Those of you who know me, know that I'm a big fan of Korean dramas. It's been awhile since I've really found a show that has really captivated me and I'm currently totally reveling in Descendants of the Sun 태양의후예. And I'm not the only one since this show become a blockbuster success and total global sensation, breaking records for viewership in Korea and already reaching over 1.1 billion views on the Chinese cable service iQiyi. The drama which reportedly cost 11 million dollars to produce has already broke even with broadcast rights sold to China and Japan for $250,000 and $100,000 per episode, respectively. The 16 episode series is also being being exported to 25 other countries including the US, England, France, Italy, Germany, Romania, Sweden, Spain, Poland, Belgium, the Netherlands, Russia, Austria, Finland, Australia, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Iran, Taiwan, Hong Kong, the Philippines, Myanmar, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Singapore. Descendants of the Sun is certainly establishing a precedence with it's astronomical popularity for Korean dramas worldwide. The BBC has even picked up on the phenomenon.
10 REASONS TO WATCH DESCENDANTS OF THE SUN
1. THE STORY
Descendants of the Sun centers around the love story between a volunteer surgical doctor and an elite special forces officer. There is an underlying theme that highlights humanity in the wake of peril woven throughout and the drama is a compelling mix of genres that balances drama, action, romance and comedy. It also refreshingly deviates from most of the standard K-drama tropes. I love my Korean dramas but they can be fairly formulaic. There are no love triangles, chaebols (wealthy heirs), birth secrets or convoluted revenge schemes and you actually see people at work. Kim Eun Sook who also wrote Secret Garden and Gentlemen's Dignity which I didn't care for and Heirs which I found unwatchable was one of the co-writers of this drama and I give her major props. There have been some really pleasant surprises and I'm never quite sure where the story is going to go from week to week. I will say that City Hall which she also wrote is one of my favorite dramas ever.
2. THE CHARACTERS
There are four main leads who are actually all likable in their own right. It's very common for the lead male to start off as a jerk and for the second female to be a raging bee with an itch. The male characters actually respect the women in their lives and the female characters are strong, independent and don't need to be defined by their male counterparts. There is also a pretty solid cast of supporting characters. The only hole is the villain Argus played by David Lee McInnis who was probably cast because he's creepy looking. Otherwise he's a really bad actor and his English inflections are weird considering he was born in the US.
Song Joong Ki couldn't have chosen a better project for his comeback post military service. Given the skyrocketing success and recognition he has received, this seems to be the role of a lifetime for him and Joong Ki absolutely owns the role of Captain Yoo Shi Jin. His stint in the army helped to bring out his masculine aura. Thanks to the power of a good haircut, he has never looked hotter. Yoo Shi Jin is a take charge, straightforward character who uses humor both to disarm and to cope. He has effectively brought this character to life and Joong Ki's natural boyish charm really plays to such an advantage here. Yoo Shi Jin utters some pretty cheesy lines at times but somehow they're not cringeworthy due to his smooth delivery and because they're coming out of his mouth. It also doesn't hurt that he has the most swoonworthy deep voice. If he were a more of a rugged male type some of those lines probably would come across kinda gross.
4. SONG HYE KYO
5. THE ROMANCE
The common cliché of characters who initially hate each other, only to fall in love later is cast aside here for mutual attraction at first sight and immediately acting on it. These characters don't play games and and speak honestly to one another. While Yoo Shi Jin is charmingly flirtatious in his ardent pursuit of Kang Mo Yeon, he always remains respectful and continues to persist despite her rejections. It's really cute how smitten he is. And it's very credible that no matter how deeply Kang Mo Yeon is drawn to Yoo Shin Jin, her practical side doesn't allow her to just give in to her feelings because of the dangerous nature of his job. It's pretty hot when she finally does though. These two have some scorching chemistry. I don't find the secondary romance as interesting since it's the typical being kept apart due to parental objection storyline and if their behaviour was reversed, he'd totally be considered a stalker. But I do like both of the characters enough to root for them. Song Hye Kyo and Song Joong Ki have been caught up in dating rumors since being spotted together in NYC last month. The rumors have been denied by both their agencies which stated that they're just good colleagues. For some reason I feel like there's something more to that and I don't usually ship K-drama couples but I would totally ship these two especially if their real life chemistry is anything like their onscreen chemistry which is off the charts. Gah go get married and have beautiful babies you stunning pair! #songsongcouple
6. THE BROMANCE
The bromance between the characters of Yoo Shi Jin and Seo Dae Young played by Song Joong Ki and Jin Goo is as strong as any romance in the drama. They clearly have a solid friendship and know how to push each other's buttons which usually results in much hilarity. The contrast between Shi Jin's playfulness and Dae Young's stoicism is really fun to watch and their scenes and interaction are always a highlight.
