I wish you'd address the disturbing issue of these 'kids' in their 30s, both of whom have had relationships before, still portraying sex as 'dirty' and 'unhealthy thoughts'. I wonder if something got lost in translation.
I don't recall sex being portrayed as dirty in this series, so I'm not sure what to tell you.
While there are K-dramas that depict sex in a more overt way, the adults-who-don't-kiss-until-near-the-end-of-the-series trope is one that I actually find kind of charming, BECAUSE it's not realistic. And when they have a baby, I'm thinking, "How'd they have a baby?!" 😛
I'll look up the exact words later. Seung-hyo says to her 'I'm going to leave now because I'm having unhealthy thoughts. Very bad thoughts.' And then she compares the 'unhealthy thoughts' to her childhood candy addition.... it was just bizarre. But that was the subtitles so I do wonder what he exactly said in Korean.
Well when he said that he was in her bedroom in her parents' house where they could show up at any moment...if I were him I'd be cautious about those thoughts at that moment too. 😂
I loved this show. I was especially moved by the portrayal of having cancer and all the questions that arise when you wonder how much time you have left.
'I'm having bad thoughts'. 'Thoughts I shouldn't be thinking, cheap and crude thoughts'. Subtitles as he prepares to leave before she asks him to stay.
The English translation is correct. However, what he is saying in Korean isn't as trite/odd as it comes across in English. They had been competitive their entire childhood, were attracted to each other at various stages of their lives, their families are good friends and their parents assume they are more like siblings. Coupling up could make things complicated (especially if they break up). In this scene, he is verbally dancing around her to see if she feels the same way as he does. And he's asking for her consent, which I thought was an important step. He doesn't just grab her wrist and force a kiss on her. When she gives her permission, then they kiss and close the door, leaving the rest to our imagination.
Upon watching this scene again, I didn't find it odd at all. And what he was saying (in Korean) didn't indicate that they were nervous 30something virgins who had never been intimate previously with past partners. He was nervous that she might not feel the same way as him.
I guess a comparable thing is when characters in western shows says, "I'm going to die" or "I'm dying!" They're not literally going to die right then and there. They're being melodramatic. But if it was a word-for-word translation from English into Korean, Koreans might read the subtitles and believe that the character is indeed preparing for death.
Translating/interpreting is an artform, and I don't think streaming sites like Netflix give them the time/money to add nuance to the translations. Often, it's a very quick turnaround.
Anyhow, thanks for addressing this scene! It was fun to reflect on it!
I'm actually so glad you brought this topic up, though, because it makes me realize that things that seem normal to me can sound really offputting via subtitles. I'll try to be more aware of that for my next pieces!
I loved this series and while I didn’t get the literal translation of the title … that message of living through your kids and bragging rights came through loud and clear. This was one of my faves from last year.
It's been almost FIFTY years but I still remember getting hit by my teacher! It must've been either second grade or third (I emigrated after completing my third). I wasn't singled out, I was way too much of a goody student to misbehave, so it was one of those assembly line jobs, where all the students held up their shaking hands, palm side up, and await the mass corporeal punishment by way of a very long wooden dowel - it wasn't a ruler but rather a lashing stick specifically for the purpose of striking wayward pupils.
It stung like hell, of course, but what I recall more than anything is the anticipation of the pain. The teacher took his time and sauntered row after row, that thin stick cutting the air with a whoosh, WHAAACK, and then the inevitable cry of pain and the failed holding back of tears and sobs to follow. I cried as much as any kid! I think I might have still been crying when I walked back home.
Why were we hit as a collective student body that day? I have no idea! Some stupid classmate probably passed a note or something. It didn't take much for that stick to come out...
Ugh, that's so awful! Poor kids! And poor you! That is traumatizing for children. And punishing the collective for the wrongs of one (or a few) is beyond wrong. And even the misbehaving students shouldn't have been hit.
