Welcome to Kdrama and Ramen

Get ready to immerse yourself in the captivating world of Korean dramas and indulge in the delicious flavors of ramen. Here, you’ll find in-depth reviews, unspoiled recommendations, and all the latest updates on your favorite Kdramas. Join me on this exciting journey as we explore the best that Kdramas and ramen have to offer. Let’s dive in!

Fighting Crime with Authority in 1958 7/17/24

Unveiling the Retro Humor

Fighting Crime with Authority in 1958 7/17/24 - An UnSpoiled Review of 'Chief Detective 1958'

Discover quirky, retro crime fighting with this Chief Detective 1958 – Unspoiled Review. Dive into the drama without any spoilers!  If you have already seen this drama and are looking for a more full analysis of the characters and ending with spoilers, click the link below.

General Information about 'Chief Detective 1958'

Fighting Crime with Authority in 1958 7/17/24

Air Date: 4/19 – 5/18/24     Episodes: 10
Available on: Hulu
Genre:  Action Comedy
Starring: Lee Je Hoon and Kim Sang Soon

Fighting Crime with Authority in 1958 7/17/24

Unraveling 'Chief Detective 1958'

Story Summary

Rooting Out Corruption One Villain at a Time

In 1958, a passionate detective known for having the highest arrest rate for cattle thieves in his small town, transfers to Seoul.  But crime fighting in the big city is not exactly what he expects.  And if he is going to put a stop to the wide-spread corruption the police force has become known for, he will have to put together a team of like-minded individuals who aren’t afraid to row against the tide.

'Chief Detective 1958' is zany comedy and action crime fighting at their finest.

Personal Reflection and Rating

My Impressions

‘Chief Detective 1958’ is the prequel to the crime drama ‘Chief Detective’ that ran in Korea from 1971- 1989.  The drama draws on wacky, over the top humor and good, old-fashion crime fighting.  The rag-tag team of detective have great chemistry together and the short 10 episode format keeps the pace moving nicely.  Rather than focus on the mystery of “whodunnit” this drama is more concerned with the how of it all.  

Watching the detectives find ways to expose the criminals with indisputable evidence is the real key. Lee Je Hoon has a knack for cheesy drama, and this does get extremely silly at times.  It also has some pretty far-fetched storylines.  But rather than give us a smooth, modern style prequel with fancy sets and solid, realistic storylines, this one embraces the retro, and has a lot of fun with it.   I give ‘Chief Detective 1958’  a solid 9 out of 10.

🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜

Discover More Korean Drama Reviews

Stay up-to-date with the latest Korean drama reviews and weekly updates on Korean entertainment news. Dive deeper into the world of K-dramas and never miss out on trending shows and hidden gems. Join our community of K-drama enthusiasts today!

Meet the Stars of 'Chief Detective 1958'

Fighting Crime With Authority in 1958 7/17/24

Lee Je Hoon and Kim Sang Soon did an amazing job in this drama. If you are interested in seeing other dramas that they have performed in, please see the links below.

Lee Je Hoon started his career in 2007 in the indie movie ‘They Live by Night’.  He appeared in his first drama ‘Three Sisters’ in 2010.  Since then, he has won various awards and played a wide-range of roles. He has a starring role in the upcoming business drama ‘The Art of Negotiation’ as well as sequels to two of his most popular dramas ‘Signal’ and “Taxi Driver’.  Below are links to other dramas he has starred in.

Lee Dong Hwi started his career in 2013 in the action thriller movie ‘Cold Eyes’.  He appeared in his first drama ‘Gunman in Joseon’ in 2014.  He is best known for his role in the romantic comedy ‘Reply 1988. He has a starring role in the upcoming mystery crime drama ‘Low Life’.

A Safe Peek at Black Out 2024

Explore our...

A Safe Peek at My Demon 2023

In "A Safe Peek at...

A Safe Peek at Jewel in the Palace 2003

In "A Safe Peek at...