Descendants of the Sun was partially filmed on location in Zakynthos, Arachova and Lemnosin in Greece and the backdrop of the brilliant turquoise Aegean Sea is especially spectacular to say the least. Navagio Beach which served as a key location has seen a sharp rise in tourism recently thanks to it's appearance in the drama.
7. THE CINEMATOGRAPHY
I've always enjoyed the photography and framing in Korean dramas because it's often symbolically meaningful as well as beautiful. They truly did an outstanding job with the visuals in this drama.
8. THE PRODUCTION
Unlike most Korean dramas which are produced under a live shooting system in which which scripts are issued a day before filming and editing is completed just a few hours before the episode is due to air, Descendants of the Sun was entirely pre-produced. This ensures a higher quality production but is considered risky in the Asian market since live shooting lets them adapt the story to public reaction. You can definitely see and feel the production value in how the action and disaster scenes are depicted.
9. THE CAMEOS
Episode 1 of Descendants of the Sun featured a hilarious cameo from Song Joong Ki's real life BFF Lee Kwang Soo. Lee Jong Hyuk appeared as Yoo Shi Jin's former commanding officer in a flashback sequence. There is also a cameo to look forward to from hot young actor Yoo Ah In who is said to be portraying a bank worker in an upcoming episode. He filmed it as a birthday gift for his good friend and agency mate Song Hye Kyo.
10. THE SOUNDTRACK
Soundtracks usually serve to enhance the atmosphere of certain scenes and this one does just that with tracks like Yoon Mi Rae’s ‘Always,’ ‘EXO’s Chen feat. Punch’s ‘Everytime,’ Davichi’s ‘This Love,' Gummy's 'You Are My Everything, Kim Na Young and Mad Clown's 'Once Again'. Every track has been a chart topper becoming as popular on the drama itself. I adore all of them and even though I wanted to wait to purchase the full soundtrack, I've already bought a few on iTunes. My personal favorite so far is K. Will's 'Talk Love. It's so upbeat and fun! I'm also looking forward to Kim Junsu's song which was briefly previewed during the best confession scene in a K-drama ever!
Here is an English subbed trailer. Descendants of the Sun (태양의후예) is a 16 episode drama that currently airs Wednesdays and Thursdays at 10 p.m. KST on KBS2. 10 episodes have aired so far. I'm so obsessed that I actually live streamed last week's episodes without subtitles. I understand a little Korean since I've been trying to learn but this is motivating me to learn faster. Descendants of the Sun has been translated into 32 different languages so far and can be seen exclusively on the video streaming site Viki.
Photos: DOTS Tumblr
53 comments
so classy pics! Have a great week! xx
Oh yay, Belgium is in the list! Switzerland isn't though, bummer.
Ok, I need to watch this now. And I'm pleased to see Australia made the list. Though were and to whom exactly? I need to look into this more!
Sxx
www.daringcoco.com
It sound interesting to watch also the actor is good looking.
I wish they'd have this on Netflix so I can watch this on the big screen! Rowena, because of you, I think I'm kinda getting crazy over Song Joong Ki now....hehe...I'll check out that VIki link.
I have never watched a Korean drama before, but I will keep that in mind should I ever feel the need to see what the hype is all about.
Linda, Libra, Loca: Beauty, Baby and Backpacking
this sounds fascinating! i'm so glad you let us in on it!
