I have to say that I am surprised by negativity surrounding this episode because in all honesty it’s completely contrary to everything I think about it.
I don’t know how people can be so unreasonable, I mean, we as fans don’t write scripts! Besides, nobody has a perfect life, we all go through ups and downs! As much as I love all the fluff and the warm feeling the show and WG gives me I understand what they must go through to grow as adults and as a couple, none of Shin-PD dramas has shown a fluffy pathway for they characters all the time.
Besides even though you can love someone and be so close to someone is not easy to share your more dark and deepest secrets, so help out a girl!!! As this episode show us, nobody knows what is behind people’s attitudes on certain situations, so why criticize our Winter resident with this?
All I know is they give me joy each week and I would accept everything that will come, and that our poor Gyeo-ul has gone through hard stuff and as she conquers all the obstacles in her professional journey, she will conquer them in her personal life too!
I don't know what the specifics criticisms have been levelled against Gyeo-ul in this episode but as far as I can tell she's had one of the better growth arcs in this drama. She's a lot brighter than she's ever been.
Thank you for your comments and support of the post.
Hello, this is my first time post a comment on your blog.
It's good to read your point of view of the drama that you watch.
I'm also an ahjumma and the story of Wintergarden on episode 7, reminds me of my young days before I got married to my hubby. We also have the same problem because the family matter is not easy to share even with your loved one. Maybe in Asian culture, family plays an important part because it also means married with the family when two people get married. So I agree with you, to have a healthy marriage life, the couple has to be open and accept each other family, including accepting the bad side of our own family.
As we know Gyeoul family was keeping a mystery since season 1. If Ikjun didn't ask, in episode 9, we still think Gyeoul already move on and got a new boyfriend. This is the first time they introduce Gyeoul's family member. In episode 7, they will reveal Gyeoul's family, and we will see whether Jeongwon can accept her family and help her accept her family as it is. I think Gyeoul never talks about her family because there's something that she feels shame or she may have a broken family. Because we can never be separate from our family, it's time for family reconciliation and also a step to build a strong marriage life.
This also has a connection with Seokhyeong marriage life before, he can't deal with her family matter and also can help his ex-wife to be accepted by his mother, so the marriage could not stay longer. I know there are so many reasons, but I think the most important part is family matters.
I really enjoy Hospital Playlist season 1 & season 2, and not complaining at all. Just enjoy the show, the story, insights from each story, and get along with new friends who love Hospital Playlist.
You're welcome and thank you for sharing your insights here.
As someone who grew up in an Asian household, I think your point that it's hard for us to talk about our family issues is right on the money. No matter what they've done, we don't like being critical of our parents not only because it's a loss of face but it feels disloyal or unfilial to to air dirty family laundry. We know that our families are flawed but it seems like really bad manners to tell other people about them.
HEAR HEAR! Ep 7 may have been emotionally heavy for me but in no way did I not enjoy it. I too do not get why people are hating on Season 2. There are so many moments that make me reflect on my own experiences both the good and the bad.
Hello! First time commenting but have been an avid reader of your HosPlay blog posts!
Just want to say thank you for sharing your thoughts. Perhaps it is because I also appreciate the angst (or else it might be the stage of life I am in) that Episode 7 has actually been my favourite episode in Season 2 so far and I'm grateful to see a opinion that mirrors mine.
It's also nice to read your thoughts on the IkSong camping scene. I had difficulty placing the significance of it besides the talk of mothers, but it makes sense how it shows the greater opening of their worlds besides their friend group to each other... which certainly seems to parallel WinterGarden.
Anyway thank you! It's always a pleasure to read your posts and to learn from your insights. Hope you have a great day :)
Totally agree. I too felt the issues with WG was the right time to give it an optimal arc to resolve by Episode 12. Iksong camping too was much awaited. Yes, you are bang on with your last paragraph. I am in awe at all the episodes how the writer does that! My only complaint would be with not showing Jun-wan a way out. But I felt a shift in Episode 7 that something was planned for him in the coming episodes. But boring? Quite the opposite! I have been asking different people to start watching HP including after Episode 7.
I've reached a point that I really want Jun-wan to move on from Ik-sun. I don't know if reconciliation is on the cards but whatever it is they have planned for him, I hope it's good and something I can embrace.
Actually i think Junwan's character arc has been set since Season 1 Ep 1. We have heard that he is always attached but the relationships never last long. Now we hear in Season 2 that he is afraid of being alone and lonely (there is a difference here). I can't help but feel that his dating history has gotta do with the fact that he needs someone to fill that void in his heart.
