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King the Land korean drama review
Completed
King the Land
2 people found this review helpful
by Chantal_789
Jun 1, 2024
16 of 16 episodes seen
Completed
Overall 7.5
Story 5.0
Acting/Cast 8.0
Music 7.0
Rewatch Value 5.0
This review may contain spoilers

Review: Lee Junho Shines, But the Story Falls Flat

First and foremost, let me declare that Lee Junho has never appeared more dashing. From the moment he leaps from the helicopter, fans and even non-fans will undoubtedly swoon. His acting is impeccable throughout. However, this cannot mask the fact that the story lacks excitement and a compelling climax.

The drama aims to deliver a sweet romantic comedy, utilizing all the essential formulas while avoiding the typical pitfalls like childhood connections, unnecessary separations, or lurking killers. While I appreciate this attempt, it ultimately falls short. Around episodes 9 or 10, the drama begins to lose momentum, leaving me wondering, "Is this it?"

For instance, the synopsis presents Guwon, the male lead, as the third-generation heir of a hotel group, embroiled in an inheritance battle with his half-sister. Yet, there is hardly any screen time or intelligent strategy showing how he wins this battle. Throughout the drama, we rarely see him at work or displaying his professional acumen. We were eager to see how this Oxford/Cambridge graduate could lead and transform the hotel group, but that aspect is sorely underdeveloped. Even the subplot of his missing mother, which was supposed to significantly impact his upbringing, feels underutilized.

Every romcom has its sidekicks for both leads. Unfortunately, these characters aren't effective here. The comedy between No Sang Sik and Guwon feels forced, and the subplot involving Kang Da Eul and her husband/in-laws adds no value to the overall story.

As a Junho fan, I want to say this is a great drama, but sadly that is not the case. The first half was enjoyable, filled with charm and promise, but the second half fails to deliver on that initial potential. The plot becomes repetitive, and the lack of depth in both the main and supporting storylines leaves much to be desired. Ultimately, while Lee Junho's performance is a highlight, it is not enough to save a story that falls flat and struggles to maintain its momentum.
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