Dear Hongrang

This was a nice surprise from Netflix. From the very begining you jump right into action, no time is wasted on dragging scenes and no redundant dialogue. It' about a long lost son of a wealthy and powerful family and the people around him on how they manage to keep up with their lives after he was lost,what they did to look for him and what happens after they eventualy do find him. The series is packed with fast moving scenes,fights,mistery and strong leads. It's not the usual cringy K-drama love but more a hate-love dynamic all over.

I like that it's placed in Joseon and they wraped it all up in only 12 episodes. Great for binge watchig!

I bridged the drama over two days as I could not stop watching it. The cinematography and acting are amazing. I love the storyline and how slowly we are getting to the truth. Not a single episode was boring. The chemistry between the leads is awesome! I love the bond Jae I and Hong Rang had. Their eyes speak for themselves. The fighting scenes were great as well. It was a real surprise to see the real villain. I will not say more to avoid spoilers.

The OST is great, so fitting to the drama. It is not a typical drama; it is dark, and with each episode, there is more suffering, but it is a beautiful story of two people who try to protect each other. The last episode was very emotional.

Dear Hongrang is a mesmerizing addition to Netflix's K-drama lineup, weaving a rich tapestry of mystery, romance, and historical intrigue set against the backdrop of the late Joseon Dynasty. Adapted from Jang Da-hye's novel Tangeum: Swallowing Gold, the series delves deep into the complexities of identity, familial bonds, and the haunting shadows of the past.

Lee Jae-wook delivers a compelling performance as Hong-rang, the long-lost son of a powerful merchant family who returns after twelve years with no memory of his past. His portrayal captures the enigmatic nature of a man caught between two worlds. Jo Bo-ah shines as Jae-yi, Hong-rang's half-sister, whose unwavering determination to uncover the truth adds depth to the narrative. Their on-screen chemistry brings to life a relationship fraught with tension, suspicion, and unspoken emotions.

The series masterfully balances its intricate plot with emotional depth. As Jae-yi grapples with the possibility that the man claiming to be her brother might be an imposter, viewers are taken on a journey filled with unexpected twists and revelations. The narrative delves into themes of love, betrayal, and the lengths one will go to protect their family.

Visually, Dear Hongrang is a feast for the eyes. The series boasts stunning cinematography, capturing the essence of the Joseon era with meticulous attention to detail. From the intricate hanbok costumes that reflect each character's personality to the authentic filming locations like Gyeongju and Jeonju Hanok Village, every frame immerses the viewer in a bygone era.

In conclusion, Dear Hongrang stands out as a poignant exploration of identity and the complexities of human relationships. Its compelling storyline, strong performances, and visual splendor make it a must-watch for fans of historical dramas and intricate narratives. The series not only entertains but also invites viewers to reflect on the nature of truth, love, and the ties that bind us.

I watched this show in one sitting incapable of stopping as it was soooo good! High class filming and top notch acting to tell a very dramatic story of good and evil and everlasting love in Joseon ambiance. Both main leads gave amazing performances but I am weak for Lee Jae-Wook acting, always so intense and nuanced. The actor really shined in this dramatic role confirming once again that he is one of the best Korean actors around, and probably the best one of his generation. I highly recommend this thrilling and intensely moving drama that kept me awake an entire night and made me feel a whole web of difference emotions.

Pretty sure y'all are fans of Jang Uk from alchemy of souls just like me and would have known Jo Bo Ah from Tale of nine tailed. "Dear Hongrang" explores the unspoken issues of the Joseon period, such as the disappearance of small children, the harsh realities faced by children born out of wedlock, adoption, and complex relationships. The female lead is a true embodiment of a damsel in distress; she prioritizes the well-being of others over her own and leads an honest life. The plot takes a wild turn when the male lead appears, claiming to be her lost little brother from twelve years ago.

My only complaint about this drama is that no one voices the plot twists clearly. It requires careful attention, especially if you're not Korean like me. The subplots can make it challenging to understand the main storyline. At times, the story feels like it's going in circles without a clear conclusion, as all the characters simply try to get through the day. The female lead, male lead, and the supporting male lead all had difficult childhoods, and leaning on each other became their only source of strength and support. Their lives are manipulated by malicious individuals behind the scenes.

Overall, the series has a gloomy tone, very serious with little humor. However, the original soundtrack (OST) was exceptional and added depth to the somber atmosphere they aimed to create. It's worth watching at least once if you're a fan of the cast mentioned above. Thank you for reading this, and I hope you have a great day!