151 reviews
Classic Romantic K-Drama with Lots of Payoff
I thought this show had plenty of strong points, but since they have already been covered in other reviews, I will limit my comments to the aspects in which IMO this film stands out from its peers:
1) The main leads. There are plenty of other celebrities whom I personally find more attractive than PSJ and PMY. However, by the end of the first episode I was totally in love! Their couple chemistry was insane and their performances (both together and alone) were amazing. They are by far the best thing about this show.
2) A Truely Couple-Oriented Plot. Unlike many romance stories which focus on the complications of a love triangle, this one kept its focus firmly on the main pair, despite the potential for a triangle. Additionally, it realistically highlighted many of the struggles a normal couple would face in developing a new relationship (especially inexperienced first-timers), but kept the contrived angst to a refreshing minimum with (gasp!) actual communication.
3) Plenty of Adult Romantic Payoff! Most mainstream K-Dramas tend to stick to the "G-Rated Love" standard, with (sometimes frustratingly) limited romantic contact between the leads and little resolution to any sexual tension. This show, however, follows through on all the buildup, rewarding viewers with 6+ very invested kiss scenes, as well as (gasp!) a passionate bedroom scene.
If you are looking for something "fresh" or "unique," this probably won't be your cup of tea. But if you are in the mood for a classic, RomCom K-Drama with an old school fairytale ending which pulls no punches in the physical contact department, you would be hard pressed to find one more satisfying than this. Highly Recommended!
1) The main leads. There are plenty of other celebrities whom I personally find more attractive than PSJ and PMY. However, by the end of the first episode I was totally in love! Their couple chemistry was insane and their performances (both together and alone) were amazing. They are by far the best thing about this show.
2) A Truely Couple-Oriented Plot. Unlike many romance stories which focus on the complications of a love triangle, this one kept its focus firmly on the main pair, despite the potential for a triangle. Additionally, it realistically highlighted many of the struggles a normal couple would face in developing a new relationship (especially inexperienced first-timers), but kept the contrived angst to a refreshing minimum with (gasp!) actual communication.
3) Plenty of Adult Romantic Payoff! Most mainstream K-Dramas tend to stick to the "G-Rated Love" standard, with (sometimes frustratingly) limited romantic contact between the leads and little resolution to any sexual tension. This show, however, follows through on all the buildup, rewarding viewers with 6+ very invested kiss scenes, as well as (gasp!) a passionate bedroom scene.
If you are looking for something "fresh" or "unique," this probably won't be your cup of tea. But if you are in the mood for a classic, RomCom K-Drama with an old school fairytale ending which pulls no punches in the physical contact department, you would be hard pressed to find one more satisfying than this. Highly Recommended!
The romance works, the comedy can be painful
Firstly the chemistry between the leads is successful. A connection is palpable . They are both good at making fun of their characters quirks. PSJ is quite funny and well cast as the narcissistic arrogant VP. The way he treats her initially is refreshingly politically incorrect. Its nice how they show how valuable she is. PMY is sweet and very attractive as the long suffering secretary. She has an expressive face unlike some of the actresses popular today. Like the way she smiles
through his conceited remarks. Their love isn't as timid as in many K drama comedies are. Beyond first base for a change.
The comedy is good in how he interacts with her family and the wedding preparations. Also the workplace issues about them dating are funny. The dramatic kidnap back story and his relationship with his brother is quite diverting. What does not quite work is the side stories about the colleagues. Some jokes are painful and repetitive.
For a romantic comedy it is quite enjoyable. Some episodes could have been shortened.
For a romantic comedy it is quite enjoyable. Some episodes could have been shortened.
- phd_travel
- Jul 16, 2020
- Permalink
Should've stopped at 12episodes
I watch a lot of K-drama since COVID 19 it's all I watch 9 out 10 times. They're well made and entertaining. This drama always came up on my recommended shows but I always ignored it. But after not having much to watch i decided to try it out and see why it had such a high rating.
I must say I was immediately hooked from ep1-11. The story was done and there was nothing more to add. Sure an ep12 was needed to show how they ended up after everything had come to light in ep11. All of which could've been done in one episode instead of 5 more pointless content.
