The songs featured during the recap: Two Words by Wendy (of Red Velvet), Swing and Sand by Kim Dong-hyeok, and What Girls Do by Park Se-jun & Song Je-gyom.
The emotional fallout for Han Ji-pyeong as he confronts the human cost of his words, especially in light of Kim Dong-su’s death.
The complicated idea of “Plan B” — why Ji-pyeong offers it, why Dal-mi, Do-san, and Yong-san reject it, and how pride, guilt, and independence all collide here.
Samsan Tech’s Demo Day win and why their decision not to inflate accuracy numbers becomes a defining moment for Do-san’s integrity and leadership.
The ethical debate sparked by Do-san’s father during In-jae’s presentation: innovation vs. jobs, and how this 2020 storyline feels even more relevant in today’s AI-driven world.
How Dal-mi reframes technology as something meant to serve people, especially the visually impaired, rather than replace them.
The uneasy excitement around 2STO’s acquisition offer, including why the lack of legal guidance is alarming and how inexperienced founders can be vulnerable in high-stakes deals.
Ji-pyeong’s fear that the acquisition is really a high-priced recruiting strategy — and his frantic attempt to stop the contract once it’s already in motion.
The shifting dynamic between the sisters, as Won In-jae quietly reaches out to Dal-mi with small gestures that suggest reconciliation, even while Dal-mi stays firmly competitive.
Dal-mi’s unresolved anger toward her mother, the grandmother’s perspective on forgiveness, and the idea that letting go of grudges can be an act of survival.
Our deep dive into Korean skincare, from the 10-step routine and “glass skin” ideals to realistic approaches, favorite products, and why sunscreen reigns supreme.
What we’re watching now, including Can This Love Be Translated? and Encounter, and Netflix’s growing catalog of older K dramas.
References
Ok, the debate on Plan B this week is milder for sure, and since I set off the debate last week, I'd like to go with a take different from both Joanna AND Sung hee's! I think HJP's offer was meant to protect the future of the visual aid app, since he knew they all support it and take pride in the good work it does.
ReplyDeleteHe's a smart guy, and knows that he can raise other support for this app if needed. The grandma's dependency on this reinforces his interest.
On reckoning with the cost of the harshness of his criticism, I think you guys are right on the money. In my screenwriting workshop, sometimes we had to get sharper when the critique wasn't sinking in, but I'm a believer in saying what WOULD work better, á la Shark Tank. Instead of telling the guy that he was a fraud for not implementing a rechargeable battery despite being aware of the market trend, he could have said until you have rechargeable, you don't have an investable product. Same thing, but less personal.
Like Sung hee, I'm more impressed by what someone does vs nice words, so HJP is ok in my book.
WMW, Made In Korea has enough to keep me watching, same with Pro Bono, but both need a second season! On my friend Brian's recommendation, I've started a long C Drama on Viki called Parallel World, pretty good so far! And for new to Netflix Kdramas, I recommend Suspicious Partner with the always great Ji Chan-wook, aka Wookie!
Investible
DeleteAnd it’s Ji Chang-wook
DeleteEllen,
DeleteI am not sure I agree with you about HJP motives.
Unless I missed it, he doesn't know about the Grandmother, therefore that it is not it.
I actually agree with Joanna this time. I think his motives are SDM (he likes her) and the Grandmother, but not in regards to her eyesight. Just to please her by helping SDM.
I think Nam Do San and Seo Dal Mi rejecting the idea of a Plan B is because they didn't want an investment to feel like charity. If Han Ji Pyeong really believed Samsan Tech was worthy of an investment, he would've made a move to invest early.
DeleteAbout the whole 'Good Boy' thing. Does Halmeoni call Han Ji-pyeong that because she thinks he is already a morally upright child, or is she manifesting a positive future for him by giving him a label to live up to?
ReplyDeleteIt seems to be a burden for him sometimes, just as NDS's parent's pride in their son only serves to weigh him down.
In WLGYTangerines, the daughter curses her role as the 'pillar' of the family. Is being a 'Good Boy' a blessing, a curse or both?
