Our Chuno group watch is almost over – gosh, time flies, doesn’t it?!? – and it’s been SO much fun doing this community watch! 🤩
We’ve had a smattering of comments around, (a) feeling sorry that we’re almost at the end of our group watch, &/or (b) what dramas we might want want to try next.
Which is why I thought I’d make this post, so that we can brainstorm together on what we might want to watch next! 😃
Some things to consider
1. Group watch benefits
I realized that one of the cool things about having the Chuno group watch, is that even though Chuno aired 10 years ago, we still got to have that “live watch” experience. So we might want to take advantage of that, and pick older (ie, not currently airing) shows for our group watch, since currently airing shows have lots of discussion options in the drama blogosphere.
2. Balance?
I wonder if you guys would like to pick something lighter for our next group watch, since Chuno has been pretty intense? Of course, if you guys just like digging into meaty shows together, and prefer to watch lighter shows on your own, that totally works too. 😉
3. Availability
In picking a show, we do need to take into account availability, so that anyone who wants to join in, can join in. For example, I thought Winter Sonata might be a good option for a group watch, since it’s so iconic of early Hallyu, but I realize that it’s not easily available (Edit: I found it, and have added it to the list! But the point I was trying to illustrate still stands 😅).
We need to pick a show that people can access on legal platforms like Viki, Kocowa, OnDemandKorea, Viu or iQIYI, preferably without needing to pay additional membership fees. Of course, we also have the option of using Opera’s built-in VPN to access the shows, if we’re geo-restricted.
4. Schedule
I was thinking that since we’ve gotten used to having our Group Watch discussions on Wednesdays, it might be easier for everyone to remember, if we just keep to Wednesdays as a general rule. Of course, if you prefer to follow the show’s original airing day of the week (which is how we ended up on Wednesdays to begin with, since Chuno originally aired on Wednesdays and Thursdays), that works too.
5. How are we going to choose?
I will gather some of the most popular options from the comments in this post, and put them into a poll next Wednesday, which I’ll announce in a new post. After a week of voting, I’ll announce the winning show, and our first Open Thread can kick off a week after that. Does that make sense?
So, in summary:
Brainstorming: today until Tuesday, 16 February 2021.
Poll: 17 February until Tuesday, 23 February 2021.
Announcement: Wednesday, 24 February 2021.
First Open Thread for new show: Wednesday, 3 March 2021 (tentative, depending on whether you guys prefer a different day of the week!).
Some contenders
You can totally add more suggestions in the comments, but to kick things off, off the top of my head, here are a few dramas that I thought we might want to consider.
My Girlfriend is a Gumiho
So cute, but also so surprisingly heartfelt. Shin Min Ah is incandescent and adorable, and Lee Seung Gi is hapless and funny. 16 episodes, and available for free on iQIYI and Viu. Also available on Viki, if you have Viki Pass Plus, and on Kocowa, if you’re on a paid subscription.
Dr. Romantic
I’ve heard lots of good things, even from folks who say that they’re not into medical dramas as a general rule. 20 episodes, available for free on Kocowa, iQIYI and Viu. Also available on Viki, if you have Viki Pass Plus.
A Beautiful Mind
I’ve heard this is worth watching – plus it’s Jang Hyuk, whom you guys know I have a huge soft spot for. 🤩 14 episodes, available for free on OnDemandKorea. Also available on Viki, if you have Viki Pass Plus, and on Kocowa, if you’re on a paid subscription.
Seven Day Queen
I’ve heard that this is really well-written, and stays coherent and satisfying all the way to the end. 20 episodes, available for free on Viu and OnDemandKorea. Also available on Viki, if you have Viki Pass Plus.
You’re Beautiful
Fluffy and blithely irreverent and nonsensical, I found this a whale of a good time, back in the day. 16 episodes, available for free on iQIYI and Viu. Also available on Viki, if you have Viki Pass Plus.
While You Were Sleeping
I’ve heard that this one is solidly good and worth a look, and that the leads share a meaningful connection. 16 episodes, available for free on iQIYI and Viu. Also available on Viki, if you have Viki Pass Standard, and on Kocowa, if you’re on a paid subscription.
Mother
I’m told that this one is gripping and deeply meaningful. And that Lee Bo Young is fantastic. 16 episodes, available for free on Viu.
Dear My Friends
BE‘s been saying such good things about this one, that I wondered if we wanted to try this for a group watch. I’ve sampled a few episodes in the past, and it strikes me as a very well-acted, well-executed drama, with a rare cast of consummate veterans. 16 episodes. Unfortunately, I can’t find it on the various free legal streaming platforms, but it does look like it’s available on Netflix.
EDIT!
Winter Sonata
I found it, you guys! I found Winter Sonata, available for free on OnDemandKorea, so it is now an option for consideration. It’s the show that took the world by storm, and contributed a fair bit, in turning Hallyu into A Thing. All the appeal and the angst, of a classic kdrama. 20 episodes.
In Closing
Like I said, these are just some initial suggestions! Please feel free to add your ideas in the comments below, and we can figure out together, what to watch next as a community.