Junwan's 'paper tiger' persona has been slowly unveiled over the 2 seasons, and while his interaction with patients are still a bit cut and dry, it feels different. People see that he cares in spite of his cool persona. So I feel that breaking up with Iksun is probably the best character growth for him - it is his chance to really confront the issue of being comfortable in his own skin, being fine by himself, showing others his vulnerable side and letting people love him and care for him. This sounds old, but you cannot love others properly until you truly love yourself. I think this applies to Junwan.
This feels like the episode that lays out the foundation for the rest of the season, but I also wonder if people feel this way because this episode is different in seemingly minor but actually critical ways. For instance, I think this is the first time ever where we don't see the friends interacting together as a group over food, which is where a lot of the humor (bickering amongst themselves) and sweetness comes from. Instead, they eat with others (with the exception of IkSong) or by themselves (Junwan). In season 1, I think people felt connected to the bond that the group had with each other and we see how outside people are very interested in learning more about who they each are as individuals. In season 2, there's been a clear shift where they are forming their own bonds outside the group and growing individually. The vibe of the script and show is the same, but the emotional connections we see as an audience are different. Each person is growing outside the group. I feel this is very realistic, but also requires the audience to be comfortable getting outside the bubble of their friendship as the heart of the story, and instead focus on each individual's personal growth.
That's true. I did notice that aside from band practice there wasn't any specific moment where they were sharing a meal together.
It's inevitable and as you say, realistic that the five friends will develop other interests and no doubt your observation that there will be those who are missing that friendship dynamic is spot on. For me, however, the balance is written into the show. It seems to me premature to believe that Shin-Lee would ever move away entirely from the friendship and doom the show forever.
I too felt that. Even in Episode 6 where JW went to talk to Gyoeul, I was thinking when Seok-hyeong decides to date Min-ha, will they have time to meet like this. It was realistic for me, but I do understand why people miss that. In these times of Covid, where meeting friends took a back seat, I have loved their friendship story more than their love lines.
I am leaving my comments here after reading your two wonderful posts about Ep7 and all the great comments people have left for your previous post – I wanted to reply to all of them, but it will just take forever 😊. So here I go:
First, I have to admit that I felt “weird” after watching Ep7. It was not the usual “happy” feeling I have after watching the previous episodes. It felt heavy and there were so many short but dramatic plots that I had to think that they did not just throw them all in to fill the time; definitely not with ShinLee and their reputation for meticulous planning and execution of their storylines. So, it was great to see all the comments that share similar sentiments, but also reminders that those scenes may just be the earlier puzzle pieces for a greater picture to be completed later.
As much as my heart sorrowed for the new WG scenes, I also agree (after some time to feel sad and reflect) that for the long run, this is a positive development. The late dinner at JW’s office might have been cute, but the dialogue was alarming – her thinking about faking a breakup to stop all the questions and him avoiding the topic – they appear to be at different places in their relationship. GU did not appear to have thought about the option of just making their relationship public after this long secrecy, and that really made me concerned that she is not yet comfortable of letting people know that she is dating JW, let alone anticipating and proactively working towards a life-long union with him.
Having said that, however, I also can see where she came from. If a happy marriage and safe home is not something you grew up with, it is plausible that it is not in your subconscious as your supposed destiny in life. Or even worse, something you consider as “normal” and everyone should deserve, especially for yourself (this is a deep topic and I hope I am making sense).
And as sweet, charming, and ofc, dashing, JW is being this doting, loving, and supporting bf, I wonder how much he has shared his own desires and plans for them as a couple. It does not appear that he wanted to give her any pressure, while he continues wanting to be this “perfect” boyfriend. He avoided the topic of making their relationship public, and I also wonder the idea for him not having introduced GU to his mom – was it his own worry that she’d be pressured, or was it her request? Has he himself been vulnerable and transparent before her? Surely there must have been critical cases or even deaths from his young patients in the past 15 months, did he breakdown or show his work stress before her?
(and before I continue, allow me to insert a selfish vent – I have been looking forward to WinterRosa interactions the whole season. I can’t wait to see Rosa doting on and feeding uri GU, and being elated seeing her makne totally glee and whipped; and maybe seeing his family would allow her to see that each family has its own issues and help her to open up on hers. So, selfishly I am disappointed, and I hope there will still be sufficient time, esp with the recent deterioration of Rosa)
So, if their limited time together due to their crazy schedule this past 15 months has been GU’s happy escape from reality, and JW’s special moments to dote on his baby and allow her to be a carefree little kid, it is understandable now that they have not explored the heavier topics in life and become comfortable to share their hurt and burden with each other. I saw some comments that she should have immediately called JW to tell him that her mom is in the ER. My instinct when the scene happened was the same, then I stepped back to remember that all the “immediate” and “spontaneous” communications are something learned through experience and repeated practices. If you have never experienced a safe environment where sharing your load is not only expected, and even welcomed as a way to show your love and trust of each other, how do you then immediately know to do that, esp when so much hurt and dark secrets are involved? Her text gave me hope that she will explain everything to him soon, but it felt so formal with so much buried pain; poor GU, I just want to hug her 😢.
