My Dearest Part 2 (2023)

AN UNFORGETTABLE CINEMATIC MASTERPIECE !

***DISCLAIMER: This is just my opinion. We don’t have to agree and I’m not here to argue with anyone.***

THIS DRAMA IS BRILLIANT, INCREDIBLE, AMAZING, SHOW STOPPING AND SPECTACULAR. It may seem like I am over exaggerating but it was seriously so intense! I can’t even properly articulate how captivating it was. Not gonna lie the CHOKEHOLD this drama had me in for MONTHS definitely NEEDS TO BE STUDIED.

Since Part 1 this drama hooked me from the very beginning. The story is a long an tumultuous one, a rollercoaster ride with many many ups and downs for lack of better words. I feel I am truly blessed to have experienced this drama in 2023. I have always loved historical's especially in western shows but this drama made me realize my love for Saeguks in particular. This kdrama reminds me of every classic novel I've ever read. It’s filled with political intrigue, war, power struggles, women’s issues, survival, camaraderie, found family, societal expectations, class relations, love, marriage, the importance of reputation and so much more.  

If you are debating whether to watch it or not I suggest you go for it. I don’t want to give too much away but it’s definitely an experience you do not want to miss. I know some will disagree with me and find some fault but there is something interesting and captivating in every episode. Even if you don't want to admit it this drama is ADDICTING. It managed to evoke a lot of feelings whether that be frustration, annoyance, anger, sadness or adoration – THE WORKS! It put us ongoing watchers through the wringer each week but I wouldn’t have had it any other way. I feel so grateful to have known these characters and followed them along their journeys, both individual and together.

____________________________________________________

IN MORE DETAIL (SPOILERS AHEAD):

They exceeded my expectations in every episode. I can't express how wonderful this drama is. This show understands that every episode is important and that every single scene has a purpose. I'm astounded at the progress of the primary leads; they've come a long way. From the first episode, you can observe the difference and transformation. The intensity of the episodes, particularly their first reunion, the separation / goodbye, the "death" and their final reunion took a heavy toll on my emotions. 

I’d like to give a big thanks to the crew members that brought the cinematography to life. The same is true for the writer for having this degree of commitment to the story. Additionally, with each successive episode and scene, our main characters improved their craft. I really hope they win many awards!

Firstly I want to commend the talented Namkoong Min and Ahn Eun Jin for bringing our dearest Gil Chae and Jang Hyun to life. Our beloved Jangchae will be remembered forever and always. For me at least, they will go down as one of the BEST and MOST WELL WRITTEN CHARACTERS IN KDRAMA HISTORY. 

Gil Chae was My Dearest's actual heart and soul. She is undoubtedly my favorite character in 2023, and one of the top 3 in all of the dramas I have ever seen. Ahn Eun Jin's emotive and exceptional performance was profound. There are no words to express how much I adore Gil Chae. This drama proves that a strong-willed, feminine, kindhearted, sensitive, and perfectly imperfect female lead may exist without being annoyingly childish or portrayed as damsel in distress. Gil Chae truly matured throughout the course of this drama, and her character development is one of the best. I’m pleased Gil Chae never tried to define herself as a victim or force others to pity her. She remained resilient, resourceful, quick-witted, clever, and tenacious to the bitter end. Though she seemed overly understanding, selfless, and shortsighted at times, particularly when it came to Ryang Eum, the Qing Princess, and attempting to sacrifice her happiness in order protect Jang Hyun, her character was very nuanced, and I am grateful I got the opportunity to know her.

In a world of men, Jang Hyun is a "gentleman." I just felt compelled to make this point because he is by far the only male in this story who was kind, caring, compassionate wise beyond his years. Though I wished for more of his backstory as to how he became the man he is today, I believe the last two episodes neatly tied it up and as we watched him grow throughout the entire drama, you could always see and understand his motives because of the powerful messages he always managed to leave with other characters. I treasured watching him mature and prove himself to everyone. It was amazing to see him change his ideas after meeting Gil Chae and discovering someone he wanted to protect and stand by for years to come. Though he was a morally grey character in Part 1, he evolved into the guy he is today as a result of his experiences and the people he met along his journeys. He was more than just a merchant or an interpreter. He was the true diamond in the rough – the only one who saw everyone as a worthy human being and regarded everyone's life as important as his own. 

He is the only man in this drama who ever took the time to understand people and the world. Jang Hyun's gentle and compassionate remarks to Young Rang, his reprimand of the Qing Princess, his advise to the Crown Prince and Princess, his powerful heart-breaking confession to Gil Chae and his final appeals to his father will never be forgotten. 

The fact that Jang Hyun never once reduced a woman to her experiences needs to be recognized. He accepted Gil Chae as she was, never asked her to change and adored her and cherished her wholeheartedly. He is the epitome of what a guy should be. I know I've said it before, but he is the GOLD STANDARD. The fact that he had no intention of falling in love or even marrying until meeting Gil Chae years ago after saving her from falling from the swings says a lot. I will never ever forget the fact that after he first laid eyes on he he heard the sound of flowers and likened her to the marvel of Peru blooming. THAT IS A MAN HOPELESSLY IN LOVE. I admired how his loyalty to her never faltered for even one second. She was constantly at the back of his thoughts, no matter where he went or what he did. Even when his memories were erased, it was her voice that lingered.

Again I want to reiterate that Gil Chae and Jang Hyun are each others true equals. Their parallels and similar experiences say enough. They became daughters and sons to no one, yet they somehow found a home / safe place to land in each other. In their heart of hearts sworn by the moonlight and tied by the red thread of fate they were destined to always find each other. The ending of this drama is proof of that soul connection. Although people, places, and times changed throughout time, their love never wavered. That is more pure and sincere than any love story I have ever witnessed.

