My Mister (2018) User Reviews

Miserable lives. Amazing people.

[Hwangkidong · 10/10 · 20 May 2020]

I was fooled by the poster of this series with the goofy-looking characters having a good time, thinking it is a feel-good comedy. How wrong I was. Without giving away the storyline, the male and female leads are ordinary people who live their miserable lives one day after another. What is not ordinary is their humanity as they cross paths with each other, the decisions they make and the actions they take that impact the other, for better or for worse.

The tone of the show is dark and at the same time we are intermittently sprinkled with rays of hope and joy till the very end. How much can you love another person, be that person your brother, son, spouse, childhood friend or... someone who was a perfect stranger until recently? How strong is your love or friendship without asking anything in return? Characters we would uncharitably reject as losers at first gradually but unequivocally become endearing to us as their life stories unfold. We feel their pain deeply. We want them to prevail and have a happier life. At the same time we understand how difficult it must be for them to break free from their past or simply from the constraints that society or the characters impose upon themselves. Despite their character flaws and their burden, none of our beloved characters demand our pity. Instead they want us to see them for who they are, to recognize their integrity and be proud of the love and friendship that binds them to each other in their neighborhood community.

And what a fabulous ending that is totally in character, even if I usually dislike ambiguous endings and I do long for more between our hero and heroine. It's several days after I finished the show and yet I still wonder how they relationship will develop in their next meeting...

If you rate a show based on your enjoyment after it ended and the lingering questions and thoughts it continues to provoke in you, this will have a perfect 10/10. In that respect, this is the best character-driven kdrama I have seen so far. As a matter of fact, it is among the very best shows I have seen, simply. Kudos to the directer, writer and fabulous actors.

No words

[onelovek · 10/10 · 3 December 2020]

I have no words... The best Korean drama of all time. Period. This brings me to tears every time I watch an episode, yes it is emotional but not only that, it's the writing, the acting, it feels like you are in the big screen. It's a simple show but so big. It's like an ant crying 5,000 times it's weight. The lead acting is phenomenal...this tv show is a classic. I have watched 5 straight episodes in one day. I'm almost to the end but my goodness, this is incredible. This is near perfect, wow. Shout out to the people who left reviews. I turned a blind eye because of the title and it didn't look appealing. I mostly like fantasy, dynasty, Joseon type drama. Trust me I watch Live, stranger, etc. but oh my... this to show is a must watch. It gets better after a few episodes when the characters develop. Thanks for making this Tv show and big shout out to Netflix for a bigger Audience.

Masterpiece

[angelathe_escapist · 9/10 · 11 June 2018]

One of the best dramas I've ever seen. Excellent cinematography, actors, script, sounds and soundtrack. Beyond all the deep meanings that I felt during the growth of the various characters in "My Mister" there is a constant search for peace with the world and with oneself, there is a serenity that is disturbed and sought even by the monk who initially seemed the only one to own it. There is so much to say but it's all hard to put into words ... it is simply a wonderful drama, a must-see.

A true slice of life drama

[blinkable · 9/10 · 25 May 2018]

Started watching this drama with no expectation, thinking it is just another slice of life drama. I have to say at the beginning like at least 5 episodes it did somehow feel as such, a drama that totally people in general able to relate to and even a bit slow, boring with the many conversations in between characters and with the focus on office politics. However if you stay on and immerse yourself into any of these characters as they move along with the story plot, I guarantee you will feel rewarded on the experience of what relationships between humans really are and how we are all just surviving and thriving (or failing) in the act of being in relationships with one another. This drama stays true to its theme on exploring and unfolding human relationships - love (also self love and care), belongingness, betrayal, forgiveness, acceptance, letting go, and I can go on and on because I'm amazed by the writer nim's ability to pack so many things in 16 episodes and yet it all fits accordingly and not overwhelming the story plot at all!

The existence of the male MC, Park Dong Hoon in this story and the way it is being written really carried all the other characters so well throughout the plot - he is really just an ordinary genuine ahjussi, at some point in your life, you wish you get to meet in real life or perhaps you have even met such a person before. He has his own shares of life frustration but always chose to do things that would determine the outcome of what already happened (staying in control) and not wallow in what already happened (e.g., blame or accept his 'destiny'). His attitude of if you see it as nothing then it will become nothing and life goes on, is really a good learning point in life. Try putting yourself in the shoes of the female MC, Lee Ji An, and experience the tough life she had to go through (someone who accepted her 'destiny') and understanding her reactions and actions as well as what made her blurred the line between gratitude and romance because in the end how do we, as human beings express of our love to someone whom we see as angel sent to us and telling us life is what we made of, instead of destiny.