Sorry I have used so much space to say why I agree that this is a positive development. As much as I feel so sad for the double whammy on WG with both mothers being ill at the same time (and interestingly one is more outward physical and the other is more mental), this can be an opportunity for them to both become vulnerable with each other and let the guard down, not trying to bear everything or being “perfect” anymore. My only worry is that the opportunity may be missed with the physical distance they will have (I wonder if we may see less of GU in the next few ep since she was also busy filming her other drama at the time).
And all the way back to my comment of “feeling weird”, even my daughter noticed how sad I looked the rest of the day after I watched Ep7, but it helped me recognize my unrealistic expectation for HP to serve as my escape and source of comfort. While it can indeed be something a drama can offer, it should not become an excuse for me to demand this slice-of-life drama to go only the happy way I want. It hurts now because it is cutting close to reality, where people have relationship problems, dark history, and health issues. As I expect WG to love each other even more with more revelations and communications, I, too, can learn to appreciate this drama more even when it gives us angsts.
One more comment – I think S2 has been consistent in the message that the doctor-patient dynamic goes beyond just the two – S2 has consistently highlighted the pain, worries, and stress the patients’ family members experience, as well as the downsides of being the loved ones of the medical staff. It is a great reminder that the patients’ family members are also for the doctors to care, but at same time, as the doctors care for the patients and their family, they are sacrificing the time that their own loved ones also deserve.
I know you already said you welcome long comments, but still have to apologize again here… and thank you for this space. It is so therapeutic to read your posts and also to share here. Have a marvelous weekend!
No need to apologize dear. I take it as a compliment when readers feel comfortable enough to be this open.
To me it's a sign of your maturity that you can weigh these issues and come to the conclusions that you eventually did. Which is to accept that what the writer is doing has some validity in storytelling and even grounding in real life. The truth of the matter is that we are all flawed creatures and we often do things that don't make sense and even work against our own interests. For me, good writing showcases the entire gamut of human imperfections in a convincing way or in a way that is convincing to the greatest number of people.
I particularly appreciate your point about Jeong-won and the fact that there's something odd about the fact that he hasn't taken Gyeo-ul to see his mother since they've started dating. I think it's a brilliant observation and it's giving me some food for thought. I'm going to chew on that a bit more. It could also be an indication of the fact that all's not that well in WinterGarden Wonderland -- that they're both walking on eggshells around each other.
On a final note although I try not to think too much of what the detractors say because I believe everyone has their own preferences, I still feel that I need to process those criticisms on some level and think about where they make sense or where they don't.
Once again thank you for posting your insights and never feel you have to apologize for them.
Thank you! I agree with you note about criticisms. It is good to process them and to try to see from their perspectives whether those comments could make sense. Even when we do not agree with them, there is no reason why we cannot respect them, especially when the comments are made within proper boundaries. I do, however, want to give myself the room to not form conclusions (good or bad) until the final bow is tied on the show (or at least so far nothing has been so far off to push me to do that early), knowing that something you see or do not see in one episode may be appreciated totally differently when all aspects are presented.
Your comments about walking on eggshells reminded me that I am seeing more and more similarities between WG and Buldogi, including secrecy, not introducing each other as the significant other to family members, past trauma, over-conscious about adding pressure, etc. I am just hoping that WG would not follow the noble idiocy of Iksun, but instead allow us to see how beautiful yet real it can be when two people truly embrace each other and be willing to bare all the scars with each other.
Like what we talked about Buldogi, Iksun's noble idiocy act did not give room for JWan to voice what he wanted, and ruled out the possibility that maybe JWan would be much happier worrying about and caring for her, vs. being "sheltered" from the emotional / physical difficulties that come with the package called Lee Iksun. And I am feeling even stronger about the fallacy of the idea re WG after Ep7. When the iron lady GU showed no one any sign to slow down but only dozed off in the middle of the night when no one was around, it was JW that saw her and willingly stood by her to serve as her head support. By the smile I saw on him, he did that not just because she needed it, but maybe even more because HE needed it - he enjoys being her support and wants to share her burden so he can care for her more intimately. It is no less than the joy he has seeing her eat. And I hope GU would grant him that and not choose to hide her scars from him.