While love is not the main point of this drama, I can’t help but think it must be highlighted as the driving force that allowed them to be so courageous, endure, persevere and fight to protect the people they cared about.

I have never seen a kdrama where all the actors were actually flawless and nailed and sold their parts. I must applaud the actors who were members of the Royal palace, the Qing people and The Joseon captives who were so compelling! The supporting cast, which included children, intruders / invaders, and prisoners of war. I appreciate you putting your heart and soul into these performances. With the captives especially, you could feel their struggle, grief, frustration, heartbreak, and suffering. Even though they were only in a supporting role, they captured my attention and more than delivered in helping to make this drama feel more real and riveting.

I loved Gu Jam, he was always able to make you laugh especially in his interactions with Jong Jong. Even though I disliked Yeon Jun, you knew he was doing something right when he was able to make people hate him. I was proud of Eun Ae for making a comeback in the final episodes and shedding light on the patriarchal and sexist culture that has no regard for the rights of women. Even though I despised Gak Hwa, she managed to make us almost feel sorry for her when she changed her mind and released Jang Hyun. Although she was by no means a good person, I'm satisfied that she was able to find some sort of closure in the end. Yang Chun will always be remembered as a hero for giving his life to save the captives. From having mixed emotions towards In Ok to entrusting her to take care of his son Taeng Taeng, he has come a very long way.


DISLIKES:

(NB: This is about characters I disliked & pacing, not necessarily issues with the plot)

Ryang Eum – Oh boy! I definitely had a love hate relationship with him. I couldn’t stand him at all because he was the obstacle from part 1. If only he actually passed on Jang Hyun’s message and didn’t lie to Gil Chae that Jang Hyun had passed away our leads could have been together sooner. In part 2 you thought he would have learnt his lesson but no, he continued with his obsession and jealousy. He was so possessive over Jang Hyun even though he knew how much Jang Hyun and Gil Chae loved and would risk everything for each other. I also wish Ryang Eum's storyline was better developed because we just see him in a handful of scenes in prison wondering what happened to Jang Hyun after disclosing everything he knew and then nothing. I'd like to know how he was apprehended, why they thought he was insane, and why he was locked up for so long. I didn't like his character at first, but he matured and deserved better than the hand he was dealt. I'm sure he had no qualms about being imprisoned for Jang Hyun's sake / in his place, but it's unfortunate that he'll most likely have to live all his days in this manner. (Crazy bc I never thought I’d feel sorry for him either)

Yeon Jun - The last 2 episodes confirmed my hate and disdain for this man. His mindset is so ugly it shows that he does not care about women’s struggles. He doesn't really have a sense of direction or mind of his own. That’s why when Jang Chul hung himself and Eun Ae left him he tried to kill himself. He was such a pathetic coward to the very end. Out of all the characters he’s the one who never really changed for the better. He proved to be that same boy Gil Chae kept on pining over in the village because she did not know him better. Gil Chae dodged a bullet for sure, but Eun Ae who is such a sweet woman deserved so much better.

Officer Won Moo – Hated him from the moment he refused to believe Gil Chae was kidnapped. He spent all that time investigating and trying to find out whether she was actually taken or chose to run away with Jang Hyun instead of going out there, chasing down the intruders who took her and preventing her from crossing the border to Qing. Even after he found out the truth he was convinced by some men that she had already been defiled and that he would be better off re-marrying. He eventually abandoned her because he was weak and not able to endure her shame. The moment the husband chose his reputation over her wellbeing was the moment I considered them legally divorced. People are so quick to crucify Gil Chae and never hold Won Moo accountable but I am not one of those people. He literally went home, lied to everyone that thieves stole his goods, returned and then managed to knock up another woman all while Gil Chae was out their suffering and fighting for her life. I am glad he did not make an appearance in the last episodes after his exit in episode 16.

King Injoo – Senile and psychotic as ever. From day 1 we knew he would become an operative out to get everyone. I can’t believe he allowed the concubine Lady Cho to poison his mind against his own son and the captives. She prayed for their demise and in the end her curse came true. He was a fool and thats why he suffered in his last moments knowing he completely destroyed good people (the Crown Prince and Crown Princess)

Qing Princess – If you were here since the beginning you already know my sentiments towards her. Nothing changed for me because I hated her until the end. She had a change of heart in the end but that does not take away from the fact that she was ruthless, manipulative and selfish. She was 1 of the 2 obstacles in between our leads and I grew tired of her character. I felt like she took up a lot of screen time for such a boring character. It seemed like her entire existence revolved around Jang Hyun and trying to win his heart. That was disappointing since they made her character description seem like she was this badass princess. In my opinion she was all bark, no bite.

I believe that this drama could have been 4-5 episodes longer to fully delve into Jang Hyun and his sister's past. I was particularly interested Sam Do and his family – how they were murdered and how he became a slave. I also did not like the fact that Yeon Jun was used at the last minute to create unnecessary tension and strife in the last 2 episodes. To me, it just seemed like they tried to cram all that information in the eleventh hour. While I enjoyed it, as a lover of flashbacks and backstories, I wish there had been a bit more. 

Additionally, the concept of time between events in this drama doesn't really make much sense and trying to figure it out was a struggle. Nevertheless, I looked past these minor flaws and just appreciated the drama for what it was.


FINAL THOUGHTS:

I loved this drama so much, I don’t think anyone could have possibly loved this story more than me. I was there through it all –the back and forth, the miscommunication, tribulations, suffering, the pushing each other away, the tension, anguish, desire, the pain, the war, the heartbreak, and now the post series depression (PSD) that has ensued because this drama has ended. I'm not sure how another drama can ever equal this or fill the emptiness left by My Dearest. 