12episodes K-dramas are so good for that very reason. This could've been one of the best shows ever but they ruined it by making it so long and pointless in the end. I literally had to skip through the last 3 episodes as it just became a whole lot of drivel. I just wanted it to stop by the time it was done. I had lost the love and connection for the leads by then.
Business Proposal and Perfect Marriage:Revenge are 12episode shows. They're well made and don't waste time adding unwarranted dialogue and scenes that add nothing to the show. It's such a shame really because this could and should've been a classic.
I must say I was immediately hooked from ep1-11. The story was done and there was nothing more to add. Sure an ep12 was needed to show how they ended up after everything had come to light in ep11. All of which could've been done in one episode instead of 5 more pointless content.
12episodes K-dramas are so good for that very reason. This could've been one of the best shows ever but they ruined it by making it so long and pointless in the end. I literally had to skip through the last 3 episodes as it just became a whole lot of drivel. I just wanted it to stop by the time it was done. I had lost the love and connection for the leads by then.
Business Proposal and Perfect Marriage:Revenge are 12episode shows. They're well made and don't waste time adding unwarranted dialogue and scenes that add nothing to the show. It's such a shame really because this could and should've been a classic.
- adrithasage
- Dec 2, 2023
- Permalink
Captivating
This is the second series starring Park Seo Joon that I have watched (before I watched She Was Pretty) and I am amazed not only of the high calibre of the young stars but the beauty of filming and the perfection of the production. The love stories are similar but still leave the viewer spellbound and anxious for the next episode. The Koreans should export these productions world-wide, as audiences everywhere will totally enjoy these beautiful young actors and actresses mesmerise the viewers with their performances. Thanks for great entertainment!
- hacienda-00520
- Jul 23, 2018
- Permalink
LOVE LOVE LOVE
From the moment I read the synopsis I knew this was a drama I would LOVE - & I absolutely did!! I am extremely picky with kdramas & I honestly wish I wasn't since it's so hard to pick something that will grab my attention in the first few minutes of a drama lol but man oh man this was amazing!
If you're looking for a pinkish drama, light hearted rom com with a bit of suspense - THEN THIS IS FOR YOU.
This drama gave me absolutely every single thing I could ever ask for in a perfect drama - great chemistry between the two main leads ( who are incredibly attractive btw ) , lots of comedy and lots & lots of kissing scenes - which were adorable to watch *squeals* PSJ is an extremely talented actor & so is PMY, I was so impressed with this drama, the director did an amazing job and so did all the actors. Each week I was looking forward for each and every single episode & I was never disappointed or ever bored. Did I mention the chemistry was fantastic?
If you're wondering whether or not to give this a shot - I AM BEGGING YOU PLEASE DO. I wasn't disappointed & I hope you won't be. PSJ is quite the eye candy.
If you're looking for a pinkish drama, light hearted rom com with a bit of suspense - THEN THIS IS FOR YOU.
This drama gave me absolutely every single thing I could ever ask for in a perfect drama - great chemistry between the two main leads ( who are incredibly attractive btw ) , lots of comedy and lots & lots of kissing scenes - which were adorable to watch *squeals* PSJ is an extremely talented actor & so is PMY, I was so impressed with this drama, the director did an amazing job and so did all the actors. Each week I was looking forward for each and every single episode & I was never disappointed or ever bored. Did I mention the chemistry was fantastic?
If you're wondering whether or not to give this a shot - I AM BEGGING YOU PLEASE DO. I wasn't disappointed & I hope you won't be. PSJ is quite the eye candy.
- prisca-60384
- Jul 25, 2018
- Permalink
Super Funny and Romantic!!!
This is one of the best romcoms I have ever watched. It sets itself apart from most series. The creators incorporated sound effects to portray the actors emotions which will definitely bring you laughing and rolling on the ground sometimes. I enjoyed the romance a lot and the history that the main characters shared. This series has its hard and tough moments as well. The series pretty much wrapped up before the last two episodes. I liked that as it gave me two episodes as the ending to fully enjoy. Series do not do this at all as most give us sometimes nothing more than 2 minutes.
