BAEKHYUN - Betcha @ Lonsdaleite Seoul Day 2 (cr. spring b)
trying on a metaphor

blake kathryn
DEAR READER
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Three Goblin Art
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if i look back, i am lost

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todays bird
noise dept.
wallacepolsom
PUT YOUR BEARD IN MY MOUTH

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shark vs the universe
d e v o n

Janaina Medeiros
Lint Roller? I Barely Know Her
taylor price
almost home
Xuebing Du
seen from United States
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@kindofvoguish
BAEKHYUN - Betcha @ Lonsdaleite Seoul Day 2 (cr. spring b)
monsta x 〘230113〙 beautiful liar
We started a #kpop podcast.
Please let us know your thoughts.
First episode drops May 27th.
it’s today or never. you know when you get the conviction it’s time.
VOYAGER FIRST SINGLE ALBUM ❖ KIHYUN (2022)
If 2020 was a precursor to what was to come in the K-Drama industry, I don't think we as fans were ready. With endless time on our hands in 2020 and the beginning of 2021, South Korea was pumping out hit after hit. With the an international spotlight now shining on this little East Asian country, they show no signs of stopping and instead have told the world to "catch up."
Here are the best K-Dramas of 2021.
Squid Game
Plot: Hundreds of cash-strapped contestants accept an invitation to compete in children's games for a tempting prize, but the stakes are deadly. Who's in It: Jung HoYeon, Lee Jung Jae, Wi Ha Joon, and Park Hae Soo Where to Watch: Netflix
Youth of May
Plot: Kim Myung-hee is a skilled but cold nurse. Hwang Hee-tae is a smart troublemaker who enters the Seoul National University College of Medicine. They meet in the spring of 1980 during the Gwangju Uprising. Who's in It: Go Min Si, Lee Do Hyun, Lee Sang Yi, and Geum Sae Rok Where to Watch: VIKI Taxi Driver
Plot: Rainbow Taxi Company and the taxi driver, Do-gi regain justice that Korean society has lost by seeking revenge on criminals who get away with their evil deeds. Who's in It: Lee Je Hoon, Esom, Lee Na Eun, and Kin Eui Sang Where to Watch: VIKI Sell Your Haunted House
Plot: Hong Ji Ah and Oh In Beom are real estate brokers who exorcise ghosts from buildings in which people have died. Together they work together to learn the secret behind Ji Ah's mother's death. Who's in It: Jang Nara, Jung Yong Hwa, and Choi Woo Sung Where to Watch: VIKI My Name
Plot: Following her father's murder, a revenge-driven woman puts her trust in a powerful crime boss — and enters the police force under his direction. Who's in It: Han So Hee, Ahn Bo Hyun, Park Hee Soon, and Kim Sang Ho Where to Watch: Netflix Mouse
Plot: After surviving a dangerous encounter with a ruthless psychopathic serial killer, rookie police office Jung Ba Reum's life gets complicated as he is driven to find out the truth behind psychopathic behavior with his partner Ko Moo Chi. Who's in It: Lee Seung Gi, Park Joo Hyun, and Lee Hee Joon Where to Watch: VIKI Vincenzo
Plot: During a visit to his motherland, a Korean-Italian mafia lawyer gives a conglomerate a taste of its own medicine with a side of justice. Who's in It: Song Joong Ki, Jeon Yeo Been, Ok Taecyeon and Kwak Dong Yeon Where to Watch: Netflix Nevertheless
Plot: An uncertain romance begins between a heartbroken woman who no longer believes in love and a flirtatious man who does not want to commit to a relationship. Who's in It: Song Kang, Han So Hee, and Chae Jong Hyeop Where to Watch: Netflix D.P
Plot: A young private's assignment to capture army deserters reveals the painful reality endured by enlistees during their compulsory calls of duty. Who's in It: Jung Hae In, Koo Kyo Hwan, Son Seokgu, and Shin Seung Ho Where to Watch: Netflix The Red Sleeve
Plot: Set in the 18th century, "Red Sleeve" depicts a love story between King Jeongjo and royal concubine Uibin Sung. Sung Deok-Im is a court lady. Who's in It: Lee Jun Ho, Lee See Young, Kang Hoon, and Jang Hee Jin Where to Watch: VIKI
rush hour mv teaser
MMA vs. MAMA Award Shows Showdown: Part 2
From calling out chart manipulation tactics in acceptance speeches and getting fan lightsticks banned to riding into a performance on real horses and everything in between, the Melon Music Awards and Mnet Asian Music Awards are the must-watch awards shows for K-Pop fans of any size.
MNet Asian Music Awards
Launched in 1999 and modeled after the popular MTV VMAs, the MNet Asian Music Awards (or MAMA as it’s known by fans and artists), is a major South Korean music awards ceremony presented annually by entertainment company CJ E&M. Artists and music experts from South Korea, Japan, China, Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam who participated in music-related content (writing, singing, producing, etc.) are eligible to be nominated for a MAMA (between October 1, 2019, and September 30, 2020, for the 2020 awards). Nominees for K-Pop categories are chosen by calculating things like music sales, record sales, and MAMA Professional Panel. Fans can vote once per day and can use up to 10 different platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Kakao to sign in to vote -- so technically they could vote 10 times per day if they so choose. The 2020 voting period was over a month-long which allowed fans to be eligible for fansign lotteries if they voted every day. Congratulations to those lucky winners, am I right?!
Similar to the MMAs, the MAMAs are a sought-after stage to perform on for artists. Artists pull out all the stops to impress their peers, impress their fans, and transition into superstar status. However, MAMA isn’t just a place for artists to showcase their talent, fans flock to this event so much so that lightsticks were banned. That didn’t stop ARMY from sneaking them in in 2019 and subsequently being called to arms by BTS’s Taehyung on stage.
So instead of giving you over twenty years of best moments, here’s some from the last four in anticipation of 2020.
2NE1 Performance 2015
Not one to mince words, 2NE1’s devil-may-care attitude style performance at the 2015 MAMA awards cemented them as one of the girl groups of the decade.
TWICE Song of the Year Speech 2016
From Best Rookie in 2015 to Song of the Year in 2016, TWICE had a lot to be proud of and were more than appreciative of each other, their staff, and fans.
Taemin Performance 2017
Taemin is one of the best and most innovative dancers in the K-Pop industry, so a solo performance must be a win-win for all, right?
MONSTA X Performance 2017
MONSTA X’s iconic rap line was front and center to kick off their MAMA performance, but it was their elegant lyrics that won the hearts of fans and fellow idols by the end.
BTS Artist of the Year Speech 2018
Never one to shy away from wearing their hearts on their sleeves, BTS’s 2018 speech isn’t for the faint of heart.
Stray Kids Performance 2018
Rookie group Stray Kids took their MAMA performance to the next level by starting in the nose bleeds with fans.
ATEEZ Performance 2019
ATEEZ are self-proclaimed BTS fanboys, so it’s no surprise that they started their epic performance with their rendition of a few BTS favorites and ended with a surprise fan service moment.
BTS Artist of the Year Speech 2019
Chart manipulation is huge in the music industry, but it takes real guts to comment on it on a public stage.
GOT7 Moments 2019
Jackson, Jackson, Jackson. If you didn’t think K-Pop artists were expressive, funny, and terrible at hiding their emotions, think again.