And back to Buldogi - I have to give kudos to ShinLee and JKH, the scenes of JWan sitting on the floor and hearing Iksun's voice were done so well. They were so short yet so poignant that I cannot help nut also feeling the aches he JWan has. Super well done!
I loved reading your comment. I don’t think that we’ll be seeing less of Gyeoul. SHB has been filming 2 dramas all this time and from what I know, the filming for her 2nd drama is almost done hehe. Also, I saw a theory that maybe the preview is throwing us off and that Gyeoul might return from Gwangju next ep. Anyway, here’s to hoping wingar resolves (or at least starts to resolve) their issues next week.
Let's hope that my worried is totally unbased and the theory is correct, and we see more of WG interactions towards the right direction in the next episodes!
And if GU does return from Gwangju next ep and JW was hurting at the ER seeing his mom's condition, or whatever makes him cry, and GU just stops caring about keeping secrets and goes over to embrace him and puts his head on her shoulder and pats his back.... okay, turning off fanfic mode...
Oh no you are making me cry happy tears! Nope don’t turn off fanfic mode hehehe I really want to see them being there for each other esp since JW likes doing things for other people while Gyeoul carries all her burdens on her own. It is just cruel if the writers will really let them take these family issues on their own when it can be an opportunity for them to lean on each other 😭
I must admit I was one of the people who spiralled after ep 7 but after reading all the comments here, I have never been more confident of Wingar. I also remember SHB’s interview, where she said that “But even if Jeongwon and Gyeoul disappear, won't they disappear together?”
Shin Hyun Been might be in self isolation because her other drama had a crew member who is covid positive. She went for a test and thankfully is negative. So could it also be real life situation resulting in a need for production to adjust some scenes?
As far as I know, the filming of HP is almost finished bc WG fans are holding a fundraiser on Twitter to send them a coffee truck on their last day. The date was around next week, I think.
I wanna jump in - i once dated someone with crazy schedules, and whatever time you have you spend eating, chatting and not talking about deep and meaningful things, or your deepest darkest fear. In the end we broke up. I dont wanna see that happened to uri WG!
So sorry that it did not work out for you. Let's channel our thoughts to Writer Lee for us to see more open and deeper conversations between WG... and let's also keep the fluffy lovey dovey scenes coming, heehee... they just look so good together :).
Im over it already but it's a real thing for ppl like doctors who keep mad schedules. Difficult to date one and marry one. I like how the writer kept things real. When I watch dramas, i often wonder how people who are supposedly so busy find time to be lovey dovey all the time. It's unreal.
Thanks for once again voicing my thoughts. I keep wondering if I'm biased because i have friends also feeling less about Season 2. I think it could be because HP has always been a comforting drama in the midst of what everyone is facing in real life, the trajectory that it is heading now is making people uncomfortable. But whose life doesn't have issue and conflict? The conflicts in HP is not there for conflict's sake. They are real issues people face - illness of loved ones, communication issues and long distance relationships. The PD and writer of HP has always said this drama is about the lives of people in their 40s - how they live, work and love. I expect to see the Lacking 5 handle their issues maturely and rationally in the next 5 episodes, living and loving as they have been the past 19 episodes, showing us the best of humanity in the midst of our personal problems. That's the beauty of this drama. I trust the PD and writer in this journey :)
I agree with you and all of the comments here. This K-drama has not ended yet, and I will give my opinion for all the plot points after it ends. Yes, this episode was overall sad for me. But still, just as the episode said, we must understand them and try to see it from their viewpoints. Have been doing that for this season, as I wait for next episode. We still don't know about Gyeoul's background, so we should be patient about what the writers have in store for her and other characters. I have faith in them, it will be okay.
That needs to be said more -- the drama hasn't ended yet so we don't know how it all ends. But I've seen all kinds of odd comments that this is just a transitional season so nothing of significance is going to happen and that the lovelines have gone backwards. How anyone can say that in Episode 7 so confidently is surprising.
Exactly. It's middle of the season. Usually any show at this point in time (or a little later) will throw in some silly conflict to keep the main couple apart. Writer hasnt gone and do a lobotomy so far. Thankful for that.
👏👏👏Excellent defence.
I don’t know how people can be so unreasonable, I mean, we as fans don’t write scripts! Besides, nobody has a perfect life, we all go through ups and downs! As much as I love all the fluff and the warm feeling the show and WG gives me I understand what they must go through to grow as adults and as a couple, none of Shin-PD dramas has shown a fluffy pathway for they characters all the time.