A Safe Peek at Connection 2024

Explore our...

A Safe Peek at My Lovely Boxer 2023

In "A Safe Peek...

A Safe Peek at My Sweet Mobster 2024

Join us as we...

A Safe Peek at Sweet Home Seasons 1-3

In "A Safe Peek at...

Other Recent Unspoiled Reviews

Stay updated with our latest reviews and dive into the captivating world of Korean dramas. Our recent unspoiled reviews section helps you explore the plot and my general impressions of your favorite series’ without any spoilers. From heartwarming romances to spine-chilling thrillers, we’ve got you covered.

Other Dramas This Week

Keep up-to-date with all the drama news.  Here are the premieres and finales of the week.

Good Partner

Premiere airs on Viki on July 12th

Exciting News and Essential Updates 7/13/24

Explore the Pulse of Korean EntertainmentWith Weekly Updates of Korean Drama and K-Pop - July 6 - 12

Delve into the latest trends and updates with the  Exciting News and Essential Updates 7/13/24

Exciting News and Essential Updates 7/13/24

The Highlights for This Week

Korean Entertainment News: June 29 - July 5

This week in Korean entertainment, we have exciting updates on actors confirmed for new drama roles, fresh music video releases, and some notable drama premieres and finales. Stay tuned to catch all the buzz!

New Music Videos

Check out the latest music videos released this week:

  • Dreamcatcher – JUSTICE
  • Taeyeon – Heaven
  • Xdinary Heroes – LOVE and FEAR
  • YOUNGJAE – T.P.O
  • Weeekly – LIGHTS ON
  • FTIsland – Serious
  • ENHYPEN – XO (Only If You Say Yes)

Drama Premieres and Finales

This week, we have some highly anticipated drama premieres and finales:

  • The Player : Master of Swindlers (Finale)
  • The Auditors (Premiere)
  • Good Partner (Premiere)

Upcoming Drama Casting News

Meet the Stars of Tomorrow's Hits

Lee Kyu Han

Lee Kyu Han will be joining Park Shin Hye and Kim Jae Young in the upcoming romantic crime drama ‘The Judge from Hell’.  The drama is about a powerful judge with no empathy who meets a caring detective who always puts the victims first. “The Judge from Hell’ is scheduled to premiere some time in September.

 

Jung Jinyoung

Jung Jinyoung will join Jung Ji So and Kim Hae Sook in the upcoming fantasy drama ‘Miss Granny’.  The drama is about a woman in her 70’s who has her picture taken at a mysterious photo studio and is transported back to her 20’s.  ‘Miss Granny’ will air some time later this year.

Moon Ga Young and Choi Hyun Wook

Moon Ga Young and Choi Hyun Wook will star together in the upcoming romantic comedy ‘Black Salt Dragon’.  Based on a webtoon of the same name, the drama follows a couple who meet as students through an online game and again 16 years later when she gets hired as his employee.  ‘Black Salt Dragon’ is scheduled to premiere in March of 2025.  

Upcoming Drama Premieres and Finales

This Week in K-Dramas

Don’t miss out on these must-watch dramas that are sure to make waves in the K-drama world!

Watch the Trailers

Finale

The Player 2: Master of Swindlers

A group of skilled con artists band together to use their unique skills to take on the wealthy villains of the world. 

Exciting News and Essential Updates 7/13/24

Finale Date: July 9, 2024

Premiere

The Auditors

An audit team works together to uncover corruption at JU Construction. Witness the clash of personalities between the members of the team and their various personalities and work attitudes.  

Exciting News and Essential Updates 7/13/24

Premiere Date: July 6, 2024.

premiere

Good Partner

A star lawyer navigates the complexities of divorce law while facing her own marital crisis. Teaming up with rookie lawyer Han Yoo Ri, the two clash over their differing values and approaches to justice. 