The 2020 MNet Asian Music Awards
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this year was the first time in eleven years that the MNet Asian Music Awards were held entirely in South Korea. Even though the 2020 award ceremony was an un-tact (non-face-to-face) event it was still business as usual for artists and celebrities alike. From popular actresses and actors presenters and the charismatic host, Song Joong Ki to solo and group artists, the red carpet was full of celebrities serving amazing looks.
The Awards
Eighteen of the fifty-two award categories at the 2020 MNet Asian Music Awards were voted on by fans. So how did the fandoms perform in securing their favorite group or groups? ARMY proved to be a force to be reckoned with for the second year in a row as they helped BTS secure Artist of the Year, Album of the Year, Song of the Year, and Worldwide Icon of the Year. Other notable winners included Monsta X (Best Stage), Taemin (Favorite Male Solo Dance Performance), ATEEZ (Discover of the year), and SEVENTEEN (Global Favorite Performer).
The Performances
This year’s list of performers included ATEEZ, BTS, Cravity, Enhypen, (G)I-DLE, GOT7, IZ*ONE, JO1, Mamamoo, Monsta X, NCT, Oh My Girl, Seventeen, Stray Kids, Taemin, The Boyz, Treasure, Twice, and TXT. So what artist or artists had the coolest performance? Here’s my take on the best performances and moments of the night.
ATEEZ - Inception + Answer
ATEEZ has found their rhythm as of late in a vampire-esque storyline complete with gothic costumes, makeup, and synchronization that’ll make you swoon.
BTS - ON
BTS’s ON Kinetic Manifesto Film: Come Prima music video is iconic not only because of the location (L.A.) but also the choreography and live marching band. So how could it not be epic on a larger stage?
GOT7 - Not by the Moon
One of the few groups to use the whole stage (and then some) GOT7’s Not by the Moon performance was as beautiful as you’d expect from these Worldwide Fans’ Choice Award winners.
MAMAMOO’s Hwasa – Maria
Don’t blink or you might miss something cool as Hwasa takes Maria to the next level with sexy dance moves, water, and more. Nothing less than you’d expect from the woman who won Best Solo Dance Performance, right?
Stray Kids - Victory Song
Wow - simply wow. Stray Kids transformed into stunning gladiators (complete with weapons) for this remixed performance and you can’t help but cheer for their victory to the end.
WayV - Turn Back Time
Who doesn’t love a little water? This NCT subunit septuplet didn’t miss a beat in this beautiful choreographed rendition of their hit on the main stage.
While you can’t technically compare apples to oranges, the same can’t be said for MMA and MAMA. In previous years artists have taken it as a personal challenge to outdo each other as well as themselves if they made it to one of if not both grand stages to perform. This year, however, the MAMAs seemed to beat the MMAs in every category. From red carpet fashion and slo-mo photo bots to the use of AR/XR technology and costuming, artists, performers, and celebrities gave it their best effort.
MMA vs. MAMA Award Shows Showdown: Part 1
From calling out chart manipulation tactics in acceptance speeches and getting fan lightsticks banned to riding into a performance on real horses and everything in between, the Melon Music Awards and Mnet Asian Music Awards are the must-watch awards shows for K-Pop fans of any size.
Melon Music Awards
Launched in 2009, the Melon Music Awards (also known as MMA) is a major music award show held annually in South Korea concerning the online music store, Melon. Nominees are chosen by calculating artists’ weekly Melon Popularity Award votes, song downloads, and streaming counts on Melon during a specific time frame (such as November 30, 2019, and November 10, 2020, for the 2020 awards). Fans must be verified Melon users to vote and can vote once per day during the voting period. Once the voting for the “TOP 10” closes, nominees for the remaining categories are announced and another round of voting begins. Sounds easy enough right?
Since 2015, the Melon Music Awards has become an influential stage to perform and/or win on because it virtually sets up the artist or group’s success for the next year. Here’s a look back at some of the best performances and moments in recent years.
MONSTA X Performance Award Speech 2015
Not even 6 months since debut, MONSTA X landed their first major award show win and to say they were unprepared is a gross understatement.
EXO Artist of the Year Award Speech 2016
Even though EXO won artist of the year, they still took the time to identify and compliment other artists they admired for also working hard that year.
BTS Album of the Year Win 2016
From being blissfully unaware that they’d win to sharing their emotions (tears included) on stage, BTS didn’t hold back their appreciation for this award as well as their love for their fans.
IU Performance 2017
If you need a beautiful, effortless, and moving performance, IU is your girl! It’s no wonder she is a favorite among celebrities in the Korean entertainment industry.
BLACKPINK Best Dance Female 2018
What’s cooler than winning the award for Best Dance Female? Having a young dancer tease you’re the winner by doing various song choreography in front of a venue full of K-Pop artists and fans.
(G)I-dle Performance 2018
Proving they deserved Female Best New Artist Award, (G)I-dle award show performance was nothing short of show-stopping.
BTS Performance 2019
BTS turned the 2019 Melon Music Awards into a mini-concert with solos by members, VCRs, and moments that will make your jaw drop.
The 2020 MMA Awards
This year the Melon Music Awards held a four-day event from December 2 through December 5, dubbed “MMA Week.” MMA Week featured a variety of performances, special videos, stories, and interactions with fans online. Awards were announced throughout the week, which seemed to take away (at least for me) from the overall excitement of the award show. The main award ceremony was broadcast on Melon’s official YouTube channel, Melon app, and various other online platforms on December 5. While many of the awards were given out throughout the week, the red carpet was still the place to be for many artists.
So who was the big/biggest winner? What artist had the best performance?
The Awards
The biggest winner of the 2020 Melon Music Awards was BTS as they took home five MMAs including Artist of the Year, Best Dance Male, Neitzen’s Choice, Album of the Year, and Song of the Year. Other winners included Monsta X as Best Performance, BLACKPINK for Best Dance female, and The Boyz for best Original content on 1theK.
The Performances
As previously mentioned the 2020 MMAs were turned into a weeklong event as opposed to a one-and-done evening event. This year’s performers included BTS, TXT, Monsta X, Im Young Woong, Young Tak, Oh My Girl, IZ*ONE, JANNABI’s Choi Jung Hoon, Simon Dominic, Code Kunst, and The Boyz. A shorter list than you’d expect right? However, that didn’t stop these artists from pulling out all the stops on not one, but multiple performances throughout the night.
BTS – Black Swan (dance performance), ON, Life Goes On, and Dynamite
Hot off their 2019 MMA performance and ready for more, BTS set the bar once again by showcasing that you can turn any performance into a mini-concert with the right mindset. What’s more - they didn’t fill in the parts of their member Suga who is out due to shoulder surgery and let it play (they must miss him).
Monsta X – Intro, Beast Mode, and Love Killa
What do you get when you combine highly difficult choreography, commanding stage presence, and effortlessly seductive costuming? Proof that they do it better, especially when they go back to their roots.
Oh My Girl - Far + Bon Voyage (YooA solo), Dolphin (acoustic version), and Nonstop
There’s nothing that a whimsical, yet refined performance can’t fix, right? As one of the few female performers on the main night, this was the one to watch.
TXT – PUMA, Blue Hour (dance break version), and The Chaos Chapter (new album) teaser
From the highest highs to the lowest lows, TXT took fans on a rollercoaster of emotions and if The Chaos Chapter is really what’s next - I for one can’t wait!
Boys Love: What to Watch in 2021 Part 3
In the final part of our Boy Love: What to Watch in 2021 series, I take a look at my favorite and most-watched shows in the 18+ rating category. I also included some shows that have one-off episodes that tell the story or stories of a variety of characters across 1-2 episodes as well as some upcoming shows I can't wait to see.
