at best when we last saw her.
🎀Yul needs to be healed and alright, he just does. Also please, please no pairing him with So-I. I don’t want that, jebal Writers-nim.
Finally, how are you? Have you watched any good dramas lately? I saw 20th Century Girl and bawled like a baby 😭🥺 Now I’m watching Love is for Suckers and it gets better after the 3rd/4th episode. Recommendations are warmly welcomed. Have a wonderful day, chingu!
Hello @mewcrazy time for some apologies from my side. I read your post earlier and thought I would respond and then life happened!
AoS part 2 has begun and your thoughts? I wonder if it is just me or other people feel this way too but something is missing. We are going fast and slowly. Something is making me frustrated — the weird editing? The storytelling choices?
The new FL is cute, their explanation for Naksu’s body is flimsy and for some reason they’re not showing UK’s process is just ticking me off. One moment he is civil and can be silly but another he is supposed to be holding the world at bay! I was looking forward to some angst but I am getting a typical romance between a brooding hero who isn’t exactly pushing the lady away and an innocent poor heroine.I can’t understand where are they taking me and I feel like abandoning Ukie and that to me feels like betrayal. 🙁
My dear @mewcrazy
How are you? I have been watching May I help you and enjoying it. It makes me cry, I don’t wait too eagerly for it but it warms up my heart in a melancholic way. I also want to pick the Forbidden Marriage and Summer Strike but last month has been a bit busy. Also, coz am invested in AoS so somehow I can’t invest my heart in too many things. I did want to watch curtain call but I didn’t. I plan to see Silence (the jdrama) and Someday or one day (the Taiwanese version).
And now back to AoS:
– chemistry: in part 1 the two kept a covid distance between them. I liked their bantering. The love buildup was weak but there were parts that I wanted to rewatch.
Part 2: the two actors are sooo good looking. But I can’t buy their love story either. Problem is that we know a lot while the creators want us to be patient as they join the dots. So with the knowledge I have, I don’t understand UK’s hot and cold behaviour. I am coming from a place where I know that he is mourning but I don’t understand… why the current innocent version of his love moves him. There is no showcasing of his inner journey.
– I think the creators don’t have a lot in terms of plot but lots of emotional scenes that they want to put together to attract viewers.
– they are deliberately keeping part 2 light. Ukie can emote but they have given him a confused stance. He is the cold hero of a mills and boon or a romantic story, so let him act that way. He is very soft towards the heroine in a graft way but we don’t know why? He feels an affinity to her? Why couldn’t they show it? I was so frustrated yesterday… I am disappointed. I feel like I am abandoning Uk and his life if I drop the show now but I don’t understand what should I feel? Sometimes it feels like it is a typical romance and sometimes it is just comedy. She is innocent and nice despite mom Jin’s nurturing? She is suddenly too empathetic and she feels cute like a fairy tale princess but too different. Ukie is more kinder and less stand-of fish that I thought he would be. I was prepared for dark but they cheated me. They have literally gone for a route that doesn’t speak to me.
Am I being too unfaithful?
Dear @mewcrazy !
Happy New Year 🙂
We readily should find a more spacey comments section to continue this else I end up liking my comments (yes! I just did that without realizing that it was my comment and not yours :D)
I don’t know what kind of busy December was but it was. It is not letting up, lots of pending and roll over tasks that will need to be finished in the next five days! Am so dead.
I can hear the love in your comments and I see where you are coming from. Now that the 7th episode is over we know that Yul to die was a red herring. So-I was always supposed to save him. Now we should bet on how this will end and who will die! Somehow I still think it will be a happy end with the lead couple being together. They are trying to raise the stakes by saying that Naksu’s soul is in danger but I don’t buy it.
I think their last 10 episodes are a bit clunky in terms of direction and writing.
Good part is I am still tuning in to see where are they leading us but sometimes I really wish they would treat last 10!episodes with as much love as the first 20!
@noone Hi Chingu! I’m doing well, Merry Christmas in advance! I hope things have been the good kind of busy on your end and that all is well. How are you celebrating Christmas? I have seen The Forbidden Romance around and it’s tempting, but I recently watched Love and Redemption (C-drama) and Love between Fairy and Devil (C-drama) which were epic and I need something good to follow them. Alchemy of Souls is doing the job for my weekend viewing, but let me know if there’s anything you absolutely recommend.
Ironically, I don’t think you’re being unfaithful! If anything, perhaps your faithfulness to the original material is what keeps you from jumping wholeheartedly on board with this new direction. I personally take it as a sense of familiarity that draws Ukkie to Bu Yeon. Like that line from Sleeping Beauty, “Once Upon a Dream” where she feels like someone that he has met before. In this case, she’s really Mu Deok who he loved dearly and still mourns, but he doesn’t know that. Hence, the push and pull where he’s drawn to her, but feels torn between his allegiance to Mu Deok and the obvious attraction to Bu Yeon. My hope is that this tension doesn’t become the main focus of our brief season because there are too many baddies to deal with. I foresee a situation where there is an extension of 2-4 episodes given the high ratings, but that makes me nervous since more episodes = more chances of messing things up.
Speaking of giant messes, I’m so sick of Jin Mu, at this point I’m just imagining random objects falling on top of him every time he’s on the screen. Oh, there goes the piano…and the table… and that very pointy sword. Seriously though, I’m done with it! How did he make it out of season one with ZERO repercussions? He’s still there, plotting and living his best Frosty Tips life.
I find it interesting that there are so many ambiguous characters this season. For instance, what is Master Lee’s endgame? Why is he playing everyone like pieces on a chest board and what does he stand to gain from all of this? Also on the grey side is the Crown Prince. At first I thought he was playing the long con and trying to trip up Jin Mu, but part of me thinks that he believes the lies at times. I wish he’d execute the devious advisor, but no, nothing has happened as of yet.
On another note, I find myself struck by how pretty Bu Yeon is? She and Ukkie are quite the pair and I love how she glides through the scene, very visually appealing. I do think the romantic chemistry is turned up a notch with her casting, *ahem* *swoon* My wife is sleeping. Stop calling. *ahem* *swoon* and I am all in.🤠 My apprehension comes from whether they’ll be able to make the reconciliation believable and tie up loose ends with a fitting ending for everyone.
@noone …There are contrived instances, like Bu Yeon being part Naksu and also Mu Deok, but the science alchemy not being explained. It reminds me of math class and getting into trouble for not showing my work as I solved problems. This feels like the writer’s way of making her blend in undetected, while being familiar enough to give the right characters pause. I love that Naksu is alive, but how and why? In my opinion, there was no point in bringing her back just to kill her off again, which could happen. Although, Yul is the character that I foresee not making it out alive. If not Yul, So-I will surely die after taking the worm back to save him and Dang Gu might perish as an unpredictable casualty. That’s all for now! Which characters do you love/loathe? I’d love to know. Have a great day, talk to you soon. 😊😘
@noone Happy New Year!! Wishing you great health, prosperity and love. May you have much to be thankful for in 2023. Good job for working so hard, the effort will pay off!