(Tone: Sincere) First & foremost- thank you for writing & sharing this article! One of the many reasons I’m always excited for your insightful words & thought-provoking perspectives is that you write with such eloquence & ease in a way that can connect with anyone. Exchanging thoughts & emotions is a part of what makes life so exhilarating & something I value (deeply & intensely)- so thank you thank you!
I’m just going to jump on in since I’ve a lot to share lol
Re: English title vs. the Korean title- 엄마친구아들, not only does it, as you said ‘sets the tone for the core values…” the Korean title does what a title is supposed to:
- Captures a core theme
- Creates curiosity & intrigue
- Evokes an emotional tone
- Signals symbolism
And then some.
At the risk of sounding a bit…opinionated- the English title Love Next Door is a cheap marketing trick to appeal to international audiences…while understandable to a certain extent it’s frustrating. I could air out the linguist in me and discuss title-translations or title-tampering for hours. I mean- the French title for 2000’s Bring It On? American Girls…(Tone: Sarcastic) way to shape perspectives & stereotypes.
(Tone: Sincere )[Aside: I’ll never forget the 90minute special guest lecture who shared how translating 1 line of Shakespeare can take up to 3hrs (if not more) given everything one needs to consider e.g. history, culture, emotion, etc…] & with that I offer the question: Would a K-drama by any other name still stir our hearts?]
I’m glad that you mentioned how Seung-Hyo (Jung Hae-In) and Seok-Ryu (Jung So-Min) are both umchina(s)/엄친아, & how “this mythical super child is used to make other children feel less than.” This subtext with the dramas astrological chart in mind depicts a ♑️🌙 conjunct (a conjunction can be understood as two people sitting next to each other in conversation) ♒️Pluto both square (squares= where 'things' manifest) ♈️Chiron, which can indicate a tension between our wounds & that which makes us feel safe & nurtured. It can present itself through a parental figure that may have shamed us (the parents’ own wounds- whether justified or not). Therefore, when “their mothers use every get-together as an opportunity to humble brag about their child’s achievements” this is one of the interesting undertones at play. Is it healthy? No...Is it conditioned? Yes. I will offer though, that the Moon/Pluto/Chiron square can result in a deep fear of being caught & shamed because of the shame we recognize in someone we care deeply for carries within themselves. In other words, in the drama the mothers seem to use umchina as a means to 1. experience "success" vicariously through their kids 2. Mask their own fears & insecurities through bragging. The overwhelming tension presented by these aspects are found in every trope/cliche of the drama to the point of 'no stone left unturned.'
Now, as to the astrological components of the drama- what stuck out to me at first glance of the chart ended up being the most prominent aspects = Moon/Pluto & Mars (and all of their aspects), which shines through when Seok-Ryu’s mother says, “A parent would go to moon or mars for them.” (Ep. 9? 10?)
Re: When we see flashbacks…a product of the South Korean education and work system, Seok-ryu [‘s]…Korean American coworker, Chris, encouraged his colleagues to take advantage of her eagerness to fit in- this was frustrating (to say the least) because it happens more often than not in the real world…this is something I wish drama viewers would take note of in order to self-reflect & engage in conversations…at minimum.
I like to share the perspective that when you allow people the opportunity to help you, you give* them the same joy you feel when helping them. The quote is relevant as it brings us to Seok-Ryu’s reveal of what happened/why she’s back, which deeply impacts the other characters in various ways. However, how can we expect someone to ask for help if they were never taught how to...or if asking for help never felt safe? There is so very much to unpack here & for the sake of being short & direct I’ll touch on the viewer responses I observed (they are always very telling). Many sided with the ex-fiancé especially when contrasted with the Seung-Hyo’s "berating.’ While fair enough - each to their own, what this indicates for me is 2-fold: 1. Cultural differences are at play with a lean toward a western bias 2. There’s a disregard of the fact that anyone who discovers something serious will be in shock & angry; not to mention, if they discover after the fact* - it’s important to allow others to feel their emotions without pressuring a response right away. At the same time, berating someone is an unhealthy way to cope- needs to be said.