Looking forward to our next group watch, whatever we end up choosing! ❤️
Pingback: Group Watch: Poll! | The Fangirl Verdict
Another vote for Coffee Prince! It has been on my to-watch list. I also wouldn’t mind Dr. Romantic, NIF, Girlfriend is a Gumiho, Pinocchio! Just putting out items on my to-watch list, heh.
Thanks for chiming in, Elaine!! I’ve added your votes to the brainstorming pool! 😀
Mr.Queen is a drama that is fit for group watching ! Lots to discuss and comment about. However since it is new, I guess it can be done only much later because I don’t know whether it is available on many legal streaming platforms!
Yeah, it really is too recent for a group watch, I think. I’m still watching it for the first time, and I’m about halfway through only! 😅 Maybe something to consider at a later stage! 😉
Hi KFG: I haven’t seen any of the shows you proposed and actually had only heard about one, My Girfriend is a Gumiho (through following Shin Min-a, I’m a big fan), so I’m game for any of your recommendations. I know I supported Nirvana in Fire in another comment but perhaps the Group Watch could be rotated to a modern show instead of another sageuk. Other criteria you could use are:
Date cut-off: say limit the viewing to older classics, eg only before 2016 so there wouldn’t be too many who would have seen the show recently. Personally, I don’t think I would want to re-watch a show I saw recently but I don’t know if that applies to others.
Availability: shows readily available for free would probably get a larger audience. I use Netflix mainly but though your blog and the advice of other followers, have learnt to use “alternative” sources but I’m not sure everyone would be comfortable with that.
Number of episodes: I think Chuno is okay at 24 episodes but Nirvana in Fire maybe too long, even at 3 episodes a week. Think 16 episode length is ideal as it allows for a quicker turnover and lessens potential for viewer fatigue which can arise for any number of reasons.
Just my suggestions. BTW, I’ve changed my name back to Geo from agent155, must be a mood thing.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this, Geo! All points that are worth considering, to be sure! What I think I’ll do, is put some of these points into the next post, so that everyone can consider them before casting their votes. I agree that longer shows are more vulnerable to viewer fatigue, but at the same time, if everyone is keen to watch NIF together, I do think it’s a show that benefits from being watched with friends, and so I would support that, if NIF is the winning show. I will definitely lay out the pros and cons of each shortlisted show, though, so that people know what they’re signing up for, with each show. 😊
You can feel free to change your name at any time; to me you’ll always be Geo. 😉
Just because My Girlfriend is a Gumiho isn’t getting any love and probably doesn’t stand a chance, I’ll vote for it, lol 😂
I think everyone seems to be gravitating towards something meatier, which is definitely great for group discussions. Several have mentioned Money Flower which would be great for a group watch and to continue the Jang Hyuk love.
While You Were Sleeping is also a good watch that would probably be very approachable for most with enough meat for discussion. There are plenty of good suggestions here though 🙂
Tee hee. I knew you’d want to give My Girlfriend is a Gumiho some love, Kay! 😃 It is one of your all-time favorites, after all! ❤️ I’ve taken your comments into consideration – I need to figure out which of the dramas are generating enough interest to warrant a seat in the upcoming poll! 😉
I always have to give it some love whenever I get the chance 😍 Quite a few dramas have been mentioned by many, so I’m sure you’ll put the options together in a good way 😊
My administrative self has been slightly challenged, that’s for sure! 😂 The shortlist and accompanying poll will be out pretty soon, so you can look out for that! 😊
I’ll look forward to it! 🙂
😀add my vote to Gumiho!
Thanks Shyama, your vote is duly noted! 😃
i’m watching ‘Goong’ again because it’s available in europe for the first time.
despite some dusty things (fixed shots, long shots, etc.) it’s really a beautiful tale of a contract marriage that ends very believably in a true love. a transition from adolescence to adulthood’ movimg e poignant.
is.the.mother.of.all.contract marriage dramas? 😁
why don’t you set up a group watch? 😅😍
I haven’t seen Goong. I’m in Europe too. What are you watching it on?
on viki!
Aw yay that it’s become available for you, deliaerre! I’ve added it to the suggestion pool, but it may not make the shortlist, given the many other titles suggested.. 😅 I do have a huge soft spot for it, though, I must admit! ❤️
i vote for Money Flower or (in your listi) Winter Sonata!
Ooh, ok, got it! I’ve factored that into the shortlisting process, thanks deliaerre! ❤️
I feel like this a great opportunity to seek out a show I would probably never watch on my own! So I suggest 7 Days Queen (though all the considerations are on my watch list more or less!)
I will say I recently just finished Dr. Romantic and it’s fantastic!! In my top 10 for sure (also the second season is same level good)
Thanks for adding your thoughts to the brainstorm, Jina!! And, glad to hear that Dr. Romantic really is as good as they say! 😃
A final thought, I want you, K, to really want to do this. I want the show to have enough of that cracky element to it that it will engage us, and fairly early on–by the fifth or sixth episode at least. And even if it has a lightness to it, enough weight that it might inspire good conversations, even provoking differences of opinion. So far it seems, Nirvana on Fire is leading the pack, and I would be up for it. But a good (and cracky) contemporary piece with good actors and/or ensembles would just as easily hit the spot.
