Explore our spoiler-free review of the hit Korean historical drama ‘Dear Hongrang’.  Get general series information, plot summary, and my personal thoughts and rating, all 100% spoiler-free!  If you have already seen this drama and are interested in a more full review, including character analysis, highlights, and ending explanation,  please click on the link below.

     Air Dates: May 16, 2025

Episodes: 11

Where to Watch: Netflix

Genre: Historical Drama

Starring: Lee Jae Wook and Jo Bo Ah

A Joseon art merchant’s young son mystreriously disappears.  And despite the family members’ tireless searching, he is never seen again.  Until 12 years later when a young man shows up at the family home claiming to be their long lost son. And while some family members embrace him without question, his sister, who was his closest friend and confidant, is suspicious that this stranger is telling the truth. And as they dig into the events of the past and his disappearance, family secrets of betrayal, revenge, and greed will be revealed.

‘Dear Hongrang’ is a darkly intense historical drama that focuses on the lengths people will go for revenge. It is hauntingly beautiful and achingly bittersweet. The 11 episode format keeps the plot moving while maintaining a slow-burn quality. The story blends classic historical romance with supernatural elements to weave a mesmerizing spell. The cast and cinematography are striking and the story is unpredictable and emotionally moving.

This is a drama that requires close attention and leaves certain elements to the viewer to interpret. Some felt that this style was messy and rushed. The scenes of child abuse were difficult and heartbreaking to watch, and the explorations of trauma are brutal and raw. There were those who felt that the hints of incest were inappropriate and distasteful.  But for me, I loved the return to a classic, solid style of historical drama that was both exciting and emotionally deep.   I give ‘Dear Hongrang’ a 10 out of 10.

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Below are links to other great dramas Lee Jae Wook has appeared in.

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Below are links to other great dramas Jo Bo Ah has starred in.

If this review has made you curious about where your other favorites stand, here is break down of the other reviews by rating.  Links to both spoiler-free and full reviews are available on each page. Feel free to explore all the wonderful dramas I have watched.