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taeunfighting
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Posts posted by taeunfighting
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On 8/18/2020 at 2:37 AM, larus said:
I was starring at this actor. I recognized him but I could not remember from where.
SpoilerThen I found out. He is Jung Sung Il and I saw him this year in Woman of 9.9 Billion.
I think he is quite handsome and like his calm demeanor. I sense that he wants to give Lee Yeon Jae sensible (and ethical) advice, but holds back because he doesn't want to overstep his boundaries. Maybe it's possible he will balance out her emotional/fiery side.
On 8/18/2020 at 10:02 AM, penelop3 said:Yes, from the get-go, LYJ doesn't seem to be going on the straight line. Isn't it contradictory with what LCJ's (husband-glorified hero) wish? But yes, too soon to tell for now.
The contradictory is the part that saddens me. It's the same how I feel about Seo Dong Jae. But, however the story goes, I trust the writer has her reasons and purpose.
On 8/19/2020 at 2:18 PM, bedifferent said:Choi Bit approved ShiMok's nomination to the panel. She also pivoted to get Det Jang aboard with Yeo Jin. I have a feeling that Choi Bit and Woo Tae Ha are secretly working together to expose more higher up corruptions (ala Lee Chang Joon's mastermind grand plan). A simpler explanation could be that they both exploit Shi Mok-Yeo Jin's relationship to gain insight to the other person's game plan. Doesn't hurt to get SM-YJ fronting their cause so to bolster public trust too. It's too early, I don't know what the writer is planning LOL I just don't believe a corrupted Police Chief would want to lead a police reform division. Doesn't sound right, why draw more attention to yourself (and your skeleton in the closet) by working in a department where you are constantly being discredited and targeted by the prosecution?
I like the idea that Choi Bit and Woo Tae Ha could be secretly working together for a grandeur purpose. I got a similar vibe when she called him about the director. There was something odd about it - like there was an unspoken/mutual understanding. Also, it's such a coincidence that Yeo Jin and Shi Mok (who are hard to fool) happen to be on their respective team. But, I am keeping it at the back-burner because there are also fishy tidbits about them as well. Maybe they are red herrings? But yeah, I agree it's too early so we shall see...
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@40somethingahjumma Thanks for sharing your post. I had paused at episode 8 mostly because of time and partly because I had a bit of hard time processing LDC’s wrongful death and the rationale behind withholding of the recording. I have caught up to the middle of episode 12 as of last night and agree with you that it is an excellent show and hopefully can be appreciated by the audience. If I think about it realistically (especially with what is currently going on in my country), it is unfortunately true that investigations do get mishandled – unintended or intended. So, I do appreciate that the writer chose the route to portray a story in which the police and prosecution process continues to be imperfect mid-way. If he can relay the emotions of injustice and the unfair ramifications it has at the cost of people’s lives/livelihoods from the characters to viewers, I think he has succeeded in his work.
One of the reasons that kept me going with the show was an exchange between KDC and Chief Moon. Chief Moon told KDC that their efforts will not bring LDC back to life; however, KDC clarified to him that LDC may be dead, but we still need to comfort his soul. Rather than comply and continue to cover mistakes, I respect the “good detectives” for acknowledging them and not choosing silence. Their tactics may not be black and white or pure, but I think it’s because going by the books obviously isn’t working so they have no choice, but to come up with unconventional ways to get over the hurdles that are put up by the various individuals including those from their own organization.
I too like the story’s portrayal of the relationships between the characters and units. From KDC x OJH, division 2, LDC x LEH, LDC x KDC and KDC x LEH (plus KDC’s sister). In moments of despair, glimmers of hope seem possible through these bonds formed between humans.
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Since I am at episode 12, I wanted to mention the bloody fight between OJH and OJT. It was pretty violent, but through that, I thought it did the job in showing OJH’s perseverance and determination to punish his cousin and the rest of the culprits. I hope that he and his team will prove that those who think it is easy to get away with everything needs to understand the essence of remorse and that people’s lives should not be pawns used by individuals to achieve their personal agendas and for organizations to leverage power over one another. I thought the meeting of the police, prosecution and special guest, YJS, presided by the minister of justice was both interesting and disturbing. It reminded me a little bit of an underground/secret society.
Overall, I agree with everyone that the show has done a great job mixing in humor and hints of b/romance in what could have been a pure procedural detective show. I am enjoying the chuckles and heart-eyes that I am getting from it.
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8 hours ago, bedifferent said:
Whoa, you are the first person that hope Yeon Jae will change for the better. I didn't get the same feelings after seeing how she overruled her advisors to hire tax specialists despite knowing it compromises business ethics. She will keep Hanjo operations the same to save her father's legacy. She knows that she is only interim deputy chairman while Chairman Lee is in jail.
I may be the first and only one – ha. I work in the area of tax and did a brief rotation in S. Korea so the meeting of Lee Yeon Jae and her advisors caught my attention. Based on that conversation, I too did not get the impression that she was all business ethical, but think it is still early and things can potentially evolve. Since change was something that Lee Chang Joon mentioned in the opening narrative, I hope change for the better can happen even for the most unlikely characters in the story as well. With Yeon Jae, she seemed frustrated with her half-brother and his tactics. If she succeeds in securing the majority company shares, it is possible she can be chairwoman and steer the direction of the Hanjo according to her own beliefs. I do not want Lee Yoon Beom to come back and in the end, I want her to choose her husband’s final legacy over her father’s. I still remember from season 1 finale, she told her late husband that she was sorry and wished he had just told her everything. Would be nice if those words can translate into something meaningful from Hanjo’s perspective. Anyway, I am getting off tangent from what’s been presented so far so I will stop here.