Thanks for your consideration, BE!! I will bear that in mind while managing the selection process!! 😃
Oo lovely! I couldn’t get into Chuno then (was so spoilt by IHYV!) so I kinda dropped out… but I’m open to another group watch. Can’t guarantee that I can keep up due to life duties but I’ll try!! I love the idea of group watches.
My votes/ suggestions:
– Dear My Friends – used to work with seniors so it sounds great.. my type but heartbreaking!
– Dr Romantic – everyone has said such good things that I’m piqued
– Signal / Secret Forest – I’ve not watched either and they’re on my list. I hear great things about them and these dense shows are great for discussions!
– WYWS – I’m open to it! I do like me some Lee Jong Suk 😉
– NIF because I tried to watch it but I gave up cos I was so confused. Might help to have other people discuss it with me along the way to pick up the nuances!
– My Mister because I’m always ready to rewatch it anytime, love it so much…. hahaha (that you already know!)
– Money Flower cos you all say such great things about it!
I would like to reiterate, having seen both, my preference for Money Flower over A Beautiful Life, as a Jang Hyuk vehicle, but if you have not seen the latter K, then, sure, let’s go for it.
I am ready for a Money Flower rewatch since I bought the DVDs and I want to test them out so I approve this message. But I also would love to revisit Beautiful Mind, and its a relatively easy watch? Its so short. OTOH maybe we can take a break from JH and come back to him later (his intensity its something that needs to be savored, not binged on, of course this is a very contradicting statement coming from me, the JH addict 🙈)
Oh god, I’ve watched Money Flower twice but would watch it again in a heartbeat! One of my favourite shows ever. And not only because of Jang Hyuk – although, gah and flail, Jang Hyuk!! 😍 – but the whole unfolding story, all the acting, the soundtrack, the unpredictability of it all, is just so perfect.
Oh Boy, do I second what you’ve said❗️ That drama keeps moving up in my top ten dramas.
For some reason, WordPress won’t ever let me “like” comments but I’d like every single one which loves Money Flower, Chuno, Beautiful Mind, Thank You, Bad Papa… well just any with the best things to say about Jang Hyuk! I’m always torn which I like more: Money Flower or Chuno but I think while Lee Daegil as a character has the teeniest edge over Kang Pilju, the story of Money Flower and the exceptional acting just sways it for me overall. 😊
I’m so with you, Ele. I can’t ‘like’ either. 🥴.
Dang. I’m sorry you ladies are having trouble “liking” comments! I’m really not sure how to fix it (or if I’m in any position to fix it).. I wonder if re-logging in to your gravatar account might help, Ele? 😅
PS: I’ve taken note of your remarks for the group watch brainstorm, thanks! ❤️
Ah, I’m so glad that you’ll try to join us, MC!! Thanks for all your votes and suggestions, I have dutifully taken them all down, and they have been added to the results of the group brainstorm! 😃
I’m keen for a group watch of While You Were Sleeping. It’s been on my To Watch for a while. I like the writer although I have mixed feelings about the leads. I’m in the Southern Hemisphere and most of the others aren’t available here on Viki or Netflix.
Where are you? I’m in Hamilton, New Zealand.
Hi learjet! If you’re ok to watch your dramas on a computer instead of a TV, using Opera as your browser, and its free built-in unlimited VPN could open a lot of possibilities for you! Viu and iQIYI are legal streaming sources for the Asian market, primarily, but as I’ve listed above, they provide free access to quite a few of the dramas we’re considering! 😃
Also, for the record, if anyone’s wondering, using a VPN service to access legal content outside of your region is not illegal. You can check out this article for more clarity: https://www.allthingssecured.com/vpn/faq/is-using-vpn-illegal-or-legal/
Oh and I propose Nirvana in Fire, Ive heard that drama is amazing but I feel its one that I’d prefer to watch in a group. Its long and Ive heard that its a bit complex.
This.. might be doable! I just checked and it’s available on Viki for free. Also, the episodes are around 40 minutes each instead of a full hour, so we could plausibly double up on episodes each week (like watching 2 tvN episodes, time-wise), which would also make the process feel less long drawn out. And you’re right, it’s a bit complex, and would benefit from a group watch. Worth considering, for sure! 😊
I’d vote for Nirvana in Fire as well as I’ve heard so much about this show and how highly rated it is. I’d suggest 3-4 episodes per week, 3 episodes would be 2 hours. Sageuk is not everyone’s cup of tea so you might be able to do a dual watch with a modern, lighter show?
That’s true, 3 episodes a week would work out to the same 2-hour commitment! You’re better at the math than I am, Geo! 😝😅
That’s an interesting idea, to have 2 group watches instead of one.. I’m a little intimidated at committing to episode notes for 2 shows each week, on top of everything else I’ve got going on for the blog, but it’s definitely an intriguing possibility!
