Hwang Si-mok's character development throughout the two seasons is like watching a baby grow up, and it's very satisfying and heartwarming to watch. We saw someone who seems to be cold, emotionally void of anything, and a loner in the beginning, but slowly begins to warm up and trust others. So seeing him and Han Yeo Jin at opposing sides of the prosecution and police throughout season 2, especially with them having little to no interactions at all, was a little heartbreaking to see. So surely, most of us cheered when we get glimpses of them together. The same goes whenever Si-mok and Seo Dong-jae have interactions, of which I would have loved to see more given the last scenes they had in season 1.

I just love how the plot was smartly written and well-executed, and props to the writer and director for casting such a solid and incredible cast. So many twists and turns, and the versatility they portray is truly commendable. This just shows that the cast need not to be entirely star-studded/full of A-listers (Bae Doona and Cho Seungwoo are though) to be able to make a drama successful.

The drama was able to excellently portray how the events that took place in season 1 shaped the characters at present. I'd like to believe that the fog in episode 1 was a foreshadowing on our morally gray characters and principles; the deeply-rooted corruption and power play; as well as the never-ending feeling of being lost and frustrated in pursuit of justice. And I'm pretty much in awe at how a motive so simple was made entirely intricate, and has managed to create a domino effect, affecting so many people and in so many ways. And in great detail, too! Even the slightest act or situation that may seem harmless or nothing at all, can bring so much implications and impact on the characters -- all because everyone has different motivations and principles.

The finale was a bit of a cliffhanger IMO, but I'm still incredibly hopeful that there will be a season 3 with how things ended.

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**This review was cross-posted on r/KDRAMA subreddit with a few changes

There were many things that I really loved about this drama, namely the emotional engagement. I love the dynamics between Hwi and Seon Ho. It incredibly destroyed me to see their friendship fall apart and see them on the opposite sides of conflict.

The OST was really immersive, although I've read that some people may not like it as is. Also, the high production value was no joke and this really translated to captivating fight sequences, well-written dialogues/characters, and cinematography.

I initially watched this drama because of WDH, but I ended up falling in love with the entire cast! They were superbly phenomenal, and I'm glad that each character got a chance to really shine in this drama. I love how the cast were able to give life and bring justice to such compelling characters.

I love the bond between the Hwi, Moon Bok, Jung Beom, and Park Chi Do. And they have a lot of endearing moments. But what stood out the most was of course, Seon Ho and Hwi's compelling friendship. They are in many ways, opposites. But they also complete each other. Star-crossed is one way to describe them.

Jang Hyuk as Bang Won was incredible! He's definitely a scene stealer and I now get all the buzz surrounding him. Seeing Bang Won and Hwi's paths meet and how their relationship fluorished and withered away was very interesting.

I liked Hui Jae and I think Seolhyun did a good job. She was brave, smart, and quick-witted in a male-dominated world, albeit underutilized. She started off as a strong character, but thought she fizzled out a couple of episodes later. I wish the writers gave more depth to her character.

I really appreciated the flashbacks and how it gave us insights on the circumstances that shaped the characters at present. On the flip side, it was particularly tragic to see all of the characters' turmoils when it comes to choosing between the greater and lesser evils.

Seon Ho is such a complicated character. I'm quite happy that the writers were able to flesh him out, and thus, we get to see his character development. Half of the time I'm kept guessing on where his loyalties lie. I've always inherently believed that he never wanted to hurt anyone. But for the times he was painted as the "bad guy", it aggravated me to see him make his choices. I felt like he was no better than his father. Though it was sad to see him lose himself in the process, Hwi wasn't a saint either. In his own way, dire circumstances had led Seon Ho to choose the lesser evil to survive, seek revenge against his father, and most importantly, keep the people he cherished safe.

There were many times that I felt immense emotions for Seon Ho. The most notable would definitely be grief for being completely alone after the sacrifices he made and consequences he suffered, especially at the very last moment(s). Another would be fear that he may have no reason to do the right thing anymore given the circumstances.