1 hour ago, larus said:I don`t want Choi Bit to be proven corrupt. It will be a huge blow to Yeo Jin who admires her. Just like in season 1 Lee Chang Joon was a model for Shi Mok and other prosecutors.
I feel the same as you about Choi Bit - I do not want her to be corrupt. Yeo Jin does seem to admire her and I got the sense that she admires Yeo Jin back. She is tough in front of Yeo Jin, but I noticed that she usually gives a slight smile when Yeo Jin leaves. We shall see how her character plays out.
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@bedifferent LOL. You brought the timeline back. Thanks and nice work there!
4 hours ago, bedifferent said:2. Hanjo power struggle - Lee Yeon Jae vs. her half brother Lee Song Jae who conspires with Sungmoon Daily to publish false accusation against SM and LYJ. If Lee Yong-ho is her nephew, working with SM to solve the above case may benefit Yeon Jae.
Lee Yeon Jae potentially cooperating with Shi Mok crossed my mind as well. Either on the drowning case if Lee Yong Ho is indeed her nephew (seems possible) or other cases that may be connected to her half-brother. I wouldn’t be surprised if the apple did not fall far from the tree and he is similar to his corrupted father, Lee Yoon Beom and is receiving preferential treatment from the systems. Yeon Jae is part of the same family too, but I prefer her to be different than them - especially after finally understanding her husband’s internal struggles while working for her father the tragic way. A part of me wants her to succeed in securing the majority company shares and turn Hanjo Group around for the better. Since Shi Mok was the person her husband entrusted to hand his final letter to her, if it were to come to the point where business meets legal matters, it would be satisfying if she can trust Shi Mok as her husband did.
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By the way, did anyone else miss seeing Shi Mok lug his neatly-strapped books around? I couldn’t help but smile upon seeing the stacks piled up in the back of his car. He is certainly a man who goes by the books and follows the rules as they tell him.
Seo Dong Jae is indeed back and will be the same? Because it is hard to tell where his conscience lies, his character arc is the one that I am most curious about in season 2. I do not want him to change his shenanigans or witty/clever ways of investigating the cases, but I hope that he will not fully cross the line of good versus bad and wholeheartedly considers Lee Chang Joon’s final words to him to not follow his path. We shall see…
Choi Moo Sung is one of my favorite actors. I like him in the role of Woo Tae Ha. So far, he seems sharp and has a good judge of character by the difference in the way that he treats Shi Mok versus Dong Jae. He smelled Dong Jae’s rotten tricks from miles away, but still entertained him to get all the intel before signaling that it was time to leave. His decision to have Shi Mok on board may be beneficial to Dong Jae. Maybe he will find his lost moral compass while working alongside Shi Mok?
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Wow, Yeo Jin looks stunning with her long hair!
I haven’t had time to see the recent teasers so I was not sure what to expect, but think season 2 is off to a great start. It has a good mix of familiar and new feels. The anticipated feud between the police and prosecution should create exciting tension to the story. Will Yeo Jin and Shi Mok manage to be the thread who will keep them in harmony and working together? Will reform on both sides be possible??
@keyta I was hoping that we would get some flashbacks of Lee Chang Joon. I will take his voiceover. It was a pleasant surprise and fitting that he provided the prologue.
“Doggedly chasing after the truth and marching towards what’s right is a never-ending process. To stop, even for a moment, is to fail. Marching towards change is like having two needles as your feet with an invisible thread chasing after you, never stopping for a breath as you march on. In the belief that a handful of hope is better than immeasurable despair, we move forward with an unwavering determination once again.”
Loved what he said. I think it will sum up the heart and spirit of the story - Shi Mok, Yeo Jin and team stopping at nothing to pursue the truth.
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I also liked the effects of the dense fog in the opening. The main case(s) will definitely be obscure. Visibility to the truth will be hampered and can’t be seen clearly at first.
@bedifferent How are you? I still remember from the TLW thread, many were so looking forward to 2020 - one of the reasons was for Stranger 2. It’s been quite the journey since then until now (and still continues). Feels a bit unreal that it’s finally here and happening, but great to see the crew on screen again. I like the addition of Jeon Hye Jin as Choi Bit. Can’t wait to meet Choi Moo Sung’s character next and of course, see Seo Dong Jae again. Elegant Lee Yeon Jae too. Hope you and everyone here enjoys the show!
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I just finished this week’s episode after work. I liked how they showed us that within the police, attorneys and press, there are individuals who understand what is the right and conscious thing to do. Detective Kwon Jae Hong finally realizes what it means to be a detective and fully sides with KDC and his team now. Attorney So Jae Sub explaining to OJH that they sometimes hang onto cases not necessarily for money, but for self-satisfaction and perhaps to comfort ourselves. They needed someone like him to fight for LDC’s retrial and to persuade LDC to fight for himself. It was nice to see LEH smile when she heard the news that the request was accepted by the judge. It must have felt so great in that moment to some kind of hope, but of course, this is just the beginning...there is still a lot more work to do to prove their case.
