I love how complex and developed both the characters and plot were. I hated the characters, yet loved them all the same. It was happy, but it was sad. The characters were terrible, but they were wonderful. The acting was fantastic, especially Yoo Ah-In's. The actors were able to express such complicated character that I can't help but applaud them. The first few episodes provide backstory, but after that the show pics up a lot (actually the first few episodes themselves were pretty fast-paced). The ending was appropriate and realistic. The writer did a really good job showing the different sides of each of the characters. This is one of the few dramas I actually cried while watching. However, don't be afraid there is enough humorous and happy moments to balance the sad moments.
   Originally I was skeptical I would be able to make it through all 50 episodes, but once I started watching I never looked back.  Since this show is based on actual history, most of the major events were real. Even for those who do know the history that happened behind it, the show does a good job building suspense and garnering a reaction out of the audience. The OST (was spot on and truly fit each of the characters.
   The show was epic and humanistic. I assure you, you won't regret it.