My first Korean drama
Introduction: "Crash Landing On You" is a captivating romantic drama that deftly weaves together elements of romance, comedy, and political intrigue. Set against the backdrop of the Korean peninsula's division, the series follows the unlikely love story between a South Korean heiress and a North Korean army officer.Plot: The story kicks off when Yoon Se-ri, portrayed by Son Ye-jin, accidentally crash-lands in North Korea while paragliding. There, she encounters Ri Jeong-hyeok, played by Hyun Bin, who reluctantly helps her evade authorities and return home safely. However, as their paths continue to cross, their initial animosity transforms into a deep and forbidden love. As they navigate the challenges posed by their differing backgrounds and the political tensions between their countries, their bond grows stronger, culminating in a series of heartfelt and emotionally charged moments.
Characters: The characters in "Crash Landing On You" are richly developed and endearing. Yoon Se-ri is portrayed as a strong and independent woman who finds herself out of her element in North Korea. Ri Jeong-hyeok, on the other hand, is depicted as a stoic and honorable army officer torn between his duty and his feelings for Yoon Se-ri. The supporting cast adds depth and humor to the story, with each character playing a pivotal role in the protagonists' journey.
Themes: At its core, "Crash Landing On You" explores themes of love, sacrifice, and reconciliation. Through the lens of its central romance, the series delves into the complexities of North-South Korean relations and the barriers that divide people. It highlights the universal nature of love and the transformative power of human connection, transcending political and cultural boundaries.
Critique: While "Crash Landing On You" is undoubtedly a compelling drama, it occasionally relies on clichés and predictable plot devices. Some viewers may find certain plot twists to be overly melodramatic or convenient. Additionally, the portrayal of North Korea has been criticized for its idealization and lack of depth. Despite these shortcomings, the series succeeds in delivering an emotionally resonant story with memorable characters and breathtaking cinematography.
Conclusion: Overall, "Crash Landing On You" is a masterfully crafted drama that grips viewers from start to finish. Its engaging storyline, stellar performances, and stunning cinematography make it a standout in the world of K-dramas. Whether you're a fan of romance, comedy, or political intrigue, this series offers something for everyone. Prepare to be swept away by the heartfelt journey of Yoon Se-ri and Ri Jeong-hyeok as they defy the odds to be together.
Rating: 9.0/10
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Melodramatic and Campy
While I can see the appeal to this series, it had too much melodrama for my taste.❤ The heart of this story is the romance between Yoon Se-ri and Ri Jeong-hyeok. The actors had phenomenal chemistry together and really sold the believability of their star crossed lovers romance.
❤ Who doesn't love a found family story? Not me! Captain Ri's Company Five stole the show (and my heart). I loved all of them so, so much - taciturn Pyo Chi-su, stoic (but handsome!) Park Kwang-beom, nerdy Yoo Su-bin, and the kid-like Geum Eun-Dog. I loved how they all adopted Se-ri, and she them. The relationships they build between each other, the love they feel for each other, it was the best part of the show.
❤ The ones to get shafted here are by far the second lead couple, Gu Seung-Jung and Seo Dan. The two had decent chemistry together, and their respective stories fit well for the romantic aspect of their relationship. All of their build up was for nothing and the ending to their storyline was incredibly unsatisfying.
❤ The first part of the story is set in North Korea, while the latter half is mostly spent in South Korea. It was fascinating learning about the Korean Demilitarize Zone (KDZ) and the differences between the two countries. However, I'm not sure on the accurately portrayed by the North Korean portions of the show.
❤ If the plot hadn't gone in such a dramatic direction, I probably would have rated it higher. It was just a little too campy and over-the-top for me.
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Congratulates Hyun Bin and So Ye-Jin *** What a wonderful Drama in Fiction and Real Life***
I heard the news about main CP getting married in March'22, so I watched this drama to find out why so many fans are making such a great (happy) fuss about their marriage.The story could be little bit of fantasy because if he wasn't the son of high rank officer in N. Korea, and if she wasn't from the rich family in S. Korea, it could have been the bad ending, but it's a fictional drama, so I will accept it as is.
LOVE has no boundary. Two human being came to love each other then over came their difficulties to be together. Luckly CP had understanging parents to support their love.