Exciting News and Essential Updates 7/13/24

Premiere Date: July 12, 2024

See More

Stay Updated with the Latest Korean Entertainment News

Don’t miss out on any updates in the world of Korean entertainment. From drama reviews to the latest news about your favorite stars, our website has it all. Click the button below to dive into a world of exciting content and stay ahead of the curve with our updates and reviews.

Other Recent Weekly Updates

Here’s a look back at recent weeks.  Catch up on all the news you missed.   Stay tuned for more exciting news and updates about your favorite dramas, actors, and music videos.

Exciting News and Essential Updates 11-2-24

Welcome to Exciting News and...

Exciting News and Essential Updates 10-26-24

Welcome to Exciting News and...

Exciting News and Essential Updates 10-19-24

Welcome to Exciting News and...

Exciting News and Essential Updates 10-12-24

Welcome to Exciting News and...

Exciting News and Essential Updates 10-5-24

Welcome to Exciting News and...

Exciting News and Essential Updates 9-28-24

Welcome to Exciting News and...

Exciting News and Essential Updates 9-21-24

Welcome to Exciting News and...

Exciting News and Essential Updates 9-14-24

Welcome to Exciting News and...

Exciting News and Essential Updates 9-7-24

Welcome to Exciting News and...

Exciting News and Essential Updates 8-31-24

Welcome to Exciting News and...

Surprising Crime and Corruption in 1958

Surprising Crime and Corruption in 1958

Dive Deep into the seedy politics of seoul in 1958 in 'The chief detective 1958'

'Chief Detective 1958: A Deeper Investigation

Delve into the criminal tales of ‘Chief Detective 1958’ with this in-depth review. Discover the crimes, laughs, and everything in between.  

Detailed Analysis

Character Insights

Ending Explained

Surprising Crime and Corruption in 1958

If you haven’t watched this drama yet and would prefer a spoiler-free review, please click on the link below.

Spoiler Alert!

Before you proceed, please be aware that this review contains significant spoilers for Chief Detective 1958. If you haven’t watched the drama yet, we recommend doing so before reading further to avoid any plot revelations.

General Information

Air Date:  April 19 – May 18, 2024

Episodes: 10

Watch on: Hulu

Genre: Action Comedy

Starring: Lee Je Joon and Lee Dong Hwi

Surprising Crime and Corruption in 1958

Story Summary

Chief Detective 1958: A Fun, Exciting Journey

In 1958, a passionate detective known for having the highest arrest rate for cattle thieves in his small town, transfers to Seoul.  But crime fighting in the big city is not exactly what he expects.  And if he is going to put a stop to the wide-spread corruption the police force has become known for, he will have to put together a team of like-minded individuals who aren’t afraid to row against the tide.

Main Characters - Park Young Han and Kim Sang Soon

Lead Characters' Stories

Lee Je Hoon as Park Young Han

Park Young Han has the highest arrest record for cow theives in his small town police department.  But when he tranfers to Seoul, he is shocked to find so much crime and corruption both on the streets and inside the walls of the Police Station itself.  After meeting his new supervisor and leader of Team 1, Yoo Dae Cheon, he realizes his new boss shares his passion for justice.  The pair set out to recruit a fresh team of new officers who will help them stand against the lazy work and dishonest practices of his fellow detectives.  Along the way, Young Han will make plenty of powerful enemies, but thankfully he also makes lots of unlikely allies.  

Park Young Han is honest and determined.  His biggest ambition is to create a community where the citizens are safe and protected from evil in all its forms.  I love Lee Je Hoon’s passion for the roles he plays and this one is no different.  While Park Young Han can be goofy and over-the-top at times, I felt like it fit this country bumpkin turned hero.  

Surprising Crime and Corruption in 1958

Lee Dong Hwi as Kim Sang Soon

Kim Sang Soon, known in the department as Mad Dog, is an outcast in Team 2.  He has made enemies of his teammates with his habit of biting any bad guy that crosses him and refusing to turn the other way and take pay offs.  When Young Han meets him hiding in a closet of the station, he recruits Sang Soon to join Team 1 and help him.  The pair quickly form a close friendship and partnership that extends beyond their work.