My heart is overflowing with love and excitement knowing that our dears – Gil Chae and Jang Hyun, are safe. They got to live the life they always wanted together, they got to grow old together, even if we couldn't see past their reunion on that beach. The emotional high at the end had me crying my eyes out. I didn't need a kiss since their hug and facial expressions told me all I needed to know.  They survived the storm and all of their trials and tribulations. THAT IS THE EPITOME OF TRUE LOVE AND DEVOTION. The fact that he lost his memories but remembered her voice and tracked it down to the precise location where she stated she wanted to live in the future is really full circle writing. 

Some may argue that the ending was a fan service, but to me it seemed appropriate. It took time for Gil Chae and Jang Hyun to reconnect and find each other again, which was realistic. I loved the parallel of the conclusion with the first episode where we see Gil Chae’s dream of her following the red thread she dropped, crossing so many terrains, weathering all seasons, seemingly running forever until finally sees her husband’s silhouette and meets him again on that beach. In the last scene Jang Hyun seems to remember Gil Chae and gives me so much peace knowing that she will be there every day from then on to remind him and ensure he never forgets her, himself or their story.

The OST is hauntingly beautiful and stays with you long after finishing the entire drama. I found myself listening to the OST while waiting on new episodes each week. Our lead, Ahn Eun Jin, sang one of the best songs, With My Heart. Additional appreciation goes to The Stray's My My Dearest, Lim Jae Hyun's Floral Shoes, MIYEON's Painted On The Moonlight, Kim Feel's My Star, and 2NB's Love Affair.

Would I recommend this drama to others? Yes. It's the BEST kdrama I've seen this year and my roman empire. I will never move on. I'll also never forget how much time I spent sitting and waiting for new episodes to come out week after week, or participating in discussions here. I met so many new people because of My Dearest. This drama may have started underrated and overlooked but I want to thank those that stuck around and made this whole experience unforgettable.

I know “My Dearest" will go down in history as a K-Drama classic. It has some of the greatest writing, acting, and directing, intriguing topics coupled with the tragedies of war, survival, sorrow, finding light in the darkness, healing / coping with trauma etc. In simple words it is everything I hoped for and more.

This drama explores consequences of war, love, duty, responsibility, and power shifts in history. The most pertinent message of the drama lies in the idea that there is hope during a time of war. It's a juxtaposition of love and war + sin and sacrifice. It demonstrates how GC and JH fall in love despite the war setting and develop a relationship with each other and overcome their perils and adversity. It also emphasizes patriarchal society's bleak outlook and the disastrous implications it has on its victims. The most important lesson is to acknowledge how fleeting life is and to seize each moment of happiness while it lasts.

Please be advised that this is not a happy story. It depicts the hardships of war in a realistic manner. If you're prepared to endure it, then watch this drama. I guarantee you won’t be disappointed. Each episode finishes on a cliffhanger that literally reels you back in and leaves you wanting more. If you don’t believe me then just watch and see for yourself.

With everything said I give this drama a 10/10.

Review of part 1 here: https://rb.gy/vplfh0

Thanks for reading & happy watching! 

❤️

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That Rare Gem in Drama

The series is superb and heading for greatness in the KDrama lists of its classics. First, there are wonderful aspects of "My Dearest"--great acting from the entire cast, superb writing, excellent, careful direction, deeply moving sound track, and more. Yet along with the carefully evolving FL, who is superb, it is the master class in acting that Namkoong Min is developing for us that makes me gasp. I am so deeply touched by what he has given both to AEJ as her Co-Star to work with and to us for our enjoyment. It is an unforgettable work of dramatic art in both his delicacy and strength. Plus those deeply expressive eyes and his quiet, beautiful voice. He has worked so hard for years and become one of the finest actors of his era.

This series began by teasing us with flirtations and long looks: a beautiful man with a fan loving a charming woman more than himself. It then advanced to the man dropping the fan that was only a distraction anyway to the real man, the experienced warrior behind those eyes who risks his life repeatedly, and the "girl on a swing" revealing herself as a brave warrior who assumes the leadership role to protect other women and children.

The series has steadily moved us through numerous scenes of increasing danger and heartbreak, that were leading us to where we are now. It is a love story, yes, but it is also about invasion, war, escape, resistance, horror, and the violent treatment of the poor, elderly, women and children in a horrific reverse of their community into a war zone with them as the sacrifice.

It is terrifying, heartbreaking. And no love story can change that. But it can give us hope. The woman in the love story is brave and resolute in protecting others. GC has become the woman LJH saw and fell in love with the first day as he watched her floating high on the swing. And he is not just the man who loves and protects her but is also revealed as the resistance fighter who saw her and knew who she was. As he tells Ryang, "you do not know what she means to me." But we do. They are both wonderful as is this constantly evolving story.

Update

"My Dearest" Eps 18 & 19
I was able to sit down with my morning coffee and enjoy both episodes this weekend.

And it was very interesting to see how the entire series was moving this way all along—just as the writer and direction teams intended. For this is not just the romance most of us here share an abiding hope will be fulfilled, but also a historical study of the Qing invasion and its effects on Joseon, its people at all levels, and its future. These are all seen in the madness of the king taken out on his own people and family, the grief of the people-symbolized in the death of the baby, that the mother must bury with her own hands—and the shared anguish of the citizens just trying to return home but slaughtered by the misuse of power.

Additionally, there is more than one love story, and they are on multiple levels. But of course the central love story is that of JH and GC, who at the beginning seem to be a man with a waving fan but who is so much more, and a woman with a rising swing who finds out who she really is through his love for her. If the writer closes next weekend the way she seems to be moving, the outcome will be complex, as is the historical reality. And it should also become one of Drama's greatest achievements. But even if it falls short, the writer, production team, cast, and composers have given us a series that many of us love. That is an achievement in itself. So onward to next weekend and closure with hope and maybe a few tears.