Besides even though you can love someone and be so close to someone is not easy to share your more dark and deepest secrets, so help out a girl!!! As this episode show us, nobody knows what is behind people’s attitudes on certain situations, so why criticize our Winter resident with this?
All I know is they give me joy each week and I would accept everything that will come, and that our poor Gyeo-ul has gone through hard stuff and as she conquers all the obstacles in her professional journey, she will conquer them in her personal life too!
I don't know what the specifics criticisms have been levelled against Gyeo-ul in this episode but as far as I can tell she's had one of the better growth arcs in this drama. She's a lot brighter than she's ever been.
Thank you for your comments and support of the post.
Hello, this is my first time post a comment on your blog.
It's good to read your point of view of the drama that you watch.
I'm also an ahjumma and the story of Wintergarden on episode 7, reminds me of my young days before I got married to my hubby. We also have the same problem because the family matter is not easy to share even with your loved one. Maybe in Asian culture, family plays an important part because it also means married with the family when two people get married. So I agree with you, to have a healthy marriage life, the couple has to be open and accept each other family, including accepting the bad side of our own family.
As we know Gyeoul family was keeping a mystery since season 1. If Ikjun didn't ask, in episode 9, we still think Gyeoul already move on and got a new boyfriend. This is the first time they introduce Gyeoul's family member. In episode 7, they will reveal Gyeoul's family, and we will see whether Jeongwon can accept her family and help her accept her family as it is. I think Gyeoul never talks about her family because there's something that she feels shame or she may have a broken family. Because we can never be separate from our family, it's time for family reconciliation and also a step to build a strong marriage life.
This also has a connection with Seokhyeong marriage life before, he can't deal with her family matter and also can help his ex-wife to be accepted by his mother, so the marriage could not stay longer. I know there are so many reasons, but I think the most important part is family matters.
I really enjoy Hospital Playlist season 1 & season 2, and not complaining at all. Just enjoy the show, the story, insights from each story, and get along with new friends who love Hospital Playlist.
Thank you
You're welcome and thank you for sharing your insights here.
As someone who grew up in an Asian household, I think your point that it's hard for us to talk about our family issues is right on the money. No matter what they've done, we don't like being critical of our parents not only because it's a loss of face but it feels disloyal or unfilial to to air dirty family laundry. We know that our families are flawed but it seems like really bad manners to tell other people about them.
HEAR HEAR! Ep 7 may have been emotionally heavy for me but in no way did I not enjoy it. I too do not get why people are hating on Season 2. There are so many moments that make me reflect on my own experiences both the good and the bad.
Hello! First time commenting but have been an avid reader of your HosPlay blog posts!
Just want to say thank you for sharing your thoughts. Perhaps it is because I also appreciate the angst (or else it might be the stage of life I am in) that Episode 7 has actually been my favourite episode in Season 2 so far and I'm grateful to see a opinion that mirrors mine.
It's also nice to read your thoughts on the IkSong camping scene. I had difficulty placing the significance of it besides the talk of mothers, but it makes sense how it shows the greater opening of their worlds besides their friend group to each other... which certainly seems to parallel WinterGarden.
Anyway thank you! It's always a pleasure to read your posts and to learn from your insights. Hope you have a great day :)
I will! Thank you for chiming in.
Totally agree. I too felt the issues with WG was the right time to give it an optimal arc to resolve by Episode 12. Iksong camping too was much awaited. Yes, you are bang on with your last paragraph. I am in awe at all the episodes how the writer does that! My only complaint would be with not showing Jun-wan a way out. But I felt a shift in Episode 7 that something was planned for him in the coming episodes. But boring? Quite the opposite! I have been asking different people to start watching HP including after Episode 7.
I've reached a point that I really want Jun-wan to move on from Ik-sun. I don't know if reconciliation is on the cards but whatever it is they have planned for him, I hope it's good and something I can embrace.
Actually i think Junwan's character arc has been set since Season 1 Ep 1. We have heard that he is always attached but the relationships never last long. Now we hear in Season 2 that he is afraid of being alone and lonely (there is a difference here). I can't help but feel that his dating history has gotta do with the fact that he needs someone to fill that void in his heart.
Junwan's 'paper tiger' persona has been slowly unveiled over the 2 seasons, and while his interaction with patients are still a bit cut and dry, it feels different. People see that he cares in spite of his cool persona. So I feel that breaking up with Iksun is probably the best character growth for him - it is his chance to really confront the issue of being comfortable in his own skin, being fine by himself, showing others his vulnerable side and letting people love him and care for him. This sounds old, but you cannot love others properly until you truly love yourself. I think this applies to Junwan.
