SEOULMATES: A KDrama Podcast For The People (Kim & Maddie)

Kim and Maddie watch the first two episodes of Weightlifting Fairy (hi, baby Nam Joo-hyuk) and decide whether it’s a Yah or Nahh. Okay, let’s be real, it was always going to be a YAH. They discuss their hopes + dreams for the show, the two leads’ hilarious first meetings, and more athleisure (including another leading man in shorts!!!!).

The 2019 KDrama, Extraordinary You, has been on the SEOULMATES radar for awhile and in a late night moment of spontaneity, Maddie started binging (classic), so Kim quickly followed suit. After the first two episodes, they talk about the trippy plot, the hilarious FL, and our mysterious ML. Other discussion points include: which A3 boy is the 2nd cutest ~ after Lee Jae-wook ofc ~ (plz cast your votes!!!) and our guesses for the show moving forward (based on literally nothing). Also shout out to ya boy Lee Jae-wook for wearing shorts!!! again!!!! keep it coming bby!!!!!!

In part two of this mini-series on Astro, Kim and Maddie discuss the group’s newest album, All Yours, which released last week! They guess each other’s fav song as well as talk their takes on best moments, best looks from the MV and of course, toss in some big appreciation for maybe the coolest guy in all of KPop, JinJin!!!

RECS

One MV: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XxlsLmHwCSk

One Dance Practice: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pU4kZFsmcVg

Kim and Maddie decided to try Love in the Moonlight after it came highly recommended by some of their new Kdrama pals. (Link below to join the discord chat!!!) It’s off to a strong start featuring Bogummie, a fun plot, and lots of shenanigans. They share their initial thoughts and everything they are looking forward to as the show progresses. Come for the gushing over Bogummie, stay for the many She’s The Man references!!! (#doyoulikecheese)

Discord chat link: http://discord.gg/kWqpcZya

Kim and Maddie rewatched the first episode of the 2017 KDrama Strong Woman Do Bong-soon to get ready for the full review (coming soon!!). They share their Do Bong-soon origin stories and talk through the basic plot set up. They also discuss the already simmering chemistry between the leads, the central conflicts, and of course, spend a lot of time on Park Hyung-sik's face.

After hearing all the buzz around the new show, True Beauty, Kim and Maddie try it out and decide whether it’s a Yah or Nahh for them (spoiler alert, Yah all the way!). They talk their new love for leading actor Cha Eun-woo’s real life Kpop group, Maddie’s affinity for Twilight, and all the questions they want answered.

Kim and Maddie recently revisited Maddie's first Kdrama ever, The Liar and His Lover (2017) and figured it was about time for a full review. They discuss sweet So-rim winning prod K over, Han-gyul ~eventually~ figuring out how to balance music + relationships, and the real ship - Crude Play's leader Shi-hyun and the sole employee of Sole Music Soo-yeon (also a noona romanca aka Maddie's dream lol). Other talking points include: Crude Play being the real MVPs (seriously the amount of grace those boys give Han-gyul is impressive), going back and forth between Chan-young being a weenie but also feeling a little bad for him, and of course, mini rankings of Crude Play's discography / the various versions of 'I'm Okay.'

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Categories: The Skinny (5:03), MVP Characters (8:28), Tenderest of Moments (26:13), Spicy Moments (48:42), Swoonies (54:15), Weenies (1:05:41), Thoughts on the ending (1:25:06)

Kim and Maddie finally got around to trying the long-awaited, popularly requested My Roommate is a Gumiho and WOW what a ride. They talk about our ML (the most attractive CrudePlay boy??? iykyk) and conduct some research on what exactly a gumiho is. Also discussed: the quickly advancing plot (we get to the point in like the first 10 minutes lol), how well FL seems to be coping, and all the questions around how this relationship will work.

Kim and Maddie started the 2020 Kdrama, Do You Like Brahms, and decided it was a Yah! They give their initial thoughts on the first two episodes, which include some appreciation for Joon-young’s fits (ripped jeans and black shirts, OKAY), the music themes, and some spicy moments already (page-turning anyone??).

Happy official 1 year anni to the SEOULMATES pod!! In honor of this day, Kim and Maddie rewatched ep 1 (and 2) of the 2017 KDrama, The Liar and His Lover, starring Lee Hyun-woo as the legendary Prod K and Joy as sweet Yoon So-rim. They discuss how this show started it all (+ is basically the reason the pod exists lol) because it launched Maddie right off the KDrama cliff. They also talk through the plot, the musical genius of Prod K, the (cringey??) age gap relationships, and of course, mourn CrudePlay being a fictional group. (y'all go queue up Peterpan and In Your Eyes... BOPS!) Also just FYI this episode includes some spoilers because we’ve already seen the whole thing, apologies!