Final Episodes 20-21 Closure

There are tragedies, of course: this is a violent invasion; we will lose characters we care about and be disappointed in some others. But there are also blessings: GC’s growth into the strong, protective, loving woman she becomes is one of the finest in film. And JH always knew who she was. Ahn Eun Jin's transition in her performance is magnificent. And even the princess who wants JH so much does the right thing in the end: because she in fact does love him in her way. The cast on all levels is one of the most talented in KDrama—and they made us care. The production team taught us about the Qing invasion of Korea along with the monstrous political behavior of Koreans in power, and kept those effects, especially on the people, firmly in front of us.

Min Nam Koong as Jang Hyun created one of the most heroic characters in film, and he does it with his deceptive fan, steady calm, interrupted when needed by explosive defenses of his people and the woman he loves. But he is also funny, ironic, and adorable, created through his warm, beautiful voice, and the delicate expressions from his eyes and mouth. The man is simply beautiful and so gifted we fall in love with his characters. All of the cast and production team are outstanding—but it is Min Nam Koong who commands every scene he fills—and we cannot look away.

So though I didn't like JH getting beaten up all the time and being forced to use the amnesia trope not once but twice—I love "My Dearest" and its cast and production team and especially the character Jang Hyun that Min NamKoong created and so many of us fell in love with. He is one of the finest actors in the world today, and new fans are discovering him every day.

What a wonderful experience is this fine drama.
—AJ McAninch

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Another milestone of epic love story & a new aspirant for the hall of fame of historical KDramas

Now that another 11 episodes of the second season of “My Dearest” have come to an end, I have a couple of additional thoughts, that I would like to add to season 1.

First.
In my opinion, the mission (I am here referring to the side note of my review for season 1) was a complete success in terms of the haunting dramaturgical interlinking of personal fates, love stories and a historical context, whose traumatic shadows for the national self-image extend to this day. Therefore I consider “My Dearest” as definitely belonging to the hall of fame of historical KDramas. And as a milestone of epic love stories, too.
So, on the one hand, there is the never-ending, tragic roller coaster of this fateful lovers... at times you may even become impatient that this (hopefully!) has to come to a happy ending soon, shouldn´t it? On the other hand, it is precisely because of those two significantly insignificant contemporaries and their personal context that we are cleverly torn ever deeper into the actual historical and political framework of that time. Whether we like it or not. Basically, we are of course primarily concerned with the touching dynamic between the two :-) but, nevertheless, we inevitably get closer to the dilemmas of the people, their problematic king and the political framework of that historical chapter, too... Thus, the emotional intensity of the love story kind of also serves as the cream topping for an audience, who is going all the way through this humiliating (preferably repressed) time for Joseon.

This brings me to the second:
I was positively surprised, how Confucian moral values (based on ruling authority, especially morality and loyalty) are openly pilloried in this production. Actually, the MBC KDrama production “My Dearest” from 2023 takes a pleasingly liberal stand, when it comes to a conclusion. Officially, in the narrative of the story, authoritarian values are upheld, but for the audience, this supposedly unerring path to ´order´ and ´harmony´ is clearly revealed to have failed.
It is said that the fish rots from the head down. Eventually, when it comes to such a stench, the noble, ethical-political teaching of Confucius must fail, too, if authority (embodied by the king, the teacher or the father) is weak, sick and delusional. Loyalty to a delusional king or an almost fanatical adherence to principles obviously borders on stupidity. Thus, it doesn't accomplish anything. On the contrary. Dramaturgically speaking, “My Dearest”´ haunting dynamic is driven by exactly this officially ethically legitimated, but then in fact again personally motivated 'stupidity' of some, who call themselves scholars or nobles. Practically speaking, it is about stranded traditional Confucian values… and therefore, as far as Joseon at that time is concerned, highly self-critical, too. (E.g. it is neither ONLY the Qing, to be blamed, nor ONLY the Joseon king…)

P.S.:
And as a third:
In my opinion, Ahn Eun-jin in the role of Gil-chae has really catapulted herself into a new league of acting over the course of the series - with her increasing presence, depth, authenticity and overall growing charisma. Respect! I'm definitely looking forward to further productions with her as female lead...

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my dearest

"My Dearest" is a shining gem in the world of
television series, deserving every one of its five
stars. From the moment I started watching, I was
hooked by the exceptional acting, enthralling plot,
and overall production quality that this show offers.
Home
{ * | 86%
The acting in "My Dearest" is nothing short of
brilliant. Every character is portrayed with depth and
authenticity, making it easy to emotionally invest in
their stories. The cast's performances are so
genuine that you forget you're watching actors - it's
like peering into the lives of real people. This level of
skill and dedication from the actors truly elevates
the show to greatness.
|||
Discussions
The song track of the series is a work of art in itself.
Every song selection complements the mood and
atmosphere of the scenes perfectly, enhancing the
emotional impact of key moments. Whether it's a
heart-wrenching ballad during a poignant scene or
an upbeat tune during a joyous celebration, the
music adds an extra layer of depth to the viewing
experience.
Cinematographically, "My Dearest" is a visual feast.
The camera work, lighting, and overall composition
are all executed with meticulous attention to detail.
The stunning visuals enhance the storytelling,

In conclusion, "My Dearest" is a masterpiece that
excels in every aspect a series should. With
outstanding acting, an engrossing plot, a beautiful
song track, and stunning cinematography, it has
earned its place as one of the finest series to grace
the screen. If you're looking for a show that will
captivate your heart and mind, "My Dearest" is an
absolute must-watch.

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BEST ROMANCE DRAMA BY FAR.

I don't know how else to describe this drama other than the fact that this is a MASTERPIECE.