Of course, other viewers have pointed out that they didn't understand why the family & friends were making everything about 'them.' As to that-powerlessness/betrayal/guilt are only some things 'the tribe' aka family & friends might feel when faced with the cancer reveal. This storyline reveal reminded me of ABC Family’s ‘2014-2015 ‘Chasing Life’ & how extremely difficult (understatement) it is for everyone* involved when cancer is involved. However, I ended up thinking more about JTBC's 2022 서른, 아홉 (Thirty Nine) & how 전미도 (Jeon Mi-Do)'s Jeong Chan-Young shared her diagnosis when compared to Seok-Ryu.
[Aside- the Moon/Mars/Chiron aspects can also appear through the portrayal of how one's sense of support stems from the concept of burying the unnamed- like an unsettling feeling lurking around in one's stomach, leaving the impression that our needs cannot be truly fulfilled. Clearly this aspect was key as it is the energetic undertone for the cancer- IMHO.]
In the end- there is still so much I would like to say; especially, since I haven't yet touched on what I loved most about the drama- the storylines of the parents. I'll write another comment about that (if you're interested) later today. In the meantime- thank you again for writing this article & for indulging my words! 💜🖤✌🏼
I love that! I'm opinionated, too, as you may have noticed. hehe And I'm so happy to read your thoughts (and everyone else's! This comment section is particularly lively and it's so rewarding for me to see).
Honestly, your comment here is more thorough and better than what I wrote. Have you thought about writing reviews on your Substack as time permits? I think people would be fascinated by your views.
I am a first generation immigrant. And while I grew up very westernized (neighborhood, schools etc.), those Korean traits that Seok-ryu's American colleagues used again her felt familiar, because I experienced something similar. The people I helped at work stabbed me in the back to further their own career. (Not all, of course. Some of the best friends I made was from that job.) All the extra work I did for free wasn't appreciated, but rather became expected. (I started keeping spreadsheets to show them how much more work I was doing than virtually everyone else on staff.) When I quit my job, I was literally sick for six months on and off. It's almost as if the relief of not being in that kind of toxic environment anymore gave my body permission to rest and purge everything.
Of course, I would get cancer later on. An outlier, since cancer doesn't run in my family. And while I know it's not medically possible, I blame a lot of my work years for 'causing' it. If not cancer, a lot of the other ailments that I had/have, by sacrificing my health for a job where I was over qualified for and still wasn't appreciated.
But that's life, isn't it? My child isn't being raised to be grateful for taking up space. We learn from our own experiences and hopefully make it better for the next generation.
(Tone: Happy) Re: Opinionated - TBH I lol'ed when I wrote it. 🤭 Glad you found it funny too!
I'm truly grateful for your willingness to exchange with us- your readers, & it makes me happy to read that our engagement is rewarding for you & brings you joy! Just like how your work is rewarding for us & brings us joy! 😇
(Tone: Humble & Sincere) Re: Honestly, your comment here is...that is some extremely touching praise that deeply humbles me & the kindest compliment I've received in a long time. 🙏🏼 Truly- thank you!! Your kind words of encouragement have inspired me to go back to the introductory 'article' I recently started working on. (T: Playful & Sincere) After ~3 years on this platform I think it's time lol. Plus, I can't possibly keep coming up with excuses when you, someone I admire, respect, & am inspired by, so kindly suggests that I post my own writings. I will do my best- as time allows- thank you for the kind & gentle push 🙏🏼🤭 Now watch me hammer one onto a screen & plant it online in the early hours of the morning...or next day or two?...with the Chicago snow on the way...we'll see lol
Of course, I couldn't consider my writing any better or more thorough- how could I? You're Jae-Ha Kim - second to none! 😇
Re: I am a first generation immigrant...-it's so sad to read that you experienced something similar to Seok-Ryu...the conditioning of being expected to work hard & do well only to be taken advantage of by others (with that then becoming the expectation) is all too common in the land of 'milk & honey.' As a 1st generation American- 3rd culture kid/individual I've seen it downplayed as, 'that's the way it is. Just be grateful & make the best of it,' which always fanned the fire in my belly to try & instigate change...it took me some time to realize people really dislike change, but I digress.