At the moment, YJS is the most interesting character for me. It is obvious that he has an agenda, but I cannot tell if he is conspiring on behalf of the mysterious powerful person. (He seems to be someone else other than OJT.) Or, if he has his own master plan of some sort. I thought it was strange that when JSK mentioned the scoop that LDC may be innocent and proposed it as her next story, he did not stop her from pursuing it. Instead, he told her to not worry about his brother (Congressman Yoo) and to just do her work as a reporter. We shall see…
I have to mention that KDC and OJH’s chemistry is just overflowing. They work great together and there is something about the way OJH calls him “hyung-nim” that is very endearing. Love them together…especially when they bicker and poke fun at each other. I also like that OJH and JSK are much friendlier with each other now. I think she is proving to him that she is not just chasing after the next hot cover story.
15 hours ago, snowlou said:Questions:
1. Who killed Yoon Ji Sun?
2. Who killed Detective Jang?
3. Who killed Detective Oh's father?
4. If you think there is ONE big mastermind behind this, who is it?
@snowlou Thanks for organizing the second poll. (I noticed that you are an event organizer.
)
1. I was almost certain that it was OJT prior to episode 6. I will still go with OJT as my answer. I find it odd that he needed a faked alibi (fabricated CCTV footage) if he was innocent.
2. Detective Nam and the chief. Nam is obviously shady and the chief seemed so eager to pin the murder on LDC.
3. Not sure who are the actual killers, but I think they were ordered by OJT's father to take over the family's wealth.
4. I do not think this person has been revealed yet.
I like everyone's guesses so far.
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@Lmangla Your thoughts regarding PGH were essentially right. He did attempt to kill to LDC through orders in exchange for payment (clear his gambling debts) and seemed to have rationalized that LDC would eventually die by the death penalty anyway.
My question is still how he knows that LDC is innocent. Did he purely base it on his sense that LDC appears to be a “good” man and the daughter's belief that her father cannot be a killer? It did not seem that he had any hard evidence about it which may be why all he could do for LDC is to convince the detectives/reporters to re-investigate that will hopefully lead to his vindication.
Also, it was interesting that he faked the seizure in the prison cell to hint to the detectives about LEH’s illness. In the preview for the next episode, I was glad to hear her finally ask KDC to help her father.
10 hours ago, bebebisous33 said:KDC did a really bad job back then and I am surprised that he could be convinced so quickly about LDC's guilt.
I am also surprised that KDC was easily convinced of LDC’s guilt and had overlooked signs that the investigation was being mishandled. Even OJH was baffled when he learned that KDC had not asked the basic procedural questions when he met the victim’s family/friends. It cannot fix all the harm that has been done, but at the very least, he is not choosing silence and plans to start over with the investigation. It is true that is not just about catching the real killer. Someone’s life is also at stake. Will be interesting to see how the all cases you mentioned are connected to the truth. Seems to be a tangled web of deceit/corruption amongst various parties.
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From the opening scene where we see the supposed killer dumped the victim’s body into the waters, I thought the man resembled OJT. After getting a sense of his brash personality and learning that one of the watches is linked to his family, he is on my suspect list, but at same time, like @fluffyloaf, I too wonder if it is too easy to assume that it could be him. For sure, there has to be also other people/matters involved in the mix.
Regarding JSK’s naivety, I think this may be why OJH gives her a bit a hard time. He believes that detectives and reporters have a similar job. I assume that he meant both have a duty to the public to strive to find and present the truth based on research/evidence. He does not seem to have full confidence in her abilities yet. Maybe with her personally knowing that PGH’s death cannot logically be a suicide and witnessing a faked investigation for the first time, it will drive her to question everything more (including her boss) and justify herself as a reporter.
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On 7/11/2020 at 8:05 PM, thistle said:
That watch has definitely got to be significant. But it also made me wonder how exactly it was that OJH was able to spend $800K on a watch like that. There's gotta be backstory there.
Oly40 shared an article on page 1 that said:
"Jang Seung Jo will take on the role of Oh Ji Hyuk, an elite detective of nine years who does not share his feelings with others due to pain he experienced when he was young. He is not swayed by money and power, even with the huge wealth he inherited from his uncle."
If true, the inheritance may explain how he could have afford the watch. I agree that it should be significant and also with fluffyloaf's comments that he may have intentionally purchased it to attract some leads for the case.
19 hours ago, Lmangla said:the smirk criminal is clearly overwrought with guilt but the question is guilt for what? was he just guilty for deciding to act as judge and hurting lee dae chul? it made me wonder if he had been part of the cover-up -- perhaps he had been paid to beat a prisoner? or to treat him badly? if lee dae chul had been framed, then isn't it possible that he was also supposed to die in prison? perhaps, smirk criminal was instigated by someone in the name of justice and then realized it was all bogus?
Those are all very interesting thoughts. We shall find out...
I do think that as a prison guard, PGH may have believed that he was a member of an organization that enforced and carried out the law, but found out that in truth, they are corrupt and offenders themselves. As such, in the case of LDC, I think he feels the offense committed by the system trickles down to him (for having wrongfully beat/punish LDC). So, his agenda to expose them and to right the wrong for LDC may be his way to relieve his guilt/inner turmoil.
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Saw this and had to share. Such a cute photo of the duo. New episodes this week...enjoy!
credit: twitter (saranghaedorama)
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@snowlou Same, I like that SHJ is playing a detective with a funny sense of humor. And, right of the bat, it seems like OJH is willing to humor him back. He seemed amused when KDC kept talking about his bald spot. I chuckled when KDC told OJH that they are like a "married couple" now and gave him the finger heart.