My Dearest is simply not as hyped up as it needs to be. "One of the best historical kdramas, best 2023 historical kdrama", guys this is THE drama for me, NOT just in 2023, and not enough words can express how much I love this kdrama. I get that this is a historical kdrama so it's not really a lot of people's thing, but coming from someone who's also not a typical fan of watching historical kdramas (like seriously given the option I would choose a modern drama over historical 9/10 times, usually because I'm not a fan of political/historical stuff and seeing historical costumes) this is an absolute must watch. From the scenery, the story, the acting, the character themselves, to the romance, everything was so perfect to me. Emphasis on 'to me', because I know some people were disappointed with Part 2.

Let's start off with the storyline. For those of you who may not know, the drama's premise is based on Gone With the Wind, Yoo Gil Chae being Scarlett O'Hara and Lee Jang Hyun being Rhett Butler. If you know GWTW, trust me when I say this has a much more satisfying plotline, and while the characters start off acting exactly the same, the character development is outstanding and the latter half of the drama is nothing like the original movie/novel it is based off of. For those that don't know GWTW and decided to search it up, this is a lot less icky since in the original Scarlett is in love with her cousin and they even kiss once - bleh. My Dearest takes place in the 1600s and while I was a little confused with all the history stuff in the beginning, I still understood what was happening for the most part. Basically, the Qing Dynasty is invading the Joseon Dynasty because the Qing are at war with the Ming, and Joseon has friendly relations with the Ming. To sever these relations, the Qing invade Joseon to have an upper hand on the Ming. Anyways, if you're looking for a drama with interesting MCs, friendship, romance, backstabbers, and an interesting storyline, this is the one!! My credentials: Some of my top dramas are Move to Heaven, 2521, Law School, Youth of May, A Time Called You, Penthouse (mostly szn 1), Alchemy of Souls, Our Beloved Summer, and All of Us Are Dead, so if we have the same taste, maybe give this one a shot!

Now down to the actual review part (spoilers!!)

Part 1 - Characters:
Gil Chae. Rich Gil Chae, poor Gil Chae, beautiful Gil Chae, ugly Gil Chae. From an immature, spoiled noblewoman to a selfless and courageous fighter within a few episodes. Her character development was one of my favourite things in this drama. The way she was forced to grow up quickly to protect her friends and family was heartbreaking to watch, and Ahn Eun Jin literally killed this role. The way GC had such modern perspectives in a historical setting was very refreshing and not enough people thought the way she did! The way she reassures Eun Nae that it's not her fault she was almost assaulted by an invader. To be honest their entire friendship with each other and their maids was so heartwarming. The way these women care and look out for each other is not something we see enough in dramas these days.

Jang Hyun. "Do you hear it? It's the sound of the flowers blooming." This line changed lives. The most romantic line I have ever heard come out of someone's mouth. The way Lee Jang Hyun is the STANDARD of standards is something that needs to be studied. He took green flag to the top of the flag pole and kdrama men are fighting for their lives to reach him. I completely understand why people say Namgoong Min is an incredible actor. This was my first time watching one of his roles and I was shell-shocked, in awe of this man's acting. The way his eyes speak volumes of his emotions is insane. He went from being a selfish playboy who never wanted to get married, to the most caring man who only wanted to keep GC safe and would marry her if she allowed it. From someone who didn't even have the word loyalty in his dictionary and couldn't write a single word about it on an exam, to someone who had the most unwavering loyalty to GC during the most difficult times. Part 1 was truly engaging, especially with JH's fight scenes that were very well directed. I just love when men are smart and useful, and that is exactly what JH is throughout this entire drama.

Eun Nae. She is simply so pure and innocent and you can't help but feel bad for her. Growing up in a society of very one track minded women, telling everyone moments before disaster strikes that if you're so much as even touched by an invader your chastity is ruined and you become a disgrace to society (because that's what's important apparently). I can't believe this is truly how people thought back then when this happened, it's absolutely heartbreaking that they place 'chastity' over women's' lives. EN was such a good friend to GC and knew her so well, and didn't even mind it when GC was in love with Yeon Jun (but of course it wasn't true love). I'm so glad that in this version GC never sabotaged EN for YJ's love, and simply chose methods that involved attempting to seduce him lol. She knew from the start where GC's heart was and she was definitely the captain of this ship. bless her. She even supported GC on running away with JH if it would make her happy.

Yeon Jun. What interesting words to describe trash. This man deserved none of these women's love. He was a fool for wanting to protect a King that ran away without even knowing how to fight, it was so pathetic. He definitely was stringing GC along when he knew he would never actually get with her because she didn't fit the typical wife standards. I don't know what EN sees in him and she deserves 100000 times better.

Ryang Eum. What a controversial character!! Although I know we all hate him for what he did, let's face it, it was necessary to continue the story. Dude gave us part 2. I hate YJ more than RE. While RE was indeed selfish and wanted JH to himself while knowing JH would never reciprocate his feelings, let's be sooo for real we would've done the same for JH lol.

Part 1 - Storyline:

To those who thought the drama was boring in the first few episodes, it was necessary to depict the difference in quality of life before, during, and after the Qing invasion. The way the setting went from bright, colourful, and lighthearted scenes of noblewomen only worrying about whether they'll get married or not, to dark, cold, and violent tragedies was a thrilling transition. Again, those fight scenes with JH were one of the more interesting things in Part 1 and it was so cool see JH's swordsmanship. The constant bickering and teasing of our MCs was so funny and kept things hopeful even when disaster strikes. The way they kept on reuniting whether they both knew it or not, was so defining of them as soulmates. The whole invasion taking place was what made it thrilling, worried about what other tragedies would befall our main characters.

After the invasion ended we were again given GC and JH obstacles, with GC not being over YJ and basically telling JH to leave with the Crown Prince. While I want to say it was dumb for her not to have moved on from someone who shows no intentions of being with her, I completely understand it because he was who she grew up admiring for the longest time. YJ is someone she knows while JH is someone who came into her life a few months ago, how scary it would be to trust and love someone she didn't fully know yet? She had to be given time to grow and understand her feelings. In that time GC only grew even further and proved herself to be a savvy independent businesswoman who knew how to make money without a man having to help her.

