Podcast
K Drama Chat
Hosted by Joanna and Sung Hee · EN
K Drama Chat is a weekly series where we take one Korean (K) Drama each season and and recap and analyze each episode. We're Joanna, Sung Hee and Jen. We love K Dramas and we want to go deep and explore the many layers and meanings of our favorite K Dramas. Here are the shows we've covered:
14 - Our Unwritten Seoul
14.4b - Special Episode About K Drama Elements
13.18 - Review of Dynamite Kiss
13.17 - Review of No Other Choice
Season 13 - Start-Up
13.7 - 2025 Review of Top Shows, Actors, Actresses, and Scenes
Season 12 - Extraordinary Attorney Woo
11.18 - Special Review of Past Lives
11.17 - Special Review of Miss Granny
Season 11 - When Life Gives You Tangerines
10.13 - Special Review of When the Phone Rings
Season 10 - See You In My 19th Life
Season 9 - Kingdom
Season 8 - Crash Landing On You
Season 7 - Queen of Tears
Season 6 - Gyeongseong Creature
Season 5 - Mr. Queen
Season 4 - 25, 21
Season 3 - Mr. Sunshine
Season 2 - It's Okay to Not Be Okay
Season 1 - Hotel Del Luna
35episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
14.9 - Podcast Review of Episode 9 of Our Unwritten Seoul
5d ago01:19:11Tap to summarizeComment on this episode by going to KDramaChat.com Today, we’ll be discussing Episode 9 of Our Unwritten Seoul, the hit K Drama on Netflix starring Park Bo Young as Yoo Mi Ji and Yoo Mi Rae, and Jin Young as Lee Ho Su. We’ll also talk about Lee Jae In and Park Yoon Ho, the actors who play the younger versions of our leads. We discuss: The songs featured during the recap: The Song of Ho Su by Kim Kyung Hee, Identical Head to Toe by Park Sang Hee, and What You Mean To Me by Nam Hye Seung and Park Sang Hee. How Mi Rae returns to Seoul and finds herself forced to confront the corruption, bullying, and harassment she tried to leave behind. Why Mi Rae and Su Yeon both carry misplaced guilt and shame, even though they were victims rather than perpetrators. The devastating impact of workplace bullying and how it can leave victims blaming themselves for the actions of others. The full story behind Park Sang Yeong’s harassment of Mi Rae and the company’s deeply flawed investigation that focused on questioning the victim rather than the accused. Kim Tae I’s efforts to expose corruption surrounding Sihan Construction and the enormous headquarters contract. How Mi Rae slowly finds her courage after seeing the lasting damage done to Su Yeon and realizing the injustice of the situation. Kim Rosa’s growing trust in Mi Ji, followed by a painful sense of betrayal when Lee Chung Gu learns about her son. The sweet but awkward evolution of Mi Ji and Ho Su’s relationship, including their honest conversation about insecurities and their first real kiss. Ho Su’s law firm interview and the profound question he is asked: if he doesn’t stand for justice or the vulnerable, what does he represent? The growing theme of identity, purpose, and values as Ho Su struggles to define the kind of lawyer—and person—he wants to become. The explosive confrontation between Mi Ji and her mother Ok Hui, revealing years of hurt, misunderstanding, and feelings of being unseen. How all four women in the family—grandmother, mother, Mi Rae, and Mi Ji—feel trapped by responsibility, guilt, and circumstance. Han Se Jin’s realization that Duson-ri no longer feels right without Mi Rae, prompting him to head to Seoul in search of her. The dramatic ending at the police station, where Mi Rae finally decides to press charges against Park Sang Yeong and declares that the void left by self-doubt is beginning to fill with courage. Lee Jae In and Park Yoon Ho, the talented young actors portraying the younger versions of Mi Ji, Mi Rae, and Ho Su, including their growing careers and notable projects. References The Rose Korean Pop Rock Band on Spotify Consequences of Bullying Behavior - Preventing Bullying Through Science, Policy, and Practice - NCBI Bookshelf
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14.8 - Podcast Review of Episode 8 of Our Unwritten Seoul