This drama not only developed strongly anchoring on these two characters but also the entire characters in the neighborhood detailed in the drama. I see it as every single characters revealed in this drama are as equally important to showcase how we all influence one another when we gather together in our lives. From relationships among family members (siblings, mother-sons, grandparent-grandchild) to brotherhoods who stay in same neighborhood (the extended society family) to the 'family' at work and to the point that even a monk character speak volume in this drama - all depicting the sense of belongingness in human beings that is so reflective of reality world. Their interactions in this drama are gems, teaching you the many perspectives of life.

I am just so grateful and satisfied with this drama that lived up to its title and for the writer nim who preserve the beauty of the relationship between the two MCs without tainting it with the usual reciprocating romance theme. The most memorable thing from this drama for me, apart from the awesome casts' performances, is to slowly decipher and digest the meaningful conversations between the MCs especially with the constant illustration using metaphors. Oh and the music and bgm throughout the drama are like, prefect to the core. The whole wire tapping and listening to the audio along with Lee Ji An - every single sound was crisp clear and really made it feel as if the audience is transported into it. Also up until now there are still various vivid scenes from the drama that keep appearing to me visually, such as the walk home at the neighborhood between the MCs and the subway train ride.

This is definitely one drama that will leave a big impact to you if you take a chance to watch it. It hurts a lot at certain point to come to terms with reality of life but it hurts so good because that's how you grow to be a better person.

Bitter Sweet

[semides · 10/10 · 12 June 2018]

I have watched all the episodes 4 times already. Nothing more to recommend. Watch it and feel it. Everything is excellent from Directing, Writing, Acting and all OSTs.

A tale of humanity, kindness and selfless love.

[soumyasriv · 10/10 · 20 October 2018]

I started K dramas mostly for romance and I won't be wrong if I say that I always go for genres that are listed as romance and comedy. But after reading the reviews and popularity of My Ahjussi I thought of giving it a try. When I started with it I was at the verge of dropping the show but I continued. And just after 1 episode I was hooked. My Ahjussi is not an easy watch and it won't be shocking if you cry bucket full tears as I did. But if you are looking for something deep with no- nonsense stuff then you need to be patient and watch this show. It depicts humanity in the most purest form and the power of kindness. It has some of the most powerful dialogues backed with powerful performances by the actors. I was not able to point out a single plot hole in the whole run of 16 episode. It is a must must watch and do not miss this gem of a show.

I'm just...speechless...

[ssra_25 · 10/10 · 5 July 2020]

I now understand why this drama is so well rated. I just finished it and I'm literally speechless. I don't even know what to say...

One thing I know though. It fully deserves every star I gave it. I'd give it even more if it were possible.

Astonishing, brutal, beautiful...

[DanishAjumma · 10/10 · 3 January 2019]

My Ajussi is far, far, FAR from the average Korean TV drama, though the vital part of longing and lingering feelings runs as deep as ever in this dark, brutal and beautiful story of love. Lived. Lost. Abandonned. Found.

The drama is gifted with strong characters. Also in the supporting roles. All struggling and wrapped in the curse and poetry of daily life filled with dark corners and moral choices.

From the perspective of a Scandinavian viewer, the story is told with a strangely familiar "Nordic Noir" grip and is definately some of the best Korean drama I have ever wiewed. Adding that I have viewed a lot.

Must Watch!! This is wise and divine!!

[pgnseetha · 10/10 · 8 August 2020]

I have seen many Korean series. But this is the most realistic, healing, beautiful series I have ever watched. This is a masterpiece. After watching Breaking Bad, I spent two days thinking about how brilliant it is. I could not stop dreaming about Heisenberg. Similarly after watching My Mister I spent two days thinking about how beautiful , pleasant, sweet, wise this series is, I could not take my thoughts away from Lee Jian and Park.Jung hee is also my favorite character. And their neighborhood! Profound on so many levels. I have never watched a series second time. But I am sure I will watch My Mister at least twice every year. I have never ever written a movie or TV show review. This is worth it!! This is spiritual stuff!!! Don't miss it!!