No matter what people say, she WAITED for JH and I know RE misunderstood that she was engaged but she only agreed after thinking JH was dead because she wanted a better life for her family (especially cause YJ that hoe went off to help the King and left EN to fend for herself), my girl had MOUTHS TO FEED. Anyways, their reunion in Pt. 1 was short-lived but gave us so many romantic scenes. What do you mean JH bought her dozens of floral shoes, what do you mean he asked her to run away with him, what do you MEAN he said he'd become her servant and not just her husband??? Her fiancée knew what he was doing using her dad to get her to stay with him, because deep down he knew her family was the only reason she agreed to marry him and it wasn't because she ever fell in love with him, not once. I can't even remember the asshole's name while writing this. Won Moo. That bitch. Him and YJ fall into the same category - GARBAGEE.

The ending of Pt. 1 brought me to tears, literally nonstop waterfalls, and I never wanted a happy ending for two characters more than for GC and JH. I actually cried in almost every episode here whether it was getting emotional over GC's selflessness, JH's disappointment in winning over GC, or their heartbreaking departures from each other. The most enticing Part 1 to a drama and I will never forget it.

Part 2 - Storyline:

GC and JH apart yet again, and this time not just a few months but a few years. GC is married, JH has a literal princess after him, possibility of the couple getting together?? (never zero!). JH once again proving how smart he is by advising the Crown Prince on how to deal with the Qing's demands. Also, still have to give credit to RE for pushing JH to save the Joseon captives, while he's not by his side in the first half, JH still held up on his end. Although I do think this is something JH would have done regardless. At the end of the day, he is simply someone who deeply cares even when he says he doesn't. And dare I say RE character redemption for telling GC's family about her disappearance. But of course her husband assumes the worst instead (do I hear... insecure jerk!?). Not even joking, him giving up her bail money to those thieves, just because he heard she was sold already is a whole other level of dickhead men in kdramas.

GC truly had it hard in life, and somehow continued to have it hard in Pt. 2. This girl has been through so much like please give her a break. The way she found a way out of every horrible situation she had been in when she had me so worried for her, and how she refused to seek JH's help because she was ashamed of leaving him. The scene where he sees her at the stand about to be sold was so heart wrenching. The way he let her go thinking she'd live her best life even without him and she ended up where he never thought she would. Their love for each other after so many years is what kept me going and you can see it in the way they look at each other. Gag Hwa (the princess) needed to leave them alone omg. But honestly, the GH storyline was so interesting to me, the way they made her slightly similar to GC in the sense of them both not following typical standards for how they should act as women. But you could tell how different she was with the way she thought about people (like the captives). In a way I think she was very similar to JH in Pt. 1, that same type of selfishness and the pride she carried herself with. But JH changed himself for the better. I wanna say what she did to GC only drew the two closer together for the better. JH was so hilarious for pretending to be sick for that long.

One thing I admired is that GC had her own morals and values that she always followed, nothing happened between her and JH until she got an explanation from her husband. Too bad it wasn't an explanation she got but the biggest betrayal. I can't believe that man went and got remarried, while leaving his wife he claimed to care about to die. The thing that had me most upset was the way people were treating her after she was literally kidnapped. The way her own sister was worried she was r**** not because she cared about her but because of their reputation, and the way her own father tried to kill her as he thought it was the only way she could live with herself. The only one who truly cared about her wellbeing back at home was EN. The was exactly what she needed to realize though for her to finally go to JH. Even her own family could not accept her, so she could go to the one who accepted her no matter what, after leaving him once before because of her family. Seriously guys the scene makes me tear up just thinking about it. His acceptance of what she had been through was so beautiful and she finally found a place of comfort and safety she had always longed for. I know some people were debating whether or not she was assaulted but in truth it didn't matter - what mattered was JH didn't care about any of that stuff, she was it for him. We again got to witness the constant pushing and pulling, the distance and the longing, it made my heart feel emotions I've never felt before. It might've been frustrating for some people, but for me, it was the best part of this entire drama. It's the buildup of their romance that's so grand and obvious until they finally collide - what the universe always meant for.

Then tragedy strikes again - surprised, not really. Basically people die and JH wasn't there to save them - oh no they have to follow history, it's fine, we got an episode and a half of peace, I'm not complaining. I truly only cared about GC and JH's ending. All I have to say is, King was so worried about his position for what, bro had to give it up one day.. also that concubine of his? Maddening, and I felt so bad for the Crown Prince and Princess. Also, GH letting go of JH is totally mirroring JH letting go of GC, although it was her threatening him with a knife before she did that lol. The captives finally go free - yay! Honourable mention for Jong Jong and Gu Jam. Then the King's people is sent to kill all the captives, seriously this guy is something else. GC was absolutely spot on about YJ though, since Pt. 1 she said she admired him for never changing and always following his own set of rules, and that's exactly what he did. He was just like everyone else and believed women should kill themselves than continue living if they were touched by invaders, even failed to accept his own wife who has done nothing but support him and she was only grabbed by her wrists. Then goes onto almost kill JH (side note, glad JH's dad died cause he was another disappointing character). Then of course JH nearly dies YET AGAIN. I know some people found the two times memory loss thing ridiculous but lowkey? I'm not sure if it was intentional bc I heard they might've changed the ending for the viewers. But you know how RE told GC the first time JH lost his memory that he thought JH would remember her of all people, and that's exactly what he did the second time. The only thing he remembered was literally only her. Heartbreaking, but beautiful, their reunion (so many reunions) on the beach was gorgeous and I'm just so glad they got the happy ending they deserve. I think his memory loss also caused him to forget RE in that mental hospital cell though poor guy.

