This is produced differently than most all KD, One in and i liked it a lot also its not 60-70 min episodes so no need to run the clock out with foolish tactics.ILL give it a fair shot but characters are good only thing that can ruin it is the writers
84 Reviews
Fun and Frustration of Dating and Relationships
spasek26 March 2021
Warning: Spoilers
This is a fantastic series that attempts to put things into perspective regarding dating and relationships. Anyone who has dated or been in any kind of a relationship will almost surely find himself/herself relating to one or more of the six characters (three men and three women).
The series is mostly light and humorous with some occasional serious tones. Fortunately, the series is so deftly told that it easily transitions from "comedy" to "drama" without batting an eye.
As anyone knows, dating and relationships can be fun and exciting when they begin, but soon grow into frustration and turmoil the longer they go on. As one character points out, "Relationships are like wars. Easy to start. Difficult to end."
The series is filmed like "The Office" in which a small documentary team follows the characters around and asking questions such as, "Is it possible to have a positive break-up?" or "What does the word "first" mean to you?" The answers are often compelling as well as humorous.
The characters begin to realize some deep truths regarding relationships. Most people enter them to prevent lonelines or because they don't like themselves, and they expect someone else to fill in the "gaps" and "holes" that they feel are dotting the landscape of their lives. Of course, entering into relationships for these reasons means that the relationship is already doomed to fail. Why? Because unless you love your Self first, you cannot possibly share what you do not have with someone else. And the other person soon realizes how unfair it is to be pressured into being the sole source of happiness for someone else.
To be in a relationship means to accept your partner as they are. Eun Oh Lee makes a truly provocative and wise request to Jae Won. "Can you accept me for who I am? I'm a mess, and I have a long way to go before I find myself." Acceptance and awareness of dysfunction is probably the ultimate key to having a successful relationship. After all, relationships aren't about filling gaps and holes. They are about sharing. And ultimate sharing cannot be experienced until absolute vulnerability is attained.
The series is masterfully done, and the actors expertly handle their characters like prime jockeys handling their horses. They bring tears and laughter to a subject that has befuddled nearly every person in every culture since the beginning of time.
I have seen more and more of these types of series coming out of Korea where the writers are virtually crying out, "Let people be who they are! Stop trying to control everyone and everything!"
Along with the characters, you'll likely find yourself sharing in their laughter, fun, and frustration as Korea continues to churn out the best shows in the world, in my opinion.
The series is mostly light and humorous with some occasional serious tones. Fortunately, the series is so deftly told that it easily transitions from "comedy" to "drama" without batting an eye.
As anyone knows, dating and relationships can be fun and exciting when they begin, but soon grow into frustration and turmoil the longer they go on. As one character points out, "Relationships are like wars. Easy to start. Difficult to end."
The series is filmed like "The Office" in which a small documentary team follows the characters around and asking questions such as, "Is it possible to have a positive break-up?" or "What does the word "first" mean to you?" The answers are often compelling as well as humorous.
The characters begin to realize some deep truths regarding relationships. Most people enter them to prevent lonelines or because they don't like themselves, and they expect someone else to fill in the "gaps" and "holes" that they feel are dotting the landscape of their lives. Of course, entering into relationships for these reasons means that the relationship is already doomed to fail. Why? Because unless you love your Self first, you cannot possibly share what you do not have with someone else. And the other person soon realizes how unfair it is to be pressured into being the sole source of happiness for someone else.
To be in a relationship means to accept your partner as they are. Eun Oh Lee makes a truly provocative and wise request to Jae Won. "Can you accept me for who I am? I'm a mess, and I have a long way to go before I find myself." Acceptance and awareness of dysfunction is probably the ultimate key to having a successful relationship. After all, relationships aren't about filling gaps and holes. They are about sharing. And ultimate sharing cannot be experienced until absolute vulnerability is attained.
The series is masterfully done, and the actors expertly handle their characters like prime jockeys handling their horses. They bring tears and laughter to a subject that has befuddled nearly every person in every culture since the beginning of time.
I have seen more and more of these types of series coming out of Korea where the writers are virtually crying out, "Let people be who they are! Stop trying to control everyone and everything!"
Along with the characters, you'll likely find yourself sharing in their laughter, fun, and frustration as Korea continues to churn out the best shows in the world, in my opinion.
A refreshing drama
elodiehuynh30 May 2021
Finally, something different.