Seon Ho's animosity towards Bang Won was very compelling, and I can't blame him for that. Bang Won personified the discrimination Seon Ho has experienced for being an illegitimate child. At the same time, Bang Won represented everything he has been fighting for -- a world where everyone are treated as equals and have equal opportunities.

I won't deny that the show had its own share of flaws. The heavy plot armor was quite jarring. Dying after getting poisoned, stabbed or shot by arrows seems to be illegal in this drama. There were also inconsistencies wherein the writers/characters tend to forget where the battle wounds are. Secondly, I think that the romance contributed nothing to the plot. Although it was cute, the drama would've lived without it. However, these didn't really deter me from watching this drama because the plot was very compelling enough for me to stay.

I love how the finale mirrored the scene in the first one wherein Seon Ho and Hwi charged towards the palace gates together. Overall, I think that the episodes were well-stacked and although fast-paced, it was well executed --- wherein each episode set an intense precedent for the next ones. I could feel the anticipation building at the end of every episode. I also like how they were able to intricately weave very complicated characters' into historical facts. And most of all, they did an excellent job with portraying the characters' interpretations of what their country is; in focusing on how these events shaped the characters' fates and choices; and in blurring the lines between good and bad.

Though the finale was really heartbreaking, I thought that it was the only realistic one out of all possible endings. And I wouldn't have it any other way. I would gladly go through the process of rewatching and feeling very intense emotions all over again. It was such an incredible journey to have witnessed Seon Ho and Hwi's friendship fall apart and find each other again. Their bond had been tested by time, and more so by many betrayals and repeated stabbings. But in the end, they would always choose each other.

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**This review was cross-posted on r/KDRAMA subreddit with a few changes

Messing with time is always a dangerous thing. Finished 365: Repeat the Year a few days ago and it took me some time to gather my thoughts. But if there's one thing this drama did to me, it would be leaving me with a lot of afterthoughts and tears. It wasn't the most mind-blowing drama, but it did keep me thinking for days, especially with that ending.

I just find it fascinating that the writers wrote a story about toying with the human mind, most especially with the fear of the unknown future/playing with death. We have characters that try to play God and "offer redemption." And then we have characters that were blindsided with wanting to change their fates by going back in time, that they never thought of the consequences it could bring, leading them to make some hasty and immoral decisions. Sometimes, it made me wonder if they deserved such gruesome endings.

The cast was amazing, and I was satisfied with the complexity they protrayed. They showed various shades of white and black, that there were times wherein I couldn't differentiate them. And I can't even recall a moment where I did not suspect every single one of them and the reasons on why they reset. On the other hand, Nam Ji Hyun and Lee Joon Hyuk's chemistry was on fire!!! Their strong sense of justice brings light amidst all the mystery and betrayal surrounding them, and I could truly empathize with their plights. Their dynamics was pretty compelling, too! Watching their relationship grow was so heartwarming. They started off as strangers, then friends, and eventually to the point where they cared for each other deeply that they were willing to risk their lives for one another. They complement each other so well that I wouldn't even mind if romance was part of the story . And finally... we got strong leads who are actually SMART this time around!

Pacing-wise, it was well-executed, ALTHOUGH I wish the writers could've expounded more, maybe even scientifically, on how the reset came to be, and more so on Professor Hwang's and Sun Ho's motives. I just find the latter to be a bit shallow and not really convincing enough, along with other plotholes + inconsistencies. Like who kills people for no reason? I'm not sure if this was a writing choice, but I do understand if certain limitations played an influence, which led some things to be better left unsaid than end up being lost, too dragging or worse, a writing mess. I don't mind 365: RTY as a 12-episode format, though.

But overall, 365: Repeat the Year was still a solid and beautiful watch. Like I said earlier, it wasn't the most mind-blowing drama, BUT its unpredictability, as well as my curiosity, kept me on the edge of my seat. When we think things are going one way, the show surprises us and introduces a different take on the situation. Moreover, I just find it intriguing that no matter how big or small an action or situation may seem, it definitely triggers a domino effect amongst all the characters.