2w ago01:10:19Tap to summarizeComment on this episode by going to KDramaChat.com Today, we’ll be discussing Episode 8 of Our Unwritten Seoul, the hit K Drama on Netflix starring Park Bo Young as Yoo Mi Ji and Yoo Mi Rae, and Jin Young as Lee Ho Soo. We discuss: The songs we featured during the recap: Mi Ji and Mi Rae by Nam Hye Seung and Cho Mira Gentle Souls that Longed to be Trees by Nam Hye Seung and Park Sang Hee The surprising moment when Han Se Jin finally calls Mi Rae by her real name and what it reveals about his perception of her. The heartbreaking story of Bun Hong and Ho Su, including the revelation that she is his stepmother and the sacrifices she made to raise him after his father’s death. How overheard conversations and misunderstandings shaped Ho Su’s belief that he was a burden rather than a beloved son. The powerful friendship between Bun Hong and Ok Hui, culminating in Bun Hong finally sharing the truth about her relationship with Ho Su. Ho Su and Mi Ji’s awkward but endearing transition from confession to an actual relationship, including their disastrous first date and eventual reconciliation. The meaning behind the episode title, “An Unconventional Whole,” and the idea that imperfect people can become stronger together. Mi Rae’s growing uncertainty about returning to Seoul and Han Se Jin’s invitation for her to consider a different future at the strawberry farm. The shocking appearance of Park Sang Yeong, who looks exactly like Mi Ji and Mi Rae’s late father, and the emotional impact this has on both sisters. Kim Rosa’s hidden family situation, the introduction of adult guardianship, and the increasing pressure being placed on her by KFMC. The reveal that Kim Tae I is connected to the mysterious Kim Su Yeon and what this might mean for Mi Rae’s past. Actor spotlight: Im Chul Soo, the beloved character actor known for memorable roles in Mr. Sunshine, Crash Landing on You, Vincenzo, Alchemy of Souls, Queen of Tears, When the Phone Rings, and many more hit dramas. References Adult Guardianship in Korea: What Psychiatrists Need to Know How One Organization Supports Orphans who Age Out of Care in Korea Adult Guardianship in Korea: What Do Psychiatrists Need to Know? - PMC The Japanese art form of kintsugi: embracing the imperfections of life
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14.7 - Podcast Review fo Episode 7 of Our Unwritten Seoul
3w ago01:11:46Tap to summarizeComment on this episode by going to KDramaChat.com Today, we’ll be discussing Episode 7 of Our Unwritten Seoul, the hit K Drama on Netflix starring Park Bo Young as Yoo Mi Ji and Yoo Mi Rae, and Jin Young as Lee Ho Su. We also discuss Jang Young Nam, who plays Kim Ok Hui, and Kim Sun Young, who plays Yeom Bun Hong. We discuss: The songs featured during the recap: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow by Nam Hye Seung and Park Sang Hee, and The Long Wait by Nam Hye Seung and Cho Mira. How Mi Rae’s childhood illnesses led her to imagine herself as a tree with thick bark, creating a powerful metaphor for the emotional defenses that protect us but also keep us trapped. Mi Rae’s growing connection with Han Se Jin and the way he challenges her belief that enduring hardship is the only path available to her. The revelation that Mi Rae dropped her sexual harassment complaint because she feared the impact on her family and on Ho Su. Se Jin’s heartbreaking story about missing his grandfather’s final phone calls and the guilt that led him to abandon finance for the strawberry farm. The mystery surrounding Kim Rosa, Hyeon Sang Wol, and the surprising discoveries Lee Chung Gu uncovers while investigating her history. The escalating tension between Kim Ok Hui and Yeom Bun Hong, and how their lifelong insecurities and misunderstandings finally come to the surface Gyeong Gu’s emergence as the episode’s MVP, offering blunt but insightful advice about love, timing, and taking risks. The episode’s central message that there is no such thing as perfect timing, and that waiting for ideal conditions often becomes an excuse for avoiding difficult choices. Ho Su’s long-awaited confession to Mi Ji and the emotional payoff of a relationship built on years of friendship, misunderstandings, and devotion. The careers and backgrounds of Jang Young Nam and Kim Sun Young, two acclaimed actresses known for memorable performances across many beloved Korean dramas, plus what we’re currently watching and our thoughts on the recent controversy surrounding Perfect Crown. References Gopchang Jeongol Jang Young Nam on Wikipedia Kim Sun Young on Wikipedia