Their love story spanned years, and that's one of my favourite things. Their feelings remained the same throughout everything and developed the strongest love I've ever seen, overcoming the greatest obstacles ever to be together. I know since this is a historical kdrama revolving around war and everything, so obviously there are more extremities on what they sacrifice for each other but that's exactly what tugged on my heart strings this entire drama. I don't really get the people saying Pt. 2 wasn't as good, but it may also be that I binged Pt. 1 and 2 while only waiting for the last 2 episodes. While obviously not as great as Pt. 1, Pt. 2 did not fall short of my expectations and I take noo criticism on this lol. People have not seen a GREEN flag until they've seen JH. Every single actor in this drama really sealed the deal, no one was lacking and their delivery for everything was perfect and met my expectations for what people were saying as a great drama. Truly the best drama I have seen by far. IT'S SO DEAR TO ME no one understands!!!

Music:

Lastly, the music. The soundtrack has never left my mind since I completed this drama. I listen to it every night before I fall asleep. With My Heart was beautiful, sang by both Kai and Ahn Eun Jin. My other favourites are The Painted on The Moonlight, and My Star. But my true favourite was definitely the instrumentals, it's etched into my brain - Fate, My Dearest, Lyrical, and With My Heart instrumental.

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Unwavering Love and Unyielding Spirit

"My Dearest" Part 1 and 2

Part 1: Captivating Beginnings

"My Dearest" opens with a compelling blend of romance and resilience, drawing viewers into the intricate lives of its protagonists. The initial episodes set a strong foundation, introducing characters whose unexpected meeting sparks a deep and evolving relationship. The narrative is marked by heartwarming moments and significant challenges, creating a storyline that is both engaging and emotionally resonant.

The series excels in its visual and sound design, with stunning cinematography that captures the beauty of the settings and the emotional depth of the characters. The soundtrack, too, enhances the viewing experience, perfectly complementing the drama’s poignant and uplifting moments.

Themes

Part 1 revolves around love, personal growth, and overcoming adversity. The drama explores how individuals cope with loss and find strength in their connections with others, adding depth and relevance to the story.

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Part 2: Intensifying Emotions and Deepening Bonds

In Part 2, "My Dearest" intensifies its emotional stakes and deepens the bonds between characters. The storyline progresses with greater complexity, as the protagonists face more significant obstacles that test their resilience and commitment. The series continues to deliver powerful moments of love and drama, keeping viewers thoroughly invested.

The second part maintains the high standards of visual and sound design established in the first. The cinematography remains breathtaking, with each scene meticulously crafted to enhance the overall aesthetic. The soundtrack continues to play a crucial role, adding layers of emotion to the unfolding drama.

in Part 2 further explore love and resilience, delving deeper into the characters’ struggles and triumphs. The drama also touches on societal issues, enriching the narrative and providing a broader context for the characters’ journeys.

"My Dearest" is a standout Korean drama that masterfully blends heartfelt romance and gripping drama across both parts. Its strong performances, beautiful visuals, and emotional depth create a series that resonates long after the final episode. Whether you are a seasoned fan of Korean dramas or new to the genre, "My Dearest" offers a profoundly moving and satisfying viewing experience.

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Master class in storytelling

There are so many arcs about this drama that deserve recognition but first and foremost, an award has to go to the scriptwriter Hwang Jin Young who masterfully created an interwoven piece of fiction with historical events. The flowing narrative of Lee Jang Hyun and Yoo Gil Chae flows within a nation under constant siege.

The acting in this drama is above excellent, especially from Namkoong Min (Lee Jang Hyun), Ahn Eun Jin (Yoo Gil Chae),
Lee Hak Joo (Nam Yeon Jun) and Kim Yoon Woo (Ryang Eum). The romance and stretched ties between Jang Hyan and Gil Chae are neither overdone nor underwhelming. They are a couple drawn to each other, distrustful of one another and yearn for each other throughout. The separation arcs are not contrived but seen as a symptom of the times; those not in the ruling class are at the contrived whims of those that are. There were several times that this drama was put in pause in order to emotionally calm back down.

The secondary parts of Yeon Jun and Ryang Eum are flawlessly portrayed on screen, and I look forward to future roles they are a part of. Yeon Jun is married to Gil Chae's best friend but also secretly attracted to Gil Chae. This character does not act on his attraction, not because of duty or loyalty but because his wife's family could advance his career as a scholar. Ryang Eum was perhaps the most fascinating character because of an illicit longing for the person who saved him from a slave's life: Jang Hyun. He is pitiful, beautiful and selfish and this part in the hands of a lesser actor would have made him an antagonist that left the viewers without thought. Kim Yoon Woo's acting was flawless in the part and deserves recognition for a nuanced and emotional portrayal.

The hardest and most riveting part of this drama was how it handled those captured by enemies and the unflinching pious attitude of elite nobility. A society more concerned with purity, bloodlines and social acclaim than aiding those who were helpless. I've read much about historical Korean standards towards women and most dramas will tell the story but not in a way that involved me emotionally. In this drama, the women, children and elderly who were captured, released and then brutally murdered by a cowardly king and court, shined a spotlight that could not have been brighter on societal hypocrisy. Again, the screenwriter created a beautiful, brutal world that has relevance in modern times. Brilliant and timeless writing by a master.

I've rarely called any drama masterful, but this title is deserved by all involved. If you're undecided if it's worth the time, please push play. You'll never regret it.

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The best Kdrama of 2023, without a doubt ☆✲ﾟ｡(((´♡‿♡`+)))｡ﾟ✲☆

EPIC MASTERPIECE, PAINFULL AND HISTORICALLY REALISTIC

PLOT: FL, a very beautiful girl, attrrracts the attention of everyone, except that of the man she loves, now married to her best friend. The ML is a mysterious man, and the FL, not knowing what he has done for her, doen't trust him and married a captain. Nevertheless, barbarians invade the territory and the country is now subject to the Qing, a cruel and merciless dynasty in its conquest....
The Qing invade Joseon, to recover soldiers, labor and supplies, in order to overthrow the Ming dynasty & conquer/unite the territory of what will become China.