As for the show, I can’t wait to check back in later this week and see where everything lands; I am so looking forward to your thoughts. I do wonder why they released pt 2 with so little resolution to the mystery and few answers to questions. It’s great for the chemistry and romance, but not much else? I just hope they can nail the landing. I never thought Yul would die from the parasite, he is far too beloved by fans, but Naksu is the one I’m not certain about since she’s literally vying for space with Bu Yeon who wants her body back. Maybe that sneaky ice stone can help? See you soon. 😊
In the vast wasteland that was dramaland of January 2022 , I indulged in the decadence of Vincenzo, & was it a treat! This drama is *chef\’s kiss*, a great experience, 100% recommend. 🕊
Me too! I’m one year late but what a fantastic drama – so over the top but the absurdity is great fun. What’s even better is backreading the beanies’ comments in recap. I’m up to Ep 15 and will dig into Ep 16 shortly.
@epyc2010 It’s so much fun to watch! I’d like to hear your thoughts when you’re finished.
I wasn’t sure about the first episode, but giving it a chance was well worth it. The characters are delightful, although the story becomes repetitive in the middle, I liked that things were mostly unexpected. The villains are evil and a little bit scary, while the main lead is the anti-hero I never knew I needed. I was worried it wouldn’t live up to the hype, but I am so, so happy with the result. Also, the fashion is to die for, Cha Young slays ALL DAY.
I’m about to finish the final episodes. What I can say is it’s worth a special “Growing on You” award because most people won’t like it right away but rather from “WTH” to “OMG I love it” – a very rare thing! The same can be said about the Geumga Plaza residents, including my fav Bye Bye Balloon team. Off to watching now.
@epyc2010 Don’t mess with the Naturia!!! Lol you’re right about it being a slow burn, especially with the residents since they come off as crazy at first brush, but quickly become endearing. They have unexpected backstories to say the least lol
It occurs to me that the word for The Red Sleeve is elegance. Profound elegance shines in everything, from the directing, to the acting & wonderful story telling. What a beautiful story!
Mood: Watching Nevertheless and feeling simultaneously exhilarated and chagrined as I see her fall for this no-good playboy extraordinaire, drawn like a moth to a flame.
Hi Sailorgirl! I’ve read your comments on the startup thread and I’m so happy to find a hardcore Ji Pyeong stan like me XD. I also really enjoy reading your comments too. I’ve seriously fallen into a Kim Seon Ho hole. I do hope he gets a satisfying conclusion cause he’s been through so much T__T.
I also echo your sentiments! This is his best role in terms of showcasing a large range of emotions. Also his character is multifaceted and a tortured soul. On paper, the role reads as cold/pricky but KSH gives it charm, humor, and wit that endear one to HJP. I hope he gets awards recognition from this role, and parlays that to more leading roles in film and tv!!
@soulsearch12 He really does! I have NEVER had SLS before, never, so much so that I kept refreshing the asianwiki page to see if they made an error in listing the actors. I remember only one other show where the hero wasn’t immediately made clear and didn’t have top billing, and that was “Reply 1994.” Even then, I managed to root for the right male lead! My mind is boggled by “Start-Up” because either they missed grasping the magic of Kim Sun Ho’s acting while filming, or there’s a twist in store. Fingers crossed! He’s taken this role and given it wings, fleshing out a character that many root for. Regardless, I wish him major success and happiness, a job very well done!
Honestly, I think many of us were surprised to see how much fondness/adoration HJP would receive. It’s one of those a-ha moments that happened naturally. I also think other than the actor’s portrayal, its also how important the character is to the plot. Even when he’s not there, you def. feel his looming presence every so present. KSH did save there’s a twist in store, but that was also up to Ep 7 filming? He didn’t receive EP 16 script yes, not sure…Ditto on your last point! Hope he can do a Jung Have-in, and parlay his role into major success!!
I feel like his screentime is getting less and less which makes me so sad T__T. I think he only showed for like 5 minutes in episode 12. But whenever he is on screen, I get mesmerized haha. I’ve never been this emotionally invested in a character before, other than Junghwan from Reply 1988. Ughh I should be studying for my CPA exams but here I am fangirling haha!
@moonlee8 Aww yeah. On the plus side, HJP is such a memorable character, and he’s not a throwaway character!! The characters talk about him even when he’s not around, which means that he’s an important character! Aww, Ikr?! I just hope they don’t character assassinate his role in the end…
@moonlee8 Best of luck on the CPA exams! Study hard and do your best!! I feel the same way lol I’m so invested in his character and the force is STRONG in those dimples! He emotes so easily. I’m preoccupied thinking about how the show will end for him and studying is a force of will. Even so, must shoulder on, make Mr. Han proud!
Hi Alison @moonlee8 ! Thank you for commenting, I’m pleased to meet you! I think we both are praying for a happy ending for Ji Pyeong and his wonderful dimples. This drama was my first time hearing of Kim Sun Ho, so you can imagine that since then I’ve delved deeper into the interwebs learning about him. I think he’s great and truly has talent that will take him far in this business.
Honestly, I’m so down with him not getting top billing in this drama if he somehow manages to pull off being the main hero, so long as he’s not made into a pitiful second lead. In many ways I don’t think they deserve him, especially not Dal Mi if she ends up going back to Do San. In which case lol I want him to marry Bo Young’s cameo character and have wonderful, adorable chubby dimple-cheeked cherubs. A girl can dream…╰(*°▽°*)╯
Same here! I heard of him a bit prior, but it was always led to “This guy looks new, yet familiar?!” This is the first time I noticed him for real, and he’s great! It’s crazy how if Chief Kim casting director never casted him, he would’ve just continued working in theatre forever :O Crazy how luck/timing worked out in the end.
LBY is stunning! They looked so good together, I want to see them in a noona romance lol. I’ll take her over In-jae pairing, which I don’t get b/c they don’t have any interaction together lol. I hope his next drama (Was he ever confirmed?) is good for his career.
@soulsearch12 LBY is gorgeous! Him with her (if anyone other than Dal Mi) makes the most sense. I’ve noticed that theatre actors are usually stronger when they switch to film, probably because they get used to feeling the energy of the audience and have better honed their craft.
It would have been a waste had he not been discovered, many thanks to that casting director! I love him in 2D1N because he’s such a goof! I love seeing him let loose. I’ll check out those videos, thanks hun 🙂
LBY blew Suzy out of the water in all aspects during their scene together, no offense. It blows my mind that he was content w/ doing theatre, and had no thoughts about debuting on tv until a casting person from Chief Kim called him to audition. He got the gig, and said that he wasn’t looking to do another drama. But then, his mom told him she was worried on how he was going to survive $$ wise, and he got a trip to Thailand (?) due to the drama’s success. So based on his mom/free trip lol, he decided to audition for dramas more and viola! If he hadn’t auditioned, he would’ve been some talented actor that we wouldn’t have discovered.