True, loving himself first is what he needs! He did have a beautiful character growth with his interpersonal skills.
This feels like the episode that lays out the foundation for the rest of the season, but I also wonder if people feel this way because this episode is different in seemingly minor but actually critical ways. For instance, I think this is the first time ever where we don't see the friends interacting together as a group over food, which is where a lot of the humor (bickering amongst themselves) and sweetness comes from. Instead, they eat with others (with the exception of IkSong) or by themselves (Junwan). In season 1, I think people felt connected to the bond that the group had with each other and we see how outside people are very interested in learning more about who they each are as individuals. In season 2, there's been a clear shift where they are forming their own bonds outside the group and growing individually. The vibe of the script and show is the same, but the emotional connections we see as an audience are different. Each person is growing outside the group. I feel this is very realistic, but also requires the audience to be comfortable getting outside the bubble of their friendship as the heart of the story, and instead focus on each individual's personal growth.
That's true. I did notice that aside from band practice there wasn't any specific moment where they were sharing a meal together.
It's inevitable and as you say, realistic that the five friends will develop other interests and no doubt your observation that there will be those who are missing that friendship dynamic is spot on. For me, however, the balance is written into the show. It seems to me premature to believe that Shin-Lee would ever move away entirely from the friendship and doom the show forever.
I too felt that. Even in Episode 6 where JW went to talk to Gyoeul, I was thinking when Seok-hyeong decides to date Min-ha, will they have time to meet like this. It was realistic for me, but I do understand why people miss that. In these times of Covid, where meeting friends took a back seat, I have loved their friendship story more than their love lines.
I am leaving my comments here after reading your two wonderful posts about Ep7 and all the great comments people have left for your previous post – I wanted to reply to all of them, but it will just take forever 😊. So here I go:
First, I have to admit that I felt “weird” after watching Ep7. It was not the usual “happy” feeling I have after watching the previous episodes. It felt heavy and there were so many short but dramatic plots that I had to think that they did not just throw them all in to fill the time; definitely not with ShinLee and their reputation for meticulous planning and execution of their storylines. So, it was great to see all the comments that share similar sentiments, but also reminders that those scenes may just be the earlier puzzle pieces for a greater picture to be completed later.
As much as my heart sorrowed for the new WG scenes, I also agree (after some time to feel sad and reflect) that for the long run, this is a positive development. The late dinner at JW’s office might have been cute, but the dialogue was alarming – her thinking about faking a breakup to stop all the questions and him avoiding the topic – they appear to be at different places in their relationship. GU did not appear to have thought about the option of just making their relationship public after this long secrecy, and that really made me concerned that she is not yet comfortable of letting people know that she is dating JW, let alone anticipating and proactively working towards a life-long union with him.
Having said that, however, I also can see where she came from. If a happy marriage and safe home is not something you grew up with, it is plausible that it is not in your subconscious as your supposed destiny in life. Or even worse, something you consider as “normal” and everyone should deserve, especially for yourself (this is a deep topic and I hope I am making sense).
And as sweet, charming, and ofc, dashing, JW is being this doting, loving, and supporting bf, I wonder how much he has shared his own desires and plans for them as a couple. It does not appear that he wanted to give her any pressure, while he continues wanting to be this “perfect” boyfriend. He avoided the topic of making their relationship public, and I also wonder the idea for him not having introduced GU to his mom – was it his own worry that she’d be pressured, or was it her request? Has he himself been vulnerable and transparent before her? Surely there must have been critical cases or even deaths from his young patients in the past 15 months, did he breakdown or show his work stress before her?
(and before I continue, allow me to insert a selfish vent – I have been looking forward to WinterRosa interactions the whole season. I can’t wait to see Rosa doting on and feeding uri GU, and being elated seeing her makne totally glee and whipped; and maybe seeing his family would allow her to see that each family has its own issues and help her to open up on hers. So, selfishly I am disappointed, and I hope there will still be sufficient time, esp with the recent deterioration of Rosa)
So, if their limited time together due to their crazy schedule this past 15 months has been GU’s happy escape from reality, and JW’s special moments to dote on his baby and allow her to be a carefree little kid, it is understandable now that they have not explored the heavier topics in life and become comfortable to share their hurt and burden with each other. I saw some comments that she should have immediately called JW to tell him that her mom is in the ER. My instinct when the scene happened was the same, then I stepped back to remember that all the “immediate” and “spontaneous” communications are something learned through experience and repeated practices. If you have never experienced a safe environment where sharing your load is not only expected, and even welcomed as a way to show your love and trust of each other, how do you then immediately know to do that, esp when so much hurt and dark secrets are involved? Her text gave me hope that she will explain everything to him soon, but it felt so formal with so much buried pain; poor GU, I just want to hug her 😢.