Sorry, KFG, I overlooked the extra burden on you to provide notes for two shows. I think we just assume you’re so capable, you can handle anything in Kdramas!
Ahaha, thanks for the vote of confidence, Geo!! I will try to keep it to one group watch for now, but will keep it as a future possibility!
Yes, I think I’d like to watch Nirvana in Fire as a group watch. Maybe complex shows make for the best discussions?
I’m still in Chuno world right now and almost can’t bear to leave it (especially Daegil) behind 😑 but let’s see…
Not sure if anyone said Mr Sunshine? It’s the first kdrama I watched and got me into this whole, sparkling k-world 😁 I don’t think on that first watch I properly got the Joseon politics of that time. I only really remember the intense wow of Dong Mae 😍
But really, any show I’d be happy to watch with you guys 😊
To me, Mr. Sunshine is a phenomenal show with plenty of potential for discussions–plotting, acting from the five leads to the incredible support ensemble, the history, the visual production–but it seems to have two kinds of responses. I belong to that camp that thinks it is a marvel in every way, but others quite as many as those who loved it have found the pacing too plodding to stay involved, which is something to take into account, especially as this is KFG’s site, her contribution the great essential, and she belongs to the second camp.
I agree 100% I LOVE Mr Sunshine but I know Kfangurl struggled with it and I think it is essential that she enjoys the experience of the group watch. I wouldn’t want her to just lend us the space to discuss but I actually, selfishly, want to read her notes on whichever drama we end up watching together 😊
Oh ok, now you say it, I see Mr Sunshine has no review up. Agree we need kfangurl on board otherwise it’s pointless. 😊
Im giving my vote to Beautiful Mind because I want you to watch it Kfangurl 😊 but I am willing to join this wonderful group of people you have here in any rewatch honestly. Your list sounds very appealing to me and I haven’t watched most of them so it would be a first for me. Yayyy! This is exciting!
I am so happy that you’re enjoying the group watch dynamic so much, dear DF! ❤️ And I am not at all surprised that you’d cast a vote for Beautiful Mind! 😉😃
I vote for Winter Sonata!
Winter Sonata does have a lot of nostalgic, old-school charm! 😃
Of the ones mentioned here, I have seen three–Dear My Friends, Doctor Romantic, and A Beautiful Mind. Of the three, there really is far more to chew on in Dear My Friends, and certainly as an old I guy I would love giving all you Hyuksters and six pack abalone munchers a few sessions of my swooning over Yoon Yeo Jung, Kim Hye Ja, and Park Wan Sook–those old girls really rock it. It is heartbreaking over and over, and thus may not be everyone’s cuppa, but I do not believe one will ever get to see what a phenomenal actor Shin Goo (he played the benevolent engineering company chairman in My Mister) is in any other drama I can think of. And besides that there is for the younger fellas, goodness gracious, Go Hyun Jung. Not to be left out the women can ogle Jo In Sung, and dote over Lee Kwang Soo. The sections in Slovenia are eye candy as well.
I liked both Dr. Romantic and A Beautiful Mind but both are more melodrama than drama, and there are holes in each production’s game by contrast with Dear My Friends. However, we are talking about two giants:Han Seok Kyu in the former, Jang Hyuk in the latter, great ensemble in former, Park Bo Dam in the latter.
I think Secret Love Affair would have a lot going for it, not the least of which Yoo Ah In and Kim Hee Ae. And although I do not think it is quite in that class, there are enough complications in Stranger that it might be good for a group watch and commentary. With Jang Hyuk, I think Money Tree would probably be a good one. Everyone has probably seen it more than once, but certainly My Mister…
The problem with sageuks is that the really good ones are l-o-o-o-n-g! Not just 6 Flying Dragons, such a classic and central to Korean tale, but I thought Queen Seon Deok was spectacular, and Go Hyun Young puts in a phenomenal performance as the most magnetic villain I have ever seen in sageuk and Kim Nam Gil’s Bo Dam is considered an iconic sageuk antihero. But 50+ episodes, so keeping a number involved would be demanding in either. Deep Rooted Tree (Viki) would be a good one. Too bad Nokdu Flower is not available. It is simply spectacular and not too many people have seen it. One suggestion would be if everyone could figure out how to see both Masquerade, the Lee Byung Hun movie, and then watch The Crowned Clown, same story with variations as a series.
What made/ makes Chuno such a good group watch is its many complex points of interest, some of which prompting very different takes, some of which group participation really adds to the individual’s appreciation. So I hope whatever we stick with it will prompt good convos (and I do wish Snow Flower would make suggestions as she has seen so many) and KFG you might also consider suggesting something you would really go for rewatching as well).
@BE, another good sageuk is Rebel: Thief Who Stole the People. It has 30 episodes, so a little too long for a group watch. If Chuno is an epic tragedy, Rebel is a story a grandfather would tell his grandchildren, with the expected legendary embellishments. Kim Ji Suk (Wangson of Chuno fame) delivers an excellent portrayal of Mad Prince Yeonsang.