I’m curious about his career (if he’s going to continue doing variety, plays, dramas, or debuting in a film). Again, him being cast in 2D1N is also mind boggling to me since he was just a fresh face in the tv world. Like how did they even scout him in the show??! It’s funny b/c he even said prior to the show, he got offers to do variety but said he wasn’t going to do a variety show b/c he felt greedy or something about it. I feel like the show puts KSH in torturous/arduous tasks or make him open up (therapy session) :O
P.S: Sorry for the mini rant lol. He’s my current fav rn, so I’m just putting what I learnt here 😀
@soulsearch12 No need to apologize, and you are most definitely NOT ranting. Kim Sun Ho deets are ALWAYS welcome! I ended up replying to this, but it never posted. I appreciate the passionate response, but then Kim Sun Ho seems to elicit that effect. Thank you mama Kim for asking the right questions lol, you got your son to diversify and he is a blessing. I am so pumped to see what he’ll do next, I need a definite project ASAP! He’s going on my auto-watch list until further notice 😋
I can’t imagine how he’d think that wanting to branch out is greedy when the very opposite is true, and it would be selfish not to share his talent with the world. He’s charmed millions of viewers with “Start-Up” and regardless of the nonsense that may/may not go down in these final episodes, I’m glad that I watched the show and was exposed to him.
Hey! Thanks! Sometimes, I don’t want to go overboard ha! It’s hard not to when its discussing a fav actor. I can’t believe how I completely missed his work despite wanting to pick up Strongest Delivery Man for my other boo (Go Kyung-pyo) this Summer 😀 But I kept hearing 2nd ML stole the show there, little did I know…
Yes, Mama Kim and that free trip to Thailand for Chief Kim worked out for him. Still boggles my mind tbh, he wasn’t even going to pursue more tv work after Chief Kim too :O Life is weird sometimes, certain things just hit one unexpectedly. Well, he was offered the ML of Link (But that premise minus him as a sexy/personable chef sounded meh). Like one day he experiences he has shared emotions with his twin sister (who he didn’t meet forever), and then another female pops up. Yeah, unless it pulls a Oh My Ghost and gives us lots of kiss/skin-ship scenes lol.
The biggest test is after the show ends, is he going to mix it up with plays/variety/tv or go into film/tv/plays and drop variety? Either way, the future is bright for him. I just hope that the next 1-2 dramas have him as a Main Lead where he can establish himself as a name talent, and we can see him win awards/recognition from it. Ditto on your last point!
I think you are, haha.
I FF it, it was quite embarrassing, imo.
So stupid and frankly… why?
Do San doesn’t feel like the guy who’s ever punched a face in his life…
It reminded me so much of Baek In-Ho and Jung brawling in the kiddie park.. sometimes men just need to resort to playground tactics to feel like men. That’s my meagre understanding of it
NDS punches looked quite painful! HJP kept missing though LOL, expect for one punch. A ridiculous scene that went on too long. However, it was rather hot scene, no? Lmao.
@soulsearch12@purplesheesh I pictured you both fanning yourselves swooning over the fight and burst out laughing 🤣 Definitely not what I expected, but a humored and appreciated response.
@mewcrazy At first it was ridiculous the more it went on. However, we all have eyes and it was hot LOL. For a sec, there I was like am I watching a MMA cage fight match in a K-drama?!
#RELEASETHEBTS!!
Serious note: Both actors did well with their fight scene, very believable surprisedly lmao. Now I want to them in an action drama.
@Mad_Missile @Eazal I was aghast to see that Do San’s violent tendencies were finally let loose. Sad that he gets to act like the offended party, but also goes out of his way to start an altercation. With his mentor no less, simply because he told them the truth AGAIN.
@mmmmm I realized a spelling glitch and deleted the original post, sorry. But yes, my feelings EXACTLY. I think this is a question of the writers wanting them to be together, so they probably will be 🙄
You know, I know, everyone knows that it would be like this anyway. We just had this tiny little hope that our Good Boy might still have a chance.
Let me just say that I’m not convinced by the love between our writers-crossed OTP at all. I WANTED to like Do-san more than this, but the writing doesn’t make it any easy.
I love nerd DoSan.
I don’t like DoSan as a ML.
And DalMi is terribly poorly written.
We all know that these two will end together because writer has decided so, but I’m don’t see why. I’m really sorry, but I don’t see any connection (not that I see it between DM and JP either, tbh).
@Eazal , EXACTLY. Do San is a nerdy softie destined for great things, but I don’t think he fits with Dal Mi. Probably because there’s so little character development on her behalf that it’s baffling. Female characters on Start Up feel like shells with no substance.
@mmmmm I hate the current villainizing of Han Ji Pyeong. Like seriously, is this the same show that I fell in love with? Where is the wonderful writing or the surprising twists that had me hooked? It feels like another writer took over halfway.
Moreover, I’ve noticed that Ji Pyeong has gotten less and less screen time. It seems like after a certain point the creatives decided to pair Do San and Dal Mi, but still leave it ambiguous, hoping that viewers will still tune in for Ji Pyeong. Like really? Most people do not want them together.
And you’re right, I knew it was a long-shot, but I was hoping that this was a creative show that would surprise me. I’m just mad that they’re now trying to make him the bad guy, but with Yong San accusing him of killing his brother, who in their right mind wouldn’t be traumatized? I don’t blame him for going M.I.A, he didn’t know that they would sell the company or need him.
Also, let’s face it, the brother had a LOT of other issues. Dropping out of grad school is no joke and I can’t believe the pressure Yong San’s brother was under, coupled with keeping everything secret from his parents. Yet, the sad fact is that not everyone can succeed in business. Does this mean that suicide is the answer? No. It was cruel of Yong San to put it on Ji Pyeong, as though he told him to kill himself, and that kind of guilt on one person is unfair. Could Ji Pyeong have been nicer? Sure, but he asked valid questions, as confirmed by the other mentor. The brother wasn’t prepared to deal with the changing market and sadly took the wrong decision in dealing with his problems. Would it have been better if Ji Pyeong were sugary sweet but tricked them like Alex and the other investors who tried stealing the software did? It wouldn’t do them favors in the long-run and hinders growth.
Finally, the show has become so predictable, I don’t know where people get off saying that Dal Mi choosing Do San breaks the mold, it doesn’t. He’s still the most conventionally handsome, tallest character who, let’s face it, will eventually have money 🤑. She’s still ending up with an “eligible” candidate who thinks she can do no wrong, and there’s no thrill at all to their relationship. While I know how HARD they’re trying to sell the Do San and Dal Mi romance, I just can’t buy into it. They seem so juvenile? A dopey-eyed boy and bratty female lead who probably doesn’t deserve Ji Pyeong anyway.
@Mad_Missile I hope they at least try to end things well, but the next episode screams of noble idiocy. I’m not even the least bit interested in their story, all that build-up of the letters for nothing. Just leave Ji Pyeong happy!!
sailorgirl
March 31, 2024 at 7:28 PM
Is it too much to ask that my Peacock and Raccoon get a happy ending? Jebal, Queen of Tears. If anyone deserves a happily ever after, it’s them. 🦝💖🦚💖
🌸 Cera (@Seeker) 🌸
March 31, 2024 at 10:11 PM
Er … sorry I didn’t get the peacock reference. A hint please.
emsel
April 1, 2024 at 2:04 AM
Hae In is nicknamed a peacock by her subordinates whenever she dresses to the nines. It means she is on a “war” mode. Watch the red dress scene in Ep 7.
