Tangeum

I'll be honest, coming from someone who got ADHD and struggles binge watching any series, this is the 2nd series I watched in one sitting. 1st one was Karma. This series got elements to hook someone who's not into lovey dovey flowery storyline with cute faced ML and FL. I liked everything bout it - cinematography, the color choices of costume of ML (white cause he represents death ), the OSTs, acting, action everything. The only let down was Netflix cutting short a drama who had the potential to be a global phenomenon. The plot sometimes felt rushed , romance built up needed some more time to be more impactful. But those can be overlooked due to the brilliant acting of the leads AND the villains esp KJW.

Would I recommend? Only to those who got the eyes and guts to watch unconventional, eerie kdramas which aren't all flowers and butterflies with Happy ending.

Let's start with Hongrang himself. That man (ghost? Spirit? Tortured soul??) has no right being this mesmerizing. The way he moves, the way he speaks-every glance feels like it holds centuries of pain and longing. And the female lead: The raw desperation in her eyes, the way she teeters between hope and dread, wondering if this mysterious figure is really her lost brother or something far more sinister...

The atmosphere is everything. The fog-drenched forests, the eerie gut (shaman) rituals, the way the ghosts move-like whispers in the dark-it all feels so hauntingly real. And the soundtrack? Don't even get me started. There's this one song that plays during the most emotional scenes, and I swear, I get goosebumps every single time.

But what really got me was the emotional core of the story. It's not just about ghosts and mysteries-it's about grief, love, and the lengths we go to hold onto the people we've lost.

Dear Hongrang is a mesmerizing addition to Netflix's K-drama lineup, weaving a rich tapestry of mystery, romance, and historical intrigue set against the backdrop of the late Joseon Dynasty. Adapted from Jang Da-hye's novel Tangeum: Swallowing Gold, the series delves deep into the complexities of identity, familial bonds, and the haunting shadows of the past.

Lee Jae-wook delivers a compelling performance as Hong-rang, the long-lost son of a powerful merchant family who returns after twelve years with no memory of his past. His portrayal captures the enigmatic nature of a man caught between two worlds. Jo Bo-ah shines as Jae-yi, Hong-rang's half-sister, whose unwavering determination to uncover the truth adds depth to the narrative. Their on-screen chemistry brings to life a relationship fraught with tension, suspicion, and unspoken emotions.

The series masterfully balances its intricate plot with emotional depth. As Jae-yi grapples with the possibility that the man claiming to be her brother might be an imposter, viewers are taken on a journey filled with unexpected twists and revelations. The narrative delves into themes of love, betrayal, and the lengths one will go to protect their family.

Visually, Dear Hongrang is a feast for the eyes. The series boasts stunning cinematography, capturing the essence of the Joseon era with meticulous attention to detail. From the intricate hanbok costumes that reflect each character's personality to the authentic filming locations like Gyeongju and Jeonju Hanok Village, every frame immerses the viewer in a bygone era.

In conclusion, Dear Hongrang stands out as a poignant exploration of identity and the complexities of human relationships. Its compelling storyline, strong performances, and visual splendor make it a must-watch for fans of historical dramas and intricate narratives. The series not only entertains but also invites viewers to reflect on the nature of truth, love, and the ties that bind us.

I bridged the drama over two days as I could not stop watching it. The cinematography and acting are amazing. I love the storyline and how slowly we are getting to the truth. Not a single episode was boring. The chemistry between the leads is awesome! I love the bond Jae I and Hong Rang had. Their eyes speak for themselves. The fighting scenes were great as well. It was a real surprise to see the real villain. I will not say more to avoid spoilers.

The OST is great, so fitting to the drama. It is not a typical drama; it is dark, and with each episode, there is more suffering, but it is a beautiful story of two people who try to protect each other. The last episode was very emotional.

This was a nice surprise from Netflix. From the very begining you jump right into action, no time is wasted on dragging scenes and no redundant dialogue. It' about a long lost son of a wealthy and powerful family and the people around him on how they manage to keep up with their lives after he was lost,what they did to look for him and what happens after they eventualy do find him. The series is packed with fast moving scenes,fights,mistery and strong leads. It's not the usual cringy K-drama love but more a hate-love dynamic all over.

I like that it's placed in Joseon and they wraped it all up in only 12 episodes. Great for binge watchig!