MY MISTER: Heart & Soul

[Jinxxa_Wolf · 10/10 · 9 March 2021]

MY MISTER (Naui Ahjusshi) (2018) was a k-drama that defied my expectations and left my predictions hanging out to dry. It is deep, layered, and so full of heart. At times it was tragic and heartbreaking, while others it was laugh-out-loud hilarious. It was always quirky and fresh. I can't begin to express how touching this was. There is something just so beautiful and deep about it. Wonderful acting, brilliant writing, gorgeous music, quirky realistic characters, down to earth vibes, heartfelt plots and themes...everything was so great. This show has so much heart and soul.

The acting was fantastic. The entire cast gave stellar performances and all left lasting impressions. Lee Ji-eun (as Lee Ji-An) and Lee Sun-kyun (as Park Dong-hoon) were both so great and relatable. You truly feel for both of them, as people, and their trials and tragedies impact the viewer deeply. I loved Lee Ji-An's relationship with her grandmother. I also really loved Park Dong-Hoon's deep bond with his family and friends, but particularly with his brothers. The trio were so relatable and lovable. The entire side cast was fantastic as well.

This drama is close to real life. It is such a beautifully complex show and all the characters are so well-rounded and realistically portrayed. There are layers of emotion and subtext between the every day lives and events of these characters. There was so much going on that kept me watching, even though the overall pacing was fairly slow and it had an almost dreamy, melancholy vibes going for it.

Some viewers might not like the lack of typical romcom themes (over-the-top-silliness, unrealistic stories and excessive coincidences, mushy-gushy love at first sights, overly perfect looking cast, HEA endings for everyone, where everything is neatly tied up in a bow and everyone unrealistically gets their own sparkly magical happily ever after.) Nah. This drama brings home the feels. It brings home a meaningful story.

There were so many sensitive issues and life lessons learned in this short series, such as seeing the beauty in life and in the little things, the importance of family and friends, empathy for others when we don't understand their secrets and sorrows, supporting one another through thick and thin. Overall, this was a great series, especially for mature viewers.

(R. I. P. Ajusshi SKL)

STORY: 10/10 CINEMATOGRAPHY: 10/10 ART/DESIGN/VISUALS: 10/10 MUSIC: 10/10 OVERALL RATING: 10.

My mister

[blissjunwoo · 10 October 2018]

This drama is a unique drama that does not portray the fantasy/romance world of dramas, but instead shows the value of life.

A perfect 10

[sonia-95111 · 10/10 · 27 March 2021]

This series is in my top 3! It's a perfect 10. The script, the direction, the casting and beautiful performances. The soundtrack! Each episode is just beautiful. It was meaningful, sad but incredibly uplifting and just gorgeous to the last frame. I even loved the final credit roll. Pretty perfect production! Highly recommended.

Touchy

[Mr_Avenger · 7/10 · 19 June 2021]

A truly heartbreaking and touchy drama with great OST and awesome characters. The main actress (IU) is a gem in her role. Unique with so good acting skills as every single actor in this drama.

Serious crimes but hey it doesn't matter...

[ushagowri-60736 · 5/10 · 16 November 2021]

A brother sister who live on crime. A CEO who can be easily blackmailed to do what a temporary employee asks him to. A hero drawn to this negative character like a firefly. She steals, she taps phones, is allover the place breaking the law . Too clever making her role unbelievable. If that is a cocktail to love , well..... What worked for me was the hero. I saw him in Pasta, an arrogant bully who mellows down. What an actor. In My Mister the naive, over burdened ordinary soul. Amazing actor. And then in Ep15 he falls. And what a fall. Everything is okey because she suffered- blackmailing, phone tapping and murder and all crimes good by me. What a fall for a man who battled desire and conscience. If the lawyer wife had a physical extra marital affair, his was a mental extra marital affair .

And all other characters great acting. The bond formed in their 20s, their miseries not spoken aloud but empathetic being with each other, their shared joys and some great moments and dialogues.

The heroine fab acting. Ruthless with a ten million figure stuck in her head and doing anything to just stay alive. Just too unbelievable for me., Her omnipresence, her 24/7 taping, listening to him ,come on get real. So all suffering kids can do what she did and justify crime...damn.

They found peace by accepting crime incld the lawyer. Eh?

A Truly exceptional Drama

[mjp78 · 9/10 · 14 December 2020]

A real tear jerker of a series: it could've been a turn off if they pitched the relationship between the lead characters wrongly, ie a young woman and a middle aged man, but it turned out very effectively done; so emotional and beautiful at the same time. The plight of the characters really affected me deeply, it's such a brilliant story.

insanely good

[aminifatimaaa · 10/10 · 8 December 2018]

This drama is absolutely amazing, like unpredictably good. I liked the office politics story at first but it rolls to the entanglement of the characters and the extent of their relationship making it an emotional one. The cast were supberb, IU and Lee Sun-Kyun carry the length of the drama with their acting and they portray the weigh of their character flawlessly making you sympathise with them and their struggles in life.