I have never watched any Korean show before. I have to give it a try at some point. But only if it comes with subtitles. Love all the gifs in this post!
Luxessed
Ok you sold me!I'm watching it, haha. Nice reading that they shot in Greece as well.
I'll keep you updated how I found it.
💋
Stella from a Looks & Travels
Yep, same here. Now I need to watch it, Rowena. Hope you had a lovely Easter!
xox
Lenya
FashionDreams&Lifestyle
This is absolutely a great read dear! I like this a lot.
** Join Love, Beauty Bloggers on facebook. A place for beauty and fashion bloggers from all over the world to promote their latest posts!
BEAUTYEDITER.COM
Subscribe to my YouTube Channel
You've convinced me Rowena! I'm totally checking this out with captions. I don't love the typical formulaic K drama but this sounds nuanced and lovely!
xoxo,
little luxury list formerly Chic 'n Cheap Living
I honestly never watched any K-dramas but gosh, it's a huge thing back in Malaysia and so many of my friends are gaga for them. Love the way you explained the reasons why you love this series, Rowena, it makes me want to watch it too.
Shireen | Reflection of Sanity
Over 1.1 billion views? Wow! I'm interested to know it's being exported to England, perhaps I'll give it a go!
Gabrielle | A Glass Of Ice
x
It sounds really interesting!!!
Kisses, Paola.
Expressyourself
My Facebook
I've never heard of this program, which is why I'm so happy you've placed all these images and videos within your post. This really looks interesting. I may have to see if I can find it.
Kia / KTS
www.houseofkts.com
Ehrmahgerd! Just saw the first episode! I so understand now what you meant about his voice...swoon.
So far, I'm not really falling for Dr. Kang's character yet, but hopefully in the other episodes...and OMG! That scene when he was working out!! hehe He doesn't get hurt in Afghanistan, right? Wait....no spoilers! :P
I'm not really into romance in movies (that sounds weird, right), but I do like the plot and scenery of this drama. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
New Post: http://www.ohtobeamuse.com/2016/03/saving-grace.html
I can't say I know much about Korean drama or media, but this looks like an interesting watch and the place its shot looks stunning.
Corinne x
www.skinnedcartree.com
So interesting romance film sweetie,
It sounds cool
kisses
Maggie D.
Fashion Blog Maggie Dallospedale fashion diary
Holy moly 11 mill! Is it on Netflix? Hmm I wonder how I could find that chanel
Awww I have to watch this! ♥♥♥
Happy New Week!
xoxo Suzy ( ˘ ³˘)♥
THE KAWAII PLANET
I'm not familiar with Korean dramas but shockingly I've heard of this one from several friends. After your review, I may have to find out where to watch this because it looks really good!
It looks really interesting!
Florals&Smiles
Long time no see K-drama but remember enjoyed some stories and obviously I fell for some characters, this looks interesting hopefully pass it in my country too soon! Happy week Rowena.
www.urbanikamoda.blogspot.com
I didn't know anything about this before but now I am interested!
This sounds fab, had never heard of it before :) x
Never seen this before but sounds good!
ARedLip&Love
I've been reading about this show on my twitter feed for daaaaays! Might just give in to and watch it soon. :)
Love, Richel. | Richel Goes Places
I am loving this so much! Have a great day.
Style For Mankind
Facebook
Bloglovin
Didn't know this! Many cute actors!! ;))
I have been reading so much about this lately, and wondered what the hype was all about, and thought of your blog when I came across it. Now, I know! I'd imagine, the stunning scenery and cinematography alone would seem worthy of a glimpse at the very least. Thanks for sharing. :)
FASHION TALES
Never heard of this movie. Seems like an interesting one.
www.effortlesslady.com
I've never watched Korean drama before, can you believe it? But my mum's a huge fan, I'll be sure to ask if she's seen this one
oh...i really love ur post. i'm a big fan Asian drama esp. korean & japanese, and i'm a big fan of Song Joongki & Song Hyekyo for a while now. Ur post is just as my thought. This drama is just so good & it's been a while since i this excited watching k-drama. So, for those who haven't watched it, i highly recommend it. LOL
It's more than obvious that you are a big fan of this drama, Rowena! If it was translated into my language, it'd have been interesting to see it myself too. Especially when I have visited Zakynhtos, and more specifically Navagio beach. You can start writing movies reviews more often, it's interesting to read your opinion.
haha Rowena! Rowena! You have done it again, my friend.