Adorable
This is one of the best romantic comedies with a dash of drama that I've ever had the pleasure of watching. It's funny, romantic af and the chemistry between the leads is off the charts. The male lead is fantastic, the female lead is super cute and the supporting cast is awesome too.
Basically, Secretary Kim has been working for nine years as the assistant of the Vice Chairman of a company and now she's resigning. Why? She's paid off the debts of her father and sisters, and is ready to have a life of her own. For nine years, she's been at the Vice Chairman's beck and call, at night, in the weekend and even during holidays. On top of that, her boss is self-absorbed to the point of narcissism. So, she's done.
The Vice Chairman is shocked when she announces her decision to quit - because he thinks he is the best boss and most perfect guy ever - and immediately starts to come up with schemes to get her to stay. Somehow he gets it into his pretty little head that Secretary Kim is in love with him, so he starts to woo her. With hilarious results, because she hates his guts.
Seriously, just watch this series! It's so good and so satisfying. You'll laugh and cry and sigh (mostly laugh and sigh, though, at how adorable the main couple is). The male lead is gorgeous and hilarious, the female lead has got a great evil smirk, the sound effects are the best and the side stories of the other characters are absolutely worth your time too. I'm probably just going to watch the whole series again real soon, because watching anything else after this can only lead to disappointment.
Basically, Secretary Kim has been working for nine years as the assistant of the Vice Chairman of a company and now she's resigning. Why? She's paid off the debts of her father and sisters, and is ready to have a life of her own. For nine years, she's been at the Vice Chairman's beck and call, at night, in the weekend and even during holidays. On top of that, her boss is self-absorbed to the point of narcissism. So, she's done.
The Vice Chairman is shocked when she announces her decision to quit - because he thinks he is the best boss and most perfect guy ever - and immediately starts to come up with schemes to get her to stay. Somehow he gets it into his pretty little head that Secretary Kim is in love with him, so he starts to woo her. With hilarious results, because she hates his guts.
Seriously, just watch this series! It's so good and so satisfying. You'll laugh and cry and sigh (mostly laugh and sigh, though, at how adorable the main couple is). The male lead is gorgeous and hilarious, the female lead has got a great evil smirk, the sound effects are the best and the side stories of the other characters are absolutely worth your time too. I'm probably just going to watch the whole series again real soon, because watching anything else after this can only lead to disappointment.
- thewestliesahead
- Oct 3, 2018
- Permalink
Lovin' it
She is so feminine, so lovely.. He is good looking and sweet. Both caught a great chemistry. The storyline is beautiful, 90% of each episode makes you laugh. Definitely this drama deserves to be watched
- indy-84037
- Nov 3, 2019
- Permalink
So so
What's Wrong with Secretary Kim is just an okay drama. It has a cute approach to the story, that also involves some mystery about a kidnapping and a chilhood drama, but they kind of overeploit that theme and it got tiring towards the end. The romance, for me, it was so so. There was chemistry and everything, but the script didn't help to create the right mood. In the end, the romance scenes seemed forced to be funny when they weren't. The performances, in addition, were nice and enjoyable at least. The side stories interesting as well. Overall, the drama is just a cute romance drama and it doesn't really have any originality in it to make it the great drama that most viewers claim it to be.
- PennyReviews
- Jul 29, 2018
- Permalink
One of the best Romantic drama, I've laid my eyes on.
I'm a big fan of K-dramas specifically, but not the romantic ones. I originally never intended to watch this to begin with, I was searching for some good ones. After finishing the first episode, I was completely hooked and fascinated by the wonderful story line up and ended up watching the whole 16 episodes in 2 days. The actors have done a marvelous job, they portrayed their characters exceptionally. Loved every bit of it. The romance, the comedy, the sorrounding mystery between the two brothers, everything was fabulous! Just give it a shot. You'll regret later if you don't. It's from one of those "must watch" categories. Even if you ain't a romantic fan, you'll love it!
- hsherlock-77919
- Dec 27, 2018
- Permalink
Not perfect but nice and funny
I enjoyed it a lot but I feel that the plot was unnecessarily lengthened, even so, each chapter was the most beautiful in the world and it is very satisfying to see through the chapters the development of the past history of the protagonists, I loved it.