🌸 Cera (@Seeker) 🌸
April 1, 2024 at 2:30 AM
Ah! yes, thanks I had forgotten about it. I kept on wondering when did Hyun-woo refer to her like that.
That is why I love Beanies … always a ready answer to any / all obscure references. 👏😊
sailorgirl
January 7, 2023 at 5:57 AM
At this point, Master Lee could honestly say that the soul of the Sun-Baby from teletubbies also resides in the ice stone and we would be like, yup makes sense! It must be crowded in that stone lol 😂
korfan
January 8, 2023 at 6:32 AM
*laughing*
sailorgirl
December 19, 2022 at 7:19 PM
*ahem* *swoon* My wife can’t sleep. Stop calling. *ahem* *swoon*
sailorgirl
August 8, 2022 at 3:28 PM
Jang Uk: “Jang Gang?”
Jang Gang: “Gang, Gang.” 😎
Ruckus Likes Drama
August 21, 2022 at 3:23 PM
Hello my dear!
My time to apologize now! I was away for about two weeks and so couldn’t respond to your message before!
Oh AoS!
They made us wait and wait some more. I am so looking forward to the reviews and asking questions.
Anyway, now we all know the Naksu lead is back and shooting began in July and they are saying that we might get the rest of the ten episodes by December (yet one never knows! Ice stone effects can cause more delays 😀 )
I am wondering what end will they put to JSM character or will we see glimpses of her similar to Medicine Master’s grand-daughter? Btw I keep asking this of anyone who can tell me, why is she there in this series? Did we really need her?
Hope you aren’t snowed under and are getting some time to enjoy some sunshine and rain (depending upon where on the earth you might be).
sailorgirl
August 29, 2022 at 4:06 PM
@noone There is no need to apologize! I’ve actually been feeling under the weather and thus, MIA. Thank you so much for checking in, it really does mean the world. 💖Sorry for taking long to respond.
After that finale, I am still recovering from the ice-stone effects. Not sure how Naksu and Uk do it! 😜
Honestly I don’t know the point of Master Yeom’s grand-daughter either, maybe to showcase Uk’s faithfulness to Mu Deok? Otherwise, she doesn’t add much to the story. Have you watched the finale? If so, what are your thoughts?
There is lots of sunshine where I am. I hope you’re keeping happy and healthy wherever you are! 😊
Ruckus Likes Drama
August 31, 2022 at 1:22 PM
Tell me about it! I can’t watch that scene in the forest as it breaks my heart. So I don’t even know if I can say that I have seen this full season or not. I guess, I am weak-hearted. Her killing him… no!!
She had said in episode 2 that even if we are near, I will spare you. Isn’t that supposed to hold true with or without evil bells ringing! I just hope there is no memory loss. I wish they had the capacity to show some inner journey of the two as both have suffered trauma.
I have been wondering about Naksu/MD’s mental health after being killed thrice and Uk’s after being killed once and that too by someone he obviously loved to death!
In my mind divine justice will only be met if and only if Naksu does some chasing in season 2. Uk needs to be loved. Naksu needs to do some self-reflection and also be scared of how anyone can use her!
With the kind of changes in people and relationships that they have hinted for season 2, even I think 10 episodes won’t be enough. I just hope they focus!
To answer to your last to paragraphs: I didn’t watch episode 19 as I wanted answers to episode 18, which they didn’t show. I am here for the OTP but the drama doesn’t understand this. after entering Songrim the two don’t get enough space until episode 18! Even then all good scenes are restricted to the last 10-15 minutes.
I didn’t plan to see 20 either but then I saw spoilers and I thought let us just watch it but I can’t get through Naksu/MD’s fight sequence without avoiding the heartbreaking sequence.
I was wondering why is Jin dad still alive and why is no one questioning him. In this drama they use magic adhoc and without explanation, they stretch reveals and take the fun out of them (they could have shown the bells earlier in the day such that we would have been scared but no… suddenly pull out that trick); and they let the bad guys go (and bad guys are just not well developed!)
Poor CY, her dad saved the same fate except that her dad was stabbed while she tried suicide at the lake!
Scenes with Master Yeom’s grand-daughter just add unnecessary detail: episode 9 when she appears at the infirmary, why did we need that fanfare for her welcome? I think she will be Yul’s love interest or she will turn evil… we will see.
Finale was a bomb. But in my brain it felt that it was a bomb because the characters didn’t prepare for it or the creators didn’t want the characters to prepare… the connects at times are weak — characters don’t analyse or think about the consequences of their action. Uk for the first time tried to explore a library in episode 19.
More tomorrow, too sleepy now 😀
sailorgirl
September 7, 2022 at 10:31 AM
@noone You’re not weak hearted! The way Uk was dispatched so heartlessly in the forest broke my heart, too. It was almost worse that Mu Deok was so unaware of what was happening, I am fed up of her being manipulated and puppeteered by Jin Mu. I wasn’t looking forward to seeing him again, but that’s pretty much a given, now with his miraculous twisting of the narrative.
My big gripe was that Bu Yeon was absolutely powerless, MIA and, benched. I was expecting a Deus Ex Machina with her inexplicably saving the day and Mu Deok dying as consequence of her sacrifice, but to see Bu Yeon muted during such dire scenes left me at a loss for words.
I think we’re in the era of Dark Uk and this whole upcoming season will be a complete 180 in terms of what we’ve come to expect from the characters as a whole. No one looks happy and I’m relieved that the darkness and onslaught of episode 20 won’t be magically erased.
With that, I hope the show will do a better job at answering questions and filling holes. There were some things that just didn’t fit, like the Jin father coming back only to die…what was the point? He could have just stayed dead 🙄 The Bells of Doom also came out of nowhere, probably just to remind us that Jin Mu can do whatever he wants, whenever he feels like it.
Our expectations were raised only to have them plummet with no satisfying resolution. I needed more.
Ruckus Likes Drama
September 25, 2022 at 5:15 AM
Hola @mewcrazy
Sorry, was just too busy rewatching clips and trying to think how I would have improved AoS.
My takes:
Episode 20 is good on its own in so many ways. But I still think that the story meandered and lots of subplots that were added didn’t deliver their full blow!
So I- her attaching the ice stone and then the entire transfusion bit and then disappearing until in 20 we have some odd showings.
Jin Dad— don’t even get me started. I mean what kind of justice system does Daeho have that the shaman and her brother are considered convicts but because he is married to Jin family, he gets special treatment at the infirmary and his daughter doesn’t really know the full extent of his crimes?
She doesn’t know that her dad caused her sister’s murder!
The entire bubble gum like stretch of BY mystery is too much. A part of me thinks, BY is similar to the fly in Hotel Del Luna. Except that they hyped BY up and now I am not sure if they can take the hype. This is almost like they JG hype.
Like what was the JG bit all about?
The more I rewatch clips and think about it, the more annoyed I become. The series had a great premise. They could have kept it tighter, removed some of the lose subplots, concentrated on the main characters+their strengths. I really think HS don’t do thrill or suspense that well. They are good at emotional buildups and dialogues/bickering.