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14.6 - Podcast Review of Episode 6 of Our Unwritten Seoul
4w ago01:11:35Tap to summarizeComment on this episode by going to KDramaChat.com Today, we’ll be discussing Episode 6 of Our Unwritten Seoul, the hit K Drama on Netflix starring Park Bo Young as Yoo Mi Ji and Yoo Mi Rae, and Jin Young as Lee Ho Su. We discuss: The songs we featured during the recap: “Silence of the Night” by Elaine “The One Who Understood Me” by Nam Hye Seung and Park Sang Hee How Episode 6 was all about secrets: the secrets people keep to protect themselves, the secrets kept to protect others, and the pain and misunderstandings that secrets can create. Ho Su finally learning that the woman beside him is really Mi Ji after her drunken confession and sleep talking at his apartment. Ji Yun’s growing feelings for Ho Su, her inferiority complex toward Mi Rae, and the realities of being a contract worker in South Korea. The ethical and emotional dilemmas surrounding the headquarters redevelopment project and the confidential plans for the future light rail station. Lee Chung Gu’s manipulative behavior and the growing sense that Mi Ji is being set up inside the company. Kim Rosa’s mysterious inability to read, and the growing mystery surrounding her identity, her poetry, and her relationship to Sang Wol. Mi Rae’s emotional collapse after the town gossip, and Se Jin’s reminder that “the rumors are fake, but the strawberries are real.” The revelation that Gyeong Gu is likely gay, how Mi Ji protected his secret for years, and how misunderstandings destroyed Mi Ji and Ho Su’s relationship for over a decade. The many K Drama elements in this episode, including drunken confessions, piggyback rides, triangles, wrist grabs, umbrella scenes, protective secrets, and emotional overheard conversations. Park Bo Young’s extraordinary acting performance as four distinct versions of Mi Ji and Mi Rae, and why she deserved her Best Actress win at the Baeksang Awards. References Silence of the Night by Elaine, including lyrics Gov't to revise regulations on hiring temporary workers - The Korea Herald Dyslexia - Wikipedia Dyslexia Basics
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14.5 - Podcast Review of Episode 5 of Our Unwritten Seoul
May 1500:45:08Tap to summarizeToday, we’ll be discussing Episode 5 of Our Unwritten Seoul, the hit K Drama on Netflix starring Park Bo Young as Yoo Mi Ji and Yoo Mi Rae, and Jin Young as Lee Ho Su. We discuss: The songs we featured during the recap: “You” by dori “That Day, Us” by Nam Hye Seung and Park Sang Hee The heartbreaking backstory behind Ho Su’s accident, his physical disabilities, and the emotional burden he carried for years after his father’s death. How a simple misunderstanding at a track meet completely changed the course of Mi Ji’s life and fueled years of regret and depression. The emotional revelation that Ho Su fell in love with Mi Ji during their climb up Dusonbong Peak because she believed in him when he could not believe in himself. How Mi Ji unknowingly accepted Ho Su completely, including his scars and disabilities, and why that moment meant everything to him. Mi Ji’s struggles trying to survive in Mi Rae’s corporate job, including writing a report despite having no business experience or college education. Kim Tae I’s mysterious but growing interest in helping Mi Ji and the ominous final scene suggesting deeper motives and hidden connections. The moving story of Mi Ji’s grandmother helping her emerge from isolation and depression with the mantra: “Yesterday is over, tomorrow is yet to come, but today is yet unknown.” The