Be Loved In The House: I Do (Taiwanese)
Seisei Studio is in danger of going bankrupt when Jin Yu Zhen appears. As the new director, he enforces a single rule "no romantic relationships between employees." Upset, Shi Lei, starts snooping around for information on his new boss in an attempt to abolish the rule. After various encounters both at home and at work, the duo's relationship becomes more complicated than either could have imagined. Can Yu Zhen get over his troubled past and find love?
Actors: Aaron Lai, Hank Wang, Liao Wei Po, Jn Yu, Yao Mi, and Chen Xi Teng
Author Note: Not only was the chemistry between Aaron and Hank on-screen amazing but also off-screen in the behind-the-scenes footage. The NSFW scenes were especially delightful and left viewers foaming at the mouth for more.
HIStory3: Make Our Days Count (Taiwanese)
Hao Ting and Xi Gu are both senior high school students, but their personalities couldn’t be more different. While Hao Ting is an extrovert and known for being a troublemaker, Xi Gu is quiet and studious. Their classmate Sun works part-time at his cousin’s gym, where he develops a massive crush on one of the regulars, who just happens to be Xi Gu’s boss Zhi Gang. What happens when these two "couples" worlds collide?
Actors: Wayne Song, Huang Juan Zhi, Thomas Chang, Wilson Liu, Xia En, and Xia De
Author Note: The second lead couple totally eclipsed the leads in this drama. Not to mention the NSFW scenes between Sun and Lu are HAWT.
HIStory4: Close to You (Taiwanese)
Xiao Li Cheng can close a deal without even blinking an eye, but when it comes to love, he could use a little help. So he enlists the help of his co-worker, Teng Mu Ren in hopes of attracting fujoshi, Mei Fang. Meanwhile, their friend and co-worker, Ye Xing Si, finds himself caught in an equally unexpected relationship with his two-faced step-brother, Fu Yong Jie, a medical student with an inexplicable obsession with him. As the four men struggle to understand their feelings, they begin to realize that when it comes to matters of the heart anything is possible.
Actors: An Jung Peng, Charles Tu, Anson Chen, Lin Chai Wei, and Cindy Chi
Author Note: HIStory has been turning up the NSFW heat since both HIStory3's and this season is no different. The chemistry and storyline between the two lead couples were phenomenal and it was a treat to see Sun and Lu in this series as well.
Like Love (Chinese)
Mai Ding and An Zi Yan are college acquaintances who start military training. As the two grow closer together, their relationship blossoms from acquaintances to friends to lovers. As their love grows, so does the opposition from friends and family. Can An Zi Yan's ex-girlfriend help them get past these obstacles?
Actors: Huang Li Ge, Korn Kong, and Edward Zhang
Author Note: I know what you're thinking - what a Chinese BL drama and one that survived censorship at that! You can find the uncut version still on YouTube and yes, it is well worth the watch even for a drama from 2014.
Manner of Death (Thai)
When a man breaks into Dr. Bunnakit's house and threatens him to change his recent medical examination report to suicide, he doesn't take this threat seriously. But all that changes when one of his friends, a prosecutor, suddenly disappears. He quietly conducts his own investigation and all clues lead to one suspect, a man named Tan. Tan convinces Dr. Bunnakit to team up together to find the real murderer.
Actors: Max Nattapol Diloknawarit, Tul Pakorn Thanasrivanitchai, Great Sapol Assawamunkong, and Foei Patara Eksangkul
Author Note: As if fans didn't love MaxTul enough - Manner of Death marks their third BL drama together. From the storyline and acting to their chemistry and everything in between this drama feels way more mature and way more fitting for two guys who are great at NSFW scenes together.
Papa & Daddy (Taiwanese)
Damian runs a restaurant in Taipei and has always had a dream of "having a family." After two years of dating his boyfriend Hie Li, the couple decides to explore surrogacy and successfully get their son Kai Kai. Life is seemingly happy until Kai Kai enters kindergarten and begins to face curiosity and rumors from his peers and their parents about his two fathers.
Actors: Melvin Sia, Mike Lin, Jozie Lu, Chao Yi Lan, and Wang Tzu Chaing
Author Note: This series does a great job of dealing with some of the serious and prevalent issues many same-sex couples face on a daily basis. It's almost important to note that Taiwan is the first Asian country to allow same-sex marriage and partial adoption for same-sex couples.
TharnType (Thai)
Type Thiwat is a handsome freshman with a passion for soccer, spicy foods and hates gays due to an unfortunate event from childhood when he was molested by a man. Tharn is a gorgeous music major, openly gay, and happens to be Type's roommate at university. Through childish fights, bad rumors, and opposition from others the two go from enemies to lovers.
Actors: Mew Suppasit Jongcheveevat, Gulf Kanawut Traipipattanapong, Mild Jinna Pichit-o-Pakun, Kaownah Kittipat Kaewcharoen, and Tong Thanayut Thakoonauttaya
Author Note: This is your typical university BL drama, but has a surprisingly intelligent script and nuanced characterization that really makes it work. The chemistry between these two feels effortless and they take you on an emotional rollercoaster ride from start to finish.
TharnType 2: 7 Years of Love (Thai)
Type and Tharn have been together for seven years and both are enjoying their mostly harmonious life. They still bicker and meet up with university friends. Now both working adults, they face more difficult issues, as they learn that life isn't always blissful. Can they overcome these new challenges or will they finally be defeated by them?
Actors: Mew Suppasit Jongcheveevat, Gulf Kanawut Traipipattanapong, First Chalongrat Novsamrong, Ja Phachara Suansri, Jame Phat Prayunviwat, and Boat Napat Srinkluan
Author Note: Ah the proverbial season two-time jump. Where some dramas fail at a successful leap forward in time TharnType 2 thrives, effortlessly showing want happens in a lot of long-term relationships when a partner feels neglected, gets complacent, or cheats. The acting and drama are more mature, which is fitting for their "age," and you can't help but still cheer for TharnType in the end.
Together with Me (Thai)
Childhood friends Korn and Knock reunite in college, but their relationship gets complicated after a drunken night of passionate sex. Knock has a girlfriend but has feelings for his best friend. Korn loves his best friend but is doing his best to keep them at bay for both their sake. Can they overcome the mounting obstacles in their way and finally be together?
Actors: Max Nattapol Diloknawarit, Tul Pakorn Thanasrivanitchai, Aim Satida Pinsinchai, Maengmum Tanshi Bumrungkit, and Olive Thitichaya Chiwpreecha
Author Note: The real winner of this show is Yihwa - she is fierce, badass, and a no-nonsense type of girl that I want as a best friend. While the show was so well received, I would suggest skippy the second season because it's a mess of everyone cheating and getting mad with no real value to viewers.
Why R U? (Thai)
Zon is a shy, sci-fi writer. Zon's sister Zol is an infamous BL drama writer on campus. When he starts seeing his name alongside his sworn enemy, popular musician Saifah, his life starts to change.
Tutor is said to be ‘wise’ beyond his age and acts rationally, while Fighter is the emotional kind. What started as animosity between these Faculty of Engineering students develops into something more.
Actors: Saint Suppapong Udomkaewkanjana, Zee Pruk Panich, Tommy Sittichok Pueakpoolpol, and Jimmy Karn Kritsanaphan
Author Note: Due to the ongoing pandemic during the filming of this show, the main lead couple took a backseat to the second lead couple, but it was for the best. Tutor and Fighter were way more desirable to watch on-screen, especially during their sexy intimate moments, whereas Zon and Saifah were cringy and hard to watch.