Anyway, at this point I have decided I will not care about the ice stone or anyone. I am watching S2 for a dark Uk and How UK would recognize Naksu. The reuinion, I don’t know. I am curious about their take but am also scared… they can just introduce anything and in the name of fantasy ask me accept 🙁
It is like we all knew there was more to Mage Cho’s death and they only revealed in ep20. But isn’t the timeline for it weird? JM did not have access to the ice stone or soul ejectors for 10 years while CHo was used before JG went off on exile!
sailorgirl
October 29, 2022 at 11:51 PM
@noone A huge apology for going radio silent, this has been a full month, but we thank God! Sorry for the wait. I hope you and your family are keeping safe and doing well. 💖
With regards to Cho Yeon, I don’t know if she was unaware of her father’s crimes, or if she just didn’t care. The Jin family are elitists and probably think that because the dad is tied to their name, he gets an automatic get-out-of-jail free card. Had he lived, I am convinced his punishment would not have been severe.
I almost wish they hadn’t hyped up Bu Yeon as much as they did since she definitely didn’t deliver. I agree with your assessment of the Hong Sisters! They shine in rom-coms with banter, i.e. Master’s Sun, My Girlfriend is a Gumiho and even Greatest Love. I didn’t watch Hwayugi, and can’t really comment, but they lost the plot with Alchemy of Souls. I look forward to season 2 since hopefully they’ll get it together.
I wonder what Jang Uk will do with all of his rage since Jin Mu got off scot-free. I hope it isn’t all bluster and broody long shots next season lol.
My sincere wishes for Alchemy of Souls Season 2:
🎀The tying up of loose ends, please either leave Bu Yeon in Season 1, or round up the lore surrounding her powers in a believable way.
🎀Better chemistry between the leads.
I said it!The chemistry with the original Mu Deok and Uk is great when they banter, but not really my cup of tea with the romance. I need more compelling chemistry between the main leads.🎀Jin Mu punished for his evil deeds. No fade to black or vague ending for this baddy, they could burn him at the stake for all I care, but this man needs a whooping.
🎀Vindication for Cho Young and her father. I don’t want them to be known as criminals, please let the truth be fully revealed.
🎀An explanation on where the fake queen went. I doubt one will come, but a girl can hope, especially since she seemed knocked out at best when we last saw her.
🎀Yul needs to be healed and alright, he just does. Also please, please no pairing him with So-I. I don’t want that, jebal Writers-nim.
Finally, how are you? Have you watched any good dramas lately? I saw 20th Century Girl and bawled like a baby 😭🥺 Now I’m watching Love is for Suckers and it gets better after the 3rd/4th episode. Recommendations are warmly welcomed. Have a wonderful day, chingu!
Ruckus Likes Drama
December 18, 2022 at 10:50 AM
Hello @mewcrazy time for some apologies from my side. I read your post earlier and thought I would respond and then life happened!
AoS part 2 has begun and your thoughts? I wonder if it is just me or other people feel this way too but something is missing. We are going fast and slowly. Something is making me frustrated — the weird editing? The storytelling choices?
The new FL is cute, their explanation for Naksu’s body is flimsy and for some reason they’re not showing UK’s process is just ticking me off. One moment he is civil and can be silly but another he is supposed to be holding the world at bay! I was looking forward to some angst but I am getting a typical romance between a brooding hero who isn’t exactly pushing the lady away and an innocent poor heroine.I can’t understand where are they taking me and I feel like abandoning Ukie and that to me feels like betrayal. 🙁
Ruckus Likes Drama
December 18, 2022 at 8:36 PM
My dear @mewcrazy
How are you? I have been watching May I help you and enjoying it. It makes me cry, I don’t wait too eagerly for it but it warms up my heart in a melancholic way. I also want to pick the Forbidden Marriage and Summer Strike but last month has been a bit busy. Also, coz am invested in AoS so somehow I can’t invest my heart in too many things. I did want to watch curtain call but I didn’t. I plan to see Silence (the jdrama) and Someday or one day (the Taiwanese version).
And now back to AoS:
– chemistry: in part 1 the two kept a covid distance between them. I liked their bantering. The love buildup was weak but there were parts that I wanted to rewatch.
Part 2: the two actors are sooo good looking. But I can’t buy their love story either. Problem is that we know a lot while the creators want us to be patient as they join the dots. So with the knowledge I have, I don’t understand UK’s hot and cold behaviour. I am coming from a place where I know that he is mourning but I don’t understand… why the current innocent version of his love moves him. There is no showcasing of his inner journey.
– I think the creators don’t have a lot in terms of plot but lots of emotional scenes that they want to put together to attract viewers.
– they are deliberately keeping part 2 light. Ukie can emote but they have given him a confused stance. He is the cold hero of a mills and boon or a romantic story, so let him act that way. He is very soft towards the heroine in a graft way but we don’t know why? He feels an affinity to her? Why couldn’t they show it? I was so frustrated yesterday… I am disappointed. I feel like I am abandoning Uk and his life if I drop the show now but I don’t understand what should I feel? Sometimes it feels like it is a typical romance and sometimes it is just comedy. She is innocent and nice despite mom Jin’s nurturing? She is suddenly too empathetic and she feels cute like a fairy tale princess but too different. Ukie is more kinder and less stand-of fish that I thought he would be. I was prepared for dark but they cheated me. They have literally gone for a route that doesn’t speak to me.
Am I being too unfaithful?
Ruckus Likes Drama
December 31, 2022 at 9:03 PM
Dear @mewcrazy !
Happy New Year 🙂
We readily should find a more spacey comments section to continue this else I end up liking my comments (yes! I just did that without realizing that it was my comment and not yours :D)
I don’t know what kind of busy December was but it was. It is not letting up, lots of pending and roll over tasks that will need to be finished in the next five days! Am so dead.
I can hear the love in your comments and I see where you are coming from. Now that the 7th episode is over we know that Yul to die was a red herring. So-I was always supposed to save him. Now we should bet on how this will end and who will die! Somehow I still think it will be a happy end with the lead couple being together. They are trying to raise the stakes by saying that Naksu’s soul is in danger but I don’t buy it.
I think their last 10 episodes are a bit clunky in terms of direction and writing.
Good part is I am still tuning in to see where are they leading us but sometimes I really wish they would treat last 10!episodes with as much love as the first 20!
sailorgirl
December 19, 2022 at 7:47 PM
@noone Hi Chingu! I’m doing well, Merry Christmas in advance! I hope things have been the good kind of busy on your end and that all is well. How are you celebrating Christmas? I have seen The Forbidden Romance around and it’s tempting, but I recently watched Love and Redemption (C-drama) and Love between Fairy and Devil (C-drama) which were epic and I need something good to follow them. Alchemy of Souls is doing the job for my weekend viewing, but let me know if there’s anything you absolutely recommend.
Ironically, I don’t think you’re being unfaithful! If anything, perhaps your faithfulness to the original material is what keeps you from jumping wholeheartedly on board with this new direction. I personally take it as a sense of familiarity that draws Ukkie to Bu Yeon. Like that line from Sleeping Beauty, “Once Upon a Dream” where she feels like someone that he has met before. In this case, she’s really Mu Deok who he loved dearly and still mourns, but he doesn’t know that. Hence, the push and pull where he’s drawn to her, but feels torn between his allegiance to Mu Deok and the obvious attraction to Bu Yeon. My hope is that this tension doesn’t become the main focus of our brief season because there are too many baddies to deal with. I foresee a situation where there is an extension of 2-4 episodes given the high ratings, but that makes me nervous since more episodes = more chances of messing things up.