You have basically detailed out the exact reasons why we all love this drama and why it has become such a huge hit globally. Spot on indeed with your "analysis", I totally agree with you on everything that you have mentioned about the drama, and like what Stanislava said here, you can be a movie critic and write some reviews away, my friend.
As much as you love Korean dramas, it is such a sweet thing to hear you say that hubs is still you number one flower boy and your one and only OTL *_^ It is truly blessed to have such love in your life, I wish I can say the same for myself but things have not been looking like what I have expected of late...
Love is a strange thing, it can work to your advantage over time, it can also work otherwise, it really depends on both parties to uphold and upkeep the relationship to keep it fresh and exciting, and I am glad that you are one of the lucky ones who is being showered upon such kind of precious love.
I thoroughly enjoy this post! also the fact that I share the same love for the series, truly one that stands out from the rest! I can't wait to see how the story will progress from here onwards. I just watched a pre-recorded version of EP10.
Now I can go to sleep *_^ dreaming of my version of flower boy, hahaha! **hush hush**
Have a great weekend ahead soon, my friend.
With love,
Jeann | LUMINNEJ
http://luminnej.blogspot.com
I like your blog, its really dope.
Do you want to follow each other?
If you want, than follow me, and let me know in comments, so I can follow you back with pleasure.
We can follow each other on Instagram @andjela.dujovic, let me know in the comments so I can follow you back.
www.bekleveer.com
xoxo
I remember you recommended this one in one of your earlier posts...and now I can see why in more detail. It does sound like a great show...and oh my...that is a very good looking couple.
Oh my god I can't believe you've got a post devoted ENTIRELY TO ONE KDRAMA I'M LAUGHING/CRYING. I've seen playlists for this drama on 8tracks and read a bit of the synopsis on Viki, but wasn't too interested. This post is making me reconsider though, since I do love a good bromance. AND THAT SCENERY!!
Song Joong Ki is cute af wtf. I totally ship #SongSong based on these gifs/photos
AHHH!!! I LOVED 태양의 후예!! It's one of the few dramas that I actually made sure to catch on tv when it was airing! The chemistry was amazing and the banter between them was perfection! Song Jung Gi is one of my favorite Korean actors so this drama was just!!! I can't even find the words lol
I agree with EVERYTHING you said in this post. I'm so obsessed with it, i finished it a month ago and i'm still rewatching scenes over and over again.
While I agree with all of your points, i have to point our point number three about SJK and your comment "Thanks to the power of a good haircut, he has never looked hotter". ON. POINT. you totally decribed what i've been trying to figure out for months as to why he looks so good! I love this haircut on, no matter how it's styled!
I'm totally sold! Gonna have to watch this asap.
THIS SERIES IS HUGEEEEE!!!!
http://sepatuholig.blogspot.com
Instagram @grace_njio
Should be interesting!
Have a nice week-end!
Gil Zetbase
http://gilzetbase.com/
I love this Tv series, any one who would like to write a review or post can contact sylvia@zaful.com,
i totally love this drama, i watched it like five times already. Aisha......Nigeria.
Hi sweetie! Have a nice day!
Kiss
Maggie
Maggie Dallospedale Fashion diary - Fashion blog
Most of my friends are watching this and I guess for a good reason.
I will have to add this to my list. :D
Have a nice Monday
kisses
Maggie Dallospedale Fashion diary - Fashion blog
I'm sold! This looks great! I just started watching a series called Cable Girls that's incredible, and if this comes up then I'd definitely give it a try :)
Amy;
Little Moon Elephant
Hi sweet Rowena, It is very interesting. This serie sounds very great.
Kisses
Maggie Dallospedale Fashion diary - Fashion blog
It sounds amazing!
Have a nice evening!
Photographer Gil Zetbase
Post a Comment