Non-Series with Good Stand Alone Episodes
7 Project Follow seven different couples, whose stories were inspired by seven different songs.
Author Note: Episode 1 and Episode 4 are primarily about BL couples. Episode 1: Transfer student Ozone (Earth Katsamonnat Namwirote) has a hard time adjusting to his new life in boarding school, but that's not all bad since there he meets a boy named Sun (Yacht Patsit Permpoonsavat). Episode 4: University freshman Mek (Boun Noppanut Guntachai) opens his heart to Balloon (Prem Warut Chawalitrujiwong), but it comes with many conditions. After three years won't one party get tired?
Our Skyy
A five-episode anthology that serves as a continuation of the stories of Pick and Rome (Secret Love: Puppy Honey), In and Sun (My Dear Loser), Tee and Mork ('Cause You're My Boy), Kao and Pete (Kiss Me Again), and Arthit and Kongpob (SOTUS).
Author Note: Skip the episodes for the couples or BL dramas you've never seen and watch the ones you have. Namely, the episodes for Kiss Me Again and SOTUS.
Y-Destiny
Y-Destiny is the story of 7 best friends: Sun, Mon, Tue, Puth, Thurs, Masuk and Sat, each of whom has different personalities according to their birthdays and fate leads them to meet their loved ones. Each couple is told over two episodes with all of them coming together for the final.
Author Note: Not all couples or episodes are made equally. While I watched the whole series, I find myself returning to the episodes featuring the relationship of Mon and Team (episode 5 & 6) and Puth and Kaeng (episode 9 & 10). If you are looking for more smut than fluff, episodes 9 and 10 are your best bet.
Upcoming Dramas To Be Excited For
Bed Friend (Thai)
Uea is a very private person who hates casanovas, while King is a smart casanova. The two enemies not only work in the same office but are both are best friends with Jade, so as chance would have it they begin to have a particular "relation."
Between Us (Thai)
In a parallel universe to Until We Meet Again, Between Us tells the story of how Win and Team get to know one another through the swim club and they eventually develop a relationship. Their relationship grows as Win helps Team deal with his childhood trauma and Team helps Win feel wanted.
Cutie Pie (Thai)
The sons of two companies Gilayn Wang and Kuea Keerati, are engaged. While one doesn't want an arranged marriage the other wants to win him over! Who will win the battle?
Kinn Porche (Thai)
Kinn Anakinn, the second son of the Mafia, Kinn Anakinn, is assaulted by an enemy causing him to flee. On the run, he meets part-time waiter and university student, Porsche Pitchaya. Kinn makes Porche an offer he can't refuse (or so he thought).
Love Mechanics (Thai)
A parallel story to "En of Love: Love Mechanics" (2020). Love Mechanics tells the full-length story between Mark and Vee before Nuea meets Praram.
Semantic Error (Korean)
Computer science major Chu Sang Woo is the epitome of inflexible, while design student and campus Jang Jae Young is the exact opposite. When Sang Woo omits Jae Young's name from a group project final presentation, Jae Young does what any person would do - seeks revenge on Sang Woo. But what happens when Chu Sang Woo can't debug his life of Jang Jae Young?
You're My Sky (Thai)
First-year student Thorn is secretly in love with the college jock Tupfah. As they both train together, Thorn slowly falls for the handsome Tupfah and despite his close friend’s warnings, one day confesses his love. But Tupfah who is highly competitive and doesn’t trust anyone easily wants to focus on his game instead. Will Thorn be able to bridge the distance and melt Tupfah’s heart?
Happy Birthday Jung Ilhoon
Yes my melodies today we celebrate the glorious day our rapper Jung Ilhoon was gifted into the world!
Grab your nearest slice of cake and join in the celebration below.
Boys Love: What to Watch in 2021 Part 2
In part two of my boy love series, I take a look at shows in the 15+ category ratings that I loved throughout 2021. 15+ includes a little bit more hands-on relationships, more mature topics, and the inevitable heartbreak because who are we kidding - what's a good BL without a little drama.
Color Rush (Korean)
Due to his colorblindness, Yeon Woo has always lived in a world of varying shades of grey. He is aware that other colors exist but hasn't experienced them for himself - that is until he meets Yoo Han. Yoo Han's charming nature and visuals give him an overwhelming rush of emotions and sudden flashes of color every time he sees him.
Actors: Yoo Jun, Hur Hyun Jun, Lee Min Ji, and Baek Soo Hoo
Author Note: Former member of the BOYZ, Hur Hyun Jun gives viewers a rush in his acting debut. Jokes aside, the concept and dynamics of this BL are fresh and new - it's no surprise a second season is currently being filmed.
Don’t Say No (Thai)
Leo is the proverbial good guy. Whatever Fiat has thrown at him has taken it in stride because he loves him. Fiat is the promiscuous bad boy. He was abandoned by his parents but found solace in Leo. As the two finally admit their feelings and go from friends to lovers, they learn it's not as blissful as they thought.
Actors: Ja Phachara Suansri, First Chalongrat Novsamrong, Smart Chisanupong Paungmanee, and James Pongsapak Rachaporn
Author Note: Viewers may recognize Leo and Fiat from TharnType2 and if you didn't love their chemistry enough then - you are in for a treat. From heart-wrenching moments and intimate scenes to Ja teasing First behind-the-scenes and more, it's hard not to ship JaFirst in real life.
HIStory3: Trapped (Taiwanese)
For the last four years police officer Meng Shao Fei has been obsessed with knowing the truth behind why his mentor has killed alongside a gang leader. He follows, tracks, and is eventually kidnapped with the new gang leader Tang Yi. But what happens when you are forced to survive alongside your sworn enemy? Things change.
Actors: Jake Hsu, Chris Wu, Andy Bian and Kenny Chen
Author Note: Like many fans of the HIStory series, I assumed there was no way they'd top its predecessors - wow was I wrong. The chemistry between the two couples mixed with the drama is what BL shippers dreams are made of.
I Told Sunset About You (Thai)
Teh and Oh-aew were childhood best friends until an unfortunate misunderstanding turned them into rivals. Years later the two reunite in a Chinese language class as they prepare for university admissions. As the two slowly become friends again, new unstable and complicated feelings awaken within the pair.
Actors: PP Krit Amnuaydechkorn, Billkin Putthipong Assaratanakul, Nat Kitcharit, Khunpol Pongpol Panyamit, and Smile Parada Thitawachira
Author Note: This is a masterpiece of teenage love and all the confusing elements it brings with it. This is a must-watch for all fans of BL and LGBT series. Viewers can watch this and the second season below LINE TV.
I Promised You The Moon (Thai)
Now blissfully in love for over a year, Teh and Oh-Aew are heading off to Bangkok to start their university lives. Months go by and things begin to change between the two as Teh not only begins to feel differently towards Oh-Aew, but also develops a crush on his senior in the drama club. Can Teh find his way back to Oh-Aew or does he lose him forever?
Actors: PP Krit Amnuaydechkorn, Billkin Putthipong Assaratanakul, Oab Oabnithi Wiwattanawarang, and Ta Taninrat Wadsriwat
Author Note: From PP and Billkin's chemistry and the emotional range they have as actors to the growth and maturity their characters display on screen - this is hands down my favorite BL series to date.