The finale had me crying and left my heart in shambles. Bittersweet is one way to describe it. I can't imagine the pain Hyeong Ju must've felt when he watched Ga Hyeon die with his own eyes; and all the more for having to do the reset with Ga Hyeon having no recollection of anything. But then, I also felt that it was a more "realistic" and fitting ending amongst other alternatives. A part of me felt hopeful for our leads this time around, that they could build their relationship without the pressure or fear of someone playing games with them. It also made me think that they were truly fated to meet, no matter what the circumstances or timelines may be -- that what's meant to happen will happen.

365: Repeat the Year is definitely one of the most solid dramas to have come out this year (sans the inconsistencies, of course). Lee Joon Hyuk is a certified scene stealer in this one, and I'm just amazed with his versatility on the roles he portrays across various dramas. He's one of the only actors who I've gotten quite invested with when it comes to binge watching their catalogues. You can bet that I'll definitely have my eyes on his upcoming works!

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**This review was cross-posted on r/KDRAMA subreddit with a few changes

Frankly, Save Me was psychologically draining. But I guess if I felt that way, the writers did a pretty good job?? Although I won't deny that the cast was stellar in inciting psychological dread among the viewers.

It was pretty disgusting that the curly haired guy and cult leader were preying on Sang Mi. The school bullies were assholes and I wanted to throttle them so bad. Seo Ye Ji was spectacular in portraying Sang Mi, especially her resilience (will be definitely looking forward to her future works!!). But feeling helpless for her character was so tiring, especially when everyone dismisses her. And feeling frustrated for the antagonists and adults in this show was entirely frustrating. For "mature" adults, Sang Hwan and his friends + Sang Mi seem to have more common sense than they do.

I also thought that Sang Hwan's "Stand tall" advice to Dong Chul felt hollow and doesn't provide any comfort. I think its something that's easy to say, but hard to live by. More so if you grew up on the other side of the fence, experienced many hardships, and have limited to no opportunities to give yourself a better life.

There were lots of conflicted loyalties/moral principles in this show. But I'm glad that Sang Hwan got a chance to redeem himself in the succeeding episodes, even if he failed at times. On the contrary, I think that Taecyeon's portrayal of the character was a bit stiff -- I'm not sure if its his delivery, or the way he was written. But its still decent nonetheless. It's just that WDH really stood out for me on this show.

Dong Chul has a good heart and a strong sense of justice, despite growing up in a poor neighborhood. I admire his selfless spirit, and it was very heartbreaking to see him being wronged by influential people, and to some extent, by Sang Hwan. Dong Chul eating jajangmyeon without his grandma (and even ordering a serving for her) after getting released from prison made me cry. Knowing that he doesn't have anyone to lean on at a young age was particularly heartbreaking.

They say that parents know best but this drama had a way of showing how such saying is flawed, which was pretty evident in Sang Hwan's and Sang Mi's parents. What the governor/Sang Hwan's dad did to his wife to save his seat in power was disgusting. But hey, I guess money and power talks. As for Sang Mi's dad, he was too incompetent and naive, and way beyond saving. It's very disappointing to see him brainwashed at a vulnerable point in their lives.

That said, I'm glad that the writers touched on a very sensitive topic, and gave us a glimpse on how dangerous and far-reaching a cult's influence can be. And more importantly, how they work and lure people by taking advantage of their weaknesses -- which just so happens in real life.

There was no romance in this drama, which I'm grateful for. It wouldn't have fit the bill given that Sang Mi's been through a lot and has a lot of healing to do. But the second lead syndrome was very strong.

The finale was one of the satisfying endings I've watched. I'm glad Sang Mi was able to save her mother from the cult. And I love how they referenced the cult leader's death with the fiery pit. It was particularly interesting to see Apostle Kang throughout the show. Sometimes, I'd think she'll be able to break free from the cult. But I guess her faith brought about by brainwashing overshadows such. I'm also wondering why she isn't in jail, but I did foresee her fate in the finale.