Such a beautiful love story! The best ever! Top swoonworthy kdrama!
The best swoonworthy romantic k drama ever! From start to ending! Totally swoonworthy! If i can give more than 10 stars, this drama will be it! The right moments with the kisses, & not just a peck on the lips! The I love yous, the holding hands, they give totally such a romantic awesomeness! The shyness & subtlety is real not fake ones! The gradual developed of mutual likeness & love. With the fantastic, beautifully setup wedding. Not just a quick so called wedding. The erdding here is elaborate & beautifully done!
The leads have such a fantastic chemistry together! Park Min Young always have such an awesome chemistry with her partners. So real & not stiff or fake. She makes her partners comfortable with her that gives the best chemistry. This is the 3rd drama with Park Min Young, she is not only beautiful, real, sexy & also talented actress! Loved her dramas! Looking forward to her new drama!
Park Seo Joon May have watch his drama but not memorable but in this one, it will last as he is not only handsome but he potraits an intelligent, young & romantic lead. Will look forward more his drama.
For once I watch a kdrama that has no deceit, lies, betrayal & unnecessary back-stabbing! Just 1 scene of office gossip. All these unnecessary storyline are so tiresome & dull to watch. The same lies & betrayal again & again. Even the rich chaebol in this drama is like ordinary people no unnecessary extravagant that need to be flaunt. No unnecessary condescending remarks because she is a secretary. The team in the office is also so supportive. Family supports each other. All in all my top favourite! Definitely will binge watch again!
Superb leads & supporting casts!
For once a drama that gives good vibes after watching!
The leads have such a fantastic chemistry together! Park Min Young always have such an awesome chemistry with her partners. So real & not stiff or fake. She makes her partners comfortable with her that gives the best chemistry. This is the 3rd drama with Park Min Young, she is not only beautiful, real, sexy & also talented actress! Loved her dramas! Looking forward to her new drama!
Park Seo Joon May have watch his drama but not memorable but in this one, it will last as he is not only handsome but he potraits an intelligent, young & romantic lead. Will look forward more his drama.
For once I watch a kdrama that has no deceit, lies, betrayal & unnecessary back-stabbing! Just 1 scene of office gossip. All these unnecessary storyline are so tiresome & dull to watch. The same lies & betrayal again & again. Even the rich chaebol in this drama is like ordinary people no unnecessary extravagant that need to be flaunt. No unnecessary condescending remarks because she is a secretary. The team in the office is also so supportive. Family supports each other. All in all my top favourite! Definitely will binge watch again!
Superb leads & supporting casts!
For once a drama that gives good vibes after watching!
- shareen_shany
- Feb 26, 2022
- Permalink
The aura emanating from me.
A self centred conglomerate Vice President relies on his private secretary but once she decides to leave her position both of their lives change and a past that they both shared resurfaces. An enjoyable drama with a convincing romance between the two leads Park Seo-joon and Park Min-young. A good supporting cast with a few minor storylines and some lighthearted scenes so overall worth a watch. Not gripping but does enough for you to continue watching for the hopefully happy ending they deserve.
- alaningle7
- Jul 18, 2022
- Permalink
Don't go with rating
Started off well. Good acting by all characters. However climax ended too early and looked like forced romance thereafter. Couldn't bear to see last few episodes and complete the series. Noo storyline. Dragged in the end. Expected better from the rating this series received.
Disappointed.
The final proposal though..Made me cry..
- Giselle1710
- Jun 4, 2020
- Permalink
So so so so so so BEAUTIFUL, AMAZING and ROMANTIC!!!!!
So so so so so so BEAUTIFUL, AMAZING and ROMANTIC!!!!!
It's like a DREAM story, that fills your heart with BEAUTY and HAPPINESS!!!
Both leads were sooooo GREAT and with such a WONDERFUL CHEMISTRY!!!!!
They were filling the screen with their AMAZING LOOKS and such an EXCELLENT ACTING!!!
One of the TOP LOVE STORIES!!!!
VERY WELL DONE!!!!!
It's like a DREAM story, that fills your heart with BEAUTY and HAPPINESS!!!