PROS:
+ Namkoong Min as ML is exceptional. Really !! I knew he was a great actor, but he brings this complex and tormented character to life in a phenomenal way. He IS Jang Hyun ...and he makes us love him.
Without a doubt, one of his greatest roles. (•̀ᴗ•́)و ̑̑

+ Ahn Eun Jin as FL, is also outstanding. She is strong, resilient, smart.

+ the characters are complex, divided between their desires and their responsibilities, tossed around by events. I hate the character of Ryan Eum (played by an excellent actor) whose affection/love for his "big brother" and jealousy are deeply toxic.

+ The series also transcribes the principles, the confucius morality, the values ​​of the time: the different social classes, the (very weak) statuts of women, the little importance of some human lives, etc. It was really a hard time !!

+ The OSTs are now on my playlist,and stay in my head for a long time.

+ The production is excellent: credible and bloody war scenes ; the tensed, heavy atmosphere of these times of war is well rendered; the cinematography is exceptional.

+ The storyline is solid and the historical aspect seems respected. It is a period which has never or rarely (to my knowledge) been brought to the screen.

CONS:
NONE.

=> Don't miss this gem !! ╰(✿´⌣`✿)╯♡

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Romance mixed with Historical Drama

I watch "The Real Has Come" and I wondered how K-Drama Producers and Writers could go beyond that Drama, because it was a great drama. I found the answer in the drama "My Dearest" and "My Dearest 2". These two drama are outstanding.

The costumes for there era is on point. The raw violence for that era, makes you wonder it you could survive in that era. Scenery and stag props goes with the times. It makes you wonder how in the world could one live back then. The Life expectancy for that time couldn't be that long. The way women were treated wasn't very well, especially if you were poor. I mean look at how they were treated they got caught by the invaders. If their family would out cast if they came back and were touch by an invader. The Boyfriends or husbands didn't want anything to do them. I hate it when people can see that a person is crazy, but follow them anyway.

The music score is right on point. In this drama you don't have this misplace music. Parts of this drama makes you angry and make you think "Why did they so that?" I can't say it enough this Drama is outstanding in every manner.

I am not from Korea, so I have so many questions; which is good. It will cause to to want to know more about that era. All I can say is that if you watch this drama and you don't like it: you're brain dead. I like the twist at the end. I love the ending.

I highly recommend to watch this drama. I will watch it again.

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Absolutely the Best Love Story

According to MDL, I've watched at least 114 K-Dramas; several of them over 100 episodes.
This one has shot straight up to Number One, after watching it all.

My awards:
Most Breathtaking Actor: Namkoong Min (Lee Jeong Hyeon)
Most Convincing Character Growth: Ahn Eun Jin (Yu Gil Chae)
Most Tragic Character (tied with Bidam [Seondeok]): Kim Yoon Woo (Ryang Eum)
Most Inspiring Support Role: Choi Mu Seong (Gu Yang Cheon)
Most Supportive Friend: Ahn Eun Jin (Kyung Eun Ae)

Honorable Mentions:
Most Delusional/Pathetic Character: Moon Sung Geun (Lee Yeon Hyeon's ... spoiler)
2nd Most Delusional/Pathetic Character: Lee Hak Joo (Nam Yeon Jun)

Best Ending Ever: My Dearest (Part 2)

Cannot recommend this drama highly enough.
You have to watch it to believe it. I will never forget it.
Also, cinematography to die for.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ... ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

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do you hear it? it is the sound of the flowers

it is such a beautifully crafted story and one of the best historical dramas that i've seen in a while after "the red sleeve". it really makes you think about society during the joseon era and teaches you so much. not only that, the slow burn love between the two main characters make every moment that they spend together so rewarding to watch. as they are parted many time due to politics and war, their perseverance to live for one another is truly beautiful and is what made me binge this drama in such a short time.

spoiler: after i finished it, i rewatched the ending of the first episode to see janghyun say his infamous line "it is the sound of the flowers" and realised that both his and gilchae's monologues were from the ending of episode 21. this absolutely made me cry because it really made everything full circle and that their love was really meant to be from the very beginning.

i also have to say how much i love gilchae's character development as she was never portrayed as a damsel in distress and weak. instead she grew from a childish girl to such a wise woman who is always strong for those around her. additionally janghyun is a whole green forest. i love his adoration for gilchae and his perseverance for her returning love. i watched every their moment in fear thinking that they wouldn't have a happy ending but i was so glad when she had found him waiting for her.

my most memorable moment of their relationship was when she opened up about being defiled by the barbarians and he gave her a hug. rather than being disappointed that she had lost her chastity and walking away, he cared for her, sympathise with the pain she went through and even asked if he could hold her. i absolutely bawled in that scene and it was one of the defining moments that solidified his love for her. janghyun had previously said that his mind, heart and body belonged to her right before they were about to elope which also made me cry so much. he truly embodies all the affirmations of love and his character is just so heartwarming to watch. despite gilchae's countless rejections, he strikes back with even stronger feelings and continuously tries to pursue her in the best way possible.

i absolutely loved every moment of this drama and it won the 60th baeksang award for a reason. i highly recommend this drama

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An another level drama

An another level drama. A masterpiece.
I think it will be one of the top drama in my list. Top Kdrama 2023.
Very beautiful drama.

Watching this feels like I really feel the sound of flowers, the sound of wave, the sound of wind, the sound of snow.

Every bit of silent momen in this drama is beautiful and elegant.

This drama is rewatchable, but not in the near future, it takes a lot of energy to watch it.

And I can also confirm that I got post-traumatic drama disorder after watching this.

Looks like I need a cheap romcom drama after watching this.

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