Lovely Writer (Thai)
Gene is a professional writer who recently completed his publisher's challenge of writing in a new genre-Boy Love. The novel is so successful that it gets adapted into a BL drama series. Gene is invited to the auditions and is not really concerned about any of the actors until he meets Nubsib - who instantly falls for Gene. But he's not alone, Aey also shows interest in Gene as well. Can Gene survive these two actors and meet his publisher's demands for a follow-up novel?
Actors: Up Poompat Iam-samang, Kao Noppakao Dechaphatthanakun, Bruce Sirikorn Kananurak, Ken Prarunyu Sooksamram, and Ken Prarunyu Sooksamram
Author Note: While the series is fiction, it does a great job at subtly and not-so-subtly highlighting the problems, flaws, and toxic tropes in the BL industry.
Sotus (Thai)
During this year's SOTUS (hazing ritual of the Faculty of Engineering ) third-year senior, Arthit often abuses his power making the freshmen do through against the rules. He seems unstoppable until Kongpob stands up against him. As the two continue to encounter each other their animosity towards each other starts to develop into something else.
Actors: Krist Perawat Sangpotirat, Singto Prachaya Ruangroj, New Thitipoom Tacha-apaikun, and Neen Suwanamas
Author Note: This drama is filled with a lot of familiar faces who will take on roles in future BL series and also gave BL fans our first ship - KristSingto. The show was a hit among fans and received a follow-up season, Sotus S, that takes place two years after the original story.
Theory of Love (Thai)
Third is a filmology major and a member of the Savage Team along with his best friends Two, Bone, and Khai, but he has a secret. Third has been secretly in love with Khai for three years, however, Khai is a player, with a "no dating friends" policy who brings home a different girl every night. Third has repeatedly tried to see Khai as just a friend until he overhears a conversation between Khai and Bone that completely breaks his heart. Now that Third decides to stop, Khai decides to start.
Actors: Off Jumpol Adulkittiporn, Gun Atthaphan Phunsawat, White Nawat Phumphothingam, Mike Chinnarat Siriphongchawalit, and Sara Legge.
Author Note: This drama is less coming of age cheesy-university drama and more mature in content - which I personally love. Plus who doesn't love Off as a devote "fuck boi" who gives his body to girls and his heart to ... ?
To My Star (Korean)
Formerly popular actor Kang Seo Joon believes his fortune is about to change when he meets and fall for the dashing young chef, Han Ji Woo. The two end up dating but everything starts to unravel when they realize that their outlooks on life, love and virtually everything are irrevocably different.
Actors: Son Woo Hyun, Kim Kang Min, Kong Jae Hyun, Jeon Jae Yeong and Kim Jin Kwon
Author Note: From the acting and chemistry to the storyline and more this drama was everything viewers could want from a romantic comedy. Get caught up on the series on Viki ahead of the debut of season two.
Until We Meet Again (Thai)
Thirty years ago, university students Korn and Intouch fell in love, but unfortunately their story ended tragically. Years later the red thread of fate that tied them together brings them back as freshman Pharm (Intouch) and third-year student Dean (Korn). Can these two reincarnated souls change their ill-fate for good?
Actors: Fluke Natouch Siripongthon, Ohm Thitiwat Ritprasert, Kao Noppakao Dechaphatthanakun, Earth Katsamonnat Namwirote, Prem Warut Chawalitrujiwong, and Boun Noppanut Guntachai
Author Note: BL dramas aren't not always rainbows and sunshine and this is one of them. While the story is original in the way it blends Pharm and Dean's past and present lives, the subject matter is a little hard at times. That's where Win and Team come in. They are funny, cute and the perfect breath of fresh air between all the hard moments - its no wonder they got their spin-off.
Finished my #kpop display. Can you guess who my favorite it?
Boys Love: What To Watch in 2021 Part 1
In the last decade BL Dramas have gone from few and far between to sought after sensations. From Thailand and Korea to Taiwan BL stories are being told more frequently and more authentically than ever before — giving us plenty to choose from. In this three part series I will look at my top shows in the 13+, 15+ and 18+ categories.
Let’s dive in, shall we?
2gether (Thai)
Handsome student and cheerleader Tine is a self-proclaimed ladies man. But when fellow student Green starts pursuing him, he ends up begging popular athlete and musician Sarawat to pretend to be his boyfriend to chase Green away. Through a series of mishaps the two realize they aren’t pretending anymore - but can they find their “happily ever after?”
Actors: Win Metawin Opas-iamkajorn, Bright Vachirawit Chivaaree, Khaotung Thanawat Ratanakitpaisan, Mike Chinnarat Siriphongchawalit, and Gun Korawit Boonsri
Author Note: BrightWin are a fantastic BL couple and this drama starts off super strong. However, the writing get a little complacent in the middle and doesn’t really improve after that. Hopefully their next drama together F4 does their chemistry and acting more justice.
Dark Blue Kiss (Thai)
While Kao and Pete's relationship has grown stronger, they are still hiding it from their friends and family (namely Kao’s mother). Things only get worse when Kao starts tutoring high-school student Non at Sun’s café as the two friends not only hide it from Pete, but also do nothing to ward off Non’s sexual advances. What happens when Pete’s overwhelming jealous and Kao’s secrets are revealed?
Actors: Tay Tawan Vihokratana, New Thitipoom Tacha-apaikun,Fluke Gawin Caskey, Pod Suphakorn Sriphothong, and AJ Chayapol Jutamas
Author Note: This drama maybe a part of the Kiss and Kiss Me Again series, however it’s a great standalone. The story focuses on the ever-evolving relationship of Pete and Kao and gives a very realistic view of what young gay couples go through.
Fish Upon the Sky (Thai)
Dental student Pi has a crush one of the hottest students in university, but it’s not until his brother Duean and his friends give him a makeover is he confident enough to approach him. There he meets his “love rival,” Mork. Pi tries everything to surpass Mork and get Nan’s attention, but ends up catching Mork’s attention instead making things even more complicated.
Actors: Phuwin Tangsakyuen,Pond Naravit Lertratkosum, Neo Trai Nimtawat, Louis Thanawin Teeraphosukarn, and Mix Sahaphap Wongratch
Author Note: When I first say the trailer for this drama I didn’t have any high expectations, thinking it was going to be just another Thai BL university drama. Boy was I wrong. The drama is full of good messages that are told in fun and comedic ways, the acting is great, and the OST’s from Mix and Louis are top notch!
Ingredients (Thai)
This mini series tells the story of two friends (Tops and Marwin) who return to each other's lives during their last year of school and help make one another's dreams come true.
Actors: Jeff Satur, Gameplay Garnpaphon Laolerkiat, and Tex Thanapipat Sukmeesub
Author Note: This is an adorable fluffy slow burn drama. The main actors have GREAT chemistry, the story is fun and original and the music only ads.
Light on Me (Korean)
Highschool student and life long loner Tae Kyung starts questioning his own judgement when he decides he no longer wants to be alone. But how do you new make friends at 18? Following the advice of his teacher he joins the student council where he meets thee cool Vice President, Shin Woo and the super-attractive President, Da On. Will Tae Kyung find friendship, romance or drama as a member of the student council? How about all three.
Actors: Lee Sae On, Kang Yoo Seok, Choe Chan Yi, Go Woo Jin, and Yang Seo Hyun
Author Note: This drama is the perfect BL love triangle we didn’t know we needed. The story is short and is easily binged in a day. Viewers can watch it on Viki.