Sorry I have used so much space to say why I agree that this is a positive development. As much as I feel so sad for the double whammy on WG with both mothers being ill at the same time (and interestingly one is more outward physical and the other is more mental), this can be an opportunity for them to both become vulnerable with each other and let the guard down, not trying to bear everything or being “perfect” anymore. My only worry is that the opportunity may be missed with the physical distance they will have (I wonder if we may see less of GU in the next few ep since she was also busy filming her other drama at the time).
And all the way back to my comment of “feeling weird”, even my daughter noticed how sad I looked the rest of the day after I watched Ep7, but it helped me recognize my unrealistic expectation for HP to serve as my escape and source of comfort. While it can indeed be something a drama can offer, it should not become an excuse for me to demand this slice-of-life drama to go only the happy way I want. It hurts now because it is cutting close to reality, where people have relationship problems, dark history, and health issues. As I expect WG to love each other even more with more revelations and communications, I, too, can learn to appreciate this drama more even when it gives us angsts.
One more comment – I think S2 has been consistent in the message that the doctor-patient dynamic goes beyond just the two – S2 has consistently highlighted the pain, worries, and stress the patients’ family members experience, as well as the downsides of being the loved ones of the medical staff. It is a great reminder that the patients’ family members are also for the doctors to care, but at same time, as the doctors care for the patients and their family, they are sacrificing the time that their own loved ones also deserve.
I know you already said you welcome long comments, but still have to apologize again here… and thank you for this space. It is so therapeutic to read your posts and also to share here. Have a marvelous weekend!
I want to frame your comment and put it on the wall - it's so, so good, and (yet again), I agree with EVERYTHING. 💚
Thank you, I feel the same about your comments, too!
No need to apologize dear. I take it as a compliment when readers feel comfortable enough to be this open.
To me it's a sign of your maturity that you can weigh these issues and come to the conclusions that you eventually did. Which is to accept that what the writer is doing has some validity in storytelling and even grounding in real life. The truth of the matter is that we are all flawed creatures and we often do things that don't make sense and even work against our own interests. For me, good writing showcases the entire gamut of human imperfections in a convincing way or in a way that is convincing to the greatest number of people.
I particularly appreciate your point about Jeong-won and the fact that there's something odd about the fact that he hasn't taken Gyeo-ul to see his mother since they've started dating. I think it's a brilliant observation and it's giving me some food for thought. I'm going to chew on that a bit more. It could also be an indication of the fact that all's not that well in WinterGarden Wonderland -- that they're both walking on eggshells around each other.
On a final note although I try not to think too much of what the detractors say because I believe everyone has their own preferences, I still feel that I need to process those criticisms on some level and think about where they make sense or where they don't.
Once again thank you for posting your insights and never feel you have to apologize for them.
Thank you! I agree with you note about criticisms. It is good to process them and to try to see from their perspectives whether those comments could make sense. Even when we do not agree with them, there is no reason why we cannot respect them, especially when the comments are made within proper boundaries. I do, however, want to give myself the room to not form conclusions (good or bad) until the final bow is tied on the show (or at least so far nothing has been so far off to push me to do that early), knowing that something you see or do not see in one episode may be appreciated totally differently when all aspects are presented.
Your comments about walking on eggshells reminded me that I am seeing more and more similarities between WG and Buldogi, including secrecy, not introducing each other as the significant other to family members, past trauma, over-conscious about adding pressure, etc. I am just hoping that WG would not follow the noble idiocy of Iksun, but instead allow us to see how beautiful yet real it can be when two people truly embrace each other and be willing to bare all the scars with each other.
Like what we talked about Buldogi, Iksun's noble idiocy act did not give room for JWan to voice what he wanted, and ruled out the possibility that maybe JWan would be much happier worrying about and caring for her, vs. being "sheltered" from the emotional / physical difficulties that come with the package called Lee Iksun. And I am feeling even stronger about the fallacy of the idea re WG after Ep7. When the iron lady GU showed no one any sign to slow down but only dozed off in the middle of the night when no one was around, it was JW that saw her and willingly stood by her to serve as her head support. By the smile I saw on him, he did that not just because she needed it, but maybe even more because HE needed it - he enjoys being her support and wants to share her burden so he can care for her more intimately. It is no less than the joy he has seeing her eat. And I hope GU would grant him that and not choose to hide her scars from him.
