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Today, we’ll be discussing Episode 1 of When Life Gives You Tangerines, the hit K Drama on Netflix starring IU as Oh Ae-sun, and Park Bo-gum as Yang Gwan-sik. We discuss:
The song featured during the recap: Midnight Walk by d.ear. The song feels nostalgic and represents Ae-sun’s longing for the past.The deeper themes of family, love, and survival that make this show feel unique compared to other historical K Dramas.The emotional opening with an elderly Ae-sun reflecting on the word "eomma" (mom) and how it carries deep significance throughout her life.The realistic and historical setting of Jeju Island, which makes this drama feel different from the more fantastical K Dramas we have covered before.The contrast between the English title, When Life Gives You Tangerines, and the Korean title Pokssak Sogatsuda, which means "You’ve worked hard" in Jeju dialect.The introduction of young Ae-sun and Gwan-sik and how their childhood relationship sets the foundation for the story.The significance of Ae-sun’s mother, Gwang Rye, and her fierce independence as a haenyeo, a female diver of Jeju Island.The rich cultural history of haenyeos, their role in Jeju's matriarchal society, and the challenges they face today due to environmental changes and declining numbers.The economic and social struggles of Ae-sun, who is orphaned at a young age and left to raise her younger siblings, with only Gwan-sik standing steadfastly by her side.The role of gender and social hierarchy in the drama, as Ae-sun is denied opportunities simply because she is a girl.The heartbreaking yet powerful portrayal of Ae-sun's mother, played by Yeom Hye-ran, and her impact on Ae-sun's resilience.The dynamic between Ae-sun and Gwan-sik—his unwavering devotion and her initial indifference, which mirrors her mother’s tough love.The visual storytelling of the marketplace scenes, where Gwan-sik quietly supports Ae-sun while she remains oblivious to his sacrifices.The grandmother’s disapproval of Ae-sun, believing that daughters inherit their mothers’ fate, and how this reflects traditional Korean beliefs.The poetic meaning of the episode title, Spring in a Heartbeat, which speaks to the fleeting nature of youth and the rapid passage of time.Next week, we will recap and analyze Episode 2 of When Life Gives You Tangerines and explore the fascinating topic of Korean drama writers—are most K Drama writers women, and can we tell their gender just by their names?
References
Haenyeo - WikipediaThe Last of the Sea Women - Wikipedia -
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Today, we’ll be discussing the special filler episode on When The Phone Rings, the over-the-top, twist-filled K Drama starring Yoo Yeon-seok as Baek Sa-eon, Jeon Yeo-been as Hong Hee-joo, and Kim Ji-seok as Ji Sang-woo. We discuss:
The songs we featured during the recap, including:Homme Fatale – the dramatic track playing when Baek Sa-eon struts into a roomSay My Name performed by Yoo Yeon-seok in the finaleThe absolutely bonkers premise: a high-profile political spokesperson secretly married to his childhood love, who he keeps hidden from the world, and whose existence triggers a web of blackmail, kidnapping, and revenge plots.The layers of hidden identities — from Baek Sa-eon being a secret replacement for the original Baek Sa-eon, to Hong Hee-joo living her life pretending to be mute, all due to family politics and trauma.The stunning reveal that Baek Sa-eon is not only adopted but actually the son of his own grandfather.The selective mutism plotline — how Hong Hee-joo’s silence started as a survival tactic but became a powerful tool that gave her a successful career.The role of Ji Sang-woo, the caring friend turned investigative psychiatrist, who didn’t realize what he was wading into by investigating the case of the missing boys from the orphanage.The use of the mysterious phone as a plot device — how the sinister calls were the catalyst for uncovering the hidden marriage and Baek Sa-eon’s many secrets.The moment Baek Sa-eon realized the “kidnapper” on the phone was actually his own wife, and how that discovery changed their entire dynamic.The ridiculously high kidnapping count — Hong Hee-joo gets kidnapped not once, not twice, but FOUR times across 12 episodes. We discuss how this woman even manages to sleep at night.The "Argan" subplot — how a fictional war-torn country becomes both Baek Sa-eon’s self-imposed exile and the backdrop for the show’s most ludicrous romantic reunion.The utterly bizarre "sunset" motif that comes out of nowhere in the final episodes — how sunsets are suddenly a metaphor for their love despite never being mentioned before.
The final episode’s chaos: political scandals, revenge murders, family betrayals, a rescue mission in a war zone, and a surprise happy ending that left us asking — did we just watch a romance or a thriller?The controversy around the mistranslated Middle Eastern conflict scene — how a clumsy translation sparked accusations of political bias, and why inserting geopolitics into a makjang drama felt so unnecessary.What we’re watching now! Joanna and Sung Hee are watching Love Scout and loving it!Next week, we will recap and analyze episode 1 of When Life Gives You Tangerines. Although four episodes are expected to drop, we will only watch and recap one episode at a time.