Oxygen (Thai)
Orphan fourth-year engineering student, Gui has nothing left but his smile. First year music student has money, fame, and good looks, but lacks a smile. One night Solo stumbles into a café where Gui serves him a cup of hot milk and a warm smile. Night after night the two begin to meet at the café and as their lives overlap they become each other’s breath.
Actors: Nut Supanut Lourhaphanich, Petch Chanapoom Thenwong, Boss Thanabat Ngamkamolchai, and Phu Phubeth Tharathonchanakul
Author Note: From cinematography and music to the different challenges between Solo and Gui as well as the cute relationship of Kao and Phu make this drama fun to watch, but don’t expect a lot of fluff.
Red Balloon (Taiwanese)
Son of a gang leader, Chen is a hard working student with a troubled past. Transfer student Wan, is hiding a huge secret - he’s gay. The two become roommates and as their friendship deepens so do their feelings for each other. But between classmates opposition, self-doubt and Chen’s father it doesn’t seem like their relationship can survive...or can it?
Actors: Jason Tauh, Edward Chen, Ken Hsieh, Che Liang, and Joseph Hsia
Author Note: The drama has serious re-watch value. From the cast and music to the storyline and everything in between this BL is packed with greatness.
Tale of 1000 Stars (Thai)
Trouble magnet Tian’s life forever changes the night he receives a heart transplant from a volunteer teacher following her death in a tragic accident. Tian learns about his donor’s life through a series of diary entries that reveal her secrets, interests, and decides to follow in her footsteps as a volunteer teacher in the remote village she taught at. Can Tian find what he’s looking for?
Actors: Mix Sahaphap Wongratch, Earth Pirapat Watthanasetsiri, Khaotung Thanawat Ratanakitpaisan, and Aye Sarunchana Apisamaimongkol
Author Note: This slow burn drama really spares no one right until the very end. When Mix’s character Tian is happy you are happy and when he is sad...let’s just say have the tissues ready. Fun fact - Mix’s first kiss EVER is in this series.
We Best Love: No. 1 For You (Taiwanese)
Ever since they were young, Zhou Shu Yi has always ranked second to Gao Shi De. He was happily enjoying his college life until Shi De suddenly appeared during their senior year. Why does his rival follow him everywhere he goes? The truth is Shi De only has eyes for Shu Yi and if he can’t get him to love him back, he can at least be his friend.
Actors: Yu, Sam Li, Ray Chang, Zack Fan Chaing, Belle Hsin, Evan Luo and Richard Lee
Author Note: Unrequited love is a popular theme in any love story, but this one takes the cake. The story is captivating and the chemistry between the leads has viewers shipping them in real life. PLUS. Due to the overwhelming popularity a special edition of the show was released that includes more lead couple moments.
We Best Love: Fighting Mr. 2nd (Taiwanese)
The sequel to "We Best Love: No. 1 For You" picks up five years after Zhou Shu Yi and Gao Shi De finished college and went their separate ways. As the two reunite, they attempt to juggle work responsibilities with the priorities of their personal lives. Shi De’s main priority is to win back Shu Yi, while Shu Yi’s is to forget Shi De and the heartbreak he put him through.
Actors: Yu, Sam Li, Ray Chang, Shi Chih Tian, Evan Luo and Richard Lee
Author Note: Very rarely does a BL series have a sequel and a successful one at that. Viewers can feel the heartbreak and hatred Shu Yi has for Shi De, but can’t help wanting Shi De to win him back. Due to the overwhelming popularity a special edition of the show was released that includes more lead couple moments.
just trust and follow me hold my hand, hold me tight
jay b – b.t.w
Getting The Most Out of An Online K-Pop Concert: A Guide
Thanks to COVID19 (or no thanks rather) we’re seemingly stuck in an all work and no play outside loop. However, modern problems require modern solutions. We order food, we stream fashion shows, we watch movies, and play video games online, so it’s no surprise that the music industry is exploring this new territory in troves. Live online concerts, streamed for fans to watch from the comfort of their own homes. Sounds pretty cool right?
The advantages of an online concert are numerous, so I compiled a few. It’s a safe (and legal) way for fans to experience a live performance no matter how close or far they live from their favorite artist(s). Fans can also sign-up to be in a raffle to be chosen to be broadcast onscreen during the concert for the artists to see and interact with and in some cases ask them a question. Lastly, there are various platforms and apps so fans aren’t limited to specific devices and can re-watch the concert as many times as they want if VOD is available.
However, with the advantages come the disadvantages. This format is still new so the video may buffer or glitch causing fans to miss an important part of the concert. Concerts in another country usually start at a time convenient for the artists and local fans so if you live in Pacific Standard Time staying up anywhere between 11 pm and 4 am for a concert isn’t unheard of.
Advantages and disadvantages aside, I’ve created a guide to make sure that you’re getting the most out of an online concert because they are an experience of a lifetime, even if they are enjoyed at home.
Decorate Your Space
Decorating your space might sound a little silly, but the more you can do to make it feel like a live concert, the better. Posters, plushies, string lights, snacks, lightsticks (for us K-Pop fans) - you name it, nothing is off-limits! Don’t forget to dim the lights, boost the surround sound, and put the concert on the biggest screen you’ve got to make it like you’re there in person. If you have it and the option is available, I also recommend using dual monitors so you can watch the full concert on one screen and tab through the fan cam of your favorite member of the group.
Check your technology beforehand
I can’t stress enough how important it is to check your technology and internet connection beforehand because there’s nothing worse than the WiFi rebooting itself in the middle of a solo.
Make sure everything you need is charged or has fresh batteries, give the sound system a trial run, conduct a WiFi test, and for your K-Pop fans make sure your lightstick is connected via Bluetooth. While there’s no guaranteeing that everything will run smoothly (I’ve seen seven online concerts and issues on three of them), it doesn’t hurt to be a little extra prepared.
Sign Up to Be On the Big Screen
Whether it’s signing up to be on the big screen or a combination of being on the big screen and participating in the live Q&A segment with your favorite artist it is worth it. Not only can your favorite artist see you, but they can also hear you when the staff turns up the volume which is meaningful to them. While your artist gets to see and hear you (something they’ve become accustomed to), you as a fan get to show your spirit by making signs, signing along, and participating in cheering for them. So if you’re not too camera-shy, check out fan cafés, the ticketing website for the concert, and Twitter to find out if and how you can participate.
Get There Early
Even though you aren’t going anywhere it’s still a good idea to get to the concert a little early. Some online concerts will feature pre-show reels, music videos, and various other content the artist has created for fans -- starting 30 to 60 minutes before the show. It’s also a great way to meet fellow fans before the show in the comments section and build off each other’s excitement together.
Invite Your Friends or Family to Join
Getting together with your friends or family to watch your favorite artist is a great way to make a live online concert feel almost as exciting and energetic as an in-person one. Be sure to check your local social distancing rules first before inviting over a slew of people and becoming tomorrow’s new headlines for not compiling. If you can’t get together in-person consider a video call with screen sharing so you can watch together and share your reactions in real-time!
Learn A Little of The Language
No one is going to be fluent in a foreign language overnight, but it’s still a good idea to learn a few key phrases, especially for my fellow K-Pop fans. While subtitling is typically offered it’s not instantaneous or up to the minute so it can get pretty confusing. Thankfully, a few groups have English speaking members who will often summarize what was just said so you can get the gist of the conversation. However, if the subtitles get too confusing you can turn them off and wait to watch the VOD version of the concert if it was available to purchase (please note VOD can take 2-6 months).