Kim Sang Soon’s personal history growing up in an orphanage gives him a soft spot for underdogs in all forms.  He understands how cruel the world can be to those who are defenseless.  I find Lee Dong Hwi to be such a multi-faceted actor and I loved him in this role.  His chemistry with Lee Je Hoon gives them a natural repartee that is engaging and fun to watch.  

Surprising Crime and Corruption in 1958

Secondary Characters

Key Supporting Roles

Choi Woo Sung as Cho Kyung Hwan

Cho Kyung Hwan grew up working in the local market, where he developed great strength and fighting skills.  When Young Han sees him working in the rice shop and defending the people in the market from thugs, he recruits him to come and join their team.   

Surprising Crime and Corruption in 1958

Yoon Hyun Soo as Seo Ho Jeong

Seo Ho Jeong is a brilliant student who has always dreamed about fighting crime and injustice as a detective.  When a recruiting team sets up a table on campus, Ho Jeong submits an application, going against his family’s wishes.  

Surprising Crime and Corruption in 1958

Seo Eun Soo as Lee Hae Joo

Lee Hae Joo is an independent young woman who owns a book store.  She meets Young Han when he ducks into her store to hide from some violent thugs.  The couple fall in love and soon get married.  

Surprising Crime and Corruption in 1958

Highlights

Three Things I Loved About Chief Detective 1958

Love Story

I loved the way this drama handled the romantic relationship between Young Han and Hae Joon.  While it was never a major plot that overshadowed the main theme of the show, it gave just the right touch of romance.  And I enjoyed watching her support Young Han and all the members of Team 1.

Meet the Team

This drama did a nice job of introducing each of the team members individually as part of the story rather than just having them already working at the station.  This introduction gave us time to get to know them in the same way Young Han did, and it also made me care about each of them because I could understand their backstory.

Choi Bool Am

I am so glad that they chose to honor Choi Bool Am for the 18 years he played Chief Inspector Park in the original series by giving him a cameo.  This was a classy move that showed the writer’s respect.  It also makes the ending scene even more beautiful, since Choi Bool Am, like his character, is the last remaining member of the team.  This gives double meaning to the scene in the cemetery as the actor is given a chance to honor his co-stars.  

Three Things I Didn't Love About Chief Detective 1958

1. Team 2:

 

I felt like the villainy of Team 2 was a bit heavy-handed.  There wasn’t a decent officer in the whole lot.  And their sudden turn around and redemption felt too rushed to make it very believable.  They were too unlikeable through the first 9 episodes for me to suddenly have a change of hear in the last one.  

2. Ho Jeong’s Crush:

I didn’t feel like there was much point in having Ho Jeong have a secret crush on Hae Joon at the beginning.  They introduced the idea and then pretty much dropped it with no follow up other than a few subtle, wistful glances where she first starts dating Young Han.  

3.  Sung Chil:

I loved Sung Chil’s character and his friendships with both Young Han and Nan Sil were so sweet.  It really broke my heart when they killed him off.  I get that it brought more weight to the case as a whole, but I really wish they could have achieved that another way.  

The Conclusion of 'Chief Detective 1958'

Drama Ending Explained

‘Chief Detective 1958’ ends with the closure of the case against the rich kid gang who have been kidnapping the factory workers.  The 2 who are still alive end up in prison and we see Superintendent Baek being executed for his role in covering it all up.  This leaves his position open for Team Leader Yoo to move up and give his position to Young Han.  The final scene shows Young Han, an old man and played by Choi Bool Am, sitting in a cemetery “catching up” with his old teammates.  As he salutes them and waves good bye, we see a short but heartfelt montage of each of the members from the last 10 episodes.    