Queen for 7 Days is set in the same time period, but with more emphasis on romance with some politics.
For group watch, I was thinking one of the Reply shows, either 1988 or 1997.
I will look at my list of watched shows for more suggestions, but I will go with the flow. A light and fluffy drama can also spark interesting conversations.
Both Reply 1997 and Reply 1988 are available for free on Viki, so those are both possibilities! Also, Rebel: Thief Who Stole The People is available on Kocowa and OnDemandKorea for free, so it’s also a possibility. At 30 eps, it would take just 3 more weeks than Chuno, so it’s not as intimidating as, say, Jumong! 😅
@Snow Flower: Apparently there are two different sageuks about the protagonist of Rebel, one from I think 2008, and each seem to have their camps. Either or both are on my list when I am not heavily into something else. I just started Empress Ki, in my sageuk views, which at least seems entertaining, albeit already I can see some of the problems in it–rendering it a kind of B level Queen Seon Deok.
I loved 1988, such comfort food, but have been leery of the other Reply’s mostly because high school nostalgia is generally not my thing (I look back at my high school years as if I were another person and no small amount of embarrassment, and I loved 1988 in part because of the parents) and because reviews of the others have led me to believe I would be disappointed by contrast with 1988.
I am to my high school self as Huang Yu-Xuan is to Chen Yun-Ru in “Someday or One Day”.
I managed to find Nokdu Flower on Viu for free, BE! This means that it’s a possibility, since everyone can easily access it using either Opera’s free built-in VPN, or their own VPN service. At 48 half-hour episodes, it would work out to the same commitment as for Chuno. 😃
As for a rewatch.. hm.. I do have Nirvana in Fire on my list as something very worthy of a rewatch. It’s got 54 episodes, but each episode is about 40 minutes instead of an hour, so if we double up on episodes, it’d be like watching 2 tvN-length episodes a week? Then it’d take us just a little longer to finish the show, compared with Chuno. Maybe around 14 weeks, instead of Chuno’s 12. 😅 Or 18 weeks, if we go at a rate of 3 eps a week.
That said, I’m definitely open to other titles.. I was just answering your specific question about something I’d like to rewatch! 😃
Thanks K. Viu is not available in the US, and I do not exactly get what a VPN is or how to use one. But that is okay. I will be in on anything, though I did try Nirvana and strangely got bogged down because I was so unused to the sound of spoken Chinese, which is strange as it is supposed to be more musical than Korean, a language I am quite fond of listening to even when I only understand a word here or there.
Which by the way, does anyone else notice how subtitles always name a character being referred to when in fact the person addresses that character as sunbae or oppa or unni or some other relationship word rather than actually addressing them by name in kdrama?
@BE Oh yes! That’s one of the earliest things I noticed when I started watching these… The subtitles are always “Mrs. Choi” this or “Mr. Li” that, when the dialogue is quite clearly saying “halmoni” or “haraboji” for example. I’m watching Prison Playbook right now, and the subtitles have the ladies calling the guys by name every time, but in the dialogue it’s just straight “oppa” every time! And every other show has pretty much been the same. I find it quite endearing, actually. It’s one of my favorite little things about watching these shows…
I have to say as a fella, I always love the word “oppa” as it is used in these. Such an affectionate word.
I have noticed, indeed, and this practice in subtitling bothers me b/c (1) I am fascinated by the entire way that Korean language reflects personal relationships and (2) one often misses key clues from the practice. For example, I am watching “It’s Okay to Not Be Okay” (AKA “It’s Okay to Split Infinitives”) now and there is a crucial relationship between the FL and another character where she always is subtitled as referring to him by name but is clearly saying “Oppa”, which, as I understand it anyway, is revealing something important about their relationship.
Nitpicking aside, I do understand that subtitling – and interpretation in general – is challenging and represents a compromise between practicality and perfection, so I try to be forgiving (especially when the subtitling is done by viewers and not paid professionals, as is the case with Viki). Many years ago I spent a little time in France and would occasionally go to see English films in the original language in theaters there, only to find that I might be the only person reacting to a joke, and then reading the subtitle to realize why.
I might try a group watch. I mainly use Netflix. Or other sites that let me download to USB. Dear My Friends and My Girlfriend is a Gumiho are both on my to watch list, but I could try a different one, depends what it was. Thanks!
Ah, I’m glad you like the idea of the group watch, joe! 😃
I missed Chuno but I might join if Dr. Romantic or A Beautiful Mind wins the poll!
Well, so far there’ve been some positive reactions to Dr. Romantic and Beautiful Mind being on the list, so it’s a possibility! 😉
Hi there! Have been lurking for a while oops…thought I’d pitch in. Mother looks good – the child actress Heo Yool won a Baeksang under the Best New Actress category for her performance, so besides Lee Bo Young she’s definitely one to look out for. I’d also go with Seven Day Queen as a semi-PMY fan (also I have never watched a proper sageuk) but I know Chuno is also sageuk so….it’s really up to everyone else’s appetite. Will try to join the community watch if the schedule works out! Thanks for this initiative (:
I’ve heard such high praises for Mother – but I didn’t realize the child actress won a Baeksang! Wow! That’s impressive! 😱
Also, thanks for delurking, it’s great to meet you, dererlking! 😃
For those of us who were not able to participate in the Chuno group watch, could you explain how it all works, when you announce the show? Btw, I love all your choices, most of them are on my to-be- watched list!
