What I liked about this drama...
- Nice cast... JHI <3
- Chemistry was cute between the main couple
- The ending was rewarding after the long turmoil we had to endure together with the main characters.

What I didnt like about this drama...
- I often read the word "realistic" used to describe this drama, but I don’t see why. Is this really the norm in other people’s dating lives? To me, this drama was just another melodrama. It wasn’t relatable overall, and I didn’t like the atmosphere it created—encouraging viewers to break up with their boyfriend for someone like YJH. Honestly, it’s highly unlikely you’d meet someone like that from the start. To me, love is something you grow together with. Maybe I’m being extra bitter because I started justifying breaking up with my boyfriend, thinking he doesn’t deserve me. I think this was the underlying message of this drama and It isnt really healthy.

I’m not sure about the rest, like being a single dad or divorcing an abusive husband. I’ve never experienced those things, so I can’t say if this drama portrayed them realistically.


Overall
It wasn’t a bad drama at all! It was actually a nice escape from reality for me, hahaha. I loved the acting, and I even caught myself grinning sometimes when I saw the main characters together—they were so cute~~! If the director's purpose was to depict the hardships of divorcing or breaking up with manipulative partners, I think it fulfilled its goal!

I recommend this drama to people who enjoy melodramas with good acting and might need a push to leave their partner.

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Story
My favorite and least favorite part of this drama was the story. I loved its moral—how evil people continue to harm others without sacrificing nearly as much as the good people, who endure so much to protect what’s right. It felt unfair at times, but even so, the good people persevered and ultimately found happiness. Justice prevailed, and that made it all worthwhile.

Romance
The main characters’ chemistry was amazing! It wasn’t just about their banter but also how they consciously chose to love each other through countless challenges. The story beautifully emphasized that what truly matters is what’s on the inside, not outward appearances, and that love is ultimately a choice.

Loyalty
I also appreciated how clearly the lines between good and evil were drawn. Watching this gave me a sense of security because I knew the good characters wouldn’t betray one another. The last time I felt this way was while watching Demon Slayer XD. The good characters in Alchemy of Souls were genuinely likable, and I loved the relationships among them.

Especially the Crown Prince—he had so many opportunities to get jealous or join the evil side, but he stayed true to his beliefs and overcame his struggles. By doing so, he was able to build meaningful friendships and surround himself with good people. He truly deserves a happy ending (even beyond what we saw in the drama)!

What Could Have Been Better
Now, onto what I didn’t like—or rather, what I think diminished the drama’s potential—the lack of episodes! The plot could have been developed more thoroughly, allowing us to follow the story at a better pace. Instead, it felt rushed.

Why? I wanted more of Uk and Naksu—UKSU <3. I also wanted to see Uk mourn for Mudeok and uncover Buyeon as Naksu. However, the rushed pacing made it difficult for many viewers to accept Buyeon’s character. It felt like such a missed opportunity.

Final Thoughts
Overall, I loved the drama! Even though it could have been better, I truly appreciated the story’s intention and message. Every actor gave their all, and it was evident in the way they brought their characters to life.

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