Speaking of giant messes, I’m so sick of Jin Mu, at this point I’m just imagining random objects falling on top of him every time he’s on the screen. Oh, there goes the piano…and the table… and that very pointy sword. Seriously though, I’m done with it! How did he make it out of season one with ZERO repercussions? He’s still there, plotting and living his best Frosty Tips life.
I find it interesting that there are so many ambiguous characters this season. For instance, what is Master Lee’s endgame? Why is he playing everyone like pieces on a chest board and what does he stand to gain from all of this? Also on the grey side is the Crown Prince. At first I thought he was playing the long con and trying to trip up Jin Mu, but part of me thinks that he believes the lies at times. I wish he’d execute the devious advisor, but no, nothing has happened as of yet.
On another note, I find myself struck by how pretty Bu Yeon is? She and Ukkie are quite the pair and I love how she glides through the scene, very visually appealing. I do think the romantic chemistry is turned up a notch with her casting, *ahem* *swoon* My wife is sleeping. Stop calling. *ahem* *swoon* and I am all in.🤠 My apprehension comes from whether they’ll be able to make the reconciliation believable and tie up loose ends with a fitting ending for everyone.
sailorgirl
December 19, 2022 at 7:49 PM
@noone …There are contrived instances, like Bu Yeon being part Naksu and also Mu Deok, but the science
alchemynot being explained. It reminds me of math class and getting into trouble for not showing my work as I solved problems. This feels like the writer’s way of making her blend in undetected, while being familiar enough to give the right characters pause. I love that Naksu is alive, but how and why? In my opinion, there was no point in bringing her back just to kill her off again, which could happen. Although, Yul is the character that I foresee not making it out alive. If not Yul, So-I will surely die after taking the worm back to save him and Dang Gu might perish as an unpredictable casualty. That’s all for now! Which characters do you love/loathe? I’d love to know. Have a great day, talk to you soon. 😊😘sailorgirl
January 2, 2023 at 7:28 PM
@noone Happy New Year!! Wishing you great health, prosperity and love. May you have much to be thankful for in 2023. Good job for working so hard, the effort will pay off!
As for the show, I can’t wait to check back in later this week and see where everything lands; I am so looking forward to your thoughts. I do wonder why they released pt 2 with so little resolution to the mystery and few answers to questions. It’s great for the chemistry and romance, but not much else? I just hope they can nail the landing. I never thought Yul would die from the parasite, he is far too beloved by fans, but Naksu is the one I’m not certain about since she’s literally vying for space with Bu Yeon who wants her body back. Maybe that sneaky ice stone can help? See you soon. 😊
sailorgirl
March 4, 2022 at 1:01 PM
Is it tomorrow, yet?
Ally
March 4, 2022 at 10:12 PM
Seriously, is it?
sailorgirl
February 22, 2022 at 8:52 AM
When “Because you give me hope and I want more for you,” is sexier than “I like you.” 😍 Baek Yi Jin making swooners of us all.
sailorgirl
February 21, 2022 at 12:33 AM
In the vast wasteland that was dramaland of January 2022 , I indulged in the decadence of Vincenzo, & was it a treat! This drama is *chef\’s kiss*, a great experience, 100% recommend. 🕊
PYC
February 21, 2022 at 3:31 AM
Me too! I’m one year late but what a fantastic drama – so over the top but the absurdity is great fun. What’s even better is backreading the beanies’ comments in recap. I’m up to Ep 15 and will dig into Ep 16 shortly.
sailorgirl
February 21, 2022 at 10:10 AM
@epyc2010 It’s so much fun to watch! I’d like to hear your thoughts when you’re finished.
I wasn’t sure about the first episode, but giving it a chance was well worth it. The characters are delightful, although the story becomes repetitive in the middle, I liked that things were mostly unexpected. The villains are evil and a little bit scary, while the main lead is the anti-hero I never knew I needed. I was worried it wouldn’t live up to the hype, but I am so, so happy with the result. Also, the fashion is to die for, Cha Young slays ALL DAY.
PYC
February 22, 2022 at 4:54 AM
I’m about to finish the final episodes. What I can say is it’s worth a special “Growing on You” award because most people won’t like it right away but rather from “WTH” to “OMG I love it” – a very rare thing! The same can be said about the Geumga Plaza residents, including my fav Bye Bye Balloon team. Off to watching now.
sailorgirl
February 22, 2022 at 7:46 AM
@epyc2010 Don’t mess with the Naturia!!! Lol you’re right about it being a slow burn, especially with the residents since they come off as crazy at first brush, but quickly become endearing. They have unexpected backstories to say the least lol
sailorgirl
February 22, 2022 at 7:48 AM
@PYC **Nutria
sailorgirl
February 13, 2022 at 1:50 PM
Heading into the week like:
sailorgirl
February 12, 2022 at 11:38 PM
sailorgirl
December 19, 2021 at 1:51 PM
It occurs to me that the word for The Red Sleeve is elegance. Profound elegance shines in everything, from the directing, to the acting & wonderful story telling. What a beautiful story!
sailorgirl
June 28, 2021 at 11:33 AM
Mood: Watching Nevertheless and feeling simultaneously exhilarated and chagrined as I see her fall for this no-good playboy extraordinaire, drawn like a moth to a flame.
sailorgirl
January 29, 2021 at 1:47 PM
🎀Wonderful days, full hearts and radiant smiles to you all!🎀
mmmmm
January 29, 2021 at 8:55 PM
💐
sailorgirl
January 30, 2021 at 9:47 PM
@mmmmm ＜（＾－＾）＞
mmmmm
January 30, 2021 at 9:50 PM
Btw, I have always loved your profile pic. I think the colours are really sweet -the mixture of pastel blue and pink. ☺️
sailorgirl
January 31, 2021 at 2:38 AM
Aw, thank you! I feel the same way, it definitely makes me nostalgic for the show 🙂
sailorgirl
November 24, 2020 at 10:41 AM
Brb, thinking about Ji Pyeong 😍😍
Alison
November 24, 2020 at 7:48 PM
Hi Sailorgirl! I’ve read your comments on the startup thread and I’m so happy to find a hardcore Ji Pyeong stan like me XD. I also really enjoy reading your comments too. I’ve seriously fallen into a Kim Seon Ho hole. I do hope he gets a satisfying conclusion cause he’s been through so much T__T.
soulsearch12
November 25, 2020 at 12:39 AM
I also echo your sentiments! This is his best role in terms of showcasing a large range of emotions. Also his character is multifaceted and a tortured soul. On paper, the role reads as cold/pricky but KSH gives it charm, humor, and wit that endear one to HJP. I hope he gets awards recognition from this role, and parlays that to more leading roles in film and tv!!
sailorgirl
November 25, 2020 at 2:52 AM
@soulsearch12 He really does! I have NEVER had SLS before, never, so much so that I kept refreshing the asianwiki page to see if they made an error in listing the actors. I remember only one other show where the hero wasn’t immediately made clear and didn’t have top billing, and that was “Reply 1994.” Even then, I managed to root for the right male lead! My mind is boggled by “Start-Up” because either they missed grasping the magic of Kim Sun Ho’s acting while filming, or there’s a twist in store. Fingers crossed! He’s taken this role and given it wings, fleshing out a character that many root for. Regardless, I wish him major success and happiness, a job very well done!
soulsearch12
November 25, 2020 at 2:26 PM
Honestly, I think many of us were surprised to see how much fondness/adoration HJP would receive. It’s one of those a-ha moments that happened naturally. I also think other than the actor’s portrayal, its also how important the character is to the plot. Even when he’s not there, you def. feel his looming presence every so present. KSH did save there’s a twist in store, but that was also up to Ep 7 filming? He didn’t receive EP 16 script yes, not sure…Ditto on your last point! Hope he can do a Jung Have-in, and parlay his role into major success!!