What I like most about this drama is that it's a realistic depiction of relationships in today's 21st century. Yes, people can, and will sleep with each other in the early stages of a relationship. I'm so sick of watching other k-dramas that treat 30yr old adults like they're 13yr old kids who have never been kissed before (or freezes during a kiss) let alone any other intimate activities. (In saying that, the last episode does ruin it by doing exactly that!) This drama is refreshing in the sense that it's not your typical love story romance and the filming is unique because it's done in an interview-style manner. I found this strange at first and it was hard to catch on but keep watching and you'll find it all comes together and the storyline becomes riveting. There were many scenes that truly captured the "moment" by use of sunlight and light rays to create the right mood and ambience, especially during the beach holiday or romantic scenes. Some scenes were like instagram shots with a perfect filter applied.
The lead actor is gorgeous. I thoroughly enjoyed his acting and looks. I will watch out for more work from Ji Chang Wook. All supporting actors and actresses were also very good and created a significant dynamic. I just found the cop and actress love story introduced in the last episode absolutely useless. They could do without those scenes.
Overall, I recommend this drama if you've watched a lot of k-dramas and looking for different. This is a new style, new age, and refreshing alternative to what you'd normally see.
What I like most about this drama is that it's a realistic depiction of relationships in today's 21st century. Yes, people can, and will sleep with each other in the early stages of a relationship. I'm so sick of watching other k-dramas that treat 30yr old adults like they're 13yr old kids who have never been kissed before (or freezes during a kiss) let alone any other intimate activities. (In saying that, the last episode does ruin it by doing exactly that!) This drama is refreshing in the sense that it's not your typical love story romance and the filming is unique because it's done in an interview-style manner. I found this strange at first and it was hard to catch on but keep watching and you'll find it all comes together and the storyline becomes riveting. There were many scenes that truly captured the "moment" by use of sunlight and light rays to create the right mood and ambience, especially during the beach holiday or romantic scenes. Some scenes were like instagram shots with a perfect filter applied.
The lead actor is gorgeous. I thoroughly enjoyed his acting and looks. I will watch out for more work from Ji Chang Wook. All supporting actors and actresses were also very good and created a significant dynamic. I just found the cop and actress love story introduced in the last episode absolutely useless. They could do without those scenes.
Overall, I recommend this drama if you've watched a lot of k-dramas and looking for different. This is a new style, new age, and refreshing alternative to what you'd normally see.
New Format and Fresh!!
deepaligulati-9033222 December 2020
Update: After watching Ep:2 you won't be able to stop watching it!! Ahh the chemistry! Goosebumps!! Stunned to be honest!
Just saw the first episode! The format is fresh and new unlike other Kdramas!! And of course it has The Ji Chang Wook so one can expect great acting! It is quite early to comment on the series but I loved it because of the connection with the audience and it's relativity to real life! Looking forward to more episodes!!!
Ratings, we don't need no stinking ratings
benigee26 January 2021
I am a person who likes to make up my own mind. Had never seen Ji Chang-Wook in anything before, didn't know it was a comeback after his military service and wasn't aware of Netflix ratings and really don't give a damn. I was captivated from the first episode. The two main characters love play with one another in a new found relationship was wonderful and made me love them both. I loved the interview technique of the show, the writing and the other character snippets were the best. I liked Chang-Wooks descriptions of his feeling and his love. Episode 8 had me crying and I determined gajima (don't go in Korean) is the most compelling and romantic word in the world. I am waiting for Friday so I can watch the next 2 episodes at once. I like shows you have to pay attention to and not just react to some thrills or spills or action figures. Some people just can't be entertained by less than those much over used audience catchers. I for one give this series a 10 so far and recommend it to anyone who is in love, has been in love, wants to be in love, has lost a loved one or has given their love to someone who wasn't able to accept it.
astonishing cinematography, no usual cliché, absorbing story & amazing performance
afagh-9583810 February 2021
One of the best series I've ever watched in respect of cinematography and performance is Lovestruck in the City.
Actually, I started watching it just for its marvelous and magnificent cinematography but then I was intrigued by its different story, lovely plot, majestic sceneries, sunny beaches, good character development, glamorous songs (especially the one from 'BeetleJuice'), fascinating patterns of cloths and finally phenomenal performance of the lead male role, Ji Chang-wook. I've never watched his dramas before because I didn't find him impressive and he seemed so shallow to me. But after watching this series my idea changed dramatically. At times, I feel that he is not merely playing his role but rather living it really. I don't know if it's in his nature to be like this or he really had some feelings for his co-star; either way, the chemistry that he showed was the one we hardly ever observe in Kdramas. During the whole series he seemed as if he was feeling the joy, despair and frustration of his character in actuality- for eg. Ep04, 08 & 13. I am stunned by his impeccable and intense portrayal of a noble man in love.