Prepare Snacks
Another bonus of live online concerts -- there’s no overpriced food or beverages (although I do miss them). Plus there’s no stress of trying to figure out how to carry food with all the merch you just bought and not spill, ruin or drop something in the process of getting back to your seat. So grab your favorite snacks, some beverages (including water if you plan to sing along), and get ready for an experience you’ll never forget!
The Comments Section
If there’s a comments section on the platform you’re watching on (and there usually is as artists like to read/react to comments live during breaks between performances) don’t be afraid to hop in! It’s a great way to show support for your favorite group, get other fans’ reactions on what is happening, and get support if your lightstick isn’t working.
Stay Involved Post-Show
Just because the screen is black doesn’t mean it’s over. A lot of time there’s still plenty of action awaiting fans whether it’s an encore performance, new album announcement, new music video, or a surprise live stream with fans (that won’t be included in the VOD). Additionally from behind the scenes photos and selfies to post-concert articles and performance videos from the concert itself, artists seemingly trying to keep fans well-fed (whether they attended the concert or not).
If you haven’t tried a live online concert, I highly recommend it. They are cool, fun, and a great way to engage with fellow fans and the artists (if you are so lucky) in a way you may otherwise not have had the opportunity to.
Binge-Worthiest C-Dramas of 2020
...Continuation of Binge-Worthiest K-Dramas of 2020.
Get Married or Not
Plot: Three female friends in their thirties are feeling the pressure to get married. One doesn’t want to, one intimidates men due to her corporate powerhouse status and the other is caught between her savior and her suitor. Will they find happiness and ultimately get married?
Where to Watch: IQIYI
Fun Fact: Great way to learn about popular concepts about marriage in Chinese culture and how attitudes towards it differ from generation to generation.
Something Just Like This
Plot: Childhood sweethearts Duan Ran and Qian Xi Xi may have grown up together but their personalities differ greatly because of their family backgrounds. As adults, they join forces in the e-commerce industry on the road to realizing their entrepreneurial dreams.
Where to Watch: IQIYI
Fun Fact: The drama is 47 episodes long and was filmed in just 106 days (that’s a little over two days of filming per episode).
You Are So Sweet
Plot: Xia Xiao Ning is a newcomer in the voice acting industry where she meets Gu Chen Yu. A disparity of information between the two caused a series of misunderstandings. While she was trying to gain a foothold in the workplace, she inadvertently comes to the aid of president Xie Fei. What happens when she is pursued by two men in the workplace?
Where to Watch: YouTube
Fun Fact: The Chinese title translates in English to "You Sound So Sweet."
Begin Again
Plot: Domineering CEO Lu Fangning schemes her way into the life of warm-hearted surgeon Ling Rui. Having exchanged their “I do’s” they start on a new chapter of their lives to turn a fake relationship into a real one.
Where to Watch: DramaCool
Fun Fact: Filming for this drama wrapped in May 2020 after delays due to the COVID19 outbreak.
Midsummer is Full of Love
Plot: Aspiring songwriter Luo Tianran is conned by her best friend into selling her house to superstar Jin Ze Yi. Determined to get her house back she will do anything, including cohabitation, “marriage,” and more.
Where to Watch: Viki
Fun Fact: Based on the Korean Drama, Full House.
Basket Loveball
Plot: A year after his death, freshman Su Nuan Xia sets out to reassemble Qingmeng University’s basketball team and lead them to victory. From sneaking into the male dorms and leafleting the school to competing in games one-on-one with the boys, she will stop at nothing to bring a group of handsome and extraordinary weirdos with a basketball team back together.
Where to Watch: YouTube
Fun Fact: Each episode includes a three to a five-minute epilogue after the credits role of scenes that didn’t make the cut includes dating, basketball, and more.
Love is Sweet
Plot: After almost ten years Jiang Jun reunites with close childhood friend Ma Yuanshuai in the workplace, but not as an ally as a rival keeping her away from the cruelties of investment banking. Behind the scenes, Yuanshuai is avidly trying to protect her from someone plotting against her both in the workplace and in life.
Where to Watch: IQIYI
Fun Fact: Love is Sweet was originally ordered for 40 episodes but was cut to 36 to keep audiences engaged.
My Girl
Plot: Makeup Artist Meng Hui suffers from a multiple personality disorder that turns her into a different person whenever her stress level reaches its maximum point. Through a chance encounter, she meets LS Cosmetic CEO, Shen Yi, who learns of her disorder and sets out to help her heal (as well as relinquish his own guilty) from the injury he caused her as a child.
Where to Watch: Viki
Fun Fact: The Chinese title translates in English to “99 Points Girlfriend.”
Hotel Trainees
Plot: From endlessly difficult guests to bosses making things difficult and everything in between Yue Ran, and her fellow interns have their work cut out for them if they want to become full-time employees. Despite facing pressures from all angles they find a sense of accomplishment, forge strong bonds of friendship and open their hearts to a long-awaited romance.
Where to Watch: IQIYI
Fun Fact: The drama is 36 episodes long and was filmed in just 54 days (that’s just a day and a half of filming per episode).
Poisoned Love
Plot: Due to an unfortunate kidnapping as a child Fang Yan is faced with a disorder that sends her into a catatonic, zombie-like state for ten hours, she is scared. She accidentally finds the perfect cure when she falls into the arms of overbearing CEO, Shi Meng during one of her episodes. But what happens when she mistakes his superstar brother, Shi Yi as the person who can cure her?
Where to Watch: IQIYI
My Love, Enlighten Me
Plot: Girl group trainee Liu Nuannuan lost everything when she lost the chance to debut due to a lighting engineering named King. With no job, no money, no roof over her head, and no dream to chase she runs into Han Che, a man who has all sorts of disorders, thus starting a sweet romance that began because of a 'burglary'.
Where to Watch: Viki
Fun Fact: Lead actress Eleanor Lee has been on the rise and is considered a C-Drama sweetheart at the young age of 21!
Dating in the Kitchen
Plot: Gu Shengnan is the assistant chef at Zijing Hotel, but may lose her job due to the impending hotel acquisition by prodigy and hardcore foodie Lu Jin. In a rash move to stand up for a friend she mistakenly keys Lu Jin’s car -- which makes things ten times worse for the hotel. However, thanks to an accident in the kitchen Gu Shengnan impresses Lu Jin and they bond over food.
Where to Watch: Viki
Fun Fact: Dating in the Kitchen was adapted from the novel ‘Finally I Get You’ by Lan Bai.
Go Ahead
Plot: Growing up in dysfunctional households, three individuals who are unrelated by blood treat each other like family as they yearn for the love that they cannot find at home. Can they fix the personal issues of their past and become better versions of themselves as adults.
Where to Watch: IQIYI & Viki
Fun Fact: Go Ahead was released in two different versions, the tv series had 46 episodes while the online version has only 40.
Nothing but Thirty
Plot: Three women on the cusp of their thirties take matters into their own hands to find happiness, love, and success. From love at first sight style marriage and a power imbalance as the wife becomes the breadwinner to another woman trying to steal someone’s husband and everything in between it’s an uphill battle to save themselves and their families.
Where to Watch: Viki
Fun Fact: The original actress set to play Wang Manni was heavily criticized online for playing a woman who was cheated on by her husband yet tries to make the marriage work.
Intense Love
Plot: Popular actress Su Jin Bei and genius doctor Zhou Shi Yun refuse to have their marriage arranged by their parents. However, through career drama, family problems, and illness they find that love is destined.