Yes, I will definitely explain everything for everyone’s benefit, when I make the announcement! Essentially, we watch the episodes on our own, but paced with everyone else, and the Open Thread goes live each week, so that everyone can discuss that week’s episodes. I do plan to provide some episode notes for each Open Thread post, like what I’ve done for Chuno. You can take a quick peek at any of the Chuno OTs, if you’re curious to see what episode notes might look like. They’re not recaps; more like a summary of my thoughts on each episode. I hope that helps! 😊
I was sorry that life had been to hectic to join the Chuno watch but I will try to make an effort This time. I love this list above – some of my classic favorites. Just recently caught up on your blog and I LOVED the list of shows you did not blog about – seriously though do you have a camera in my head? Can’t wait to see what you all choose.
Tee hee! How cool, that we’re still in such agreement, over such an extensive list of shows, Amy! 😆 But if I recall, you loved My Name is Kim Sam Soon.. I tried to love that one, but it just didn’t work for me.. I guess even drama twins occasionally have some differences..? 😅
We only gave Sam Soon a B grade. We wanted to like it more, but…
I think I’d give it similar, MeriJ! I did want to like it more, but it just wasn’t for me. 😅
Ah true. But I am willing to acknowledge that MNIKSS has many many flaws. It is just that as my gateway k-Drama it holds a special place in my heart. I did do a rewatch a few years back and was very liberal with the FF button.
Ahh! Yes, gateway drama affection is real; it’s why I have such a huge soft spot for Goong, even though it gets draggy towards the end. I still love it though and have watched it something like 6 times. 😅 I think you were wise to make good use of the FF button! It actually helps us preserve love for otherwise very flawed dramas! 😉😆
The ones you list all sound like interesting possibilities, and several of them are already on my “potential watch” list, so that works out. Since I’m pretty new to this, almost anything is going to be a “first time watch” rather than a “rewatch” for me.
A few other possibilities that are on my list to watch and might be well-thought of enough to make the cut for at least consideration:
The Princess’s Man; Moon Embracing the Sun; Deep Rooted Tree.
I have been meaning to give Moon Embracing the Sun a try! The other two are excellent!
I found The Moon Embracing the Sun on Viu, Kocowa and OnDemandKorea for free, so it’s a possibility! I remember enjoying it a lot when it aired; it’s mostly about the romance and Kim Soo Hyun’s smolder as a young king. So it’s more of a light, slurpy sort of watch rather than a dense one like Tree. 😉
That drama was my gateway drama❣️ Have watched it twice more and am still in love❤️😍❤️
Hm, unfortunately, I couldn’t find free streaming options for Tree with Deep Roots, and I couldn’t find any legal streaming options for TPM at all.. sorry. 😝 The Moon Embracing the Sun is a possibility though, because I found a few options to stream that one for free! (See my reply to Snow Flower, for actual sites) 😊
Deep Rooted Tree is available on SBS World’s official YouTube channel, at least here in Northern Europe. It’s probably blocked on some markets, where they offer paid services. They have added quite many shows there, like My Girlfriend is Gumiho, and continue to release old classics weekly.
Ooh, thanks for the tip, Asperugo!! Very useful information, since we can use Opera’s built-in VPN to access it, if need be! 😃
Isn’t DRT still available on Viki?
Hi BE, yes, DRT is available on Viki, but not for free. It’s only open to those with Viki Pass Plus. I was looking for free streaming options, because not everyone has paid membership to the various streaming sites. 😊
I am open to anything, from a classic drama to a recent one. I don’t mind a rewatch either. Since I am the one who wanted to rewatch Chuno (and beez suggested we do a group watch), I feel a little shy for making another suggestion. Everything on the list looks good to me!
It was you? Yayyyy! Thank you so much! Having a Chuno group watch was like a dream to me. I always thought “I wish I had watched this drama when it aired” and one way or another, I got the experience ❤️
It all started back in early November when KFG posted a Chuno video and mentioned that the drama was back on Viki. I commented that it was time for a Chuno rewatch and beez asked me to watch it with her. And then KFG offered to open a thread for us and the rest is history. I have always wanted to watch Chuno with fellow Chunoholics, and, thanks to KFG and the wonderful community here, my wish has been granted!
Amazing! I think that was Darla’s video! I think I shared that one with Kfangurl so I guess I contributed a little bit to the birth of this awesome idea woohoo!
Yay! Thank you!