Although Kim Ji-won did not share the same chemistry as she did in 'Descendants of the Sun (2016)' with her co-star, yet I quite like the way she performed her daring role, especially in sad, angry and serious scenes. I didn't get the same love from her that I got from Ji Chang-wook. However, if she wasn't the main female role, I wouldn't watch this drama for anyone else. It seems among all those who have co-stared Ji Chang-wook so far, she is the most perfect match; because she made him perform remarkably.
Apart from few scenes of nudity in ep02 which I don't endorse, I recommend the rest of the drama to anyone.
A refreshing new format of drama
ainkyuhee24 December 2020
Good Enough
PennyReviews28 March 2021
Korean Drama " Lovestruck in the city " has interesting cinematography and a slice of life story, with a realistic spin on the love stories.
The drama presents the story through the form of a documentary, where the characters are being interviewed about their love lives and their views on love. This format was original and interesting, but it did get tiring after a while. Fortunately, they lessen up the interview time after the first half.
The highlight of the drama is also the love stories that it presented, even though the main one got most of the screening time. It was cleverly presented, with smooth twists that kept the mystery of what happened for a while. The first part of it, where the audience gets to see the beginning of the main relationship, was probably the best part, with a youthful and summery vibe.
Also, the performances were really good from everyone in the cast. The soundtrack was spot on as well.
However, this drama needs to have a second season, as the last episode left a lot of things unfinished and, in fact, opened up new storylines.
So, overall, seven out of ten.
The drama presents the story through the form of a documentary, where the characters are being interviewed about their love lives and their views on love. This format was original and interesting, but it did get tiring after a while. Fortunately, they lessen up the interview time after the first half.
The highlight of the drama is also the love stories that it presented, even though the main one got most of the screening time. It was cleverly presented, with smooth twists that kept the mystery of what happened for a while. The first part of it, where the audience gets to see the beginning of the main relationship, was probably the best part, with a youthful and summery vibe.
Also, the performances were really good from everyone in the cast. The soundtrack was spot on as well.
However, this drama needs to have a second season, as the last episode left a lot of things unfinished and, in fact, opened up new storylines.
So, overall, seven out of ten.
10/10 for the rating
ltariman-4606224 December 2020
1st because i support Ji Chang Wook but when i watched Ep1 wow! The drama is light and romantic but can relate with our everyday lives and yes its about Love which everyones Joy and curiousitu. Looking forward for the next ep. 👍
Comfort drama fr
Yoonluv2 June 2023
If you are looking for a drama that leaves you feeling sentimental and just happy, I highly recommend this show. Its light hearted but also extremely engaging in how they interconnect romance, common struggles with relationships and insecurities, comedy and storytelling. This drama does an amazing job at bringing multiple plot lines and characters together in a way that isn't jarring and makes sense. I seriously loved this show. Even the soundtrack is perfectly curated to enhance the vibe of the appropriate scenes. That sometimes doesn't happen in dramas. The plot was far from boring and I easily binged this show in a day due to the short episode (for a kdrama which episode are usually an hour). Its so good i keep coming back to rewatch it. Ji Chang Wook did an amazing job and so did Kim Jiwon she stays being one of my fav actresses. I also want to highly commend Ryu Kyung Soo on his performance because i never hear anyone talking about what a great actor he is. I've seen almost all of his dramas and he never fails to impress. Hopefully we will get to see more stuff from him!!!! This show is a must watch defs.
Aesthetic!!
Cindylovesjcw24 December 2020
Beautiful first episode, everything was perfect. From the strong leads to the way they approached the story, the unique format, aesthetic appeal, the cinematography and the OSTs. All in all a must watch. Eagerly waiting for the 2nd episode.
GoT level disappointing finish after an intriguing start
ritzz23420 February 2021
They started out with such fresh, novel storylines that could've been taken towards deep, insightful storytelling. I was hooked by the leads' chemistry and the breathtaking views too.
Oh but the ending ! I'm sure they got confused as to how they should end and put a haphazard episode 16 and 17 together that picked up all the initial excitement, chemistry etc and threw it out the window. Very frustrating.
The script for epi 17 seems to be so full of blanks, they introduced a new nowhere story leading nowhere in it, and finished a seemingly healthy existing one without proper rationale.
Such a waste man.
Reminds you of GoT.
Not good
sarahcarter-5714313 February 2021
Warning: Spoilers
This started off well I really enjoyed the first two episodes and then it went downhill fast and turned into a typical k drama the episodes just got more and more boring the last episode was saved by the long term relationship couple breaking up after his betrayal of lying about what she did as a living you could feel how upset she was the main leads were really pathetic and I really didn't care what happened to the other cast members there is a special episode 17 about the two police men but I can't be bothered to watch don't waste your time on this one
Captivating format and ever amazing Ji Chang Wook!!!
jcwusa26 December 2020
Ji Chang Wook is a master of transformation on screen! The storyline is getting more and more interesting with a mixture of humor and depth of emotion, showing the trials and tribulations of romance to which we can all relate. Bravo!!! Great choice of project, Ji Chang Wook!!!