Going in, I had thought the two would need to adjust to each other, but it looks like they are working together quite well. I am also liking JSJ as OJH very much (and his baby-face ).
On 7/10/2020 at 12:10 AM, fluffyloaf said:I am just wondering if it is LDC and if he was trying to help LDC, why would he be beating the man in prison? Plus his desperate prayers while he was in the holding cell. Damn, they just made me even more curious thanks to his good acting.
Regarding PGH, I could be wrong, but I get the sense that he is helping LDC and LEH because he feels guilty for beating (punishing) LDC as a prison guard while under the false impression that he had committed murder. When he had that dream/flashback of that incident in the cell, he woke up shakened up and immediately prayed saying, "Please forgive me of my debts. And lead me to heaven" (repeatedly). Not sure how he knows that LDC is actually innocent though. I am sure we will find out later.
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I finally watched 1 & 2. It was good. I like the pace. It is not overwhelming and seems like a straightforward story compared to some detective stories I've previously seen. As many friends here have already mentioned, it seems pretty clear that the investigation and closure of LDC’s case 5 years ago was mishandled by the crime unit - intentionally. Park Gun Ho is definitely trying to seek justice and push the seemingly moral detectives (KDC and OJH) into reinvestigating the case while the corrupt ones are still trying to subdue the truth. Maybe PGH's reason for doing so relates to the biblical verse he recited which was Matthew 23, Verse 33: "You snakes! You brood of vipers! How will you escape being condemned to hell?".
On the media side, I think JSK will face a similar struggle, but I have a feeling her senior, YJS, is aware of the corruption between the various entities and with that, may be able to help guide her to exposing the truth. Should be really interesting when Oh Jung Se’s character is finally introduced to the story.
Meanwhile, I wanted to mention something that I had previously read in an article. It described that in one of the teaser videos, the following key words were associated with each of the characters:
“Silence”
Kang Do Chang (Son Hyun Joo)
”Truth"
Oh Ji Hyuk (Jang Seung Jo)
“Justice”
Jin Seo Kyung (Lee Elijah)
“Power”
Oh Jong Tae (Oh Jung Se)
“Conspiracy”
Yoo Jeong Seok (Ji Seung Hyun)
Based on what we have seen so far, I could kind of see why these particular words were paired with each of the characters (except not with OJT’s yet). Especially with KDC, when it becomes more evident that LDC was falsely sentenced to death, I think he will momentarily struggle with keeping silent or not partly because his promotion will be at stake, but mostly because it will wreak disruption within the department which will have a domino effect externally. Consciously though, I believe that he will do the right thing and truly partner up with OJH to uncover the truth.
On 7/8/2020 at 8:43 AM, Lmangla said:anyone else reminded of tunnel while watching?
Yes, I did get that vibe! Coincidentally, one of the detectives in the crime unit here was also a detective in Tunnel – Park Gwang Ho's senior in the future, but younger counterpart in the past.
Looking forward to coming episodes!
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On 7/7/2020 at 6:18 PM, brooksmom said:
Since a lot of you say you are in USA, why can't you get it thru OnDemandKorea. It's a legit site. It covers USA and Canada. I watched it last night subbed. Most premium sites let you watch it for free the first 24hrs. Now if they are slow to sub it and take longer then 24hrs, that's another case. You can catch ep2 subbed free if you do it today usa, canada time. After that it's premium and you have to pay to watch ep 1 and 2. So, please let me know if it works for your or not.
I just looked at VIU. I see it doesn't include North or South America.
Thanks so much for sharing this info @brooksmom. This is my first time hearing about OnDemandKorea. I am in the US and usually have a hard time finding sites to watch dramas that are not on Netflix. Just signed up and even found the app on my phone.
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I have not had enough down-time to watch yet so I half-closed my eyes coming here. Hope everyone is enjoying it so far. Will try to catch up and follow along with everyone.
On 7/6/2020 at 6:32 PM, snowlou said:is JSJ 40 already?
indeed he has a baby face!
On 7/7/2020 at 5:20 PM, jongski said:He's actually 38. but doesn't look like it.
Wow, I would never have guessed that JSJ is 38. Baby-face indeed! This will be my first time seeing him in a drama. I do like what I have seen of him in the teasers shared here so far.
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3 hours ago, Bleu Winter said:
If she was a psychopath, she would have no problems hurting others but she doesn't.
Well of course not all psychopaths will turn up as murderers anyway. Some survive well like normal people with good family support.
I believe that the core of Mun Yeong is good. In the most critical moments, her actions have shown that she does have a conscience. In both instances where she used the “should I or should I not” method to determine if she should help the Moon brothers, they landed on “not”. Despite that, she still saved them which makes me think that she can differentiate what is right or wrong or at least understand what a good human being should do. She also saved the little girl from her mentally ill father so it seems like she is capable of helping people other than the Moon brothers. It is her mother who has planted in her mind that she is a “monster” and conditioned her to believe it. In the preview for the next episode, we hear Gang Tae tell Mun Yeong that she did well. I think these words will be one of the pivotal moments in kick-starting her healing process - she is capable of good. So, I agree that when patients are provided access to resources and support, mental health issues may be managed.