References
What is makjang?Fans call for boycott of popular K Drama for thinly veiled references to israel’s war on Gaza -
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Today, we’ll be discussing Episode 12 of See You In My 19th Life, the hit K Drama on Netflix starring Shin Hye-sun as Ban Ji-eum, Ahn Bo-hyun as Moon Seo-ha, Ha Yoon-kyung as Yoon Cho-won, Ahn Dong-goo as Ha Do-yoon, and Cha Chung Hwa as Kim Ae-gyeong. We discuss:
The songs featured during the recap:Star by ColdeStarlight by Max ShinEurope by Kim Jin AhChildhood by Kim Jin AhThe satisfying, bittersweet ending where Ban Ji-eum chooses to forget her past lives, ultimately freeing herself from the curse she placed on herself in her first life.The emotional weight of Ban Ji-eum’s decision — giving up her memories to protect her loved ones — and how it mirrors the choices we sometimes have to make in life to move forward.How Moon Seo-ha steps up in this final episode, taking on the role of comforter and guide for Ban Ji-eum, showing his growth from passive and traumatized to a strong, supportive partner.The beautiful inyeon between Ban Ji-eum, Moon Seo-ha, Yoon Cho-won, and Ha Do-yoon — how their fates have been intertwined across lifetimes, and how that deep connection ultimately brings them all together in the end.The tender and heart-wrenching scene between Ban Ji-eum and Yoon Ju-won’s mother, where Ban Ji-eum hugs her, offering comfort while Ju-won’s spirit watches on — a moment that embodies the power of love across lifetimes.The long-awaited romantic resolution between Yoon Cho-won and Ha Do-yoon — his slow realization that love is worth the risk, capped off with a swoony confession and kiss.Kang Min-gi’s poignant arc — from mysterious guide to tormented soul — and how Ban Ji-eum’s forgiveness perhaps allows him to begin his own journey toward peace after 23 lives.The surprising lightheartedness of the final scenes, with Moon Seo-ha, Yoon Cho-won, and Ha Do-yoon conspiring to bring Ban Ji-eum back into their lives, complete with a meet-cute at the braised kimchi restaurant.The importance of braised kimchi, the dish that symbolizes home, love, and memory, and how food plays such a key role in grounding Ban Ji-eum even after she loses her memories.The stunning cinematography throughout the episode, from the dramatic Dutch angles on the Mujinjeong bridge to the soft, glowing scenes of Ban Ji-eum’s memories fading away.The reversal of roles in the final confession scene, with Moon Seo-ha as the pursuer, mirroring Ban Ji-eum’s relentless pursuit of him at the beginning — a beautiful bookend to their love story.The deeply touching message at the heart of the show: that forgiveness — of others and of ourselves — is the only way to truly move forward, and that holding on to hate only chains us to the past.The special 1 episode review of When The Phone Rings that we will do next week!The announcement of K Drama Chat Season 11, where we will recap and analyze When Life Gives You Tangerines, the highly anticipated Netflix drama starring IU and Park Bo-gum, set on Jeju Island and spanning decades of history and romance.References
Incarceration Rates by Country 2024Nakhwanori: A Traditional Korean Fireworks Festival -
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Today, we’ll be discussing Episode 11 of See You In My 19th Life, the hit K Drama on Netflix starring Shin Hye-sun as Ban Ji-eum, Ahn Bo-hyun as Moon Seo-ha, Ha Yoon-kyung as Yoon Cho-won, Ahn Dong-goo as Ha Do-yoon, and Cha Chung Hwa as Kim Ae-gyeong. We discuss:
The songs featured during the recap: Shaman by HEO, What by Sol Han, and I’ll Embrace Your Past by Ahn Bo-hyun. Shaman is eerie and haunting, while What adds a frantic, comic energy. I’ll Embrace Your Past is especially meaningful as Seo-ha accepts Ji-eum’s past lives and vows to stay by her side.How Ji-eum finally discovers the truth about her first life—it wasn’t Seo-ha’s past self, Master Han Ya, who killed her sister Seol, but Master Cheon Un, Kang Min Gi’s past self.The heartbreaking revelation that Ji-eum herself placed the curse to remember her past lives, fueled by rage and grief after Seol’s death.Kang Min Gi’s role as a guide for those trapped in the cycle of reincarnation. He helps others find peace, yet remains stuck himself, as he hasn’t encountered the person who triggered his own memories.The historical context of untouchable classes—the Baekjeong in Korea, Burakumin in Japan, and Dalits in IndiaThe cultural significance of shaman bells in Korean rituals, symbolizing the "opening of the gate of words" to invite spirits into the ritual space.Ji-eum's emotional turmoil upon realizing that Seo-ha didn’t betray her in her 1st life. Instead, Master Han Ya tried to protect her, and Ji-eum’s misunderstanding led her to attack Seo-ha in this life.The complicated dynamic between Kang Min Gi and Ji-eum. He wants her to become "normal" by fully remembering her first life, but his own cycle remains unbroken.The unraveling of the cover-up around the car accident that killed Yoon Ju-won. Chairman Moon, Seo-ha’s father, hid the truth to protect Seo-ha and avoid scandal, while Director Lee, Seo-ha’s uncle, lived for 24 years under the weight of his guilt.Ha Do Yoon’s emotional struggle over his feelings for Yoon Cho-won. Encouraged by both Ji-eum and Seo-ha, he’s urged to follow his heart despite the social barriers.The touching parallel between Seo-ha’s note to Ji-eum—"In bad times, remember the happy moments. I’m by your side"—and Ji-eum’s earlier words under the cherry blossoms.The geographic lesson of the week—Kottayam, India—a city known as the "city of letters" for its publishing industry.Fun listener interactions: Tina’s blog comment listing Ji-eum’s known past lives, Akiko and Joanna planning a cherry blossom meet-up in Shinjuku Gyoen Park, and new listeners like Irma finding the podcast after Queen of Tears.A special announcement: After the final episode, Joanna and Sung Hee will do a one-off episode discussing When The Phone Rings, joined by Ernabel Demillo. They’ll dive into the drama’s wild plot twists and controversial ending.Tease for Season 11—a new show has almost been decided, but listeners still have time to sway the choice by commenting on the blog or Instagram.Next week, we’ll recap and analyze Episode 12 of See You In My 19th Life and officially announce our pick for Season 11!
