While it should probably be the characters or a plot that is the highlight of a drama, for me it was the visual aspects of the show. From the gorgeous costumes to the lush settings, or the close-up shots of brush work and the quality of the props, everything about the visuals in this drama were impeccable and thoroughly enjoyable to take in.

That being said, this drama is also strong in the character and plot departments. While there were a couple of minor characters that were annoying or felt flat here and there, overall the broad host of characters were well-developed and engaging, sometimes providing some fun comic relief. A couple of the episodes felt like an interesting side adventure that was deviating from the main story, but it all ties together in the end.

Though the first couple episodes really focus on the love story in a satisfying but pretty typical way, there are twists and challenges coming later on, and takes routes you might not expect. And while this is one of the main threads of the drama, there are also significant themes of political intrigue, the struggle for equality, the importance of history, and the power of knowledge, so don't skip over it thinking it's just a romance!

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A shorter drama, with a bit of the supernatural and a lot of cuteness. I loved "Yamada kun to 7 nin no Majo" as it was lighthearted and cute, with a pleasant predictability to the episodes (it's not difficult to guess that one of the seven witches and their powers will be revealed each episode or so). Personally I just enjoy the theme of supernatural powers and I'm a sucker for school dramas so that probably boosted my overall score for this drama. I've watched a lot of school dramas so it was refreshing to have one that wasn't solely about bullying or having a crush, and that also had a little mystery to it. Highly recommended if you're in the mood for something light, cute and entertaining.

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An uncomplicated gem

Don’t miss this one! I see some reviews saying this show is loaded with tropes. It is and it executes them perfectly, so go ahead and eat it up. BUT there is so much more to this show that makes it worth watching! Underneath the typical chaebol and romance stuff is a look at workplace culture and ideas of prioritizing only profits versus caring for your employees and their well-being. I found the transformation that Won goes through as a result of meeting Sarang really beautiful. Both Junho and Yoona pull off their roles so well! Unlike so many dramas it never loses steam and the final episode is actually very satisfying. Overall I think the show is uncomplicated but very binge worthy.

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Give it a try

I read a some critical reviews of this drama before I started watching and I’m glad I ignored them and watched anyway.

The story is a bit over the top, but I found the acting good throughout. And, if you don’t really like one couple’s story, it never lasts that long till it switches to another.

I could see how if you’re young, this may not appeal to you, but if you’ve had some experience with relationships or marriage, and you want to get sucked into a drama, give it a try, you may find yourself hooked. Don’t look for many healthy love stories here though! The relationships are totally messed up, and provide a lesson on how to NOT communicate with your loved ones. But it’s entertaining to watch. It gave me the same feeling as when you might watch a reality show — not necessarily because it’s good, but because watching someone else’s train wreck of a life provides some kind of cathartic entertainment value.

The second season gets better, in my opinion, but maybe that’s also just cause I was so far down this rabbit hole.

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Great character development

I really loved this drama. The weather forecasting element is actually really interesting, and they did such a good job of storytelling how the decisions the characters make at work impact the daily lives of people. That was a really nice touch. What I liked the most was how the characters learn and grow, both in their personal lives and at work. There's plenty of romance, but also lots of themes on leadership, burnout, discrimination/sexism, making and learning from mistakes. Some dramas really only manage to talk about the romance or the work challenges, but this one did both well! And there were no side-characters that were dull or sub-plots that were uninteresting. Really just a lovely drama that's well worth watching!

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A charming slice of life

One might not think a drama about proofreading would be worth the time, but don't overlook this charming drama! I watched every episode one after the other as soon as I could.

I love dramas that encourage me to work harder. I watched this while I was finalizing edits on my Masters thesis so I might be a tad biased, but I found it extremely enjoyable!

The main character is enchanting with her energy, much like her character in 5 to 9. She has a positive impact on the people around her - supporting characters who are also great, with their own complexities and stories that tie in nicely to the overall plot.

At it's heart, this drama is about loving what you do, no matter the title or how important people think the job is, which I think is a very sweet and inspiring message.

If you like workplace dramas, dramas related to fashion, or dramas with an energetic, determined female lead, I would recommend Jimi ni Sugoi! Koetsu Garu Kono Etsuko.

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