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When Mun Yeong engaged Sang Tae to be her illustrator, it seems like she did not do it out of pure selfish reasons. When Gang Tae read the contract, it stated that she will acknowledge Sang Tae as the best illustrator in the world. To me, I believe that she (similar to the hospital director) sees Sang Tae’s talent for art as his strong suit and is using this positive trait as therapy and to also help pave a path for him to have a sense of his own life. It is not just Gang Tae that needs to find a life outside of Sang Tae. Sang Tae needs to find a life outside of Gang Tae as well. It is true that they each belong to their own selves. I can tell by the three coexisting together in the mansion, they will help each other heal and bring out their positive points - possibly reversing what their mothers (and maybe father) had conditioned them to be.
I also wanted to mention something about episode 5. The story briefly referenced the Bates Hotel which was featured in the American psychological suspense/thriller show of the same name. It was considered to be the prequel to Alfred Hitchcock's film, Psycho, and it was created to help the audience understand how the main character, Norman Bates, came to be the murderous “psycho”. Certainly his mental illness, schizophrenia and dissociative identity disorder, was deemed nature (inherited), but how his mother, Norma Bates, who had her own mental illness, nurtured him further damaged his mental state. One of his personalties was his version of her. She was extremely protective of her son and did not allow him to have a life away from her. She embedded in his mind that that the outside world was immoral and that women (apart from herself) were evil. As such, they lived a life of exclusion and anyone who were seen to come between them were in danger. Not that I think that the drama parallels the Bates Hotel, but I do notice some similarities between the two. Mainly how parent/child relationships, the environment they were raised in and trauma can deeply affect children's psyche.
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Here is another teaser:
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Gosh, how is it possible for two guys to be so cute and funny together. When not speaking English, I loved how they earnestly did their best to bridge the language barrier by speaking and expressing themselves in each other's language. They both did pretty good. My favorite line that they repeated to each other in Mandarin was, "I believe in you. You believe in me". Made me smile each time. 8 episodes felt too short. I hope there will a season 2!
P.S. Their smiles totally sparkle on the screen. And, Jasper's dimples be like this to me
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@snowlou Hello~
I'm looking forward to it too.
I read the same that Jang Seung Jo's character ranks higher than Son Hyun Joo. Also, both seem to have different approaches/styles of investigating. Personality-wise, Jang Seung Jo guards his feelings/emotions due to some kind of childhood trauma. Son Hyun Joo has a tough exterior, but is supposedly a friendly "ahjussi". They should make an interesting combo. From what I can tell, Lee Elijah will be a strong-willed reporter so I think she may play an important part in trying to reveal the truth about the crimes.
The articles I read did not say much about Oh Jung Se and Ji Seung Hyun's characters so they're a bit of a mystery. I think you're right though that they'll likely be grey, if not maybe baddies.
I had only learned about this drama yesterday so I'm excited that it will be airing in two weeks.
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Hi @triplem, I think my ears perked as I was reading about the synopsis and characters. It seems like it will be very good police series all around. I like the casting as well. Each has played roles in dramas that I am very fond of. Lee Elijah was great in Chief of Staff and seems fitting for this role as well. The only person I am not familiar with is Jang Seung Jo, but looking forward to get to know him. His character profile and dynamics with Son Hyun Joo sounds very interesting. I think their gap in age and experience could play a good balance in their teamwork.
@Lmangla @snowlou I really like Son Hyun Joo as well. I last saw him in Itaewon Class. He had a short role, but he was such an inspiration to the story. And, thanks Lmangla for mentioning Tunnel. It is one of my all-time favorites.
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I just read about this upcoming drama. It looks and sounds like a very good detective story.
https://www.hellokpop.com/kdrama/the-good-detective-teasers/
JTBC
K-DRAMA
“The Good Detective” Readies For A Thrilling Ride With A Series Of Intensifying Teasers
By Lilly | June 25, 2020THE INTRIGUING VIDEO TEASERS OF JTBC’S THE GOOD DETECTIVE HARBINGERS THE APPROACH OF AN ADDICTIVE DRAMA WITH A HIGH-QUALITY CONTENT.
New crime thriller series The Good Detective is set to grace the television screens in July. So far, the creators of the drama have already enticed the viewers with the release of some interesting teasers.
SpoilerStarring Son Hyun Joo and Jang Seung Jo as the main leads, The Good Detective tracks the pursuit of truth behind a criminal case. The case is lead by a team of two detectives with different backgrounds and personalities. The drama also features Lee Elijah, Oh Jung Se, and Ji Seung Hyun in pivotal roles.
Kang Do Chang (Son Hyun Joo) is a detective who has an experience of 18 years. Some time before his promotion screening, he gets partnered with a new detective. The person in question is detective Oh Ji Hyuk (Jang Seung Jo), who is said to have graduated with the top rank from his University. Though it is only his 9th year in the police department, his rank is higher than that of Kang Do Chang.
Together, the two detectives use their methods to solve crime mysteries. The combination of a veteran detective Kang Do Chang and his new partner, a rich elite detective Oh Ji Hyuk, holds great expectations.
SpoilerTHE MYSTERY MURDER CASE
The first teaser video begins with the voice-over of a man who asks, “Do you know what is the most efficient way to cover the truth of the event? It is getting rid of the victim forever.”
In the scene, there is a car passing a road on a night of heavy rain. The car stops, and in the midst of it, a watch gets dropped. Meanwhile, someone drags a body outside a car. After that, the next scene shifts to Lee Dae Cheol (Cho Jae Yoon) getting arrested as the culprit of the incident.
