Gachi Salraeyo

So well-written that I couldn't wait to get my daily dose of this Kdrama. The writer was masterful in moving characters from problematic behaviors to more acceptable behaviors. Acting was outstanding. In particular, Jung Chae-yeon who played Mi Yeon and Kim Kwon who played Moon Sik were engaging and so believable. Their roles, IMHO, were particularly difficult as they had to portray extreme changes in behavior during the drama. Well-directed and truly addictive. These longer dramas are much like American TV dramas so I like the fact there are so many episodes. I think it probably appealed to many as the romances are multi-generational. Some of the younger characters, e.g. The twins, were charismatic and, hopefully, will appear in more Kdramas in the future. What I like about all Kdramas is that they mirror current societal concerns in South Korea: high rate of alcoholism, bullying and overboard interference of mothers-in-law and this series touched on each of those topics. Coming from a family of eight children, the roles of older and younger siblings were, IMHO, portrayed accurately.

I like the love story of the two oldies, the second daughter and the brother. I don't like the eldest loveline and story. It is also a typical korean drama where in the matriarch is always the villain of the relationships. The conflict revolves around the family but I like that they didn't exaggerate them like in other dramas. The acting was ok and the characters could've been portrayed a little bit better in my opinion.

This family drama is about an older couple, first loves who reunite later in life and the coming together of their families. 50 episodes sounds long but it sped by. I really enjoyed the whole series which is exciting and laugh out loud funny at times with lots of feel good resolutions to problems. No undue dragging or frustration and every scene or plot twist has a purpose. The characters are likeable and don't do the wrong thing or behave frustratingly at least not for too long. Even the medical topics aren't boring as they are well integrated into the story. Villains are well flushed out too. Quite good production values and costumes and soundtrack for a long series.

First and foremost the story is so well constructed that everything comes together satisfyingly and plausibly. To their blended family. Each child has their unique personality and story. There are quite a few interesting issues here firstly blending of two families with different economic status.

Two k drama elements are well handled here avoiding cliched treatments. Firstly the disapproval of in laws is handled well in different ways with different characters. Secondly the little girl's birth secret and DNA issue is so cleverly and believably constructed.

Must praise the perfectly chosen cast. The older couple played by veterans Yoo Dong Geun and the still elegant and lovely Jang Mi Hee are quite adorable together and funny too. Lee Sang Woo is just right as the abrasive doctor. Han Ji Hye as his doctor love interest looks intelligent and sensitive and has a lovely figure. They both acted in Golden Garden a terrific makjang show worth checking out. Familiar mothers like Kim Mi Kyung and Park Jun Keum both from Inheritors are in their element. The young actors are great too. Park Se Wan is cute and funny and has gone on to win a Baeksang even. Geum Sae Rok is watchable and good. The actor Kim Kwon has the most demanding role as the antagonist and son of the older lady. He handles his conflicted character quite well. Yeo Hoi Hyeon is quite enthusiastic as the son of the older man.

Highly recommended family drama.