A Slow-Burn Masterpiece: "My Dearest" Review

I do not usually enjoy watching long series. Most of the time, I don't even start them. But the time I spent watching this kdrama was different, it's a long series but because I followed it slowly, episode after episode, I built a deeper connection with the characters. I was not just watching their story but I could relate to their pain and growth.

"My Dearest" was released in 2023, which honestly shocked me. When I first started watching it, I assumed it was an older drama, maybe from the early golden years of Korean historical storytelling. The storyline felt so rich in a way that reminded me of classic period dramas. It carried emotional weight, detailed character development, and a steady, meaningful pace. I was like, “They don't make stories like this anymore.” Finding out it was recent gave me hope, it proved that strong storytelling still exists.

The series centers on five main characters whose lives intertwine during a time of war, and each of them brings something unforgettable to the story. So I decided to share my thoughts on the main characters while talking about the story.

First is Lee Jang-hyun, played by Namkoong Min. Jang-hyun is not your typical straightforward hero. He is witty, guarded, and mysterious at first having a calm intelligence and hiding under his teasing personality are deep emotional scars. Namkoong Min gave this role a remarkable depth and I totally love how his subtle expressions often said more than his words. Over time, we see Jang-hyun transform from a man who avoids attachment to someone willing to risk everything for love. His growth felt natural, not forced as he carried the emotional weight of the drama with such quiet strength that I kept rooting for him.

Opposite him is Yoo Gil-chae, portrayed by Ahn Eun-jin. Gil-chae begins as a confident and slightly proud young woman who believes she understands love. She is lively, expressive, and sometimes impulsive but as the war changes her circumstances, we see her mature in painful but powerful ways. Ahn Eun-jin gave a beautiful performance that made Gil-chae’s evolution believable. From innocence to resilience, from heartbreak to unwavering devotion, her character development was one of the most satisfying arcs in the series. She did not remain the same girl we met at the beginning, that made her story great.

Then there is Nam Yeon-jun, played by Lee Hak-joo. Yeon-jun represents honor, loyalty, and idealism. For the story, I'll say he is too principled and upright. His internal struggles between duty and personal desire added emotional tension to the story. Lee Hak-joo portrayed him with sincerity, making it easy to understand his perspective even when his decisions were frustrating. He was not a villain but just a simple human shaped by his beliefs and circumstances.

And then, the female lead’s best friend, Kyung Eun-ae, portrayed by Lee Da-in. I think she totally deserves recognition for this story. She may not dominate the screen like the main couple, but I felt her presence so much that I don't think I'll forget her whenever I remember this series. Through her, we see another form of love and sacrifice as she is calm and quietly strong. Her character balanced the intensity of the main storyline and reminded us that friendship can be just as enduring and meaningful as romance.

Lastly is, Ryang-eum portrayed by Kim Yoon-woo. This is my first time seeing him in a kdrama and I think he totally crushed his role especially as the best pansori singer in Joseon. I kept replaying his singing scenes lol. And then, he has an unrequited romantic love for his close friend and almost brother, Lee Jang-hyun. That kinda brought another whole new vibe to the story but the writer made sure to keep the story BL free lol.

Along with the main five, the supporting characters enriched the drama in ways that cannot be overlooked. From family members to soldiers and villagers, each played a part in shaping the world of the story. Their fears, losses, and courage made the historical setting feel real. No character felt unnecessary and together, they created a living, breathing environment that made the drama unforgettable.

There are specific scenes that remain so clear in my head. The first meeting between Jang-hyun and Gil-chae had a playful tension that hinted at something deeper like how Lee Jang-hyun went from "She will be no different" to seeing her as so beautifully different. Their first kiss was another unforgettable moment. It was not just romantic but it carried longing, pain, and unspoken promises. You could feel everything they had endured leading up to that point. And then the ending which was so unexpected for me. It was a final scene that brought tears to my eyes, not from sadness but from the joy and acceptance.

After everything they went through, seeing them finally embrace love without hesitation felt earned and I even felt some kinda pity for how it took so long for that to happen for them. Their chemistry throughout the series made those moments powerful. It never felt forced but real.