Not sorted by any release date. These are the dramas that I have enjoyed, that stand the test of time well. This post is a recap of my faves. I’m gonna divide it into several posts, then update this in pages section – quite a lot has changed for me. This first post covers the first part of my Korean drama favourites.
KOREAN FAVOURITES
REPLY 1988
My Rating: 10/10. The best of the series so far, although Reply 1994 is still in my favourites too, I love Thrash too much. But Reply 1988 has a strongly nostalgic mood, actors we will never see again, great bonds between all characters and a lot less focus on the silly guessing game. Thoroughly enjoyed this one, on all counts. I loved all characters in equal measure and had no sides – it did not matter. Loved the outcome as it was.
SIGNAL
My Rating: 10/10. A drama that worked on every level: story, characters, music. there was a bit of a VERY strong love bond and loyalty going on too – i loved that. There’s mentorship/friendship, also shows how changing the past can alter things that were not meant to be altered- this is an awesome drama. It’s a very story rich exerience that isn;t likely to ever get old, great characters. It’s a pitch perfect mix of procedural, drama, some mystery. There are great, memorable characters. The story is told in past and present, with central character binding it all being lee jae han. I really wishs it didn’t have a sequel; I prefer its open endedness.
GOBLIN
My rating: 10/10. A romantic fairy tale drama, with perfect mood. Loved goblin and eun tak ; bittersweet secondary couple. high rewatch priority. Some lovely visuals. But really, the mood makes it stand out. I loved the story.
THE KING OF DRAMAS
My rating: 10/10. I think i doscussed it before and this drama has stood the test of time beautifully. Characters and storyline remain fresh and compelling. Great ending, interesting story within a story as well.
THE CHICAGO TYPEWRITER
My rating: 9/10. In some ways, this drama was a bit like a dream come true. S ghost/reincarnation story with quite fun characters. I enjoyed the mood, the ost and the story flow.
MOON LOVERS: SCARLET HEART RYEO
My rating: 9/10. Original for Korean drama.Great performances by Lee Joon Gi and Kang Ha Neul. I watched it with fresh eyes and definitely enjoyed the descent and changes in characters. Fell in love with Kang Ha Neul.
BEETHOVEN VIRUS
My rating: 10/10. another drama (of Kim Myung Min’s, surprise, surprise!) that has stood the test of time very well. THe central character remains extremely interesting, the story flow is great and side characters give honest performances. Really, one of my strong all-time favourites.
THE SPRING DAY OF MY LIFE
My rating: 9/10. Has remained a strong favourote. The leads are just pure love done right. it is a really lovely drama about giving new hope and joy. It remains one of my absolutely beloved dramas.
TOMORROW WITH YOU
My rating: 9/10. A slow burner but a thoughtful drama focused on character emotions and motivations and exploring the idea of fate – can it be changed? too many variables you can’t control though. Really loved the storytelling. Is it important to worry so much about tomorrow? nt everything can be done tomorrow. Some things can only be done today. mood and vsuals great; thoughtful storytelling. Great three main characters: Lee Je Hoon’s, Shin Min Ah’s and the “Mister”.
JUMONG
My rating: 9/10. Has remained a favourite.Jumong is a very epic drama with many arcs and great characters. The drama was story-rich, with a great dark horse-type protagonist who always astounded everyone with his skills. Loved Hae Mo Su.
LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL
My rating: 10/10. High rewatch priority; writing is beautiful, characters very dear to me, especially the parents and the rich woman with the uncle; this drama is absolutely beautiful. Beautifully written fanily story. Great parents at the heart of the show. Compelling side couples
LIVE UP TO YOUR NAME
My rating: 9/10. It was insanely enjoyable and is my favourite time travel/ romcoms now. Kim Nam Gil’s character, good romantic couple, doctor now and doctor then – characters learning from each other and overcoming past traumas. Very pleasant watch, with good interactions between leads. Rxtremely high rewatch priority. I just ADORE the leads and the overall writing here, even if story isn’t “new”, but i prefer this to queen inhyun’s man which was far over the place with plot imho. There is some thought in this, its well written, good feels – there is that “romantic” air that feels right.
FIVE ENOUGH
My Rating: 9/ 10. A darling family story reminiscent of Yours, Mine and Ours. Excellent, lovable leads and lovely ensemble cast, good feelings all around.
To be continued.
Aigoo! Dramas! 