Queen of Tears: A Royal Drama Fit for the Throne of Your Binge List
by Jay Kang on Jun 14, 2024
This week, let’s dive into the royal rollercoaster of emotions that is “Queen of Tears.” Following last week’s adventure with “Lovely Runner,” we’re moving on to this tear-jerking drama that’s been topping the charts and breaking hearts.
So, if you're looking for a K-drama that's got everything – romance, family drama, corporate intrigue, and enough twists and turns to make your head spin – then look no further than Queen of Tears. This show is so popular that it took the world by storm, reaching No. 1 on Netflix's global top 10 list (non-English) and earning rave reviews from critics and audiences alike.
What’s all the fuss about?
Picture this: Hong Hae-in (played by Kim Ji-won), the heiress of the mega-wealthy Queens Group, and Baek Hyun-woo (Kim Soo-hyun), the humble son of a village head from Yong-doori, have been married for three years. Their love story is full of crises and miraculous new beginnings. Think of it as if “Dynasty” had a love child with “Green Acres.”
But Queen of Tears isn't just your average love story. It's also a scathing satire of the chaebol system in South Korea, taking aim at the greed, corruption, and nepotism that often run rampant in these family-run conglomerates. And if that wasn't enough, it also throws in a healthy dose of humor to keep things light and entertaining.
Why Everyone’s Ugly Crying Over Queen of Tears
- The Writing and Directing:
When you combine the genius of Park Ji-eun (the mastermind behind hits like “My Love from the Star” and “Crash Landing on You”) with Kim Hee-won (the director who brought us “Vincenzo”), you get a script and direction that’s pure magic. They’ve not only crafted a gripping narrative but have also thrown in a delightful twist by flipping the traditional patriarchy on its head, providing us with both tears and laughter. It's like Shakespeare meets Saturday Night Live.
- The On-Screen Chemistry:
Our leading duo, Kim Ji-won and Kim Soo-hyun, are basically the Brad and Angelina of Korean dramas. They’ve already proven their acting chops in numerous global hits. Their chemistry on-screen? Electric. Even before the show aired, fans were ready with their popcorn, anticipating the sparks to fly.
- A Genre Melting Pot:
This drama isn’t just about a rich girl and a country boy falling in love. It’s a thrilling mix of chaebol conspiracies, family feuds, love, misunderstandings, and the supporting characters’ antics. It’s like someone threw “Succession,” “This Is Us,” and “The Office” into a blender and hit the “awesome” button.
About That Ending…
Ah, the ending. Here’s where the debate gets spicy.
Team Happy Ending:
“Finally, justice is served! All the bad guys got what they deserved, and we got a happy ending. Woohoo!”
Team Are You Kidding Me?:
“The last part was so frustrating! And then they had to go and end it with a death? Come on, give us a break!”
It’s safe to say the finale left viewers divided, sparking more debate than pineapple on pizza.
So, What Do You Think?
Were you team “happy tears” or team “rage tears”? Drop your thoughts on the ending in the comments below. Let’s duke it out like civilized drama fans!
