Before you read, I want to imply that I am speaking as someone who has watched over 50 Asian Dramas of different genres. Historical is my favorite cup of tea; I absolutely love historical politics and romance!
I watched this drama because at that moment, I was fully obsessed with historical dramas. I watched shows like Scarlet Heart and Moon Embracing the Sun. There were some more I could mention, but I have to say those dramas didn't leave a strong impression in me as the two I mentioned did (OR I could have forgotten, but okay).
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So, this drama was rather . . . poorly written. Music was good, OSTs were nice, acting wasn't bad at all, but the story. The story was simply all over the place, leaving several ugly plot holes and disappointment. I can't say it's extremely bad, but it's not good either. I've seen some other people getting all hyped watching this drama, but ended up being disappointed despite the huge line-up of great casts. I've also seen other people cry and laugh because of this drama, simply because they liked it. But for me, this drama wasn't anything special.
Sure, you could say it's funny at some point, bromance was fun, but the romance was just . . . unnecessarily annoying. I didn't enjoy the romance at all. It's not that I don't 'ship' them or whatever, it was just not it for me.
So overall, Hwarang's okay. Not the best, of course, but not so horrible. Though I suggest if you are an experienced drama watcher who has watched shows like Empress Ki or Dong Yi (The real definition of EXTREMELY GOOD historical dramas), you probably shouldn't waste your time on this. Only watch this if you're in need of laughter after watching heartbreaking dramas like Scarlet Heart or something.
Also don't kill me for this, but I feel like some people merely stayed and even watched it only because of Kim Taehyung. Sorry not sorry, but basically everyone in KissAsian was screaming about him (I found that annoying, I have to admit).
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Well, have a good day!