I started watching this drama after almost all the episodes had aired, so I could watch them back-to-back without the disadvantage of having to wait week after week for new material. From what I've seen of people's complaints, I think the biggest problem with this drama is that people set their expectations WAY too high because this was Lee Min Ho's first drama since his return from enlistment, and it felt like people were expecting something that would rival Goblin. Which is why people were so disappointed when it turned out to be an "alright" drama filled with the typical product placement that is rampant in most dramas (Do you want some skin care with that fried chicken, anyone?).

The concept and storytelling was good, the acting was great, and the OST is memorable. Hwa Sa's Orbit will be on repeat for a while to come. I wouldn't say the drama was exceptionally brilliant by any means, which is what I think everyone wanted it to be, but it is NOT bad. Lee Min Ho was dreamy as the king hopelessly in love with the woman of his dreams. In addition Kim Go Eun, Woo Do Hwan, and Kim Kyung Nam especially did a great job in this drama.

The only thing about this drama that somewhat disappointed me was the ending. Endings are hard to get right, especially in dramas containing time travel, so I am not surprised that the finale was full of plot holes. However, despite my personal dissatisfaction with certain writing choices for the ending, it was alright. For new viewers who are just discovering this drama, I would simply suggest that they skip reading the comments and spoiler-y reviews, and simply watch it without bias and do not expect it to be another Goblin.