A Spooky Journey

Final Impressions and Rating

‘Chief Detective 1958’ is the prequel to the crime drama ‘Chief Detective’ that ran in Korea from 1971- 1989.  The drama draws on wacky, over the top humor and good, old-fashion crime fighting.  The rag-tag team of detective have great chemistry together and the short 10 episode format keeps the pace moving nicely.  Rather than focus on the mystery of “whodunnit”, this drama is more concerned with the how of it all.  

Watching the detectives find ways to expose the criminals with indisputable evidence is the real key. Lee Je Hoon has a knack for cheesy drama, and this does get extremely silly at times.  It also has some pretty far-fetched storylines.  But rather than give us a smooth, modern style prequel with fancy sets and solid, realistic storylines, this one embraces the retro, and has a lot of fun with it.   I give ‘Chief Detective 1958’  a solid 9 out of 10.

🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜

Want More Reviews?

Did you enjoy this review of ‘Chief Detective 1958’? Dive deeper into the world of Korean dramas by exploring more of our content. Click below to return to the homepage and discover a treasure trove of reviews, ratings, and entertainment news.

Still thinking about this drama and want to know what others think? Check out what others are saying about 'Chief Detective 1958' on MyDramaList.

Recent Full Reviews

Stay updated with our latest reviews and dive into the captivating world of Korean dramas. Our recent full reviews section helps you explore in-depth analyses of your favorite series. From heartwarming romances to spine-chilling thrillers, we’ve got you covered.

A Comprehensive Look at Black Out 2024

Explore every aspect of...

A Comprehensive Look at My Demon 2023

Join us as we dive deep into...

A Complete Look at Romance in the House 2024

Join us as we dive deep into...

A Complete Look at Jewel in the Palace 2003

Delve into the emotional...

A Comprehensive Look at Gaus Electronics 2022

Join us as we dive deep into...

A Complete Look at Serendipity’s Embrace 2024

Delve into the world of...

A Comprehensive Look at Connection 2024

Explore every aspect of...

A Comprehensive Look at My Lovely Boxer 2023

Explore every aspect of 'My...

A Comprehensive Look at My Sweet Mobster 2024

Delve into the fun love...

A Comprehensive Look at Sweet Home Seasons 1-3

Join us as we dive deep into...

Atypical Healing in a Flawed World 7/10/24

Atypical Healing in a Flawed World 7/10/24

'The Atypical Family': A Quirky Tale of Lost Superpowers

Join us as we delve into the captivating world of ‘The Atypical Family’, a drama that redefines family dynamics and societal norms.

Atypical Healing in a Flawed World 7/10/24
Atypical Healing in a Flawed World

General Information

All You Need to Know About 'The Atypical Family'

‘The Atypical Family’ aired on May 4, 2024, and consists of 12 episodes. You can watch it on Netflix. This drama falls under the genres of fantasy romance. The main cast includes Jang Ki Yong as the eldest son and Chun Woo Hee as the beautiful conwoman.

Air Date: May 4 – June 9, 2024

Episodes: 12

Where to Watch: Neflix

Genre: Fantasy Romance Drama

Starring: Jang Ki Yong and Chun Woo Hee 

Story Summary

A Heartfelt Journey Through Pain and Family Ties

A family with special powers find that they have lost their abilities because of stress and the maladies of modern society like depression and bulimia.  On the verge of financial ruin, they meet a beautiful conwoman who seems to hold the power to help each of them heal.  And as the scammer weaves her spell around them, she discovers that this family shares a shocking connection to her past.  Suddenly what started as a fraud to cheat them out of their fortune begins to feel very real.  

Personal Impressions

Review of 'The Atypical Family'

‘The Aytpical Family’ is a quirky fantasy romance drama that explores family and social dysfunction.  The fantasy superpower element is important to the story, but the relationships are at the real core of the message.  I really enjoyed the realistically flawed characters and their clumsy attempts to find healing in the midst of what can be a cold and uncaring world.  The constant leaps back in time did get confusing at points and all of the characters have the potential to be very unlikeable.  But I found the social commentary and the journey each character takes to grow interesting and rewarding. I give ‘The Atypical Family’ a 9 out of 10 ramen.