Great question, Doremi. I believe she was manifesting a positive future for him, and at the same time expressing a form of parental love for a sad and emotionally scarred child who wasn't ready or wouldn't necessarily understand "I care about you, I will protect you, and I have faith in you."
DeleteI agree that calling him "good boy" is an expression of love, a term of endearment to a sad and lonely boy. Because she believes in him, she has faith in him that he can be the best verson of himself.
DeleteI think the grandmother calling Han Ji Pyeong "good boy" was a term of endearment. Kind of like when I call my sons "sweetie pie" or "loved one."
DeleteI agree that being called a "good" boy or the pride and joy of the family can be a huge burden. Kids these days face enough pressure. Let's not add to it!
Doremi, great question! If you remember, she initially leaves him alone with her cash stash, then returns to find the money safe, with him scolding her about leaving it vulnerable. So I think it’s genuine, but that he doesn’t feel worthy.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Ellen, that makes sense.
DeleteThanks Joanna and Sung Hee for another great podcast episode. I watched Startup before you announced it as the choice for this season. I enjoyed it but not enough to rewatch it, but I still faithfully listen to and enjoy each week’s episode of your podcast. I’ve also had the opposite experience of starting to watch a show, following along with your podcast, and then finishing your podcast but not the show (Mr. Sunshine).
ReplyDeleteHJP strikes me as the kind of person who wants something because he doesn’t want someone else to have it. His strategy is similar to a corporation acquiring a small company just to prevent a competitor from getting it without a plan or even intention to do something with the acquisition. HJP is so great sometimes, but he has a mean and petty streak. Maybe the right choice for DSM isn’t either HJP or NDS. It’s figuring out a path to happiness that’s not dependent on either of them.
I also watched and enjoyed Can This Love Be Translated. It goes to Argan a bit, but then comes back. Gorgeous actors and locations although it suffers from the K-Drama episode stretching device of the unnecessary misunderstandings. What do people think about Kim Seon Ho and Bae Suzy being paired in the upcoming show “Portraits of Delusion” on Disney+?
While waiting for the latest K-Dramas to drop, I watched “Rookie Historian Goo Hae-ryung” (Netflix in the US) based on Doremi’s suggestion back in October. Thanks, Doremi! I really enjoyed all 20 episodes of this show. It has an endearing cast, great production values (costumes, sets, lighting), insights into the role of historians in the Joseon dynasty and a plotline that moves along despite the show’s length. The message of speaking truth to power is especially relevant now.
On the new show front, I’m enjoying Undercover Miss Hong (Netflix in the US). It’s just simple fun. The ensemble cast centers around a group of women supporting (and bickering with) each other and a strong female lead who is more interested in fighting corruption than worrying about whether or not the male lead likes her. Refreshing…
Joanna and Sung Hee, thanks for referring us Blog posters to the Instagram weekly question. Here are a few suggestions for future weekly polls: Favorite all time K-Drama song and Favorite all-time line from a K-Drama.
I'm so glad you enjoyed Rookie Historian, TripAndCatch! It's one of my all-time faves.
DeleteI'm not on Instagram, but have been thinking about villians who creeped me out. The Glory had several, and Skycastle's evil tutor was truly despicable. (Shudder.)
Also, this is a bit obscure, but ... Favourite Title Sequence?
DeleteI was thinking about the ones I tend to watch vs the ones I skip.
CLOY's title sequence with the split-screen was a must-watch for me. I found something new in it every time.
I like Start-up's titles, too.
I love the. idea of "best title sequence". These are often evocative of the story and sometimes, I think, even give clues to to aspects of the story that might not be as obvious to us.
DeleteTripandCatch, I think you're right on about Han Ji Pyeong. It's only when Nam Do San showed up and showed interest in Seo Dal Mi AND when she proved herself to be competent did Han Ji Pyeong show an interest in her. If Nam Do San had never seen Seo Dal Mi again after the networking party, he would have forgotten about her. Again.
DeleteMy husband and I are on the last episode of "Can This Love be Translated." Oh boy. It definitely goes to Argan. It's like the second half is a different show. Way too many misunderstandings and confessions that were misinterpreted. We are scratching our heads but still enjoying the show because of the beautiful locations, the great acting, and the gorgeous actors.