Then one day, detective Kang Do Chang (Son Hyun Joo), who was investigating the Lee Dae Cheol case, receives a mysterious confession through a phone call. After hearing this, Kang Do Chang is determined to catch the criminal and says, “If I remain silent too, then there will be no one to talk to.” He is then seen questioning a suspect, saying, “Aren’t you sorry for the dead?” In another scene, he angrily remarks, “Don’t you have conscience?”
In addition, there are three other characters who are introduced in this video. First, partner Detective Oh Ji Hyuk is shown in action, while at the backdrop, he can be heard saying, “We don’t have time. It’s useless, so don’t waste your feelings.”
The scene then proceeds to show brief cuts of reporter Jin Seo Kyung (Lee Elijah) and Oh Jong Tae (Oh Jung Se), who is looking suspiciously at his cousin, Oh Ji Hyuk.
SpoilerTHE PARTNER DETECTIVES
The second teaser video gives more insight into the characters, Kang Do Chang and Oh Ji Hyuk. In the video, Kang Do Chang shows his fierce self. Next, Oh Ji Hyuk appears at an auction house holding a licence plate. He then moves away from the place as the auctioneer declares a winner who had won the item for 800 million won.
The video then shows some soft as well as hardcore moments between the two partners. In some scenes, they are having a witty banter, whereas on others, they are persistently moving forward with their investigation.
The next cut shows Kang Do Chang trying to persuade his teammate to work on their mutual benefit and says, “Please take care of it. Just keep in mind that you and I are a couple.” He also does not hesitate to blow finger hearts.
SpoilerTWO MURDERS AND THE TRUTH
Throwing more details into the murder case, the third teaser begins with Park Geon Ho (Lee Hyun Wook), who is surrounded by numerous reporters shouting, “I have something to tell reporters!”
Thereafter, the faces of Kang Do Chang, Oh Ji Hyuk, Jin Seo Kyung, Oh Jong Tae, and Yoo Jeong Seok (Ji Seung Hyun) are displayed with words “silence”, “truth”, “justice”, “power” and “conspiracy”. It is implied that all these five keywords are associated with each of these characters.
Then the voice in the backdrop utters, “Snakes, serpents. How do you avoid the judgment of hell?”
SpoilerMORE PUZZLES AND CLUES
The fourth teaser video suggests more stories and clues to the drama in a lighter note. Son Hyun Joo, Jang Seung Jo, Lee Elijah, Oh Jung Se, and Ji Seung Hyun, appear one after another in a cheerful atmosphere, making it impossible to keep eyes away from the screen.
Throwing clues to the incident through various images, the video continues to overflow with excitement and an equally enticing background music captures the attention. The siren sounds, sight of police stations, appearances of Kang Do Chang and Oh Ji Hyuk, the case scenes, and the related articles give a glimpse of the contents of The Good Detective, further enhancing the curiosity of prospective viewers.
SpoilerThe Good Detective will premiere on July 6 via jTBC at 9.30 PM KST.
SpoilerSource: Sports Donga (1, 2), Sports Chosun, Newsis
Image and Video Credit: jTBC
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https://www.hellokpop.com/featured/k-drama-premiere-its-okay-to-not-be-okay/
TVN
FEATURED
K-Drama Premiere: “It’s Okay To Not Be Okay” Stuns With Bewildering Narrative On Healing And Love
By Lilly | June 23, 2020ACCELERATING WITH A POWERFUL START, IT’S OKAY TO NOT BE OKAY INTRIGUES WITH ITS UNIQUE PLOT AND EXCITING CHARACTERS.
It’s Okay To Not Be Okay is finally here and has exceeded all the expectations. Right off the bat, the drama starts with a bang making it worth all the wait.
PREMIERE WEEK RATING:
Presenting weirdly interesting characters and a fantasy-like cinematography laced with mystery, It’s Okay To Not Be Okay sweetly enchants in its premiere week episodes. Further enhancing the quality of the drama is the intense chemistry of the main leads, who manifests perfection in all of their scenes.
Top-billed by Kim Soo Hyun and Seo Ye Ji, It’s Okay To Not Be Okay paints a miraculous romance between two people who were least likely to fall in love. Kim Soo Hyun portray Moon Gang Tae, a caregiver at a psychiatric hospital, who has been living a tough life for a very long time. Burdened with the responsibility of taking care of his autistic older brother, Moon Sang Tae (Oh Jung Se), he has given up on love.
Meanwhile, Seo Ye Ji plays the rude, arrogant children’s book author, Go Moon Young. Suffering from antisocial personality disorder, she lacks empathy and does whatever she wishes without considering others’ feelings.
PREMIERE WEEK RECAP
The premiere opens with a Tim Burton style animation. There is a young girl in a castle who has been isolated and has no friends. One day, she moves out of the castle and tries making new friends by giving them gifts. However, the other kids were horrified to see her presents and cast her away.
Angered at the treatment, the young girl lives her life cruelly by hurting other living beings. But suddenly, she has an accidental encounter with a young boy. The young boy would follow the girl everywhere and it was obvious that he liked her.
To profess his liking for the girl, the young boy brings her flowers. But then the girl shows her true side to the boy as she brutally rips the butterflies. Terrified the boy runs away and the girl is left alone again. A voice, which happens to be the girl’s mother tells her that it is her destiny to be alone as she is a monster. Then, Go Moon Young appears on the screen and responds in affirmation to the voice.
SpoilerTHE BOY, WHO IS STILL LIVING HIS NIGHTMARE
Moon Gang Tae’s everyday life is full of struggles. Being a caregiver at a psychiatric hospital, he has to deal with all kinds of patients. Sometimes, he gets physically hurt while at other times, he faces worse atrocities. Additionally, in order to make ends meet, he works part-time jobs.