I felt that the stories of the other characters needed closure, although I wasn't really keeping my hopes up. I would've loved to see Dong Chul try out for the police force as they've alluded to Taecyeon's enlistment, and the journalist get acknowleged for uncovering the cult. A part of me will always wonder how compelling the scene would have been if it were Dong Chul to have stopped Sang Mi from setting the cult leader on fire instead of Sang Hwan. He was the one who was wrongfully imprisoned and experienced loss and grief. Yet his moral compass and principles remained unwavering.

The OST was pretty good and reminded me of Radioactive by Imagine Dragons. Though the writing was great, you wouldn't see me rewatching this because it was really disturbing.

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**This review was cross-posted on r/KDRAMA subreddit with a few changes

This was my first """medical""" drama (and Shin PD drama), and I gotta say that I was always interested in the human aspect of medicine, as I spent years studying animals. This allowed me to easily emphatize with the cast. But if there's one thing we probably have in common, its that some types of clients make us frustrated and drained lol. But at the end of the day, we have to try our hardest to understand where they are coming from. And at times, not all cases have a happy outcome. These circumstances, when combined, sometimes lead to burnout and compassion fatigue. I also liked how it was highlighted in one of the episodes that medical professionals always have to take responsibility for the things they say and do. Ultimately, the writers did an excellent job in depicting a typical hectic routine in a hospital setting, as well as the hardships medical professionals and even clients experience.

On the other hand, I am by no means criticizing medical dramas. I liked how HP was realistic and not overly dramatic to convey heartfelt emotions and messages. And I admire the efforts they put in to make the drama as accurate and realistic as possible. But I do understand that storylines may have to altered to serve the purpose of the characters and plot, as well as for entertainment.

The show wasn't something I fell in love with at first watch. Rather, it grew on me as we got to know more about the characters -- although I wasn't deeply invested emotionally in some of the characters as the show jumped from a multitude of cases. Anyway, I just love how its very wholesome and feel good. And the same can be said for its OST, which I think is incredible and one of the best I've heard over the course of dramas that I've watched. HP gave off a vibe that not all episodes were entirely connected, wherein the next episode picks up from the events of the previous one. It always starts off fresh, which was refreshing.

The star of the show was of course, the ensemble of five doctors, which all had a fair amount of screentime. Their chemistry and very close bond is just incredible. I also love how we get a glimpse of their varying personalities when they are together, and with their colleagues. And so it was HARD to pick a favorite character, though I always find myself sucking up to Ik-jun. This brought forth a newfound liking and appreciation for Jo Jung Suk. That said, I've always had an inkling that there was something between Ik-jun and Song-hwa. But I didn't actually expect him to act on his feelings. This storyline is definitely something I'll be looking forward to in Season 2. And I also thought that it was pretty comedic that they made fun of Jung-won's religious beliefs.

But but but I also have to give it to the supporting cast because they were stellar on their own. They were excellent in filling in the gaps, and giving us insights on the inner workings of the hospital and the 5 friends in its entirety. With this, Yoon-bok (Jo Yi Hyun) is also one of my favorite characters, partly because I can 100% relate to her when I was a student -- following doctors around like a sheep, absorbing new things like a sponge, and being downright amazed about learning (although a headache at times).

My favorite episode would definitely have to be the finale. I loved how they were able to depict and allowed the viewers to empathize with the different forms of joy and grief/loss, albeit through different circumstances and perspectives. I think that the complexity of these events is very unique in a way that it evokes the exact same emotion and message to a variety/multitude of viewers. A viewer may not be able to relate with one of the characters, but they could be a sobbing or cackling mess over another one. This may be the opposite for another viewer, and so on. While my heart broke for the mother who lost her child, with the expectant mothers holding their child outside the office -- y'all can bet that I cried the most when we got back to the med student (Yoon-bok) finding out that it was Song-hwa who operated on their mom.

Hospital Playlist is one of the best, if not the very best drama to have come out in 2020. I could see myself rewatching this if ever I need a good watch to soothe my soul.

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