Alison
November 25, 2020 at 2:31 PM
I feel like his screentime is getting less and less which makes me so sad T__T. I think he only showed for like 5 minutes in episode 12. But whenever he is on screen, I get mesmerized haha. I’ve never been this emotionally invested in a character before, other than Junghwan from Reply 1988. Ughh I should be studying for my CPA exams but here I am fangirling haha!
soulsearch12
November 25, 2020 at 3:20 PM
@moonlee8 Aww yeah. On the plus side, HJP is such a memorable character, and he’s not a throwaway character!! The characters talk about him even when he’s not around, which means that he’s an important character! Aww, Ikr?! I just hope they don’t character assassinate his role in the end…
P.S: Good luck on your CPA exams!
sailorgirl
November 25, 2020 at 5:21 PM
@moonlee8 Best of luck on the CPA exams! Study hard and do your best!! I feel the same way lol I’m so invested in his character and the force is STRONG in those dimples! He emotes so easily. I’m preoccupied thinking about how the show will end for him and studying is a force of will. Even so, must shoulder on, make Mr. Han proud!
sailorgirl
November 26, 2020 at 10:15 AM
@moonlee8 *soldier
sailorgirl
November 25, 2020 at 2:40 AM
Hi Alison @moonlee8 ! Thank you for commenting, I’m pleased to meet you! I think we both are praying for a happy ending for Ji Pyeong and his wonderful dimples. This drama was my first time hearing of Kim Sun Ho, so you can imagine that since then I’ve delved deeper into the interwebs learning about him. I think he’s great and truly has talent that will take him far in this business.
Honestly, I’m so down with him not getting top billing in this drama if he somehow manages to pull off being the main hero, so long as he’s not made into a pitiful second lead. In many ways I don’t think they deserve him, especially not Dal Mi if she ends up going back to Do San. In which case lol I want him to marry Bo Young’s cameo character and have wonderful, adorable chubby dimple-cheeked cherubs. A girl can dream…╰(*°▽°*)╯
soulsearch12
November 25, 2020 at 3:48 PM
Same here! I heard of him a bit prior, but it was always led to “This guy looks new, yet familiar?!” This is the first time I noticed him for real, and he’s great! It’s crazy how if Chief Kim casting director never casted him, he would’ve just continued working in theatre forever :O Crazy how luck/timing worked out in the end.
Did you check out other vids of him prior to being on tv? Adorable!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gE2LSaz-VfU&list=LL&index=9
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bQO4ICcJzWo&list=LL&index=12
LBY is stunning! They looked so good together, I want to see them in a noona romance lol. I’ll take her over In-jae pairing, which I don’t get b/c they don’t have any interaction together lol. I hope his next drama (Was he ever confirmed?) is good for his career.
sailorgirl
November 25, 2020 at 5:25 PM
@soulsearch12 LBY is gorgeous! Him with her (if anyone other than Dal Mi) makes the most sense. I’ve noticed that theatre actors are usually stronger when they switch to film, probably because they get used to feeling the energy of the audience and have better honed their craft.
It would have been a waste had he not been discovered, many thanks to that casting director! I love him in 2D1N because he’s such a goof! I love seeing him let loose. I’ll check out those videos, thanks hun 🙂
soulsearch12
November 26, 2020 at 2:48 AM
LBY blew Suzy out of the water in all aspects during their scene together, no offense. It blows my mind that he was content w/ doing theatre, and had no thoughts about debuting on tv until a casting person from Chief Kim called him to audition. He got the gig, and said that he wasn’t looking to do another drama. But then, his mom told him she was worried on how he was going to survive $$ wise, and he got a trip to Thailand (?) due to the drama’s success. So based on his mom/free trip lol, he decided to audition for dramas more and viola! If he hadn’t auditioned, he would’ve been some talented actor that we wouldn’t have discovered.
I’m curious about his career (if he’s going to continue doing variety, plays, dramas, or debuting in a film). Again, him being cast in 2D1N is also mind boggling to me since he was just a fresh face in the tv world. Like how did they even scout him in the show??! It’s funny b/c he even said prior to the show, he got offers to do variety but said he wasn’t going to do a variety show b/c he felt greedy or something about it. I feel like the show puts KSH in torturous/arduous tasks or make him open up (therapy session) :O
P.S: Sorry for the mini rant lol. He’s my current fav rn, so I’m just putting what I learnt here 😀
sailorgirl
November 28, 2020 at 12:10 AM
@soulsearch12 No need to apologize, and you are most definitely NOT ranting. Kim Sun Ho deets are ALWAYS welcome! I ended up replying to this, but it never posted. I appreciate the passionate response, but then Kim Sun Ho seems to elicit that effect. Thank you mama Kim for asking the right questions lol, you got your son to diversify and he is a blessing. I am so pumped to see what he’ll do next, I need a definite project ASAP! He’s going on my auto-watch list until further notice 😋
I can’t imagine how he’d think that wanting to branch out is greedy when the very opposite is true, and it would be selfish not to share his talent with the world. He’s charmed millions of viewers with “Start-Up” and regardless of the nonsense that may/may not go down in these final episodes, I’m glad that I watched the show and was exposed to him.
soulsearch12
November 28, 2020 at 2:01 AM
Hey! Thanks! Sometimes, I don’t want to go overboard ha! It’s hard not to when its discussing a fav actor. I can’t believe how I completely missed his work despite wanting to pick up Strongest Delivery Man for my other boo (Go Kyung-pyo) this Summer 😀 But I kept hearing 2nd ML stole the show there, little did I know…
Yes, Mama Kim and that free trip to Thailand for Chief Kim worked out for him. Still boggles my mind tbh, he wasn’t even going to pursue more tv work after Chief Kim too :O Life is weird sometimes, certain things just hit one unexpectedly. Well, he was offered the ML of Link (But that premise minus him as a sexy/personable chef sounded meh). Like one day he experiences he has shared emotions with his twin sister (who he didn’t meet forever), and then another female pops up. Yeah, unless it pulls a Oh My Ghost and gives us lots of kiss/skin-ship scenes lol.