Ahhh!! YES, DF, it WAS Darla’s video that sparked this whole thing, so you were definitely a major contributor! If you hadn’t shared Darla’s video with me, I couldn’t have shared it here on the blog!! 😃
If you happen to choose Dear My Friends, do prepare tissues. 😉 I love this drama – so meaningful especially now that CNY is just around the corner when it’s time for family and friends to get together. The way this drama explores the different types of relationships – sisterhood, parent-children, lovers, and of course friendship (!) – was such a wonderful experience. The cast was amazing, especially the veteran actors. To be able to watch them in one drama was just a delight (oh, plus the eye candies Jo In Sung and Daniel Henney 😉 )
happy group watch everyone 🙂
Thanks for sharing more about Dear My Friends, Amy!! It was precisely because I was afraid Show would break my heart that I chickened out and wandered off from it. 😅 Maybe a little handholding via a group watch is just the thing to fix it! 😅
It does break your heart repeatedly, but more often than not, in a good way; saying this I am specifically thinking of a single scene in which one character’s son, feeling his mother’s difficulty, is so profoundly affectionate with her it is impossible to not be moved. But in the end, like the very best K dramas I can think of, while not shying away from the tragic, My Dear Friends turns the tragic into something heroic and elegaic. This combination of tragic/heroic/elegaic. all completely combined with an utter lack of cynicism and profound compassion for us sinners, not to mention the outstanding ensemble and their chemistry with one another, is why I believe Kdrama sets a standard for serial drama all over the world today. Whether we watch it together (as I just have watched it twice in the past month, for me it might be even a bit much one more time) or not, I cannot recommend My Dear Friends enough for anyone who like me is drawn to this kind of KDrama.
You left out this consideration: whether to watch something most of us haven’t seen yet vs. re-watching another classic.
I would think if most of us haven’t seen it yet, it’s either very new or probably not of the same caliber as the classics.
My wife and I have only re-watched two of our favorite shows thus far (Romance Is a Bonus Book and One Spring Night) but the experience was great. So I’d lean more in that direction for a group watch where we only take in a couple episodes each week in sync with others.
I’m not sure I understand your suggestion, MeriJ..? Are you suggesting that we stick to classics? Or that we stick to rewatches of favorite shows? Either way, it’s easily solved by suggesting titles that would work for you, and see how others respond! 😃
Yes, classics, even though that means it would be a re-watch for many of us.
Healer? Coffee Prince? The problem with those two is that the people who loved them long ago have already watched twice. But shows of that quality.
I loved Healer, the only reason I would vote against it for a rewatch now is that it’s just because of all the positive comments about it here that I just watched it for the first time a few weeks ago. So it might feel like too soon? Although it was pretty great, so maaaybe?
Similar reaction to the suggestion of Reply 1988 that someone made; I really liked it, but I only saw it a couple months ago, still might be too fresh… That’s just my individual response, though.
Coffee Prince, now… that’s definitely on my “future watch” list because of this site, so that would get no argument from me if it’s the one that got chosen.
That’s a good point, Trent! Some of these might be too recent for many of us.. I personally like to leave a lot of time between rewatches, because once the details fade from memory (like with Chuno), a lot of the show feels fresh again, so it’s almost like watching it for the first time. 😉
Coffee Prince is a possibility, since those are new to dramas might not have seen it, given its vintage, and those who’ve seen it, are less likely to have rewatched it recently.
Ah, I see what you mean, MeriJ. So basically.. something that’s proven to be amazing, so that we’re assured of a great experience! 😃
For something modern and fun, but with lots of heart, Coffee Prince is definitely worth a mention. I also think My Girlfriend is a Gumiho and You’re Beautiful are great. They’re less highly regarded than Coffee Prince, but many think of them fondly as favorites.
For something serious and meaty, perhaps something like Secret Love Affair, Tree With Deep Roots or Nirvana in Fire? 😊
For what it’s worth, we haven’t seen any of those. (Except Coffee Prince and Secret Love Affair, as you know.)
I’d be pleased to watch any of them, so I’ll sit out of the selection part (I would never have watched Chuno on my own, so part of the pleasure of this is being exposed to something I wouldn’t pick on my own). I like using the “time slot” I currently use for Chuno to do older dramas so that works great for me (as does opening the conversation on Wednesdays).
BTW, I find myself in the unusual position of finishing all three of my current dramas this weekend and totally reloading. So I’ll find balance in there somehow….
Aw, so happy that you’re enjoying the group watch process and dynamics, Jeff! 😃 You don’t have to sit out the selection process though.. I’ll make it such that everyone can select more than one option in the poll itself, so that if someone’s open to, say, 3 shows out of the shortlisted titles, they can vote for all 3. 😊
What unusual timing, that you’re finishing all 3 of your current dramas at the same time!! Now you can dip into your list to map out your next 3 shows! 😉
What a great idea! Happy to go with the consensus but maybe more inclined for Beautiful mind but only because of Jang Hyuk😍
Yay that you plan to join the group watch!! The more the merrier, as they say! 😉 Also, yes, I can see why you’d be more inclined to Beautiful Mind for Jang Hyuk! ❤️
I’m not sure if I can participate in a new group watch completely but I’d definitely give it a try. I haven’t watched any of the shows listed here (except for bits of Gumiho and Winter Sonata) but some are on my “next” list anyway so I’m game to any.