Finally a drama that is beautiful and breathtaking from start to end!

[tanushree-raha1019 · 10/10 · 4 August 2021]

Each and every episode is fulfilling but still you will be hungry for more.

In every emotional scene you'll cry and by emotional scene I am not saying sad scenes only...by the time you finish this drama you'll become over sensitive, because it's so heartwarming that it's painful.

This is a drama that shows two people at rock bottom in their lives who find comfort and healing after meeting each other.

This drama has lots of stories around loss, the aftermath and how different characters cope with loss. All of the characters felt relatable in their own ways.

To be human anyway is not easy to understand, this drama will somewhat help you to understand it through different kinds of emotions. It really does epitomise the most purest form of love. Love without definition. Love which is unconditional, where each person has given everything they could to keep their loved ones safe, while expecting nothing in return.

I am a person who believe that "a person who is only in love with his/her feelings are never to be trusted." For this reason, this drama moved me more.

Actors- Each and every actor, no matter how big or small their role is, they all had their moments where they moved me.

IU-Though her character doesn't speak a ton of lines, but when she does, it's blunt, cold, and of few words, but you can feel every emotion portrayed by her words and actions. She showed that living itself is a brave act and she is braver than anyone.

Lee Sun Gyun- His voice! His super soothing manly voice can easily make you sleep from a long tiring day.

He really is a "talent" the way he has showed his depression and broken heart is out of this world. Those long walks, deep breaths...you can feel him, you will cry with him.

Jang Ki-yong- He made a similarly deep impression on me, somehow making me care even for such a violent man.

The chemistry- The chemistry between the leads was also amazing. Their actions, expressions and their eyes when they look at each other were enough to tell me how they feel for each other. No words were needed. Now, this is what I call amazing acting skills!

It might not suit everyone's tastes. But I will still say that do yourself a favor and watch this drama with an open mind and heart, thinking about your life and the value of the things and people to you. You won't regret it!

OST: 1. Adult by Sondia- its depressing but healing at the same time.

2. There's a rainbow by Vincent Blue 3. Far away- its not an OST but ML sang it in a karaoke, it's worth listening.

Don't fast forward, since each scene, each dialogue is the gem itself.

[splim · 10/10 · 19 August 2018]

For me, this drama is one example of a good package. Great story, great performances, great dialogue, great visuals -- all delivered in interesting & consistent plot. It tells you the story of every main character in beautiful-comedic-emotional-enlighten way, feels like watching 30+ eps great family drama in short 16 eps. Even tho, there was 1-2 exaggerated stuff, still I enjoyed this drama. The music score "Grown Ups/Adult" from Sondia shares the dark-and-sad vibe whenever it's played. Try to understand the lyric and you will feel the same burden Lee Ji-an bear all time.

As if I'm alone in this big world... No one tries to look into my heart... No one...

Extra ordinary

[shahanaabdullasa · 10/10 · 7 September 2018]

I hav seen a lot of k drama of the genre investigation,mystery,melodrama romance ..but this one caught me surprised..its a bit slow for those who are looking for thrillers..This drama is all about people around us.Most of the dialogues in the drama is worth seeing and will make us think about people going thru hardship..i really loved it.As always IU has done a good job. All my favrite k drama always ends very soon after some tragic disaster.Even if it ends happily i dnt feel cmplete .but this is for u guys who love perfect happy ending..a complete happy ending

One of the best drama series I've ever seen

[abynorml29 · 10/10 · 20 February 2021]

This is an adult, well-written, meticulously well-acted, dramatic series, with light humorous moments sprinkled in. It is a story of perseveramce amidst adversity.

The first episode, which contains so much story, in, and of, itself, draws you into what will be an eventful, deep, character-driven roller coaster ride, mostly heading downhill for much of the series. It is certainly dark, mostly serious, but where it leads is worth waiting and watching for.

It depicts life, in many of its worst moments, but it will not make you want to look away. I watched this for 5 days straight, because I cared so much and was anxious to see what would happen next.

This show is now in my top 3. This series is so well-written and conceived--from the story, to the acting, to how beautifully, and fully-formed, the characters are, make this a precious jewel. It has everything a person could want in a great series! Believe me-DO NOT MISS THIS ONE.