References
In South Korea, shamans are shunned — and reveredDalits in India -
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Today, we’ll be discussing Episode 10 of See You In My 19th Life, the hit K Drama on Netflix starring Shin Hye-sun as Ban Ji-eum, Ahn Bo-hyun as Moon Seo-ha, Ha Yoon-kyung as Yoon Cho-won, Ahn Dong-goo as Ha Do-yoon, and Cha Chung Hwa as Kim Ae-gyeong. We discuss:
The songs we featured during the recap:Forgotten by HEOPossessed by Jeong NahyeonThe evocative and moody nature of the instrumentals in this drama, enhancing the mystery and dramatic elements.The significance of white buckwheat flowers in Goblin and how they symbolize love, as reminded by a listener.Exciting news about a potential K Drama Chat meet-up in Tokyo on March 28, possibly coinciding with cherry blossom season!The slow unraveling of Ban Ji-eum’s first life through fragmented flashbacks and the increasing mystery surrounding her past relationships.Moon Seo-ha’s transformation from emotionally detached to a more animated and warm character.The major revelations about Ban Ji-eum’s first life:She was known as Su and had a close bond with Seol, who resembles Yoon Cho-won.Moon Seo-ha’s past self, Master Han Ya, may have been her enemy.Kang Min-gi was also present in this first life and is now a key figure in unlocking its secrets.The key role of shaman bells in Ban Ji-eum’s recovered memories and their connection to Kang Min-gi’s mission.The long-awaited official confession scene between Ban Ji-eum and Moon Seo-ha, leading to them officially dating—though Seo-ha remains hilariously inexperienced in love.The Korean title of the drama, In This Life, Please Take Care of Me, and its deeper cultural meaning compared to the English translation.Hanna’s emotional farewell to Moon Seo-ha, leaving him a crocheted turtle as a final gift.The downfall of CEO Jang, thanks to Hanna’s planted evidence and Moon Seo-ha’s swift action.The complicated class dynamics at play between Ha Do-yoon and Yoon Cho-won, and how it influences their budding romance.Kim Ae-gyeong’s declining health and the devastating realization that Ban Ji-eum’s presence may have caused it.The climactic final scene where Ban Ji-eum, lost in her visions of the past, mistakes Moon Seo-ha for Master Han Ya and attacks him in a fit of rage.The episode title, Everything Has a Beginning and an End, and its implications for the cycle of reincarnation and unresolved past lives.Next week, we will recap and analyze Episode 11 of See You In My 19th Life. We’ll also discuss our choices for Season 11 and an exciting special episode between seasons!
References
Korea Tour of Filming Locations for See You In My 19th Life -
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Today, we’ll be discussing Episode 9 of See You In My 19th Life, the hit K Drama on Netflix starring Shin Hye-sun as Ban Ji-eum, Ahn Bo-hyun as Moon Seo-ha, Ha Yoon-kyung as Yoon Cho-won, Ahn Dong-goo as Ha Do-yoon, and Cha Chung Hwa as Kim Ae-gyeong. We discuss:
The songs featured during the recap. Triangle by Bang Kyung HoVice Versa by Bang Kung HoBan Ji-eum’s confession to Moon Seo-ha that she was Yoon Ju-won in her past life and his stunned reaction. Moon Seo-ha’s discovery of the hidden key and the booklet Yoon Ju-won left behind for him. The long-awaited reunion at the amusement park, where Ban Ji-eum waits all night for Moon Seo-ha to show up. The emotional weight of Ban Ji-eum telling Moon Seo-ha to be happy, as both Yoon Ju-won and Ban Ji-eum. The beautiful yet haunting imagery of Ban Ji-eum walking across the bridge, reliving her past lives. The idea of immortality as both a gift and a burden, explored through Ban Ji-eum’s experiences. Hanna’s farewell and her cryptic message about moving on from past lives. The shocking revelation that Moon Seo-ha’s uncle ordered the truck accident but that Seo-ha was not the intended target. The tension-filled confrontation between Moon Seo-ha and his uncle, leading to the uncle’s confession and arrest. The fallout from the uncle’s confession and how it impacts MI Group. The growing romance between Ha Do-yoon and Yoon Cho-won, complicated by social class differences and Ha Do-yoon’s personal struggles. The parallel reveals of Moon Seo-ha uncovering the truth about his uncle and finally accepting that Ban Ji-eum is Yoon Ju-won. The stunning cliffhanger where Ban Ji-eum relives a memory from her first life, revealing an ominous event on the bridge during a fireworks display. Filming locations featured in this episode, including Mujinjeong Pavilion, where the bridge scene was filmed with traditional fireworks.References
Countless flames fall like petals over a pond: Haman NakhwanoriHerculean task of watching Haman’s fireworksFilming locations from See You In My 19th LifeJapan: The Essential Guide to Customs and Culture -
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Today, we’ll be discussing Episode 8 of See You In My 19th Life, the hit K Drama on Netflix starring Shin Hye-sun as Ban Ji-eum, Ahn Bo-hyun as Moon Seo-ha, Ha Yoon-kyung as Yoon Cho-won, Ahn Dong-goo as Ha Do-yoon, and Cha Chung Hwa as Kim Ae-gyeong. We discuss:
The songs we featured during the recap:Coldness by HEORomantic by Hee Nam DoBlue by Bang Kyung HoThe significance of the show’s opening sequence, including:The infinity symbol that transforms into a norigae, representing Ban Ji-eum’s endless reincarnation cycle that started 1,000 years ago, when she wore hanbok with norigae.The red string of fate, symbolizing the deep connection between Ban Ji-eum and Moon Seo-ha across lifetimes.Water as a recurring motif, symbolizing time, renewal, and the fluidity of life.The presence of symbols representing Ban Ji-eum’s various lives and her connections to Moon Seo-ha.The episode’s major plot developments:Ban Ji-eum’s memory flashback showing Moon Seo-ha with a bloody sword in her first life.The abandoned building scene where Moon Seo-ha witnesses Mr. Bang’s body fall from above.The attack on Moon Seo-ha and his emotional breakdown upon learning his uncle ordered the accident that killed Yoon Ju-won.Ban Ji-eum’s confrontation with her father, who was responsible for the accident.The reveal that Kang Min-gi, Ban Ji-eum, and Moon Seo-ha were all connected in Ban Ji-eum’s first life.The chilling cassette tape proving Moon Seo-ha’s uncle orchestrated the accident.The episode’s emotional climax: Ban Ji-eum playing Remember on the piano and revealing to Moon Seo-ha that she was Yoon Ju-won.The continued tension between Ha Do-yoon and Yoon Cho-won, with Yoon Cho-won refusing to give up on him.CEO Jang’s mysterious influence and connection to Moon Seo-ha’s uncle, and her reaction to receiving gladiolus flowers from Hanna.Thoughts on the episode title, Casting One’s Fate Unto the Dice, and how it reflects Ban Ji-eum’s risky decision to reveal her past life.The shows we’re watching now.Exciting rumors that Scarlet Heart RYEO is coming to Viki!References