fierce small-town gossip network surrounding Mi Rae and Se Jin, and how rumors once again push Mi Rae to withdraw from others. Ho Su stepping fully into his role as Kim Rosa’s attorney and confidently taking on his former law firm and the Korea Finance Management Corporation. The looming legal showdown between Ho Su and his former mentor Lee Chung Gu over Kim Rosa’s land. The shocking and vividly filmed “truck of doom” sequence that revealed the devastating accident involving Ho Su and his father. The growing emotional confusion between Ho Su and Mi Ji as both characters struggle with hidden identities, unresolved feelings, and drunken confessions. Our discussion of Ryu Kyung-soo, including his memorable performances in Itaewon Class, Lovestruck in the City, Tale of the Nine Tailed: 1938, and why his unique screen presence makes him such a compelling actor. References College Scholastic Ability Test - Wikipedia K Drama Chat’s review of the movie “No Other Choice”
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14.4b - Special Episode About K Drama Elements with Ellen and Naa
May 801:04:31Tap to summarizeComment on this episode at KDramaChat.com We’re taking a break from Our Unwritten Seoul today to speak with our friends, Naa Evans and Erin Sullivan. We’re going to talk about K drama elements: what they are, our favorite elements, and why we love them so much. We discuss: The origin story of “K Drama elements,” inspired by Joanna’s son and how the list has grown over time to 65+ elements Why food scenes are so meaningful, from cultural history to personal stories about care, sharing, and connection The joy of recognizing familiar storytelling patterns like the “trip and catch” and how small variations change emotional impact A thoughtful debate on love triangles—when they add tension versus when they feel forced or unconvincing Why visual moments like umbrella scenes create emotional intimacy and unforgettable imagery The idea of “connection from the past” and how it ties into fate, destiny, and the concept of inyeon How protective gestures—saving someone or sacrificing for them—signal deeper emotional truths beyond words Why piggyback rides, quirky best friends, and physical gestures resonate as nonverbal expressions of care A discussion of heavier themes like funerals, orphaned characters, and family dynamics, and how they reveal cultural values Frustrations with overused plot devices like the “truck of doom” and when storytelling shortcuts fall flat What makes a redemption arc feel earned versus unconvincing, and why it can be so powerful when done well Why we love these recurring elements: they feel like “comfort food,” but also invite creativity, variation, and playful analysis K Drama Bingo, how listeners can participate, and how it adds an interactive layer to watching What everyone is currently watching, from Perfect Crown to Our Unwritten Seoul and beyond
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14.4 - Podcast Review of Episode 4 of Our Unwritten Seoul
May 101:22:23Tap to summarizeComment on this episode by going to KDramaChat.com Today, we’ll be discussing Episode 4 of Our Unwritten Seoul, the hit K Drama on Netflix starring Park Bo Young as Yoo Mi Ri and Yoo Mo Rae, and Jin Young as Lee Ho Soo. We discuss: The songs we featured during the recap: In You by Isaac Hong and Someone’s Mother, Someone’s Daughter by Nam Hye Seung and Park Sang Hee Mi-ji teaching Ho-soo how to crochet as “meditation with your hands” and the idea of calming the mind through repetitive, creative work A deep conversation about identity and self-worth—how losing a job or status can make someone feel like they’ve lost themselves The impact of hearing what others say about you behind your back, and how both sisters confront uncomfortable truths Mi-ji’s devastating history of depression and isolation, including the symbolic “cocoon” metaphor from her grandmother The powerful message: “anything you do to survive is brave,” and the idea that survival itself is an achievement The trauma surrounding Mi-ji’s grandmother’s stroke and how