Poor Title, Breathtaking Drama

[xmasinswiss · 10/10 · 10 October 2020]

Whoa. One of the best shows I've seen. Filled with real human drama, excellent cinematography, outstanding talent. My only grievance is the portrayal of the two main baddies - way too comic-booky for my humble taste.

Everything else works, though. IU gave an outstanding performance as a wronged young woman, the male lead was a strong match. Very little melodrama, plenty of action, the dialogues are brilliant, observant, and the English translation is superb, at least for the Netflix version. Each scene is full of meaning and propels the story forward. Loved how the characters developed and didn't stay static.

Along with Black, this will probably be one of the very few shows I'll rewatch later on.

Wowwwww

[madskmace · 10/10 · 23 June 2020]

This drama is heart wrenchingly real. It is bleak, depressing, heavy, frightening but there is moments of light, love, humour and friendship. It is beautifully written, acted, filmed, edited and produced. I can't really explain what this drama is about - but mainly it is just about life and how we all get through it. With a little help a long the way by those that love us. This show is recommended to anyone - not just kdrama lovers. It has become amongst my top 5 for sure.

Bittersweet and Remember - Every Relationship Is Precious

[vivianla · 7 July 2020]

I love the opening song of this drama - it sounds like tinkling cheerfulness. The animation is so pretty with the characters walking and Korean characters. There are at least two songs I like in this drama - one with female voice and one with male voice.

Dong-hoon is the ideal man - he is trustworthy, reliable, honest. He has this maturity and a very deep voice. I like the maturity in older men and can understand why Ji-an fell for him. He wears a suit and tie with a shoulder bag.

His wife cheats on him with his boss. One of the worst cheating scenarios out there. They show lots of passionate kissing between them and intimacy. It made me sad that him and his wife did not even kiss at all in the drama. There is no intimate scenes between them, only viewers can imagine.

Ji-an is a compassionate person who does the right thing while working with bad people. She is so cute looking and pretty. IU was 25 years old and she plays a woman born in 1998 (20 years old). The casual outfits she wears are cute and suit her. I love the Converse, skinny jeans and button-down looks she tends to wear.

The personal issues in Dong-hoon's and Ji-an's lives seem difficult to resolve. They come from different walks of life, have different incomes and each have their own problems that correspond with their stage in life. Dong-hoon is in his forties while Ji-an is in her twenties.

One person could change your life. This drama reinforces the message to be kind. Every relationship is fascinating and precious. Be happy to pay back.

I was really sad as I was secretly rooting for our main characters to become a couple although I knew in the back of my mind that it was unlikely. They look so good together and personalities suit each other. I love their restaurant and bar scenes where they are comfortable in each other's presence. It is a break from all the troubles in their lives.

I love the neighbourhood gang and their compassion. We see the older adults taking Ji-an under their wing and giving eye smiles radiating with compassion for her.

Ji-an's state in poverty has reminded me to be frugal and work hard. Save for a rainy day. Spend time doing the things that really matter. See grandma as much as possible. The connections in your life are more valuable than anything else.

Good Enough

[PennyReviews · 7/10 · 18 May 2018]

My mister is an odd drama with an interesting, unique plot. The first two episodes were so confusing, that I had to put it off and actually concidere dropping it. Fortunatelly, I didn't. The plot grows thick and everything falls in place after episode three, when we get to see the characters, their struggles and their real personalities and figure out what everyone seeks for. Ji Ahn was a nice character. She was poor, and she had given up on escaping her situation any time soon. Her mister, the boss of her department where she works part time, seems a simple guy with family issues but eventually, everyone around him plot for his fall. All the characters of the drama were unique and interesting, though that actress was kind of annoying at some point. I also enjoyed the fact that the story didn't follow any romantic twist, but stayed true to its dark, slice of life focus. So, great performances, great story and great characters.

Stretches Credibility

[brenly2000 · 4/10 · 11 January 2024]

Just finished episode three. It's getting worse, not better. Character behaviour borders on the non sensical at times and I'm at a loss for some of the Character motivations.

Is the.main male character dumb? The female main character seems to be some sort of highly trained agent specialising in covert ops, so much so it is implausible. Perhaps some twist will justify her skill set in a later episode, but I doubt it somehow.

I can't understand the high rating for this show. Alchemy of Souls was far better as was Hotel Del Luna.

I'd be happy to be proved wrong, with more realistic plotting, clear motivations and sensible behaviour.

Ifthis show makes me cry, if will be a result if frustration.