Both leads were sooooo GREAT and with such a WONDERFUL CHEMISTRY!!!!!
They were filling the screen with their AMAZING LOOKS and such an EXCELLENT ACTING!!!
One of the TOP LOVE STORIES!!!!
VERY WELL DONE!!!!!
- natassa-athens
- Jan 27, 2021
- Permalink
Nothing wrong with this show!
I found nothing wrong with this show at all. I enjoyed every minute of it. It was a nice and enjoyable show. The characters made it even more enjoyable! I loved the main cast and the ending is superb!
- misswritercreates
- Mar 19, 2019
- Permalink
Loved, LOVED, LOVED THIS KOREAN ROM-COM!
This is one of the best contemporary KDramas I've watched . I was intrigued and mesmerized by the story, and acting in this series. The handsome Park Seo Joon and the lovely Park Min Young captured your attention and then your heart early in the series - he with his pompous behavior and she with her loyalty and patience. The entire cast was great, but PSJ and PMY were the absolute best that I've seen in a long time. This series will tug at your heart strings. You will find yourself crying tears of anguish and tears of joy for the lead couple. I 've watched it several times already and cried every time it ended. What a wonderful show! Kudos to every one. Watch it!
Its okay but many times is just bland
Okay drama, quite bland, predictable and very cringing at some points, it could have been better if they had exploited the backstory better. Sometimes is funny but quite forced. I can give it a 6 rating just because the actors are good.
Park couple
Absolutely loving this haven't seen a drama yet he is in that I have not enjoyed he is one along with Hungshik. and Ji Chang I could watch anything they are in so happy for their success
Another supposedly good kdrama I couldn't get drawn in to
This is another kdrama touted as one of the better ones, yet I couldn't get drawn to the lead characters. Seems to me their acting is not natural and I couldn't feel the chemistry between them.
- magnoliacream
- Dec 3, 2021
- Permalink
Funny, moving, romantic
So much potential!
A Bit Overrated
What's Wrong with Secretary Kim was on my watch-list for a very long time, and I initially didn't really have an interest. Then I saw Park Seo-Joon in Itaewon Class and fell in love with his shy character and amazing acting skills. So I gave this a shot.
Overall, I feel that this show is quite overrated. Based on reviews I was expecting a lot, and perhaps that's why I felt underwhelmed. I liked the kidnapping subplot - I think it was done well, made sense, and added a tragic undertone to our couple. But this subplot was resolved rather early, and it felt like the will-they/won't-they aspect also reached it's climax too early. I got bored and skipped through the last two episodes. The fatal flaw for me was the lack of chemistry between our couple - in my opinion Min-Young felt very stiff towards Seo-Joon. Every time they kissed it seemed like she just wasn't into it. Seo-Joon was always very sweet and into her, so I'm not sure if she just didn't like him in real life and that translated onto the screen, or if she just felt awkward filming those types of scenes - I haven't seen her in anything else so I'm not sure what to make of it. I seem to be in the minority here, especially since apparently people thought they were a real couple because of this show, so it might just be me. Either way, I didn't particularly like this show.
Overall, I feel that this show is quite overrated. Based on reviews I was expecting a lot, and perhaps that's why I felt underwhelmed. I liked the kidnapping subplot - I think it was done well, made sense, and added a tragic undertone to our couple. But this subplot was resolved rather early, and it felt like the will-they/won't-they aspect also reached it's climax too early. I got bored and skipped through the last two episodes. The fatal flaw for me was the lack of chemistry between our couple - in my opinion Min-Young felt very stiff towards Seo-Joon. Every time they kissed it seemed like she just wasn't into it. Seo-Joon was always very sweet and into her, so I'm not sure if she just didn't like him in real life and that translated onto the screen, or if she just felt awkward filming those types of scenes - I haven't seen her in anything else so I'm not sure what to make of it. I seem to be in the minority here, especially since apparently people thought they were a real couple because of this show, so it might just be me. Either way, I didn't particularly like this show.
- fake_moviestar
- Aug 14, 2020
- Permalink
😭😭😭💔😭😭😭💔
This serious is fantastic, really make me crying so much 😭😭😭💔,