guilt, panic attacks, and memory shape her present actions The exploration of parental relationships, including whether shielding parents from worry is kindness or distance The concept of “true names” and identity—how living under someone else’s name changes perception, behavior, and self-understanding The life and career of veteran actress Won Mi Kyung, who plays Kim Rosa, and her legacy in Korean film and television What we’re watching now, including thoughts on Encounter, Perfect Crown, and The Pitt References Samgye-tang - Wikipedia Hikikomori - Wikipedia Isaac Hong on Spotify Chris Hemsworth’s You’re Amazing video Won Mi-kyung - Wikipedia
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14.3 - Podcast Review of Episode 3 of Our Unwritten Seoul
Apr 2401:14:47Tap to summarizeComment on this episode by going to KDramaChat.com And please play Bingo along with us using bingo cards from KDramaBingo.com - be sure to use the discount code KDRAMACHAT2026 to get a 26% discount! Today, we’ll be discussing Episode 3 of Our Unwritten Seoul, the hit K Drama on Netflix starring Park Bo Young as Yoo Mi Ri and Yoo Mo Rae, and Jin Young as Lee Ho Soo. We’ll also discuss: The songs we featured during the recap: “Sunset” by 10cm; “My Rosa, My Sangwol” and “What You Mean to Me” by Nam Hye Seung and Park Sang Hee. The central theme of connection vs. isolation—what makes people open their hearts or shut others out. Miji’s devastating backstory, including the race that changed her life and the misunderstanding that led to her injury and lost future. The contrast between how others see Miji (warm, beloved, capable) and how she sees herself (rejected and alone). The poetry reading of “The Sea of Sang Wol” and how its imagery of fading fireworks and loneliness mirrors Miji’s inner life. The power and complexity of apologies, including real-world insights about apology laws and why sincere apologies matter. Kim Rosa’s hidden identity as a poet and benefactor, reinforcing the idea that you can’t judge people by their appearances. Ho Soo’s moral crisis at the law firm and his ultimate decision to quit after being pushed to compromise his values. The parallel misunderstandings between multiple relationships: Miji and Ho Soo, Miji and Ji Yun, and the two moms. The slow softening between Se Jin and Mirae as they begin to understand each other beyond first impressions. Jinyoung (Park Jin-young) of GOT7: his career from idol to respected actor, notable roles, and his Baeksang nomination, plus our thoughts on K-pop idols transitioning into acting. References GOT7 singing You Calling My Name Pro Bono Practices and Opportunities in South Korea Buy bingo cards at KDramaBingo.com
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14.2 - Podcast Review of Episode 2 of Our Unwritten Seoul
Apr 1701:16:46Tap to summarizeComment on this episode by going to KDramaChat.com And please play Bingo along with us using bingo cards from KDramaBingo.com or @KDramaBingo on Instagram - be sure to use the discount code KDRAMACHAT2026 to get a 26% discount! 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, Ahn Dong-goo as Ha Do-yoon, and Cha Chung Hwa as Kim Ae-gyeong. We discuss: The songs we heard during the recap: “Yellow Spring” by Choi Yu Ree and “Piece of Cake” by Nam Hye Seung and Park Sang Hee. The sisters’ risky decision to switch lives again after many years, and how quickly they realize adulthood makes this far more complicated than before. Mi Ji’s chaotic first day at the office, highlighting her bold personality and complete lack of awareness about workplace dynamics and past conflicts. Director Choi’s ambiguous behavior, especially in assigning Mi Ji a seemingly simple but actually impossible task. The stubborn restaurant owner who refuses to sell, and how this echoes familiar “holdout vs. development” narratives seen in books and other shows.. The significance of chicken giblet stew as humble, nostalgic food tied to Korea’s past, and what it reveals about the restaurant owner and her customers. The symbolic meaning of salt in Korean culture, and how the