Now the main CP are getting married in real life, what a joy. I was glad this drama is happy ending, and they actually love each other in real life !!!! This drama and theie marriage will complete the whole situation.
I wish ppl in both South and North Korea will be able to freely love each other one of these days!
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Damn
A tad unrealistic with the tornado, out of nowhere, but pretty good so far. I like the slow revealing of everything, and the episodes feel more than an hour long. Slowburn is how I prefer to have a romance unfold, and the found family elements are appreciated well still falling in line with the plot.The community of the North Korean village is funny, and I like how confident Se-ri is in the unification of North and South Korea. The slow but sure reveal of Se-ri's trauma and the relationship of this to her family is a rather delicate process the directors have done well. The community the women of the North Korean village have*Real Tears* The support they gave Ms. Ma even after being told not to!!!
Jeong-Hyeok is so serious and doesn't have any clue how funny it is ?!
I like how he pouts after Se-ri gives figure hearts to all the guys.
He cares for Se-ri and is getting her stuff to make her feel safe and himself trustworthy, especially because she didn't trust him about which way to go in the forest. The candle scene was beautiful, and I think the first time Se-ri saw Jeong-Hyeok as more than someone who will get her home. My favourite scene is the campfire because he gives Se-ri his jacket! Jeong-Hyeok invited romance, I'm afraid. His whole, I'm not protecting you, I'm just looking out for you attitude is great. And Se-ri knowing his I'm pretending not to be in love with eyes, incredible.
The last 20 minutes of ep. 6?! the goosebumps and near tears?! The stray tears that did fall during the snow-hug, and the tears that fell when Jeong-Hyeok told Se-ri to tell him when she sees and he'll find her in ep. 8?! Ep.10 >< The guys trying to blend in!? Also, the fact Se-ri just came back over to the South was a little wired and felt kinda like a plot hole, but *Shurg*. Se-ri scolding Jeong-Hyeok like a child was very funny and the whole scene with all the guys was definitely a little bit filler but also pretty cute. The scene in Subway when the guys find out Se-ri is awake, adorable!
Jung Man-bok deserves to be talked about as well. I like him, and despite his position, he is trying to be a good, honourable person. I change my mind, he's a dirty rat boy. NEVERMIND!!!
Seung-Jun is not my cup of tea, but he is funny in his ridiculous ways. I'm not a fan of his flakey ways, but it's like that one guy said, "You are trying to be human and a con man" Seung-Jun shouldn't be both, he's not good at either, but I think he could be better at being human. I admire him; I don't always agree with him, but he is changing and I can like that. DID HE REALLY HAVE TO DIE?!
Seo Dan's mother and uncle are the epitomai of brother/sister duos and the chaos that is siblings. Dan, herself isn't my favourite person, older but never wiser and holding on to things decades old. I am rooting for her and Seung-Jun though. Also, love how supportive Dan's mother is! The growth we saw Dan go through during those last few episodes!
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How to ruin a whole show
The story started pretty interesting but later it becomed an absurd and nonsense. Every potential plot was destroyed before it would appear.Main characters leaves North Korea without any difficulties, their escape is not even fully show. Where south korean soldiers? Where verifications? Border Interviews?
She literally crosses the border and puff - next day with full makeup she comes to the company headquater.
News about her comeback would be known before even she would be released from borders procedures. Revive someone who is oficially dead is not as easy.
Seri was not the only one who left North Korea in this riddicouls way. Soon almost half of main cast left North Korea. It was almost as easy as going to the supermarket. No one even bothered to make a scenes about it.
One scene - Guy in North Korea gets a phone that she will be killed. Puff - next scene the same guy is standing on the South Korea's street not even surprised by the surrounding technology.
Magic
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Im mad
i loved this, story was great n all, interestingn to watch, acting was great, it was funny and loveable but..spoilers ------
why did they have to kill off seung jun, i couldnt enjoy the ending cuz i was so mad that they didnt give seo dan a good ending, also why im never gonna watch this again cuz i cannot handle rewatching him die, its just too much. they legit revealed his whole backstory and why he did what he did and the side couple was more interesting to me, probably cuz i just liked their dynamic better, and boom they kill him off, i cant believe this
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Pulled me out of a drama slump! I really enjoyed this
I'd been starting several romance dramas and losing interest fast, but this one pulled me in with the fantastic script, compelling leads, and wonderfully strong chemistry between them. It's such a feel good drama with comedic twists that are genuinely funny. The story also tackles the complexities of North and South Korean politics in a delicate, nuanced, and light-hearted way.All of the characters are AMAZINGLY written! Even the villains who are supposed to be hated – I wound up loving them all in their own ways. Acting is superb all around. No surprise the leads are now dating in real life because their chemistry jumps off the screen. The second leads actually have a very compelling story as well, and I honestly found myself more emotionally invested in their outcome than the main leads -- which says a lot.