Thus, Moon Gang Tae is always busy with work and taking care of his older brother. Also, he does not stick to one location for long. Therefore, Moon Gang Tae does not try to get close with other people either.
A flashback from the past shows that his mother was murdered and the only witness was Moon Sang Tae, according to whom it was the butterfly who killed their mother. After he overhears that the authorities are going to separate the brothers, Moon Gang Tae runs away along with his brother.
Since then, year after year, at about the same time, Moon Sang Tae’s nightmares of the butterflies appear again. As a result, the Moon brothers has been living a nomadic life.
SpoilerTHE HEARTLESS GIRL, WHO DOES NOT IDOLIZE FAIRYTALE PRINCESSES
Though a successful author, Go Moon Young does not care about anything and lives recklessly. She has had done many questionable actions that could sabotage her 10-year career. But, the only reason her reputation is still unscathed is because of Lee Sang In (Kim Joo Hoon), CEO of her publishing company, who has been bribing people to keep their mouths shut.
Go Moon Young also harbours hatred towards her father. When Nam Joo Ri (Park Gyu Young), a nurse from OK Psychiatric Hospital calls to get a signature of consent for surgery of Go Moon Young’s father, she flatly refuses. She remarks that her father is dead to her and considers herself an orphan.
It is later revealed that Go Moon Young’s father had attempted to kill her in the past.
SpoilerTHE CRAZIEST SORT OF ENCOUNTER
As it happens, Go Moon Young has a special book reading session for sick children at the same hospital where Moon Gang Tae is working at. On the same day, a violent patient gets admitted, who had planned to kill his daughter and commit suicide.
However, the very patient escapes and reaches where Go Moon Young’s reading was taking place, while searching for his daughter. The book reading event gets halted abruptly in the middle with the hospital securities rushing in to find the man.
Unnoticed by anybody, the man drags his daughters along but Go Moon Young interrupts and sends him to a further rage with her snide comments. The man tries to strangle her but Moon Gang Tae arrives at the right moment to save her.
As Moon Gang Tae was restraining the patient, Go Moon Young takes out a knife to harm the patient. Moon Gang Tae blocks the writer lady’s attack but his hand gets badly injured.
Making things worse, Moon Gang Tae also has to [take] the bullet for the incident and gets fired from his job.
SpoilerTHE FAMILIAR EYES AND MORE CHAOS
To ensure that Go Moon Young’s image remains untainted, Lee Sang In contacts Moon Gang Tae asking him to meet so that they can negotiate. Meanwhile, Moon Gang Tae ends up disappointing his older brother after failing to bring Go Moon Young’s autograph.
Thereafter, Moon Gang Tae goes to meet Lee Sang In at his office. Unexpectedly, he runs into Go Moon Young, who questions whether he is there for bargaining his reward. Moon Gang Tae answered that he was there with the the hopes of seeing her again because her eyes remind him of someone he knew in the past.
Brief glimpses of flashback shows that what was shown in the animation in the beginning is actually the childhood memory of Moon Gang Tae and Go Moon Young.
As for the bribery, Moon Gang Tae does not accept anything but agrees to Go Moon Young’s autograph for his brother. But Go Moon Young does not sign her autograph rather she writes an invitation to Moon Sang Tae for her book signing event.
On the day of the event, Moon Sang Tae gets into trouble when he excitedly goes to a kid wearing a dinosaur uniform. The kids’ parents are repulsed and the father even hits Moon Sang Tae and pulls his hair. This triggers Moon Sang Tae and causes his meltdown. At the end, Go Moon Young comes forward to help the brothers.
SpoilerTHE PROCLAMATION OF A NEW-BORN OBSESSION
Although, Go Moon Young had helped the brothers, her actions were considered too outrageous and violent. Lee Sang In is overwhelmed at the various problems that have been occurring since the incident as more and more videos of Go Moon Young’s rude behaviour surfaces online.
Meanwhile, Go Moon Young is no where to be found. Turns out the writer has taken quite a liking for the caregiver and wants to own him at any cost. To learn more about him, she had manipulated Yoo Seung Jae (Park Jin Joo) to dig up information on Moon Gang Tae.
Finding the news about Moon Gang Tae’s new whereabouts which is at OK Psychiatric Hospital located in the same city from their younger days, Go Moon Young takes on the steering wheels to move there. Quoting the lines from Hans Christian Anderson’s fairytale, The Red Shoes, Go Moon Young narrates on why obsession is such a noble thing and that she has found her red shoes.
SpoilerPREMIERE WEEK AFTERTHOUGHTS
It’s too early to make a prediction but judging from the first two episodes, it can be said that It’s Okay To Not Be Okay is going to be one of the most talked about dramas of this year. From the unique storytelling to immersive acting and high-quality camera shots – everything about this drama screams perfection.
THOUGHTS ON THE ACTORS
I would say Kim Soo Hyun chose the right project for his return to the television screens. As stated by the character Go Moon Young, his eyes are indeed beautiful. Through those eyes, one can see the various emotions of Moon Gang Tae and if smiles can kill, it’s definitely his.
On the other hand, Seo Ye Ji strikes a strong impression as the sassy female lead, Go Moon Young. With the leading lady possessing sociopath tendencies, I am wondering as to how love falls into the equation and changes things for both of them.