restaurant owner uses it to reject and “ward off” Mi Ji. Mi Rae’s experience at the strawberry farm, where being paid to do nothing becomes its own kind of psychological test of character and integrity. Ho Soo’s moral conflict as a lawyer who successfully wins cases for unethical clients, and how this begins to clash with his conscience. The revelation that Ho Soo may have played a role in Mi Rae dropping her complaint, adding emotional weight and tension to their relationship. The episode’s ending reveals: key people (the grandmother and Ho Soo) begin to see through the sisters’ deception, raising the stakes much earlier than expected. The background and career of Park Bo Young, including her rise to fame, career setbacks, and reputation as a rom-com queen. The filming techniques used to portray twin characters, including body doubles, sync acting, and the technical challenges of stitching scenes together. References Yellow Spring by Choi Yoo Ree Wish by Choi Yoo Ree from Hometown Cha Cha Cha How Do Hair Extensions Work? Our Stylists Reveal All. Chicken Offal Soup (닭알탕(닭내장탕) / Dagaltang (Dangnaejangtang))- VISITKOREA Preventing Bad Luck the Korean Way: Throwing Salt, Avoiding Broken Mirrors, and more It's a Wonderful Life - Wikipedia Candy Candy - Wikipedia
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14.1 - Podcast Review of Episode 1 of Our Unwritten Seoul
Apr 1001:22:54Tap to summarizeComment on this episode by going to KDramaChat.com I’m Joanna, and I’m Sung Hee, and this is K Drama Chat where we will take our favorite Korean dramas (also known as K Dramas) and recap and analyze each episode. Today, we’ll be discussing Episode 1 of Our Unwritten Seoul, the hit K Drama on Netflix starring Park Bo Young as Yoo Mi Ri and Yoo Mi Rae, and Park Jin Young as Lee Ho Soo. We discuss: The songs we featured during the recap: “On Your Side” by Sion and “Pinky Promise” by Park Sang Hee, and how the music reflects loneliness, connection, and emotional undercurrents. Joanna’s NYC trip, including visits to Ellis Island, reflections on immigration, and Korean BBQ at New Wonjo. Sung Hee’s upcoming Korean American story slam event and the importance of storytelling in the Korean American community. Introducing K Drama Bingo with Naa Evans, and how we want to play Bingo with our listeners this season! The powerful dual performance by Park Bo Young. The character contrast between Mi Rae and Mi Ji, exploring identity, sibling dynamics, and the idea that “the grass is greener” doesn’t capture the full story. The meaning behind the show’s title and how language nuances (like “unknown” and “Miji”) shape interpretation. Historical context of the IMF crisis and how economic hardship shaped family dynamics and life trajectories. Exploration of identity, nature vs. nurture, and how identical twins can develop into very different people despite shared genetics. A discussion on hidden struggles, disabilities, and the importance of empathy and not making assumptions about others. Cultural practices like jesa (memorial ceremonies) and food-sharing traditions, and how they reflect values around family and remembrance. Themes of burnout, workplace bullying, moral dilemmas, and the emotional weight of responsibility and sacrifice. The emotional turning point between the sisters and their decision to switch lives, highlighting love, regret, and renewed connection. Reflections on contrasting lifestyles (city vs. countryside), including visuals, fashion, and emotional tone. What we’re watching and reading now, including Phantom Lawyer, Encounter, Human Acts by Han Kang, and We’ll Prescribe a Cat. References KDramaBingo.com website KDramaBingo on Instagram ROAR Story Slam 2026 - KoreanAmericanStory.org Twin - Wikipedia Jesa - Wikipedia South Korea Should End Workplace Harassment for All Workers | Human Rights Watch Jeon (food) - Wikipedia Knife-cut noodle soup with red beans recipe by Maangchi How am I supposed to live without you by Laura Branigan How am I supposed to live without you by Michael Bolton
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