I recently came across never seen before behind-the-scenes stills from the 2014-2015 K-drama Pinocchio, still one of my favorite K-dramas in recent years, and felt compelled to share for those like-minded folks. These pics feature male lead Lee Jong Seok goofing around with supporting actor Yoon Kyun Sang, with the former remaining super popular even after Pinocchio while the latter … Continue reading →
With the conclusion of Descendants of the Sun it’s a perfect time to check in with the popularity of K-dramas in China and see where this newest ratings breaker resides. Polling website Vlinkage just released the Top 30 Most Popular K-dramas in China list as of April 2016 and it’s rare for me to feel like this is one accurately … Continue reading →
The Contents Power Index (CPI) rankings are out, tabulating the most influential dramas of the first half of 2015. The ranking was for the period between January-June of 2015 and included all dramas aired on the big three as well as cable networks. CPI is calculated using ratings, discussion buzz, number of news articles written, number of searches, and how … Continue reading →
The nominated finalists are out for the 10th annual Seoul International Drama Awards, which doesn’t just fete K-dramas but includes popular or critically acclaimed dramas and shows from around the world. It’s less prestigious but slowly growing in international recognition and the ceremony does bring plenty of popular actors and actresses from within Korea and elsewhere to attend. This year’s … Continue reading →
While it’s not a surprise to hear that popular or well regarded screenwriters have pending dramas in the works, it’s always a relief to get some concrete information to look forward to. The Girl Who Sees Smells is a perfect example of everything clicking but for the writing of the drama, and in that case that everything else managed to … Continue reading →
Now this is more like it! After sportswear brand Millet seriously botched the first post-Pinocchio reunion photo spread between Lee Jong Seok and Park Shin Hye, it’s up to InStyle Korea to correctly capture the chemistry and sizzle between the two pretty stars. The magazine flew my two babies to London earlier this month for a photo shoot that is … Continue reading →
I can’t believe the latest pairing up of Lee Jong Seok and Park Shin Hye isn’t something I find super duper perfect. I may love them individually and together but gosh darn it these latest CF stills from outerwear brand Millet are majorly bland. At least Millet was on the right track in bringing together the two popular leads from … Continue reading →
With Pinocchio put to bed it feels like nestling in for the night after a particularly productive day. The cast and crew must feel even more satisfied and proud of delivering such a meaningful drama made with love. I’ve long since passed my drama shipping days other than out of nostalgia or whimsy but the OTP of Lee Jong Seok … Continue reading →
The final episode of Pinocchio is as perfect as it gets. Time was spent on all the main characters to wrap up their threads while reaching satisfying resolutions on the central conflicts. I couldn’t have asked for a better finale, except perhaps more fan service and that’s something I can never get enough of when it comes from a drama … Continue reading →
I wasn’t expecting Pinocchio to have the depth for one more emotional wring out of me but I’ve never been happier to be served wrong. Throughout this drama I tried hard to keep my expectations level, neither underselling the consistent writing or giving it too much due that it was bound to let me down. A good drama is hard … Continue reading →
This isn’t the first time I’ve had to churn out back-to-back recaps for a K-drama but previous experience certainly doesn’t make it easier. It does help that the drama in question is Pinocchio, still so compelling and satisfying even if the light moments are few and the serious stuff remains front and center. I suppose the two cute leads have … Continue reading →
It’s time to say goodbye to Pinocchio, a drama that is on the longer prime time offering side at 20 episodes yet felt much too short at times. If this was a weekend drama about the lives of young reporters then I would have stayed on even if the overarching conspiracy of Cha Ok and Bum Jo’s mom was doled … Continue reading →
Whether Pinocchio is considered a modest or moderate success as a K-drama, one element of undeniable breakthrough was leading lady Park Shin Hye finally showing off an all-around acting performance that includes credible romantic stirring and attraction on her part. Whether she got over the hump on her own or leading man Lee Jong Seok had a helping hand in it, … Continue reading →