Where to Watch: YouTube
Fun Fact: Actor Ryan Ding’s acting is all in his eyes -- they are expressive and convey emotions to the point where viewers feel the emotion meant to be felt.
Binge-Worthiest K-Dramas of 2020
Before Parasite created an international buzz by literally sweeping all the major categories at the Oscars (including best film), Asian culture and a global (dare I say) obsession with Korean Pop Culture has been on the rise. Thanks to this wave you may have heard of the boy band BTS, developed a taste for Kimbap, have a 10-step skincare routine, and have jammed out to the lyrics “light it up like Dynamite” on the radio. Television dramas have also become an indispensable part of the cultural fabric.
From suspenseful thrillers to delightful romantic comedies, there’s always something you can expect (and not expect) from dramas: The male and female leads aren’t going to end up together in the end? Arranged marriages are still a thing? It took three episodes for the leads to hold hands and nine episodes for them to kiss? While all of this may sound a little ridiculous, especially if you are used to American television where mature content themes are available for young audiences, it’s common in Asian television. They carefully and tastefully use mature content themes to entice the audience as well as try to air the more mature shows at times when children should be in bed.
So without further ado, here are my favorite and most Binge-Worthiest Chinese and Korean dramas that aired this year.
So much to watch, so *much* time — amirite?
More Than Friends
Plot: Kyung Woo Yeon and Lee Soo have taken turns having a one-sided crush on each other for over ten years. Misunderstandings and missed timings have continued to keep them from becoming anything more than friends. While they finally confess and have a happy ending or will another misunderstanding keep them apart?
Where to Watch: Viki
Fun Fact: Behind the scenes, videos from the crew share what it’s actually like before (or after) the cameras start rolling on set -- it’s lots of laughter.
Tale of the Nine-Tailed
Plot: For centuries the mythical Nine-Tailed fox, Lee Yeon, has been eradicating supernatural beings that threaten the mortal world all while in search of the reincarnation of his lost first love. Talented television producer and urban myth obsessed Nam Ji Ah is on to him. Will Lee Yeon be able to save himself, Ji Ah, and those they hold precious from the wrath of the vengeful Imugi?
Where to Watch: Viki
Fun Fact: Monsta X’s Shownu released his first solo OST in nine years as part of the Tale of the Nine-Tailed soundtrack.
It’s Okay to Not Be Okay
Plot: Moon Kang Tae, a health worker at a psychiatric hospital, and Ko Moon-Young, a children’s book writer suffering from an antisocial personality disorder cross paths, and together they follow the extraordinary road to emotional healing.
Where to Watch: Netflix
Fun Fact: Due to the popularity of the show, the children’s book featured in the show were produced and are currently available to purchase.
Record of Youth
Plot: Two actors and a makeup artist fight to make their way in the fashion and entertainment industries that weigh their economic backgrounds and social classes they were born into more than their dreams and desires to love.
Where to Watch: Netflix
Fun Fact: This was Park Bo Gum’s last drama series before his mandatory military enlistment.
Itaewon Class
Plot: A group of misfits lead by Park Sae-ro-yi in need of a second chance at life band together to achieve their dreams and seek revenge on the Jangga Company, the CEO and his son who destroyed Sae-ro-yi’s life years earlier (through expulsion, death of his father and prison).
Where to Watch: Netflix
Fun Fact: The writer of the webtoon that the show is based on, wrote the screenplay and script for the series.
Backstreet Rookie
Plot: Based on an adult webtoon, Jung Saet Byul, a former troublemaker applies for a job at a convenience store owned by the same man who she’s had a crush on for 3 years ever since he caught her smoking cigarettes with her friends underaged.
Where to Watch: Viki
Fun Fact: Heavily criticized and even penalized for sexual innuendos, inappropriate and provocative scenes.
Flower of Evil
Plot: An emotionless psychopath changes his identity in an attempt to leave his dark past behind. Can he deceive his homicide detective wife and keep her and their daughter safe from his cruel past?
Where to Watch: Viki
Fun Fact: Lead actors Lee Joon-Gi and Chae-won Moon previously played detectives at odds with each other in the Korean adaption of the American television series Criminal Minds.
18 Again
Plot: After losing his job, receiving divorce papers from his wife, and severely regretting his life, 37-year-old Jung Da-Jung gets a do-over when his body changes into that of an 18-year-old. Now, with his regained 18-year-old body, he changes his name and begins to live a new life.
Where to Watch: DramaCool
Fun Fact: Lead actor Kee Do Hyun is a serious method actor and once broke up with his girlfriend to prepare for a role.
I’ll Go to You When the Weather is Nice
Plot: After a series of unfortunate events, cellist Mok Hae-won quits her job in Seoul and returns to Bookhyun Village to live with her aunt. There, she meets former classmate and neighbor, Im Eun-seob, and together, they try to survive the harsh realities of life, heal from their past wounds, and eventually fall in love.
Where to Watch: Viki
Fun Fact: Lead actress Park Min Young is a muse in K-Dramas and is known as the queen of Romantic Comedy.
Search
Plot: Follow the story of the ruthless attack of an unknown creature in the Korean Demilitarized Zone and the search operation of an elite special force to uncover the truth.
Where to Watch: Viki
Fun Fact: Actors playing soldiers filmed scenes with over 50lbs of real military gear on.
Into the Ring
Plot: Nosy, overzealous professional job hopper with a strong sense of getting involved in other people’s problems, Goo Se Ra decides to enter the ring by running for councilwoman of the District Assembly. With the help of stick-to-his-principles no matter what Seo Kong-Myung, can Se Ra get elected, stay elected and maybe fall in love?
Where to Watch: Viki
Fun Fact: Nana and Park Sung Hung met up frequently before filming began to discuss the script, ideas, and more to ensure they had great chemistry that felt real on screen.
School Nurse Files
Plot: Ahn Eun-young is a school nurse with the power to see human desires, feelings, and spirits that exist in the form of "jellies". Together with a fellow teacher, Hong In-Pyo, a man with a special energy field around him that protects him from jellies, she tries to solve these mysterious cases.
Where to Watch: Netflix
Fun Fact: While the first season only received a six order episode, it was recently renewed for a second season.
Start-Up
Plot: Young entrepreneurs aspiring to launch virtual dreams into reality compete for success and love in the cutthroat world of Korea's fictional high-tech Silicon Valley known as Sandbox.
Where to Watch: Netflix
Fun Fact: Supporting actor Kim Seon Ho studied the field of startups, reading books, learning terminology, and watching various lectures to prepare for the role.
Do Do Sol Sol La La Sol
Plot: An energetic, down-on-her-luck-riches-to-rags-(to-riches) pianist named Goo Ra-Ra and a mysterious, warm-hearted multi part-time worker Sunwoo Joon gather in La La Land, a small piano institute in the countryside with secrets, pain, and stories to tell.
Where to Watch: Netflix
Fun Fact: This drama was Lee Jae-Wook’s first lead role, a well-deserved honor as he recently won the Best New Actor award at the 2020 Asian Artist Awards.
The King Eternal Monarch
Plot: A modern-day emperor, Lee Min-Ho, obsessed with the mystery behind a police badge left by his childhood savior passes through a mysterious portal in the forest in the Kingdom of Corea and into Seoul where he encounters Violent Crimes detective, Kim Go-Eun.
Where to Watch: Netflix
Fun Fact: This drama signaled Lee Min-Ho’s return to acting after completing his mandatory military enlistment.