Bang Kyung Ho on Apple MusicThe Circular Building from KPop videos and K Dramas -
Today, we’ll be discussing Episode 7 of See You In My 19th Life, the hit K Drama on Netflix starring Shin Hye-sun as Ban Ji-eum, Ahn Bo-hyun as Moon Seo-ha, Ha Yoon-kyung as Yoon Cho-won, and Ahn Dong-goo as Ha Do-yoon. We discuss:
The songs we featured during the recap:Pure Love by Hee Nam SonBreeze by Hee Nam SonHere With Me by DoyoungHow Ban Ji eum, throughout her lives, always wanted to be the person who stood by your side, in good times and bad.This episode is all about the threads that all point to the car accident being ordered by someone, but who would have done so?Who has the motive to have Moon Seo ha killed? His father? His uncle? CEO Jang? Another relatives?The first kiss between Moon Seo ha and Ban Ji eum, with 360 views of course!The love language spoken by Ban Ji eum and Moon Seo ha that clearly shows they are becoming more intimate and less formal with each other.How Ban Ji eum is slowly transforming Moon Seo ha. He’s a different person around her, he’s smiling, and he feels like he’s in a different world.Moo Seo ha and Ha Do yoon both confess their love for our female leads, but Ha Do yoon says he still won’t date Yoon Cho won.We learn that Hanna was Moon Seo ha’s mother in her previous life.We don’t know that Kang Min gi was in a previous life, but he tells Ban Ji eum that this is his 23rd life and in this life, he’s also a professor of Archeology!When Ban Ji eum grabs the shaman bells once again, her memories of her first life grow more vivid, and this time, she sees an arrow hitting its target, and she sees a man dragging a sword behind him.What is Moon Seo ha’s uncle’s relationship with Ms. Jang and how does he know Wonjo Capital?The actors Cha Chung Hwa (who played Kim Ae-gyeong), Lee Han na (who played Hanna), and Lee Chae min )who played Kang Min gi). What we’re watching now!References
Hee Nam Son on Apple MusicPop Star Academy: KATSEYE on Netflix -
Today, we’ll be discussing Episode 6 of See You In My 19th Life, the hit K Drama on Netflix starring Shin Hye-sun as Ban Ji-eum, Ahn Bo-hyun as Moon Seo-ha, Ha Yoon-kyung as Yoon Cho-won, Ahn Dong-goo as Ha Do-yoon and Cha Chung Hwa as Kim Ae-gyeong. We discuss:
The songs we featured during the recap:Sad Memory by Fallin DildSecret by YELOHow Yoon Cho won finally came to believe that Ban Ji eum was her sister Yoon Ju won in her past life.The two secrets revealed in this episode: that the car accident was not an accident but murder, and Ha Do yoon’s father was the Moon driver and he was killed during the accident as well.The mysterious Kang Min Gi and Hanna. Who are they? What is their mission? And why do they think that Ban Ji eum connecting with her past lives will be dangerous and cause harm?When Kim Ae-gyeong and Kang Min gi go out, Ban Ji eum gets curious and finds the shaman bells in Kang Min gi’s room. Touching these bells brings back the visions from Ban Ji eum’s nightmares.Goryeo celadon since Ban Ji eum gave Wonjo Capital a celadon vase to pay off her brother’s debt.The horrible secret that the accident that killed Yoon Ju won was actually a murder attempt against Moon Seo ha is learned by Ban Ji eum, Ban Dong woo, and Moon Seo ha.Moon Seo ha’s realization that the driver who died in the car accident was Ha Do yoon’s father. He never knew! When he confronts Ha Do yoon, they end up fighting.We now know that even though Ha Do yoon likes Yoon Cho won, he won’t date her because they are not in the same social class and he doesn't want to be seen as taking advantage of her.CEO Jang’s visit to the Chairman’s house to get him to forgive her son, Chan-hyuk.The mysterious Mr. Im, who visits the Chairman.When Ban Ji eum hugs Moon Seo ha and tells him they won’t have a sad ending and that she’ll stay by his side, the memory of a young Seo ha and Ju won in the pool turns red with blood.A potential new K Drama element: Closing the distance in slow motion to hugThe background and career of Ahn Dong-goo, the actor who plays Ha Do yoon.References
Goryeo Celadon | Essay | The Metropolitan Museum of Art | Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History -
Today, we’ll be discussing Episode 5 of See You In My 19th Life, the hit K Drama on Netflix starring Shin Hye-sun as Ban Ji-eum, Ahn Bo-hyun as Moon Seo-ha, Ha Yoon-kyung as Yoon Cho-won, and Ahn Dong-goo as Ha Do-yoon. We discuss:
The songs we feature during the recap:Childhood Kim Jin ahI’ll Embrace Your Past by Ahn Bo hyunOur top K Dramas from 2024.It’s clear Moon Seo ha has not gotten over the trauma of Yoon Ju won’s death; this saddens and shocks Ban Ji eum and Yoon Cho won.Moon Seo ha is developing feelings for Ban Ji eum but he’s not sure how to process them because he doesn’t believe he is allowed to feel love or happiness.The beautiful dance scene at the beach!Formal vs. informal speech in Korean.Yoon Cho won’s shock and amazement at Ban Ji eum’s actions at the vacation home. How did Ban Ji eum know about the doll in the grandfather clock and height guide behind the bookcase?When Moon Seo ha, Ban Ji eum goes after him; he rejects her first confession.Ban Ji eum’s dream that includes red elements and shaman bells, as well as all the red elements in this episode. Red has many meanings in Korean culture. It can be protective and an omen of bad luck and death.The mysterious man who took Kim Ae-gyeong to the hospital and is now working at her restaurant. The mysterious woman Hanna, who seems to know that Ban Ji eum was Yoon Ju won in a past life.How Moon Seo ha is now on the offensive against CEO Jang, who appears to have mismanaged some money at the hotel.The reappearance of Ban Ji eum’s brother, who leads the loan sharks to Moon Seo ha.The loan sharks take Moon Seo ha to a tunnel, but Seo ha manages to fend them off, plus he got help from Ha Do jin and Ban Ji eum.Yoon Cho won’s call to Ban Ji eum to express her disappointment and sadness at what she thinks is Ban Ji eum’s ulterior motives.Ban Ji eum’s fateful decision to reveal to Yoon Cho won that she was Yoon Ju won in her past life.Three potential, new K Drama elements: the lighthouse, the sudden lane change while driving, and coughing into a drink.What we thought of the title: Am I the Butterly, or is the Butterfly Me?The life and background of Ha Yoon Kyung, the actress who plays Yoon Cho Won.References