Meet the Leads

Meet the Stars of 'The Atypical Family'

Atypical Healing in a Flawed World 7/10/24

Jang Ki Yong and Chun Woo Hee did an amazing job in this drama. If you are interested in seeing other dramas that they have performed in, check out the links below!

Jang Ki Yong debuted as a model in 2012 before beginning his acting career in 2014 with a guest role in the drama ‘It’s Okay That’s Love’.  Look for him to star in the upcoming action thriller “Pig Pen’.  Below are links to a couple of his other popular dramas.

Chun woo Hee debuted  in 2004 in the movie ‘Love So Divine’ and appeared in her first drama ‘The Woman who Still Wants to Marry’ in 2010.  Look for her to star in the upcoming romantic drama ‘My Youth’ opposite Song Joong Ki.  Below are links to a couple of her other popular dramas

Discover More Korean Drama Reviews

Stay updated with the latest reviews and news in the world of Korean dramas. Dive deeper into our extensive collection of reviews and weekly entertainment updates. Don’t miss out on any trending dramas or news!

Recent Spoiler-Free Reviews

Stay updated with our latest reviews and dive into the captivating world of Korean dramas. Our recent unspoiled reviews section helps you explore in-depth analyses of your favorite series. From heartwarming romances to spine-chilling thrillers, we’ve got you covered.

A Safe Peek at Black Out 2024

Explore our spoiler-free...

A Safe Peek at My Demon 2023

In "A Safe Peek at My Demon...

A Safe Peek at Romance in the House 2024

Explore our spoiler-free...

A Safe Peek at Jewel in the Palace 2003

In "A Safe Peek at Jewel in...

A Safe Peek at Gaus Electronics 2022

Explore our spoiler-free...

A Safe Peek at Serendipity’s Embrace 2024

Explore our spoiler-free...

A Safe Peek at Connection 2024

Explore our spoiler-free...

A Safe Peek at My Lovely Boxer 2023

In "A Safe Peek at  My...

A Safe Peek at My Sweet Mobster 2024

Join us as we delve into the...

A Safe Peek at Sweet Home Seasons 1-3

In "A Safe Peek at Sweet...

Other Dramas This Week

Keep up-to-date with all the drama news.  Here are the premieres and finales of the week.

The Auditors

Premiere airs on Viki on July 6th

The Player 2: Master of Swindlers

Finale airs on Viki on July 9th

Good Partner

Premiere airs on Viki on July 12th

Dysfunction of a Super-Human Family 7/10/24

The Dysfunction of a Super-Human Family 7/10/24

Dive Deep into the Superheroes of 'The Atypical Family'

'The Atypical Family': A Closer Look

Delve into the quirky world of ‘The Atypical Family’ with this in-depth review. Discover the silly, romantic, and everything in between.  

Detailed Analysis

Character Insights

Ending Explained

The Dysfunction of a Super-Human Family 7/10/24

If you haven’t watched this Korean drama yet and would prefer a spoiler-free review, please click on the link below.

Spoiler Warning

The Kidnapping Day: Fully Unravelled

Before you proceed, please be aware that this review contains significant plot details that may spoil your viewing experience.

We aim to provide an honest and comprehensive review, which means discussing key plot points and character development. Proceed with caution!

General Information

The Atypical Family Overview

The Atypical Family aired from May 4 – June 9, 2024, spanning a total of 12 episodes. You can watch this drama on Netflix. It falls under the genres of supernatural drama and romance, featuring lead actors Jang Ki Yong as Bok Gwi Ju and Chun Woo Hee as Do Da Hae.

The Dysfunction of a Super-Human Family 7/10/24

story summary

Love Amid Malady

A family with special powers find that they have lost their abilities because of stress and the maladies of modern society like depression and bulimia.  On the verge of financial ruin, they meet a beautiful conwoman who seems to hold the power to help each of them heal.  And as the scammer weaves her spell around them, she discovers that this family shares a shocking connection to her past.  Suddenly what started as a fraud to cheat them out of their fortune begins to feel very real.  