Thank you to and Doremi for additional suggestions for questions on IG in the future!
I feel like HJP is trying to acq-hire (sp?) SDM, rather than get to know who she has become/woo her, because that's the only way he knows to get what he wants.
DeleteStill a few twists and turns to come, however!
Also, I'm finding myself reluctant to start new Kdramas because so many have been disappointing lately. I guess its rewatching for me for now.
Another excellent, enjoyable podcast episode! Thanks for bringing up "propinquity," Joanna! A great term, and certainly to NDS's advantage.
ReplyDeleteWhile I've enjoyed making a few jokes at NDS's expense, I fear at this point the triangle is beginning to collapse. HJP touched her heart & provided support with those letters all those years ago, but apparently being rich, smart, and handsome is not enough for HJP to overcome personal issues (which we can assume are tied to his difficult childhood as an orphan) which have prevented him from ever having a girlfriend and also occasionally have him acting like an abrasive jerk.
Perhaps most importantly, the dude is not even in the game. He's like a guy watching the Sandbox competition on tv in his apartment, saying "I bet I could make a better app than any of those!" or the millions of armchair quarterbacks who'll be yelling at their tv's tomorrow during the Super Bowl. Talk is cheap. If you really want to date this lovely, intelligent woman, you need to get in the game, HJP.
While it's true that NDS leaving Seo Dal-mi drunk in a park and running home to impress her with a suit is idiotic on several levels, you gotta admit at least the kid is showing some spunk! He's stated his intentions, he's removed smudges from her face, he's putting himself out there.
I still agree with Sung-hee about the HJP's dinner conversation (the ONE time he expressed interest in her!) -- he was being respectful and honest, and he could've buried his rival a hundred different ways, but did not. While he's been a particularly thoughtful mentor, has he said or done ANYTHING outside of that one conversation that shows his romantic interest and true feelings towards Seo Dal-mi? The triangle is collapsing before it's really begun.
Jeff in Tampa, you're singing my song!
DeleteHan Ji Pyeong has a lot of baggage to overcome before he can love someone fully. I don't think he's in the game. Seo Dal Mi certainly doesn't think he's in the game and isn't that the point of being in the game?
Nam Do San leaving a drunk Seo Dal Mi on the swing was ridiculous, but it showed his naive, puppy dog nature, and his sincere wish to give Seo Dal Mi her confidence back. Now of course, he KNEW that she wouldn't remember anything because she has a habit of not remembering things when she gets drunk, but he was going to make the grand gesture anyway. Hilarious!
Not a lot to add. I just want to pick on one issue that might not be popular.
ReplyDeleteI have rolled my eyes when the older sister said that she is doing her business to make the world a better place (and director Yoon? nodded approvingly).
Really? since when people start businesses to make the world a better place?
I have 0% with businesses and the desire to improve your life by making money, actually I think it is very vital and important to societies, but lets not dress it in some grandiose alturistic motive.
Reminds me a bit of Empires/Superpowers throughout history.
They go around stealing others resources, but they always dress it as some grand cause as if they are doing them a favour.
...and please don't even start me on SDM so called business. I am just rolling with it, because this series has very little to do with business.
However, the show followed it by probably the best piece of dialogue in the entire series. That brief discussion about technological progress and its impact can fill a whole series.
On the subject of office romance. In principle, it is a bad idea, but I don't think it should be banned. You can't control peoples feelings. Also, it wasn't in the distance past that this was one of most common ways people found their partners.
Partly thanks to propinquity :) (What an awsome word!)
I am not watching anything. It is a combination of being busy at work, and having a bit of Kdrama slump. So, it is only this one.
Seven Seas, like you, I was touched by the dialogue about tech innovation and leaving people behind. That's the story behind No Other Choice. How many people are living in quiet desperation because their job has been eliminated or in danger of being eliminated? A friend of mine is 62 and was recently laid off because AI is going to write the documentation he used to write. I heard a CEO say he's eliminating two positions in his accounting department because AI will automate his accounts payable. I'm an AI and tech early adopter, but I worry about the impact on so many people!