It’s nice that most on the list are shows that kfangurl hasn’t watched yet. And considering the group of people of watching Chuno, I think not all are romance/melodrama fans.
Other suggestions: I’ve heard good things and been wanting to watch Joseon X-Files and Bridal Mask but I can’t find them in legal sites. I’ve been curious about Joseon Gunman too (because it was on a tight ratings race with It’s Okay That’s Love and Fated to Love You).
Maybe Legend (Bae Yong Joon) and Faith (same director of Eyes of Dawn) also? Or classics like Dae Jang Geum and Jumong (although maybe they’re too long for a group watch, not unless it’s four episodes per week which might be too much for others).
Or Coffee Prince (since they released a recent special, it’s been on my mind).
If anyone has any clue how to watch Gaksital from a legitimate stream (from the US or with a VPN), please do share! That is a show I’d also like to group watch.
Hm.. I did a search on the various legal streaming options, but came up empty for Gaksital, unfortunately. 😔
I did start watching it a while back on Youtube, but the production values were so poor I could not get into it.
Hm.. I couldn’t find Legend, Faith, Joseon X-Files or Bridal Mask on the various legal streaming platforms.. and you’re right, Dae Jang Geum or Jumong would be too long for a group watch, with so many hour-long episodes. 😅 However, Coffee Prince is available on several streaming sources for free, so it’s a possibility! 😃
Faith is available on Viki US as “The Great Doctor.” Joseon X-Files is shown as Secret Investigation Record but I can’t figure out which region it’s available. Gunman in Joseon is available but not sure how many discussion points are there (or if anyone here will be interested).
Maybe two sets of group watch will be best? One light and fluffy romance, the other a heavier, meatier non-romance?
Ah, thanks for that information, Jiyuu! Very helpful! These alternative drama titles can make things quite confusing! 😝😅
I personally didn’t love Joseon Gunman (review is here), but if it wins a poll, I’m happy to host Open Threads for it – just without episode notes from me, because I definitely didn’t like it enough to watch it again. 😅
That’s an interesting thought, to have 2 group watches instead of one.. Geo just suggested that too! If I want to provide episode notes for both group watches, I’m not sure if I’ll be able to keep up with everything, but let me think about it!
Dr. Romantic. It is very interesting and I would love to rewatch it.
Ooh, a show that’s worth a rewatch! That does say something about Dr. Romantic! 😃
Wow time really flies.
You guys really like to watch with company 😄
I hope you find a good drama that all of you will enjoy.
Aw, do you not plan to join us at all, Reaper? Even if it happens to be a show that looks interesting to you..? 😅
I do not plan to join, sorry
No matter what drama you decide on
Aw, that’s ok.. I understand that not everyone likes the idea of a community watch! Thanks for the warm wishes though, for the next group watch! ❤️
Thank you. I just don’t want to be part of discussions.
YES have a great one 👍🏻
Hi kfangurl!! I’m so glad you’re starting another group watch~ There’s nothing quite like talking about dramas in a community 🙂 Missed the Chuno group watch, so will definitely try to catch your next one.
I’m pleasantly surprised that you’re considering ‘While You Were Sleeping’, having read somewhere in your previous posts that its premise and the first few episodes didn’t work out for you. It’s one of my favourite shows – good writing, cast, and the fantasy theme isn’t too far fetched (tend to stay away from them cuz it needs to make sense to me heh). The OST is fantastic too!
I’m quite a sucker for rom-coms, but have taken interest in non-romance shows as of late. I’ve heard good things about ‘Dear My Friends’, so it’s piquing my interest quite a bit 🙂 It’s quite rare to have dramas focused on the older population!
You’re right, monzyy!! I actually didn’t take to WYWS on my first sampling because it reminded me too much of I Hear Your Voice, but so many people have said that it’s good, that I thought it might be good to give it a second look. After all, my first attempt was made while I was kinda in a drama slump (I think?). So that was unfair to Show too. 😅 Glad to hear you love it as much as you do!
I’m curious to see what everyone else thinks, and which shows everyone is interested in checking out.. If you have more titles to suggest, please feel free to list them! 😃
Ahh I did find some similarities between ‘I Hear Your Voice’ and WWYS (same writer, after all!!) but perhaps that didn’t bug me as much cuz I watched IHYV after WWYS 😛
Hey, just a thought – have you considered creating a telegram channel for your community watch series? It might be easier to have conversations/discussions! 😀
Thanks for the Telegram suggestion, monzyy.. I looked into it, and I don’t think it would really suit the purposes of our group watch.. like, I don’t think I’d be able to post my episode notes easily? Also, I think hosting it here is easy and familiar for everyone. 😊
I had big love for IHYV, so seeing a lot of similarities just in the first ep of WYWS bugged me right away. 😝 But since so many people have said WYWS is worth a look, I put it on the list for consideration!