Kim Jin ah on SpotifyAlbum: A New Leaf by Kim Jin ahTIME Magazine’s Top 10 K Dramas of 202413 Best K-Dramas of 2024 | Teen Vogue10 Best K-Dramas of 2024, Ranked150+ Dramas Of 2024 (K-Drama Masterlist) | SoompiDeemaLovesDrama on InstagramKorean Karaoke - Your complete guide to 노래방 (noraebang)Are you okay? It’s okay (in Korean)Tinnitus - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic.The Colors in Korean Life and Culture -
Today, we’ll be discussing Episode 4 of See You In My 19th Life, the hit K Drama on Netflix starring Shin Hye-sun as Ban Ji-eum, Ahn Bo-hyun as Moon Seo-ha, Ha Yoon-kyung as Yoon Cho-won, and Ahn Dong-goo as Ha Do-yoon. We discuss:
Kendrick Lamar’s new song, Reincarnated, where he sings about his past lives!The songs we feature during the recap:Sad Memory by Fallin’ DildStar (organic version) by ColdeOur male listeners’ opinions of Moon Seo ha; hint: they don’t think much of him!Our new K Drama elements: we like the name Bromance and The Person With Mixed Loyalties turns out to be in more shows than we originally thought!Whether or not Yoon Ju won told her mom about her past lives.Ban Ji eum seems to have conflicting goals: she wants Moon Seo ha to work out on his own that Ban Ji eum was Yoon Ju won BUT he also wants him to fall in love with her as Ban Ji eum so that he gets over Yoon Ju won.The jesa tradition of honoring parents and ancestors.When Moon Seo ha stays over at Ha Do yoon’s house, it’s clear that they are close friends and Moon Seo ha is able to open up about his feelings toward Ban Ji eum and Yoon Cho won.The strong “fan” culture in South Korea.How Ban Ji eum’s strategy is working because Moon Seo ha can’t stop thinking about her!Ban Ji eum almost revealed to Yoon Cho won that they were sisters; instead, she upsets a tray and breaks a set of teacups.The appearance of Ban Ji eum’s brother, who has clearly asked her for money before.The drink maekju that we see so often in K Dramas.Moon Seo ha’s suspicions that CEO Jang is up to no good and possibly manipulating the MI Grand Hotel’s finances.We learn that Moon Seo ha knows that Ha Do yoon meets with the Chairman regularly AND that the Chairman knew Ha Do yoon’s father.The mystery of the flowers in the lobby. Who is the woman who swapped them out, and who has swapped them back?How Ban Ji eum and Yoon Cho won are destroyed when they realize the extent of Moon Seo ha’s trauma over the car accident and Yoon Ju won’s death.The background and career of Ahn Bo hyun, the actor who plays Moon Seo ha.References
Korean Dating: Customs and etiquette for relationshipsSouth Korea's Popular Somaek Cocktail Combines Beer And Soju - Tasting TableFallin’ Dild on SpotifySouth Korea: Supreme Court ruling a historic victory for same-sex couples - Amnesty International.Jesa: The Korean Ceremony Commemorating AncestorsFandom culture in South Korea - WikipediaKendrick Lamar’s ReincarnatedKorea's Family Registration Law | The Law Office of Jeremy D. Morley -
Today, we’ll be discussing Episode 3 of See You In My 19th Life, the hit K Drama on Netflix starring Shin Hye-sun as Ban Ji-eum, Ahn Bo-hyun as Moon Seo-ha, Ha Yoon-kyung as Yoon Cho-won, and Ahn Dong-goo as Ha Do-yoon. We discuss:
The songs we featured during the recap:Piriri by Go Go KingDown by Jo Yu riBan Ji eum’s sad realization that the loved ones she left behind are still suffering over her death.One person who is no longer sad is Kim Ae-gyeong, who was Ban Ji eum’s niece during her 17th life. Kim Ae-gyeong is no longer alone and she’s had 15 or 16 wonderful years with Ban Ji eum.Jesa, the practice of honoring ancestors and parents, by offering food and drink at an altar with photos of the deceased.The amazing scene under the stand of cherry trees, during which Ban Ji eum tries to comfort Moon Seo ha.Moon Seo ha plays Remember on the piano, the song that Yoon Ju won says she composed during a past life, and that Moon Seo ha should learn to play when he’s missing someone.Ban Ji eum’s confession to Moon Seo ha on his birthday. She didn’t want to pass up the opportunity to share her feelings AGAIN.Ban Ji eum’s mysterious comment that perhaps she was reincarnated right away because she was murdered.Ha Do yoon’s altercation with Lee Ji seok, the son of the Chairman of Daehwan Group. He insulted Ha Do yoon and stepped on his phone. Moon Seo ha defends Ha Do yoon.Who is the mysterious woman who replaced the flowers in the lobby with gladiolus?Moon Seo ha’s rejection of Yoon Cho won’s arrival for her interview to do the landscaping at the hotel.Yoon Cho won’s confession that she loves Ha Do yoon over dinner with Ban Ji eum.Ban Ji eum takes Yoon Cho won to her parent’s home after a tender taxi ride during which Ban Ji eum feels very sisterly toward Yoon Cho won.The reason Ha Do yoon didn’t want to see Moon Seo ha is because he and his brother were preparing a jesa ceremony for their brother.The reunion between Ban Ji eum and Yoon Ju won’s mother that happened in Ban Ji eum’s imagination.When Moon Seo ha sees Ban Ji eum swaying and hugging herself, he approaches, sees she is crying, and says “noona” when Ban Ji eum calls him Seo ha ya.A possible new K Drama element: a person with conflicting loyalties!More information about the amazing Shin Hye sun, the actress who plays Ban Ji eum.References
A Poem Called You by Jo Yu riJesa - Wikipedia‘Tingle of Scar, Your Face and My Dumb Love’ | The DONG-A ILBOTraditional Korean Funeral Service - Guide and Customs -
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Today, we’ll be discussing Episode 2 of See You In My 19th Life, the hit K Drama on Netflix starring Shin Hye-sun as Ban Ji-eum, Ahn Bo-hyun as Moon Seo-ha, Ha Yoon-kyung as Yoon Cho-won, and Ahn Dong-goo as Ha Do-yoon. We discuss:
The songs we heard during the recap:Horo by Go Go KingStar by ColdeHow we rewatch the first few episodes of a show to truly understand the show.Comments from listeners on the blog.The differences between transmigration, regression and reincarnation.We wonder why Ban Ji-eum says her 18th life is her most memorable and why she remembers her memories from her previous livesHow Ban Ji-eum finds Moon Seo-ha in trouble, grabs his hand, tells him to run and then later asks him to marry her; she does this as a 9 year old and now as a 24-year old.The 3 proposals in the show: 1 by Moon Seo-ha and 2 by Ban Ji-eumWe learn a lot about the relationships between the character through Lee Ji-seok, the son of the Daehwan Group Chairman.Why Moon Seo-ha ultimately gave Ban Ji-eum a job at the hotel.How Moon Seo-ha remembered Ban Ji-eum from his past and how he kept the handkerchief that she had used to tie up his bleeding hand.How Ha Do-yoon seems to be a spy for Seo-ha’s father, the Chairman of MI Group.The many encounters between the sisters in this episode and how Ban Ji-eum wonders what Yoon Cho-won’s feelings are toward Moon Seo-ha.How the MI Grand Hotel CEO Jang Yeon-ok was having an affair with Seo-ha’s father when his mother was sick!When Moon Se-ha lays the flowers at the grave of Yoon Jo-won, Ban Ji-eum, for the first time, realizes the pain of the people she has left behind during her many lives.The many K Drama elements in this episode, including the many flowers we see and the wrist grabs.Our 2 new elements: the gay teasing element, and the long wait for love.The amazing Park So-yi, the young actress who plays a young Ban Ji-eum; we love her!References
The Difference Between Transmigration, Regress and ReincarnationGo Go King on SpotifyColde on Spotify -
Comment on this episode by going to KDramaChat.com
Today, we’ll be discussing Episode 1 of See You In My 19th Life, the hit K Drama on Netflix starring Shin Hye-sun as Ban Ji-eum, Ahn Bo-hyun as Moon Seo-ha, Ha Yoon-kyung as Yoon Cho-won, Ahn Dong-goo as Ha Do-yoon, and Cha Chung-hwa as Kim Ae-kyung. We discuss:
The songs we featured in this episode:Remember by Kim Jin ahSilence by Sunwoo jung-aThe reaction of our listeners to our choice of show for Season 10The characters we first get introduced to: Ban Ji-eum, Moon Seo-ha, Ha Do-yoon and Kim Ae-kyung.The concept of reincarnation.The Korean concept of inyeon, which roughly translates to providence or fate.The three elements of flamenco.When Kim Ae-kyung began to believe that Ban Ji-eum was the reincarnation of her uncle.The story of how Yoon Ju-won met Seo ha, got to know him, and died on his birthday.Ban Ji-eum’s mission to see if Moon Seo-ha is alive and ultimately be with him.The ages of our characters in the different timeframes.The importance of pools to Moon Seo-ha.How Ban Ji-eum finally meets Moon Seo-ha at the MI Grand Hotel and later applies for a job.Ban Ji-eum’s audacity in asking Moon Seo-ha if he would date her.How we have so many K Drama elements in this episode!The shows we’re watching now.Season 10 is off to a great start! Thanks for listening!
References
Sunwoo Jung-a on SpotifyKim Jin-a on SpotifyOn ReincarnationThe Symbols of Longevity in Korean Art and Culture – ArtinKoThe Turtle Ship - NCTAsiaPast Lives: This untranslatable Korean word for eternal love has ancient Buddhist roots -
Today, we’ll be discussing Episode 6, the finale, of Season 2 of Kingdom, the hit K Drama on Netflix starring Ju Ji-hoon as Crown Prince Yi Chang, Bae Doona as Seo-bi, Ryu Seung-ryon as Cho Hak ju, Kim Sang-ho as Mou Young, Kim Sung-kyu as Yeong shin, and Kim Hye-jun as the Queen Consort. We discuss:
How we appreciated the listeners who sent in their recommendations for Season 10 by sending us voice recordings, and sending us emails or messages.How the Crown Prince showed himself to be a different kind of leader when he refused to sacrifice the soldiers to save himself.The plan to lure the zombies to the lake by the rear garden is a risky one because the timing has to be just right. In the end, the Crown Prince pounds on the ice with his hands and then uses the zombie giant to finally break the ice.The miracle that allowed the Crown Prince and a few of his men to be saved when they fell in the water.The amazing Seo-bi, who manages to escape the main hall with the baby prince by using fire and her wits.When the Crown Prince and his men open up the palace gates, the Head Scholar says the baby prince must be found and killed so there won’t be chaos in the country.When the Crown Prince finds Seo-bi and the baby, Seo-bi assures him that the baby won’t turn into a monster. The prince makes the important decision to save the baby, name him the legitimate heir, and erase himself from the history books. We discuss WHEN and WHY the Crown Prince decides to do this.The amazing cinematography during the battle at the lake and when the Crown Prince walks away from the throne.In the future, we see that the country is freed from zombies once Spring comes, and the young king is being prepared by his wise teachers and guides.The Joseon Dynasty annals, which are so detailed, and from which so many historical K Dramas draw inspiration from.The Crown Prince, now just Lee Chang, along with Seo-bi and a few soldiers, continue to look for the origins of the resurrection plant. They come across the plant in other parts of the country, and then find zombies! Who is behind the continuing spread of this plague?The ending of the show shows the mysterious figure of a woman and a worm snaking across the young king’s face.The K Drama elements we saw in this episode, including crying, and protecting someone at personal cost to yourself.The addition of two elements to our list: a water scene and asking someone to speak casually to you.Mapping Kingdom to the stages of the Hero’s Journey framework. Turns out the show is quite true to the framework!Our final thoughts about this amazing K Drama!The decision-making process that went into the show that we will recap and analyze in Season 10 of K Drama Chat! (You have to listen to find out the show!).Listeners, we want to know what you think of our choice for Season 10! Please comment on the blog at KDramaChat.com!