A must watch drama.
loriedriz25 December 2020
Different from usual Kdramas
shamlamoorkanad17 August 2021
I was skeptical about this one because honestly I lost interest in k dramas. However since i have nothing to do I gave this a chance. It was uninteresting first due to the format. The interview kind format was difficult to connect with. However after 3 - 4 episodes interview part was decreasing and connection with entire cast were formed. I could enjoy after the connection among main characters were established. The most thing I liked was the friendship among the 4 characters. Over all I liked this one but I disappointed that they didn't show the old version of heroine which was very essential. Since its netflix show we could see more than one or two kisses and sexual tension between main characters, it was satisfying.
Great show
karinabarreta25 December 2020
Nice!
wheatley-202307 June 2021
I have liked Ji Chang-Wook and Kim Ji-Won in other Korean dramas and they do not disappoint here, giving us a romantic couple you care about. The other characters also make an important contribution to the story.
Initially I found the docu-drama format overly affected and almost did not get around to watching episode 2. But I am glad I stuck with it, as either I got used to it, or the makers gradually limited the use of this device to moments where it actually contributed. I even found moments where I could appreciate that depth had been added in this way.
The final episode is a bit unnecessary as it focuses on another couple entirely, although their story is nice enough in itself. With different editing we could have had a final episode where all of the main storylines reach their climax, leaving a stronger impression on the memory.
Initially I found the docu-drama format overly affected and almost did not get around to watching episode 2. But I am glad I stuck with it, as either I got used to it, or the makers gradually limited the use of this device to moments where it actually contributed. I even found moments where I could appreciate that depth had been added in this way.
The final episode is a bit unnecessary as it focuses on another couple entirely, although their story is nice enough in itself. With different editing we could have had a final episode where all of the main storylines reach their climax, leaving a stronger impression on the memory.
Ji Chang Wook proved his brilliance yet again!
jcwusa17 January 2021
Warning: Spoilers
The range of emotions delivered by Ji Chang Wook is superb. You'll cry one moment and laugh at another with the brotherly repartee and spats between JI Chang Wook and Kim Minseok. Your heart will break with the scene in Episode 8 where Yoon Seona appears, like a dream. It will have you effected for days. It feels that real. It makes you recollect experiences we or those we love have endured. The raw emotions of being hurt, angry yet still yearning are palpable. The range of talent in this man is limitless. This story hits the tip of the iceberg in the depth of capabilities of this talented actor who also has an amazing singing voice that penetrated the soul. Cannot wait for the rest of the episodes!!! Bravo Ji Chang Wook!!!!!! You're simply brilliant!!!!!
UNREALISTIC AND BORING
sandyganesan18 February 2021
I was excited as it was ji changwook drama and waited with anticipation.But the drama is very boring and dragging.A very dissappointing drama again from ji changwook.The story is unrealistic with the male lead running behind the female lead with no dignity,even after he is dumped and the female lead does not even feel bad for hurting the male lead and they just get back together.Other couples were not given enough role.They concentrated on the leads and dragged the drama.The photography was good.
Love it but chaotic
vonipsc1 October 2021
The character of Park Jae Won reminds me so much of myself, that is the main reason i loved this kdrama. He is an incredible actor, and he's done so well in this show. But everything else was chaotic, too much, i couldn't keep up with all the stories.
And what was the point of the last episode with new characters? I just don't get it.
Not good but not bad.
And what was the point of the last episode with new characters? I just don't get it.
Not good but not bad.
1st Episode is thimbs up
villafuertecherry25 December 2020
boring
mayaagustini14 February 2021
Waste of Time--flop SERIES.
santecardena4 January 2021
This is JCW 3rd Korean series project after coming out of the military. I trying to jump on the bandwagon but his project choices are the worst. This completely boring. Taking a cue from Modern Family using the docu-drama style, this one is totally boring. In Modern Family the technique successfully propel the story, this is the opposite as it blocks a better story telling. The technique does not goes well with the short forward. JCW's performance is very calculated and the leads fail to summon a romantic vibe. People find it very boring. Proof? It is flopping hard in the Netflix chart. A lot of territories already dropped it from its top 10 as early as the second episode. It's a drama that only the fan girls and fan boys can appreciate and proclaim it a 10. THE PUBLIC HAS SPOKEN.
Totally unexpected!
jennifershangdiar-2663224 December 2020
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