DeleteGreat insight from the Start-up writers in that scene with WIJ and NDS's father.
DeleteThere are so many 'costs' associated with AI, not just loss of employment. The negative environmental impact is huge, and the degrading of public trust in what people see and hear online is another big problem. Not to mention all the writers, artists and musicians who've had their work scraped without permission.
And the people making the most money from it, and therefore continuing to push it on everyone uninvited, are those who care the least.
So, no applause from me either, Won In-jae. :)
Rant over.
Should have specified *generative* AI in my rant!
DeleteDoremi, I see both AI and GenAI as displacing jobs and we are going to have to reckon with this as a society. I think there is a huge leadership lesson here. Some leaders think this is all about tech, but this is transformative and systemic. Leaders need to see the whole impact of AI on their companies and articulate the company's position, staff impact, innovation capacity, etc. This is NOT just tech.
DeleteJoanna, you might be interested in listening to Rutger Bregman's lecture at Stanford last year, Fighting for humanity in the age of the machine. The Q&A session in particular.
DeleteI think it's available to US listeners on the Reith lecture website. Will check.
Here it is! https://open.spotify.com/episode/0g5QNUV6NNPvO1KrgROT94?si=j6lnKMxuTVuCIeJtvnJDng&t=1&ct=0
DeleteSeven Seas, I so agree about the altruistic motives for starting a business! Maybe the translation was bad. Saying that you want to start a successful business that ALSO helps make the world a better place would be credible. An example would be Bombas Socks, which gifts a pair to homeless support groups for every purchased pair. That’s nice, but of course they’re making money too! Saying that you want to start an ethical business that makes a fair profit is also credible.
ReplyDeleteBut saying you’re starting a business to make the world a better place is silly, sounds phony, and would make me distrustful of the CEO that said it.
Agreed. Would say more, but too tired to rant. :)
DeleteAnother interesting episode. I have many thoughts, but I’ll share the top three.
ReplyDeleteFirst, I agree with Jeff that this love triangle is nearing its end. HJP is just not emotionally mature enough to compete. He may have had a chance at the beginning, but he has waited too long to win SDM’s heart.
Second, is Sandbox really this safe place for entrepreneurs as it claims?! I’ve mentioned this before, but Sandbox seems as cut throat as the rest of Korean society. It seems like there is a daunting challenge facing the teams every week. And HJP is certainly one harsh mentor. His criticisms may have some truth to them, but he seems overly harsh. I’m not sure if he’s being extra hard on Samsan Tech because of his emotions, or if this is just his abrasive personality. Regardless, I feel like Sandbox could be a bit more of a supportive environment.
Finally, what is PowerPoint Girl™ doing for this company?! As Sung hee said, she was a lawyer, and decided to leave the law to become a designer. But she is still a lawyer and she should have been able to review the contract, or at least refer the contract to a lawyer who specializes in acquisitions! She is not even earning her small percent of the shares!
WMW is on vacation this week, so not much time to watch K Dramas. I did catch one episode of No Tail to Tell and I can report it is getting better with each episode. Would recommend to a friend. Now I just need to catch up on the final episodes of Singles Inferno!!!
Malcolm, I agree with everything you said! HJP has too much baggage to care about someone as sweet and competent as Seo Dal Mi. He might be a good guy underneath, but on the surface, he's a rich, arrogant, cruel man.
DeleteYou are absolutely right about Sandbox! The companies are so competitive with one another and the incubator doesn't provide legal advice! Yikes!
And I agree that PowerPoint Girl got the best deal ever. She got 180M won for a few months of work, after looking down on Samsan Tech for months!
With the Olympic going on, I have not had much time to watch. I'm stalled on the last episodes of Can This Love Be Translated and Pro Bono!
Joanna, Could you check the link for your snail musin? The link is going to the Medicube product. I was curious to check it out! Thanks!
ReplyDeleteOh no! Thank you for pointing that out. I have fixed the link on the blog and in the episode show notes! Here is the snail mucin that I use and love: https://a.co/d/05xGyVN8
Delete