References
Royal Portraits in the Late Joseon PeriodJeonju During the Joseon DynastyVeritable Records of the Joseon Dynasty - WikipediaCLOY: The Real Ending -
Today, we’ll be discussing Episode 5 of Season 2 of Kingdom, the hit K Drama on Netflix starring Ju Ji-hoon as Crown Prince Yi Chang, Bae Doona as Seo-bi, Ryu Seung-ryong as Cho Hak ju, Kim Sang-ho as Mou Young, Kim Sung-kyu as Yeong shin, and Kim Hye-jun as the Queen Consort. We discuss:
Joanna’s trip to Italy during the week of Thanksgiving and her Italian language journey.Sung Hee's Korean language journey.How the Crown Prince asks the soldiers from Mungyeong Saejae to remain loyal to him, even though their families are about to be executed.How the military training commander appeared to have betrayed the Crown Prince by telling the palace that the Crown Prince was at the Scholarly Institute, but in reality, the military training commander had shared Lee Seung Hui’s medical journal with the Minister of War and lured the palace guards to the Scholarly Institute where the Crown Prince would NOT be.Meanwhile, the Crown Prince arrives at the palace, lets his presence be known, and locks all the gates of the palace, thereby shutting out the Queen’s guards.How the Crown Prince, in his mourner’s outfit and peasant straw hat, looked so noble and kingly as he strode into the palace.How Cho Beom Pal could not bring himself to order the execution of the soldiers’ families, but he is saved by the arrival of the Crown Prince, who orders the prisoners freed.We speculate about whether or not the Crown Prince intends to take the throne.How the tide turns in favor of the Prince, as more people switch over and swear their loyalty to him, including the Minister of War, the former commander of the Royal Commandery Division, and the court ministers.How the Queen Consort does not seem bothered by the arrival of the Crown Prince. We speculate about her state of mind and think she’s about to burn the palace down because she knows she’s lost to the Crown Prince and she will either be banished or executed.The Queen’s head court lady releases the zombies from the dungeon, thereby instigating a killing spree and the creation of a zombie horde in the palace.The Crown Prince and his men put up a good fight, as do others in the palace, but they can’t fight against the zombie horde.The episode ends with the Crown Prince and a few men on one side of a gate, with hundreds of zombies banging on the other side. Seo-bi, meanwhile, is locked in the main hall with the Queen, the baby Prince, and a few soldiers.We list the shows that we are considering for Season 10 of K Drama Chat.5 listeners shared their favorites via audio and we share them on the podcast!References
Baekjeong - Wikipedia.Seal of the Emperor: The Symbol of the Korea Empire -
Comment on this week’s episode by visiting our blog at KDramaChat.com!
Today, we’ll be discussing Episode 4 of Season 2 of Kingdom, the hit K Drama on Netflix starring Ju Ji-hoon as Crown Prince Yi Chang, Bae Doona as Seo-bi, Ryu Seung-ryong as Cho Hak ju, Kim Sang-ho as Mou Young, Kim Sung-kyu as Yeong shin, and Kim Hye-jun as the Queen Consort. We discuss:
We learn the story behind the beef pancakes and how the Crown Prince asked for Mu Yeong’s loyalty to the very end in return for allowing Mu Yeong to steal from the royal meals.How the amazing Seo bi saves Cho Hak ju by figuring out that the zombies are afraid of water.The meaning of the tolling of bells in Korean culture.The Crown Prince makes it to Naeseonjae and saves Mu Yeong’s wife. Later, Young shin guides Seo bi to the Scholarly Institute to care for Mu Yeong’s wife. Cho Hak ju visits his daughter, the Queen Consort, and asks Seo bi to check the Queen’s pulse. Seo bi confirms that the Queen did not deliver the baby boy in her arms.Cho Hak ju says the Queen must die for her treachery against the Haewon Cho clan and the nation, but the Queen has other plans because she poisoned her father and he dies!We learn that the Queen and Cheo Bom Il conspired to fake the Queen’s pregnancy when she miscarried. They vowed to keep the fake pregnancy a secret from their father.Turns out the Queen is the scariest person in the palace! The Queen throws Seo bi into the palace dungeon and tells her to keep studying the zombies.The Crown Prince visits his uncle on Ganghwa Island and asks Young shin why he continues to be loyal to him, the Crown Prince.We have a new K Drama element: when a character asks another character to stay with them. In this episode, the Crown Prince asks Mu Yeong to stay with him until the end, and the Queen asks Cho Beom Pal to stay with her and her baby boy.The different types of palace guards, their training, and how they were picked.We’re looking for suggestions for Season 10 of K Drama Chat!References
Joseon Army - Wikipedia.Wanggung Sumunjang - Wikipedia -
Listeners, we apologize that Joanna’s audio is not as good as normal. She was traveling and had to record this episode on her phone.