I loved this drama, it's perfect as a mood booster!
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Love knows no boundaries in this heartwarming K-drama that will leave you breathless.
-------------------------------- ✧✦ Pros ✦✧ --------------------------------✦ Stellar Cast: The talented ensemble cast, led by Son Ye-jin and Hyun Bin, delivers captivating performances that bring the characters to life and make their love story compelling.
✦ Cross-Border Romance: The forbidden love between a South Korean heiress and a North Korean soldier adds a unique and intriguing layer to the story, exploring themes of love, loyalty, and the division between the two Koreas.
✦ Perfect Blend of Romance and Comedy: The series strikes a delightful balance between heartwarming romance and laugh-out-loud comedy, creating a captivating blend of emotions that keeps viewers engaged throughout.
✦ Strong Character Development: The characters in "Crash Landing on You" undergo significant growth and transformation as they navigate cultural differences and personal challenges. Their development is authentic and relatable, making them easy to root for.
✦ Beautiful Cinematography: The stunning visuals, capturing both the picturesque South Korean landscape and the rugged beauty of North Korea, add a cinematic quality to the drama, enhancing the overall viewing experience.
--------------------------------------------------------- ✧✦ Cons ✦✧ ----------------------------------------------------------
✦ Pacing: At times, the drama's pacing can feel slow, particularly during certain subplots or backstory segments. However, this allows for more in-depth character development and adds to the emotional impact of the story.
✦ Unrealistic Elements: As with many romantic dramas, "Crash Landing on You" features certain implausible scenarios and coincidences that may require some suspension of disbelief.
--------------------------------------------------------- ✧✦ Characters & Story ✦✧ --------------------------------------------------
✦ Yoon Se-ri: The confident and independent South Korean heiress who accidentally crash-lands in North Korea. Her journey of self-discovery and adaptation in an unfamiliar environment forms the heart of the drama.
✦ Ri Jeong-hyeok: The stoic and honourable North Korean soldier who becomes Se-ri's protector and love interest. His struggle between duty and love creates emotional tension and depth.
✦ Secondary Characters: A diverse array of supporting characters, including Se-ri's loyal friends and Jeong-hyeok's fellow soldiers, bring depth and humour to the story, contributing to the overall charm of the drama.
✦ Cross-Border Relationships: The interactions between characters from different sides of the border highlight cultural differences and provide insights into the lives and experiences of North Koreans.
--------------------------------------------------------- ✧✦ Conclusion ✦✧ ----------------------------------------------------------
"Crash Landing on You" is a heartfelt and captivating K-drama that combines romance, comedy, and cross-border dynamics to create an unforgettable story. With its stellar cast, strong character development, and beautiful cinematography, it immerses viewers in a world of love, friendship, and overcoming obstacles. Although the pacing may feel slow at times, the emotional depth and genuine chemistry between the characters make it a must-watch for fans of romantic dramas. Get ready to fall in love with "Crash Landing on You" and be swept away by its powerful storytelling.
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Unsurpassed
I don't know if I'll see in my life such a beautiful story but at the same time so dramatic and full of moments of heartache, like this one. I don't know if I will see in my life a movie or series or drama that will make me cry as much as I cried watching CLOY. Just so you have an idea, I cried so much, I got dehydrated and had a urinary tract infection. Really connected events or just coincidence? I don't know but anyway.And acting from everyone in the cast? Just everything flawless. All managed to convey the emotions of their respective characters through their performances. The lead couple with surreal chemistry. So surreal that they became a couple in real life.
Alberto and Dan were the only ones wronged in this story. I don't even need to say why.
Anyway, no matter how much time passes, nothing and no one will surpass what CLOY is and was for those who have seen it!
