Didn't like the introduction of them while kids everything about it felt disingenuous. Pacing issues were too obvious to ignore. The plot moves extremely slow +10 episodes for every single event with little to no side plots to keep you occupied. The problems didn't end there, the drama suffered from the extreme low tension in its writing. Most of the events that were suppose to create tension were caused by health problems. Speaking of which, they pulled the health problems card way too many times on too many characters. Regardless of the historical accuracy but that was poor storytelling for how it was implemented. Which leads me to my next point, regular boring side characters would usually get a 12 course meal for their affairs while super important characters would be cut off short and not get the same treatment. The important characters were robbed off of their climax too. Anyway, the drama had technical issues, the same scene can have different color grading between different angles. The drama had some nice moments with the leads but that's were most of its appeal ends.

I believe it was a ratings juggernaut in Korea when it was broadcast. Other networks delayed release of their drama's as to not compete with it. This is one of the greatest tv shows i have ever seen. I have seen it at least 3x and own the box set. One aspect i like is how we come into this drama in the world of the children who will grow into the adult main characters for the entire show. Sets quite a backdrop. The acting is top notch.. the production is top notch.. there was nothing about this drama i did not like. (endings are not always the bests but the ride is worth it) Fictional story based on a real person. One of my all time favorites. Discovering Korean Movies and TV has opened a whole new wonderful universe of content. Sure you probably have to read subtitles, but after a few hours.. i didn't even notice i was reading them. Great watch! 10/10!