Re: Cancer- I can only imagine what you went through since every experience is different, but I am grateful that you are & remain cancer-free (I know you've touched on your experience yet don't want to pry). [Aside: Growing up with a very health-prioritizing mother- well versed in western/holistic/functional medicine I think your intuition pinpointing stress (emotional/physical/psychological/spiritual) of the work environment very well contributed. As some say, 'disease is dis-ease,' but again I digress.
Re: But that's life...- 💯 Your child is very fortunate in more ways than one!! & re: We learn from our own experiences & hopefully make it better...💯 (couldn't have said it better!) (T: Grateful) Thank you for this lovely exchange!!! Appreciate you!! 💜🖤✌🏼
p.s. let's hope the weather forecast is wrong & we don't have to do too much shoveling in the coming days lol
Thanks for sharing your thoughtful review! Very interesting about the original title vs. the translation. I felt that the English title worked on many levels, as it wasn't just the two childhood sweethearts, but also how Seuk-ryu's mom cared for Seung-hyo, Dan-ho being Mo-eum's renter/sub letter and them falling in love, and also the wider love of the 4 mothers and their friendship (even though I personally couldn't stand to be friends with any of them for that long 😅).
Agree with you, much more invested in Mo-eum and Dan-ho, but I also find that happens a lot in Korean shows, where the main characters start to annoy me at some point and I'm rooting for the side characters 😁
I wish you'd address the disturbing issue of these 'kids' in their 30s, both of whom have had relationships before, still portraying sex as 'dirty' and 'unhealthy thoughts'. I wonder if something got lost in translation.
I don't recall sex being portrayed as dirty in this series, so I'm not sure what to tell you.
While there are K-dramas that depict sex in a more overt way, the adults-who-don't-kiss-until-near-the-end-of-the-series trope is one that I actually find kind of charming, BECAUSE it's not realistic. And when they have a baby, I'm thinking, "How'd they have a baby?!" 😛
I'll look up the exact words later. Seung-hyo says to her 'I'm going to leave now because I'm having unhealthy thoughts. Very bad thoughts.' And then she compares the 'unhealthy thoughts' to her childhood candy addition.... it was just bizarre. But that was the subtitles so I do wonder what he exactly said in Korean.
Was this in her bedroom in her childhood home? I *think* I remember this scene ... but don't have enough memory of the dialogue. 🤷♀️
Oh, yes, I love that about K-drama.
Well when he said that he was in her bedroom in her parents' house where they could show up at any moment...if I were him I'd be cautious about those thoughts at that moment too. 😂
😂 Listen, I was married when we stayed at my husband's childhood bedroom at his parents' house and I felt weirded out just by that!
Saaaame 😂
fair enough😂
I loved this show. I was especially moved by the portrayal of having cancer and all the questions that arise when you wonder how much time you have left.
Having cancer makes a lot of people think about their mortality and how much time we actually have on earth.
'I'm having bad thoughts'. 'Thoughts I shouldn't be thinking, cheap and crude thoughts'. Subtitles as he prepares to leave before she asks him to stay.
Now I have to go search for that episode! 😂
end of episode 12
I found a 4-minute video of that scene you are addressing from Netflix: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FGS9-xltX-k
The English translation is correct. However, what he is saying in Korean isn't as trite/odd as it comes across in English. They had been competitive their entire childhood, were attracted to each other at various stages of their lives, their families are good friends and their parents assume they are more like siblings. Coupling up could make things complicated (especially if they break up). In this scene, he is verbally dancing around her to see if she feels the same way as he does. And he's asking for her consent, which I thought was an important step. He doesn't just grab her wrist and force a kiss on her. When she gives her permission, then they kiss and close the door, leaving the rest to our imagination.
Upon watching this scene again, I didn't find it odd at all. And what he was saying (in Korean) didn't indicate that they were nervous 30something virgins who had never been intimate previously with past partners. He was nervous that she might not feel the same way as him.