And back to Buldogi - I have to give kudos to ShinLee and JKH, the scenes of JWan sitting on the floor and hearing Iksun's voice were done so well. They were so short yet so poignant that I cannot help nut also feeling the aches he JWan has. Super well done!
I loved reading your comment. I don’t think that we’ll be seeing less of Gyeoul. SHB has been filming 2 dramas all this time and from what I know, the filming for her 2nd drama is almost done hehe. Also, I saw a theory that maybe the preview is throwing us off and that Gyeoul might return from Gwangju next ep. Anyway, here’s to hoping wingar resolves (or at least starts to resolve) their issues next week.
Let's hope that my worried is totally unbased and the theory is correct, and we see more of WG interactions towards the right direction in the next episodes!
And if GU does return from Gwangju next ep and JW was hurting at the ER seeing his mom's condition, or whatever makes him cry, and GU just stops caring about keeping secrets and goes over to embrace him and puts his head on her shoulder and pats his back.... okay, turning off fanfic mode...
Oh no you are making me cry happy tears! Nope don’t turn off fanfic mode hehehe I really want to see them being there for each other esp since JW likes doing things for other people while Gyeoul carries all her burdens on her own. It is just cruel if the writers will really let them take these family issues on their own when it can be an opportunity for them to lean on each other 😭
I must admit I was one of the people who spiralled after ep 7 but after reading all the comments here, I have never been more confident of Wingar. I also remember SHB’s interview, where she said that “But even if Jeongwon and Gyeoul disappear, won't they disappear together?”
😭 I’m a mess for these two.
Linking here the interview in case you guys wants to see it ❤️: https://twitter.com/sssjexo/status/1409649214871592964?s=21
Good. Glad to hear it.
Shin Hyun Been might be in self isolation because her other drama had a crew member who is covid positive. She went for a test and thankfully is negative. So could it also be real life situation resulting in a need for production to adjust some scenes?
As far as I know, the filming of HP is almost finished bc WG fans are holding a fundraiser on Twitter to send them a coffee truck on their last day. The date was around next week, I think.
I wanna jump in - i once dated someone with crazy schedules, and whatever time you have you spend eating, chatting and not talking about deep and meaningful things, or your deepest darkest fear. In the end we broke up. I dont wanna see that happened to uri WG!
So sorry that it did not work out for you. Let's channel our thoughts to Writer Lee for us to see more open and deeper conversations between WG... and let's also keep the fluffy lovey dovey scenes coming, heehee... they just look so good together :).
Im over it already but it's a real thing for ppl like doctors who keep mad schedules. Difficult to date one and marry one. I like how the writer kept things real. When I watch dramas, i often wonder how people who are supposedly so busy find time to be lovey dovey all the time. It's unreal.
They don't and they can't. But it's largely about fanservicing isn't it? :D
Thanks for once again voicing my thoughts. I keep wondering if I'm biased because i have friends also feeling less about Season 2. I think it could be because HP has always been a comforting drama in the midst of what everyone is facing in real life, the trajectory that it is heading now is making people uncomfortable. But whose life doesn't have issue and conflict? The conflicts in HP is not there for conflict's sake. They are real issues people face - illness of loved ones, communication issues and long distance relationships. The PD and writer of HP has always said this drama is about the lives of people in their 40s - how they live, work and love. I expect to see the Lacking 5 handle their issues maturely and rationally in the next 5 episodes, living and loving as they have been the past 19 episodes, showing us the best of humanity in the midst of our personal problems. That's the beauty of this drama. I trust the PD and writer in this journey :)
I agree with you and all of the comments here. This K-drama has not ended yet, and I will give my opinion for all the plot points after it ends. Yes, this episode was overall sad for me. But still, just as the episode said, we must understand them and try to see it from their viewpoints. Have been doing that for this season, as I wait for next episode. We still don't know about Gyeoul's background, so we should be patient about what the writers have in store for her and other characters. I have faith in them, it will be okay.
That needs to be said more -- the drama hasn't ended yet so we don't know how it all ends. But I've seen all kinds of odd comments that this is just a transitional season so nothing of significance is going to happen and that the lovelines have gone backwards. How anyone can say that in Episode 7 so confidently is surprising.
Exactly. It's middle of the season. Usually any show at this point in time (or a little later) will throw in some silly conflict to keep the main couple apart. Writer hasnt gone and do a lobotomy so far. Thankful for that.