Another scene stealer from the premiere week is Oh Jung Se. His realistic portrayal of Moon Sang Tae evokes lots of empathy for the character. The relationship of the two brothers is pure gold and I love their moments. I cannot help but smile whenever Moon Gang Tae asks his older brother who does he love more between him and Go Moon Young.
SpoilerTHOUGHTS ON THE PLOT
As for the plot, there are just too many things about It’s Okay To Not Be Okay that draws curiosity. Firstly, the butterflies – a young Go Moon Young massacred a bunch of those creatures while, according to Moon Sang Tae, it was the butterfly who killed his mother. Given the fact, that they all used to live in the same town when they were younger, it appears like there is a connection.
Next, is the suspense behind the current state of Go Moon Young’s parents. Why did Go Moon Young’s father tried to kill her? What kind of influence does Go Moon Young’s mother has on her? And what actually happened to her mother?
Also, quite striking in the drama is Go Moon Young’s fairytale books. In our real lives, we have seen the stories in children books being sugar-coated and filled with only happiness. Go Moon Young’s writings are quite opposite of that. Her books consists of deep, dark stories that conveys the message that feelings of pain and hurt are necessary in order to grow.
It’s Okay To Not Be Okay airs every Saturday and Sunday on tvN and is also available to stream on Netflix.
Image Credit: tvN
Video Credit: The Swoon
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I have not seen Kim Soo Hyun in a drama since Moon Embracing the Sun and really like his portrayal of Moon Kang Tae here. His patience and unconditional love for his hyung is admirable. And, it’s moving how he wholeheartedly accepts his hyung and simply lets him be himself. The bus scene of the two brothers together really made me feel that it's okay to not be "okay".
I had thought Oh Jung Se did a really great job in When the Camellia Blooms and no different, he is perfecting the role as Moon Sang Tae here. I am amazed.
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All in all a very captivating first episode. Definitely not just another pretty drama. I feel there will be lots to take away from this story. Am glad more light is being shed on mental health and the caregivers.
Also, I find it interesting that both leads are attracted to each others' eyes. They say that our eyes don’t lie. They’re windows to the soul. They show the truth no matter what face we put on in any situation so the best way to get to know someone is to look them in the eyes and observe what they reveal about their emotional state. I think this aspect could play a part in the leads' connection with each other.
P.S. I thought this promo scene was super clever.
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1 hour ago, Lawyerh said:
He could be really smiling by himself, or the 2nd possibility he smile because YJ asked him to practice following the drawing. Either way, it was a perfect ending for closing the S1.
Enjoy this short MV too, I always think YJ & SM special to each other. It's not really in a romantic way, kind of make you guessing are they, aren't they. But it's not the main point, what essential is they trust each other well, have same value and he very comfortable with her.
I'm so looking forward for their partnership in S2.
Oh, I had interpreted that he smiled because he was "happy" that he will be back working with Yeo Jin and others again, but if that's not medically possible, I like the 2nd possibility that he's smiling because she had asked him to practice. And, thanks for the MV. I don't necessarily see them in a romantic way either, but adore the special bond they have formed on a professional and friendship level. Also, they are strangely cute and funny together. This lipstick conversation still cracks me up:
P.S. Regarding the framed team photo and Yeo Jin's drawing, I keep pictures of my family (including my dog) and artwork by niece in my office. Looking at them makes me happy. So, I like to think that Shi Mok keeping these mementos while being away signify that these people have meaning to him too.
Based on the updates many have shared here, the story for season 2 sounds promising. Can't wait!
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@Lawyerh Thanks for what you wrote about season 1 above. I really liked what you said about Shi Mok and hope. The closing scene of him smiling at Yeo Jin's drawing certainly left me with that kind of feeling. The same with the framed group photo of his friends (that even included Eun Soo and Se Won) that he kept on his office cabinet. Will be nice to see them reunite again.
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@triplem I did not know LJH filmed 365 and SF2 simultaneously. That is quite a character (and hair) switch going back and forth.
Season 2 has a good mix of recurring and new elements to look forward to. With Dong Jae, am curious if his character evolves or is exactly the same. -
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Going in, I had thought the two would need to adjust to each other, but it looks like they are working together quite well. 
I am also liking JSJ as OJH very much (and his baby-face 
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indeed he has a baby face!
[Drama 2022] Exemplary Detective/The Good Detective 2, 모범형사
in k-dramas & movies
Posted
@40somethingahjumma I too was really surprised that LDC couldn't be saved and was executed. At that point, I questioned where the story was going, but I would only know if I continued with it. I am not quite caught up yet. Still need to watch episode 14, but I think you're right that the focus of the story is about KDC's journey. From the beginning of the show until now, there is a big difference (and growth) in his outlook as a detective and human being. I love the part in episode 13 where his sister questioned him whether all the efforts for LEH were worth it. He responded that 1) he promised LDC that he will walk her down the aisle when she gets married, 2) he made her father die and 3) that he's not taking care of her, but that she is taking care of him. I thought that was a pretty powerful scene.
Episode 8 was indeed tough to take in. I remember in LDC's final walk, he was able to see KDC and LEH one last time through the window. They were holding hands. At the very least, he knew that KDC would take care of his daughter. So, it's been comforting to see the formation of KDC and LEH''s father/daughter-like relationship develop in the subsequent episodes. KDC providing LEH a "home", supporting her with art school and illness have all been very touching points in the show.
Thanks for mentioning your blog posts. Once I am fully caught up to episode 14, I will definitely check them out.