Today, we’ll be discussing Episode 3 of Season 2 of Kingdom, the hit K Drama on Netflix starring Ju Ji-hoon as Crown Prince Yi Chang, Bae Doona as Seo-bi, Ryu Seung-ryong as Cho Hak ju, Kim Sang-ho as Mou Young, Kim Sung-kyu as Yeong shin, and Kim Hye-jun as the Queen Consort. We discuss:
The timeline of the queen’s evil plan to get a baby boy. We have differing opinions about when it all began!We also disagree about when we think Mu Yeong started spying on the Crown Prince for Cho Beom Il.What happened three years ago when Cho Hak ju asked Lord Ahn to take the patients in the Sumang Village leper colony, kill them, and turn them into zombies to fight the Japanese army. Lord Ahn agreed to the plan but he has regretted it ever since.How this show is an exploration of the lines that we cross and don’t dare cross to protect our families, communities, and nation.Whether or not Young shin knew the truth about what happened to his brother in Sumang Village.The Crown Prince’s impassioned speech to the soldiers at Mungyeong Saejae, whose loyalty he wants.The Crown Prince’s commitment to save the people trapped in the citadel of Sangju by delivering food to them.We now know that Mu Yeong is the traitor because he has taken Cho Hak ju and is rushing him to Hanyang.Seo bi’s suspicion that something is very wrong with the Queen and her pregnancy because the Queen had Cho Beom Pal bring her sappanwood from Japan. Sappanwood is known to stop bleeding after a miscarriage.The soldiers who take Cho Hak ju and kill Mu Yeong.The Crown Prince’s grief over losing Mu Yeong. When Young shin asks the Crown Prince why he did nothing about Mu Yeong’s betrayal, the Crown Prince said he didn’t want to lose someone else. By the end of this episode, the Crown Prince has lost the three most important men in his life: his father, Lord Ahn, and Mu Yeong AND beheaded two of these men.How the head of the Royal Commandery Division is arrested and punished for daring to barge into the Royal Delivery area.Mu Yeong’s motivations in betraying the Crown Prince.Why Young shin continues to stay with the Crown Prince.The filming locations for Kingdom.References
Kingdom Filming LocationsVisit Changdeokgung, the Filming Site of Netflix's KingdomNetflix's Kingdom: Where Was the Korean Show Filmed?Changdeokgung - WikipediaChanggyeonggung - WikipediaLeprosy on Wikipedia -
Today, we’ll be discussing Episode 2 of Season 2 of Kingdom, the hit K Drama on Netflix starring Ju Ji-hoon as Crown Prince Yi Chang, Bae Doona as Seo-bi, Ryu Seung-ryong as Cho Hak ju, Kim Sang-ho as Mou Young, Kim Sung-kyu as Yeong shin, and Kim Hye-jun as the Queen Consort. We discuss:
How this episode is full of betrayal: someone betrayed the Crown Prince, Cho Hak ju betrays Lord Ahn, and the Queen Consort betrays her father and the rest of the Haewon Cho clanHow Seo-bi violated our rule of never opening mysterious chests without knowing that what’s inside is a friendly person or a cute, furry animal.How the Crown Prince must kill his zombie father, thereby honoring his father’s words to him from so long ago: Stay alive!We learn more about what happened three years ago and we learn that Lord Ahn has deeply regretted his decision to create zombies ever since.Cho Hak ju had Lord Ahn killed, something that the soldiers do with hesitation, given that Lord Ahn is a national war hero. So now, the Crown Prince’s mentor and guide has left him.Lord Ahn makes himself a weapon against Cho Hak ju when he asks the Crown Prince to turn him into a zombie.Back at Hanyang, the Minister of War orders the queen’s residence searched and the soldiers discover the bodies of seven mothers and babies. Curiously, the baby boy died of natural causes, while the baby girls were strangled to death.The court officials debate the line of succession in light of the king’s death when the head eunuch announces that the Queen Consort has gone into labor.The Queen, of course, is not in labor, but waiting for a baby boy to be born.The ID tags that all men over the age of 18 carried around during the Joseon dynasty.The desire for revenge by Young shin and Lord Ahn’s men, which leads them to try and take down Cho Hak ju when they are taken out of their jail cell to be transported to Hanyang.We wonder where Mu Yeong is.The crazy ending where the zombie Lord Ahn takes a chunk out of Cho Hak ju’s left cheek!The K Drama elements in this episode, including the Crown Prince sinking to the ground with great emotion, and the queen’s amazing abs in episode 1 of season 2.The enduring popularity of zombies, from around the world!How Korean zombies are different from Western dramas in that they often focus on the relationships between the humans and the zombies.References
Worn Identity, or information about the ID tags worn by people during the Joseon dynastyKing Cheoljong and his family, who were banished to Ganghwa Island30 Zombie TV Shows Ranked by TomatometerThe Last Of Us: A Closer Look at the Zombie Genre -
Today, we’ll be discussing Episode 1 of Season 2 of Kingdom, the hit K Drama on Netflix starring Ju Ji-hoon as Crown Prince Yi Chang, Bae Doona as Seo-bi, Ryu Seung-ryong as Cho Hak ju, Kim Sang-ho as Mou Young, Kim Sung-kyu as Yeong shin, and Kim Hye-jun as the Queen Consort. We discuss:
The Kingdom wiki that Joanna discovered!How we start to learn what happened in Sangju three years earlier and the roles that Cho Hak ju and Lord Ahn played. We wonder if Lord Ahn has regrets over his decisions at the time.Deok Sung’s act of sacrifice and how Young shin gave him his dignity by killing him.The Crown Prince’s suspicion that Mu Young is the traitor working for Cho Hak ju.The moral dilemmas in this show that ask us just how far we’ll go to save our loved ones.How Seo bi and Cho Beom Pal make it to Mungyeong Saejae and are given shelter because Cho Beom Pal is a member of the Haewo Cho clan. We also find out that Cho Beom Pal is now the heir to the clan.The palace guards are on to the Queen’s evil plot to get a baby boy, but she’s counting on her baby boy to protect her.How the Crown Prince has decided to travel to Mungyeong Saejae and kill Cho Hak ju. Cho Hak ju is in Sangju to kill the Crown Prince.How extreme crisis can push people to do extreme things they didn’t know was possible.The actress Kim Hye-jun, who plays the Queen Consort.References
Kingdom wikiCrash Landing On You wikiOpen Source Wiki SoftwareJapanese invasions of Korea (1592–1598) - WikipediaAbout - Aftermath of the East Asian War of 1592-1598 - もっと表示する