The biggest test is after the show ends, is he going to mix it up with plays/variety/tv or go into film/tv/plays and drop variety? Either way, the future is bright for him. I just hope that the next 1-2 dramas have him as a Main Lead where he can establish himself as a name talent, and we can see him win awards/recognition from it. Ditto on your last point!
sailorgirl
November 22, 2020 at 7:40 AM
NAM. DO. SAN. THREW. THE. FIRST. PUNCH.
Mad_Missile
November 22, 2020 at 9:05 AM
Am I the only one who enjoyed watching them brawl!? 😂
Eazal
November 22, 2020 at 11:13 AM
I think you are, haha.
I FF it, it was quite embarrassing, imo.
So stupid and frankly… why?
Do San doesn’t feel like the guy who’s ever punched a face in his life…
Mad_Missile
November 22, 2020 at 11:22 AM
It reminded me so much of Baek In-Ho and Jung brawling in the kiddie park.. sometimes men just need to resort to playground tactics to feel like men. That’s my meagre understanding of it
purplesheesh
November 23, 2020 at 9:46 PM
I laughed during that scene. Their punches looked weak, btw. 🤣🤣🤣
soulsearch12
November 25, 2020 at 2:28 AM
NDS punches looked quite painful! HJP kept missing though LOL, expect for one punch. A ridiculous scene that went on too long. However, it was rather hot scene, no? Lmao.
purplesheesh
November 25, 2020 at 3:44 AM
I have to agree on the last comment. They looked hot punching each other. LOL!
sailorgirl
November 25, 2020 at 9:16 AM
@soulsearch12 @purplesheesh I pictured you both fanning yourselves swooning over the fight and burst out laughing 🤣 Definitely not what I expected, but a humored and appreciated response.
soulsearch12
November 25, 2020 at 2:16 PM
@mewcrazy At first it was ridiculous the more it went on. However, we all have eyes and it was hot LOL. For a sec, there I was like am I watching a MMA cage fight match in a K-drama?!
#RELEASETHEBTS!!
Serious note: Both actors did well with their fight scene, very believable surprisedly lmao. Now I want to them in an action drama.
sailorgirl
November 22, 2020 at 2:30 PM
@Mad_Missile @Eazal I was aghast to see that Do San’s violent tendencies were finally let loose. Sad that he gets to act like the offended party, but also goes out of his way to start an altercation. With his mentor no less, simply because he told them the truth AGAIN.
sailorgirl
November 21, 2020 at 9:57 AM
Me to “Start-Up” episodes 10-11: Please give me back those hours of my life
(╯°□°）╯︵ ┻━┻
sailorgirl
November 21, 2020 at 9:57 AM
mmmmm
November 21, 2020 at 9:54 AM
menu
😭😢😭😱😤🤢🤮
sailorgirl
November 21, 2020 at 9:59 AM
@mmmmm I realized a spelling glitch and deleted the original post, sorry. But yes, my feelings EXACTLY. I think this is a question of the writers wanting them to be together, so they probably will be 🙄
mmmmm
November 21, 2020 at 10:02 AM
You know, I know, everyone knows that it would be like this anyway. We just had this tiny little hope that our Good Boy might still have a chance.
Let me just say that I’m not convinced by the love between our writers-crossed OTP at all. I WANTED to like Do-san more than this, but the writing doesn’t make it any easy.
Eazal
November 21, 2020 at 1:21 PM
I love nerd DoSan.
I don’t like DoSan as a ML.
And DalMi is terribly poorly written.
We all know that these two will end together because writer has decided so, but I’m don’t see why. I’m really sorry, but I don’t see any connection (not that I see it between DM and JP either, tbh).
sailorgirl
November 21, 2020 at 1:31 PM
@Eazal , EXACTLY. Do San is a nerdy softie destined for great things, but I don’t think he fits with Dal Mi. Probably because there’s so little character development on her behalf that it’s baffling. Female characters on Start Up feel like shells with no substance.
sailorgirl
November 21, 2020 at 1:24 PM
@mmmmm I hate the current villainizing of Han Ji Pyeong. Like seriously, is this the same show that I fell in love with? Where is the wonderful writing or the surprising twists that had me hooked? It feels like another writer took over halfway.
Moreover, I’ve noticed that Ji Pyeong has gotten less and less screen time. It seems like after a certain point the creatives decided to pair Do San and Dal Mi, but still leave it ambiguous, hoping that viewers will still tune in for Ji Pyeong. Like really? Most people do not want them together.
And you’re right, I knew it was a long-shot, but I was hoping that this was a creative show that would surprise me. I’m just mad that they’re now trying to make him the bad guy, but with Yong San accusing him of killing his brother, who in their right mind wouldn’t be traumatized? I don’t blame him for going M.I.A, he didn’t know that they would sell the company or need him.
Also, let’s face it, the brother had a LOT of other issues. Dropping out of grad school is no joke and I can’t believe the pressure Yong San’s brother was under, coupled with keeping everything secret from his parents. Yet, the sad fact is that not everyone can succeed in business. Does this mean that suicide is the answer? No. It was cruel of Yong San to put it on Ji Pyeong, as though he told him to kill himself, and that kind of guilt on one person is unfair. Could Ji Pyeong have been nicer? Sure, but he asked valid questions, as confirmed by the other mentor. The brother wasn’t prepared to deal with the changing market and sadly took the wrong decision in dealing with his problems. Would it have been better if Ji Pyeong were sugary sweet but tricked them like Alex and the other investors who tried stealing the software did? It wouldn’t do them favors in the long-run and hinders growth.
Finally, the show has become so predictable, I don’t know where people get off saying that Dal Mi choosing Do San breaks the mold, it doesn’t. He’s still the most conventionally handsome, tallest character who, let’s face it, will eventually have money 🤑. She’s still ending up with an “eligible” candidate who thinks she can do no wrong, and there’s no thrill at all to their relationship. While I know how HARD they’re trying to sell the Do San and Dal Mi romance, I just can’t buy into it. They seem so juvenile? A dopey-eyed boy and bratty female lead who probably doesn’t deserve Ji Pyeong anyway.
Mad_Missile
November 21, 2020 at 11:49 AM
Still praying they do justice to one of the main characters of the show. THE LETTERS!!!!!
sailorgirl
November 21, 2020 at 1:35 PM
@Mad_Missile I hope they at least try to end things well, but the next episode screams of noble idiocy. I’m not even the least bit interested in their story, all that build-up of the letters for nothing. Just leave Ji Pyeong happy!!
sailorgirl
November 19, 2020 at 10:27 AM
Anyone else telling time by how long it takes for the next K-drama episode to come out? Just me? 🙊
KSKalways
November 20, 2020 at 11:07 AM
have you ever looked forward to a Monday just because your fav airing Kdrama is a M-T ? ha ha ha
sailorgirl
November 20, 2020 at 11:34 AM
I get hyped for Saturdays and Sundays lol Ridiculously excited for my k-drama to air. But yes, M-T dramas help get the week started!
sailorgirl
November 17, 2020 at 11:04 AM
Quiet, ardent devotion over noisy proclamations of love any day ✌
mmmmm
November 17, 2020 at 11:29 AM
Me too.
purplesheesh
November 17, 2020 at 6:01 PM
Yes.
sailorgirl
November 14, 2020 at 9:24 AM