I guess a comparable thing is when characters in western shows says, "I'm going to die" or "I'm dying!" They're not literally going to die right then and there. They're being melodramatic. But if it was a word-for-word translation from English into Korean, Koreans might read the subtitles and believe that the character is indeed preparing for death.
Translating/interpreting is an artform, and I don't think streaming sites like Netflix give them the time/money to add nuance to the translations. Often, it's a very quick turnaround.
Anyhow, thanks for addressing this scene! It was fun to reflect on it!
Thank you So much for the enlightening discussion! I think I’m going to watch the whole series again, actually!
My job is done then!! lol
I'm actually so glad you brought this topic up, though, because it makes me realize that things that seem normal to me can sound really offputting via subtitles. I'll try to be more aware of that for my next pieces!
I loved this series and while I didn’t get the literal translation of the title … that message of living through your kids and bragging rights came through loud and clear. This was one of my faves from last year.
There were so many beautiful elements in this series. I know that some people complained that it moved too slow. But I really enjoyed the pacing.
It's been almost FIFTY years but I still remember getting hit by my teacher! It must've been either second grade or third (I emigrated after completing my third). I wasn't singled out, I was way too much of a goody student to misbehave, so it was one of those assembly line jobs, where all the students held up their shaking hands, palm side up, and await the mass corporeal punishment by way of a very long wooden dowel - it wasn't a ruler but rather a lashing stick specifically for the purpose of striking wayward pupils.
It stung like hell, of course, but what I recall more than anything is the anticipation of the pain. The teacher took his time and sauntered row after row, that thin stick cutting the air with a whoosh, WHAAACK, and then the inevitable cry of pain and the failed holding back of tears and sobs to follow. I cried as much as any kid! I think I might have still been crying when I walked back home.
Why were we hit as a collective student body that day? I have no idea! Some stupid classmate probably passed a note or something. It didn't take much for that stick to come out...
Ugh, that's so awful! Poor kids! And poor you! That is traumatizing for children. And punishing the collective for the wrongs of one (or a few) is beyond wrong. And even the misbehaving students shouldn't have been hit.
(Tone: Sincere) First & foremost- thank you for writing & sharing this article! One of the many reasons I’m always excited for your insightful words & thought-provoking perspectives is that you write with such eloquence & ease in a way that can connect with anyone. Exchanging thoughts & emotions is a part of what makes life so exhilarating & something I value (deeply & intensely)- so thank you thank you!
I’m just going to jump on in since I’ve a lot to share lol
Re: English title vs. the Korean title- 엄마친구아들, not only does it, as you said ‘sets the tone for the core values…” the Korean title does what a title is supposed to:
- Captures a core theme
- Creates curiosity & intrigue
- Evokes an emotional tone
- Signals symbolism
And then some.
At the risk of sounding a bit…opinionated- the English title Love Next Door is a cheap marketing trick to appeal to international audiences…while understandable to a certain extent it’s frustrating. I could air out the linguist in me and discuss title-translations or title-tampering for hours. I mean- the French title for 2000’s Bring It On? American Girls…(Tone: Sarcastic) way to shape perspectives & stereotypes.
(Tone: Sincere )[Aside: I’ll never forget the 90minute special guest lecture who shared how translating 1 line of Shakespeare can take up to 3hrs (if not more) given everything one needs to consider e.g. history, culture, emotion, etc…] & with that I offer the question: Would a K-drama by any other name still stir our hearts?]