Bok Gwi Ju and Do Da Hae

Meet the Leads

The Dysfunction of a Super-Human Family 7/10/24

Bok Gwi Ju's Story

Bok Gwi Ju is a young widower with a  teenage daughter.  He has the power to return to any happy event from his past.  But following the death of his work mentor and then his wife, he has fallen into such a deep depression that there is no joyful memory to return to. 

But after meeting Da Hae and watching her with I Na, he starts to feel a sense of happiness again.  And when he finds his ability has returned, he believes he and Da Hae were fated to find each other.  But his newfound happiness will be rocked when he finds that Da Hae has a connection to one of his most painful memories.  

Gwi Ju's Character Analysis

Gwi Ju was once a happy husband working in a job he loved.  But when the people he loved and respected the most were taken from him, he stopped living.  And his withdrawal hurt not just him, but I Na as well.

This was such an unusual role for Jang Ki Yong, who I happen to love.  Trying to keep his audience engaged with a character whose only emotion is numb disinterest is no easy feat.  But I felt like he succeeded.  I was absolutely invested in this character and his story.

The Dysfunction of a Super-Human Family 7/10/24

Do Da Hae's Story

Do Da Hae lost her deadbeat father when she was young.  And the debt collectors were quick to step in and pressure her.  But when one of those creditors offers to take her in and act as a surrogate mother, she gladly accepts the help.  But the cost of that arrangement was helping her new “family” carry out carefully planned schemes, including Da Hae’s previous 2 marriages.  

Her relationship with the Bok family started as just another plan to take all of their wealth and leave them broken and poor.  But Da Hae didn’t plan to feel such a bond with this chatoic, awkward family.  Nor did she ever imagine that the brave fire fighter who saved her life years ago was Gwi Ju.  

Do Da Hae's Character Analysis

Da Hae has been forced to become hardened and selfish over the years.  But inside, she is still that scared child who lost her father and almost died in a fire herself.  And it is that sad part of her past that helps her understand the members of the Bok family and the struggles they are going through. 

Chun Woo Hee is a very versatile actress and she has chosen some interesting roles.  As Da Hae, I think she played the part well, as the slightly prickly and guarded conwoman with a heart of gold.

Supporting Characters

Key Figures in The Atypical Family

Secondary Characters

Park So Yi as Bok I Na

Dysfunction of a Super-Human Family 7/10/24

Bok I Na is Gwi Ju’s daughter.  The family thinks that she never manifested a super power, but actually she has the ability to hear other people’s thoughts if she looks into their eyes.  She has kept her power a secret and hides behind her phone to avoid eye contact.  

Claudia Kim as Bok Dong Hee

Dysfunction of a Supwe-Human Family 7/10/24

Bok Dong Hee is Gwi Ju’s sister.  She was once a model with the power to fly.  But the pressures of life caused her to develop bulimia, which made her gain weight and lose her ability.  Now she works at a fitness center run by her family.  But when she realizes her fiance is about to leave her, she decides to gain control of her appetite and her life.  

Ryu Abel as Grace Kang

Dysfunction of a Super-Human Family 7/10/24

Grace Kang is Da Hae’s younger sister.  She helps the “family” with whatever money scam they are running at the moment.  When they decide to target the Bok family, Grace applies for a job at the fitness center.  But as she gets to know Dong Hee, they become friends, and she helps her on her journey to get her health back.  

3 Things I Loved in 'The Atypical Family

In my opinion, Bo I Na stole this show.  Park So Yi is an amazing young actress and her character was written very well.  I found her superpower fascinating and her sweet romance with Han Joo Woo was a highlight for me.

This drama had such an interesting perspective for time travel.  The way the layers of the story wrapped around each other was unique and interesting, and I loved the way Da Hae was the only one Gwi Ju saw in color.

