What's Wrong with Secretary Kim? A Drakor Delight Deconstructed
What's Wrong with Secretary Kim? (๊น๋น์๊ฐ ์ ๊ทธ๋ด๊น?) isn't just another romantic comedy; it's a South Korean drama (drakor) that captivated audiences worldwide. While overwhelmingly positive, some viewers have voiced critiques. Let's delve into both the praise and the perceived shortcomings of this popular drakor.
The Unfolding Charm of a Trope-Subverting Romance
The show's central romance between Lee Young-joon, a narcissistic but charming CEO, and Kim Mi-so, his capable and long-suffering secretary, forms the backbone of the narrative. Its strength lies in its clever subversion of common k-drama tropes. Instead of a damsel-in-distress, Mi-so is a fiercely independent woman who, while initially tolerant of Young-joon's eccentricities, ultimately prioritizes her own happiness.
This dynamic, coupled with the strong supporting characters and their individual storylines, creates a compelling watch. The witty banter between Young-joon and Mi-so is a highlight, full of playful teasing and genuine affection that evolves naturally throughout the series. The chemistry between the leads, Park Seo-joon and Park Min-young, is undeniable, further enhancing the show's appeal.
Addressing Criticisms: Is Perfection a Problem?
Despite its widespread popularity, some viewers have raised valid criticisms:
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The "Tsundere" Trope: Young-joon's initial characterization, as a spoiled and self-absorbed CEO, leans heavily on the "tsundere" archetype โ a character who is outwardly cold but secretly affectionate. While this trope can be charming, some found his behavior initially too excessive, bordering on unlikeable. The redemption arc, however, successfully mitigates this initial negative impression.
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The Pace of the Romance: While the slow burn romance is appreciated by many, some viewers found the pace of the central relationship development too slow, particularly in the early episodes. The focus on individual character arcs, while enriching, might have contributed to this perception.
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Lack of Significant Conflict: Compared to other kdramas with higher stakes and more intense conflict, "What's Wrong with Secretary Kim?" relies more on light-hearted humor and romantic tension. This lack of significant external conflict might leave some viewers wanting a more dramatic narrative.
The Verdict: A Sweet Escape with Minor Flaws
"What's Wrong with Secretary Kim?" is a delightful drakor that successfully blends humor, romance, and character development. While some criticisms regarding pacing and character archetypes exist, they don't detract significantly from the overall enjoyable viewing experience. The strong performances, witty writing, and endearing characters make it a must-watch for k-drama enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
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