I’m glad that you mentioned how Seung-Hyo (Jung Hae-In) and Seok-Ryu (Jung So-Min) are both umchina(s)/엄친아, & how “this mythical super child is used to make other children feel less than.” This subtext with the dramas astrological chart in mind depicts a ♑️🌙 conjunct (a conjunction can be understood as two people sitting next to each other in conversation) ♒️Pluto both square (squares= where 'things' manifest) ♈️Chiron, which can indicate a tension between our wounds & that which makes us feel safe & nurtured. It can present itself through a parental figure that may have shamed us (the parents’ own wounds- whether justified or not). Therefore, when “their mothers use every get-together as an opportunity to humble brag about their child’s achievements” this is one of the interesting undertones at play. Is it healthy? No...Is it conditioned? Yes. I will offer though, that the Moon/Pluto/Chiron square can result in a deep fear of being caught & shamed because of the shame we recognize in someone we care deeply for carries within themselves. In other words, in the drama the mothers seem to use umchina as a means to 1. experience "success" vicariously through their kids 2. Mask their own fears & insecurities through bragging. The overwhelming tension presented by these aspects are found in every trope/cliche of the drama to the point of 'no stone left unturned.'
Now, as to the astrological components of the drama- what stuck out to me at first glance of the chart ended up being the most prominent aspects = Moon/Pluto & Mars (and all of their aspects), which shines through when Seok-Ryu’s mother says, “A parent would go to moon or mars for them.” (Ep. 9? 10?)
Re: When we see flashbacks…a product of the South Korean education and work system, Seok-ryu [‘s]…Korean American coworker, Chris, encouraged his colleagues to take advantage of her eagerness to fit in- this was frustrating (to say the least) because it happens more often than not in the real world…this is something I wish drama viewers would take note of in order to self-reflect & engage in conversations…at minimum.
I like to share the perspective that when you allow people the opportunity to help you, you give* them the same joy you feel when helping them. The quote is relevant as it brings us to Seok-Ryu’s reveal of what happened/why she’s back, which deeply impacts the other characters in various ways. However, how can we expect someone to ask for help if they were never taught how to...or if asking for help never felt safe? There is so very much to unpack here & for the sake of being short & direct I’ll touch on the viewer responses I observed (they are always very telling). Many sided with the ex-fiancé especially when contrasted with the Seung-Hyo’s "berating.’ While fair enough - each to their own, what this indicates for me is 2-fold: 1. Cultural differences are at play with a lean toward a western bias 2. There’s a disregard of the fact that anyone who discovers something serious will be in shock & angry; not to mention, if they discover after the fact* - it’s important to allow others to feel their emotions without pressuring a response right away. At the same time, berating someone is an unhealthy way to cope- needs to be said.
Of course, other viewers have pointed out that they didn't understand why the family & friends were making everything about 'them.' As to that-powerlessness/betrayal/guilt are only some things 'the tribe' aka family & friends might feel when faced with the cancer reveal. This storyline reveal reminded me of ABC Family’s ‘2014-2015 ‘Chasing Life’ & how extremely difficult (understatement) it is for everyone* involved when cancer is involved. However, I ended up thinking more about JTBC's 2022 서른, 아홉 (Thirty Nine) & how 전미도 (Jeon Mi-Do)'s Jeong Chan-Young shared her diagnosis when compared to Seok-Ryu.
[Aside- the Moon/Mars/Chiron aspects can also appear through the portrayal of how one's sense of support stems from the concept of burying the unnamed- like an unsettling feeling lurking around in one's stomach, leaving the impression that our needs cannot be truly fulfilled. Clearly this aspect was key as it is the energetic undertone for the cancer- IMHO.]
In the end- there is still so much I would like to say; especially, since I haven't yet touched on what I loved most about the drama- the storylines of the parents. I'll write another comment about that (if you're interested) later today. In the meantime- thank you again for writing this article & for indulging my words! 💜🖤✌🏼
"At the risk of sounding a bit…opinionated" ... 😂
I love that! I'm opinionated, too, as you may have noticed. hehe And I'm so happy to read your thoughts (and everyone else's! This comment section is particularly lively and it's so rewarding for me to see).
Honestly, your comment here is more thorough and better than what I wrote. Have you thought about writing reviews on your Substack as time permits? I think people would be fascinated by your views.