What appears as a simple sci-fi superpower drama ends up making some deep comments on social issues.  The idea that we, as a society, have been overcome with problems that threaten to steal our own individual “power” is a poignant and very relevant concept.

3 Things I Didn't Care For in 'The Aytpical Family'

I have heard a lot of people take issue with Dong Hee’s weight story.  They point out that Claudia Kim’s “fat suit” was overdone and her magic transformation trivializes the issue of bulimia and the struggle many face when trying to lose weight.  

As much as I enjoyed this drama and wanted, more than anything for a happy ending, that last 5 minutes was a rough one for me.  The whole son with superpowers thing just came out of left field.  And no sooner did we learn about him, than he just goes and somehow retrieves his father from somewhere in the past?  The burning building?  Some weird limbo where has just been waiting?  It was just a little too random for me.  

I know it is just the idealist in me, but I was really hoping Se Yeon’s plans to leave Gwi Ju would be some kind of misunderstanding.  Even if it was just I Na noticing that she didn’t really mean it.  I wanted something that put a bandage on the situation that would help Gwi Ju fully heal and move on.

The Conclusion of 'The Atypical Family'

Drama Ending Explained

After what seems like the tragic death of Gwi Ju, we finally get our happy ending.  Gwi Ju saves I Na and Da Hae from the fire at the school, but he sacrifices himself.  5 years later, we find Dong Hee’s ex is finally in prison for everything he did, including starting the fire.  Dong Hee is now dating Hyung Tae. And Da Hae is living with the Bok family, along with her and Gwi Ju’s son, Nu Ri. 

Of course, like a true Bok, Nu Ri has a super power.  His is bringing back lost things from the past.  And when Da Hae mentions she wishes he would go find his father, Nu Ri does just that.  The final shot shows Da Hae turning around to find Gwi Ju standing in front of her holding their son’s hand, still covered in ash and sweat from the fire.  Da Hae tearfully tells him “Welcome back!”

Final Impressions and Rating

‘The Atypical Family’ is a quirky fantasy romance drama that explores family and social dysfunction.  The fantasy superpower element is important to the story, but the relationships are at the real core of the message.  I really enjoyed the realistically flawed characters and their clumsy attempts to find healing in the midst of what can be a cold and uncaring world. 

The constant leaps back in time did get confusing at points and all of the characters have the potential to be very unlikeable.  But I found the social commentary and the journey each character takes to grow interesting and rewarding. I give ‘The Atypical Family’ a 9 out of 10 ramen.’ an 8 out of 10 ramen.

🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜

A Healing Journey

Did you enjoy this review of ‘The Atypical Family’? Dive deeper into the world of Korean dramas by exploring more of our content. Click below to return to the homepage and discover a treasure trove of reviews, ratings, and entertainment news.

Still thinking about this drama and want to know what others think? Check out what others are saying about this one.

Recent Full Reviews

Stay updated with our latest reviews and dive into the captivating world of Korean dramas. Our recent full reviews section helps you explore in-depth analyses of your favorite series. From heartwarming romances to spine-chilling thrillers, we’ve got you covered.

A Comprehensive Look at Black Out 2024

Explore every aspect of...

A Comprehensive Look at My Demon 2023

Join us as we dive deep into...

A Complete Look at Romance in the House 2024

Join us as we dive deep into...

A Complete Look at Jewel in the Palace 2003

Delve into the emotional...

A Comprehensive Look at Gaus Electronics 2022

Join us as we dive deep into...

A Complete Look at Serendipity’s Embrace 2024

Delve into the world of...

A Comprehensive Look at Connection 2024

Explore every aspect of...

A Comprehensive Look at My Lovely Boxer 2023

Explore every aspect of 'My...

A Comprehensive Look at My Sweet Mobster 2024

Delve into the fun love...

A Comprehensive Look at Sweet Home Seasons 1-3

Join us as we dive deep into...