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cropn's review - SPOILERS AHEAD -
This would possibly be my favorite drama of all time. Not only did I shed tears over this drama, but I would rewatch it so much.The storyline provides such a heart throb to viewers and explains how difficult it is to be these people, if this situation were to happen.
Having to fake it til you make it out alive, was really a playable and well thought out factor throughout. this drama. However, the love aspect would have to be the strongest thing for me yet.
From not caring much for each other to falling for each other. Then ultimately ending up with each other was the best feeling ever to witness and endure.
I feel that music-- piano is what really brought them to each other. Such a soothing play that brings back memories for both really set the mood.
Overall I give this drama a 100/100. I just love it.
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Son Ye-jin and Hyun Bin's performances were simply phenomenal
Sure, I'd be happy to elaborate on the acting in Crash Landing on You.Son Ye-jin and Hyun Bin's performances were simply phenomenal. Their on-screen chemistry was palpable and their nuanced portrayals of their characters' emotions and struggles were truly captivating.
Son Ye-jin's portrayal of Yoon Se-ri was particularly impressive. She effortlessly conveyed Se-ri's confident and independent persona as well as her vulnerability and inner turmoil. Her emotional range was incredible, as she seamlessly transitioned between humor, sadness, and hopelessness.
Hyun Bin, on the other hand, brought a quiet intensity to the role of Ri Jeong-hyeok. His stoic demeanor belied a deep well of emotion, which he conveyed through his expressive eyes and subtle facial expressions. He was especially powerful in the later episodes, as his character faced increasingly difficult choices and situations.
The supporting cast also delivered strong performances, with each actor bringing depth and nuance to their characters. The members of the North Korean army unit, in particular, added humor and heart to the drama, making them stand out as more than just caricatures of North Korean soldiers.
Overall, the acting in Crash Landing on You was top-notch and helped to elevate the drama to new heights. Son Ye-jin and Hyun Bin's chemistry and emotional performances were a major highlight of the drama, and the supporting cast also deserves recognition for their exceptional work.
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This was my first ever kdrama and is still the only one I’ve rewatched to this day. I know CLOY gets a lot of hype, but there is a reason for it! First off, the love story is epic and very well done. The premise of the show creates the perfect opportunity for a star-crossed lovers story. I love the meet-cute, I love the grumpy-sunshine trope, I love the backstory of their paths having crossed before. Many, many shows have the storyline that the leads have known each other in the past, but I think few have executed it the way that CLOY does. One of the reasons I think it’s so successful is that it’s not a forced storyline of them knowing each other as kids or unknowingly being a part of the same traumatic event, instead it shows the ways their paths have continued to cross against all odds. This aspect of the show had a fated lovers/red thread of destiny aspect to it that I just loved.
Captain Ri is so reserved for most of the show and, yes, he is constantly saving her life, but he also displays his love through such beautiful, little acts of consideration. Se-ri is also such a fantastic female lead. It would have been easy in a show like this to have her solely be the damsel in distress who needs saving from the hero, but she also saved him multiple times. Se-ri was brave and determined, a perfect match for Captain Ri.
Another one of my favorite parts of the show is the found family dynamic she has with all of his friends. Found family is one of the best tropes and CLOY does it so well. Se-ri had her own relationship with each of the soldiers and they all loved her so much by the end of the show. All of these characters added so much needed humor to the story.
I know not everyone does, but I loved secondary couple as well. I wish they’d gotten more time on screen together. The two of them seemed like a perfect match because they both could be pretty morally grey but had such a soft spot for each other.
I love the majority of this drama but there are a couple things that keep it from being a 10 for me. The first is that I really wish the main couple had been more passionate. These two people are living never knowing when they’ll be pulled apart forever and understanding that when that happens, they’ll never see each other again, and you’re telling me that they barely touch each other?! Yeah, right. There are also several plot lines that the show spends way too much time on, which makes the episodes a lot longer than they needed to be. Dan’s mom and uncle had too much screen time, as did Se-ri’s brothers. Se-ri’s family dynamics were very confusing, especially with her dad.
Even with my minor complaints, I would still recommend just about everyone to watch this show. This is a fantastic starter drama as well and it introduces you to a lot of the most beloved tropes. CLOY was unforgettable to me.
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