I am a first generation immigrant. And while I grew up very westernized (neighborhood, schools etc.), those Korean traits that Seok-ryu's American colleagues used again her felt familiar, because I experienced something similar. The people I helped at work stabbed me in the back to further their own career. (Not all, of course. Some of the best friends I made was from that job.) All the extra work I did for free wasn't appreciated, but rather became expected. (I started keeping spreadsheets to show them how much more work I was doing than virtually everyone else on staff.) When I quit my job, I was literally sick for six months on and off. It's almost as if the relief of not being in that kind of toxic environment anymore gave my body permission to rest and purge everything.
Of course, I would get cancer later on. An outlier, since cancer doesn't run in my family. And while I know it's not medically possible, I blame a lot of my work years for 'causing' it. If not cancer, a lot of the other ailments that I had/have, by sacrificing my health for a job where I was over qualified for and still wasn't appreciated.
But that's life, isn't it? My child isn't being raised to be grateful for taking up space. We learn from our own experiences and hopefully make it better for the next generation.
(Tone: Happy) Re: Opinionated - TBH I lol'ed when I wrote it. 🤭 Glad you found it funny too!
I'm truly grateful for your willingness to exchange with us- your readers, & it makes me happy to read that our engagement is rewarding for you & brings you joy! Just like how your work is rewarding for us & brings us joy! 😇
(Tone: Humble & Sincere) Re: Honestly, your comment here is...that is some extremely touching praise that deeply humbles me & the kindest compliment I've received in a long time. 🙏🏼 Truly- thank you!! Your kind words of encouragement have inspired me to go back to the introductory 'article' I recently started working on. (T: Playful & Sincere) After ~3 years on this platform I think it's time lol. Plus, I can't possibly keep coming up with excuses when you, someone I admire, respect, & am inspired by, so kindly suggests that I post my own writings. I will do my best- as time allows- thank you for the kind & gentle push 🙏🏼🤭 Now watch me hammer one onto a screen & plant it online in the early hours of the morning...or next day or two?...with the Chicago snow on the way...we'll see lol
Of course, I couldn't consider my writing any better or more thorough- how could I? You're Jae-Ha Kim - second to none! 😇
Re: I am a first generation immigrant...-it's so sad to read that you experienced something similar to Seok-Ryu...the conditioning of being expected to work hard & do well only to be taken advantage of by others (with that then becoming the expectation) is all too common in the land of 'milk & honey.' As a 1st generation American- 3rd culture kid/individual I've seen it downplayed as, 'that's the way it is. Just be grateful & make the best of it,' which always fanned the fire in my belly to try & instigate change...it took me some time to realize people really dislike change, but I digress.
Re: Cancer- I can only imagine what you went through since every experience is different, but I am grateful that you are & remain cancer-free (I know you've touched on your experience yet don't want to pry). [Aside: Growing up with a very health-prioritizing mother- well versed in western/holistic/functional medicine I think your intuition pinpointing stress (emotional/physical/psychological/spiritual) of the work environment very well contributed. As some say, 'disease is dis-ease,' but again I digress.
Re: But that's life...- 💯 Your child is very fortunate in more ways than one!! & re: We learn from our own experiences & hopefully make it better...💯 (couldn't have said it better!) (T: Grateful) Thank you for this lovely exchange!!! Appreciate you!! 💜🖤✌🏼
p.s. let's hope the weather forecast is wrong & we don't have to do too much shoveling in the coming days lol
💙💙💙
(I wish we had gotten this snow during Christmas break, when more people had days off and didn't have to go into work.)
Thanks for sharing your thoughtful review! Very interesting about the original title vs. the translation. I felt that the English title worked on many levels, as it wasn't just the two childhood sweethearts, but also how Seuk-ryu's mom cared for Seung-hyo, Dan-ho being Mo-eum's renter/sub letter and them falling in love, and also the wider love of the 4 mothers and their friendship (even though I personally couldn't stand to be friends with any of them for that long 😅).
Agree with you, much more invested in Mo-eum and Dan-ho, but I also find that happens a lot in Korean shows, where the main characters start to annoy me at some point and I'm rooting for the side characters 😁