Kim and Maddie (kind of) finished the 2021 KDrama My Roommate is a Gumiho, with some episode recaps to help them out. They make a serious case for why Sun-woo sunbae was the real MVP and deserved so much more as well as some general confusion for why any of the males liked Dam. They discuss the side characters / ships that kept them invested (plot twist: Kim shed actual tears during one of the confessions lol) and the ending that didn't make that much sense. Nothing against either lead actors, but this show isn't making Kim and Maddie's fav list BUT they look forward to gushing about Jang Ki-yong aka the drummer (and LEAD RAPPER) of Crude Play soon. (stay tuned for some fun eps in honor of the one year anni of the SEOULMATES pod!!)

Kim and Maddie review Her Private Life, a 2019 KDrama that is certainly worth the binge. They discuss Deok-Mi’s relatable double life as a professional (those suits!!!) by day and fangirl by night, all the fake out kisses, and their own personal fangirl experiences (hey Steph Curry, hi Scotty McCreery).

Kim and Maddie watched the 2018 KDrama Tempted in June and made it through only with a lot of fast-forwarding (every parent in this show is a weenie don’t @ us). They talk through the main couple, Su-ji and Se-joo going rogue and the undeniable charm of Kim Min-Jae.

Eric 'No Skips' Nam is at it again folks!!! He released his new album, There and Back Again, on Jan 7 and it's very very GOOD. Kim and Maddie guess each other's fav songs (spoiler alert, Kim still has no clue what kind of music Madison likes), talk through some of the lyrics, and agree to fight whoever broke Eric's heart. Also discussed: a few intro fun facts, the upcoming tour (see u there Bri Bri), Kim comparing fan-girling to discipleship (LOL), and more. (If you have never heard of Eric Nam until now - first of all, welcome to #NamNation, and secondly, plz go listen to our Ep 2 which is a more in-depth intro to Eric and his music.)

Kim and Maddie review the 2015 KDrama, Oh My Ghost, starring one of their all-time favs Park Bo-Young. While the show had some nice moments, overall they liken it to a beach read, a nice little binge that keeps you going in the moment, but not something you would necessarily re-watch. Tune in for the story of Maddie’s legendary viewing experience and enjoy.

Kim and Maddie welcome their first ever guest to the SEOULMATES pod, their good friend and fellow kpop/kdrama lover, Amelia! As the biggest carat they know and the one who introduced them to Seventeen, it was only appropriate to have her on the pod for this two-parter. Due to the sheer number of members and the amount of love for each one, part one of this KPop Break is literally only an intro to the group and the guys. Topics of discussion include: Mingyu being everyone's ~real~ bias, Amelia's impressive knowledge of classic Verny lines (but also why their commonalities drive her love for him), Hannie coming in hot as Kim's SVT boyfriend, and Maddie's day one devotion to Joshy Hong.

For part two of their EXO mini-series, Kim and Maddie decided to binge watch the webseries, EXO Next Door, starring both their biases and their fav girl Moon Ga-young. The plot is a hot mess (I mean what can you really do in 12 minute episodes lol) but they still loved every minute. This episode is pretty chaotic so plz be warned.

Kim and Maddie BARELY made it to the end of Doom At Your Service and when they got there, they still had lots of questions. They try to piece together the plot, discuss all the things that didn’t work and lament how the writers failed our two leads and their 10/10 chemistry.

Kim and Maddie take a quick (but actually pretty long) break from KDramas this week to talk BTS. They share their own personal introductions to the group, discuss their favorite things about each member, and give some recs for anyone who hasn’t yet listened to them. Other notable points include: the number of times Kim listened to “Moon” in 2020 (hint: it’s a lot!!!!), memories from In the Soop / the online concerts, and how their love for BTS has brought them closer as roomies + friends. 

Squid Game is sweeping the world (Netflix #1 in the US!!!) so despite knowing it would likely freak them out, Kim and Maddie give episode one a try (in the middle of the day so as to not have nightmares). They discuss the setup, reasons why it's blown up and read spoilers for the rest of the season. If you are like us and want to know the deets to stay relevant but don't want to watch the whole thing, this is the ep for you!

In part 2 of their Ateez KPop Break, Kim and Maddie break down the newest album, Fever: Part 3 (released Sept 13). As always, they guess each other's favorite songs ("don't look at me, I'm ashamed" -Kim, probably) and run through some standout moments. Also discussed: what IS melody?? (ft. another great sports analogy) and trying to make sense of the song translations.

Drum roll please... welcome to the inaugural SEOULMATES Choice Awards!!!! Kim and Maddie kick things off by looking back at the shows they watched in 2020 (many spoilers ahead) and hand out some superlatives including some overall best of's and many MISC (best hair, best athleisure, best ost moment, etc. to name a few). They end with swoonies and worst of's but the real highlight of the episode is Madison's pick for wasted space - it's really the only acceptable answer. (Stay tuned for The 2021 SEOULMATES Choice Awards next week!)

Kim and Maddie review the 2020 Netflix Original, Record of Youth, starring two 10/10’s - Park Bo-gum + Park So-dam. While those two bring all the star power, the best sad eyes in the biz and create the cutest of first meetings, the show was a little bit of a let down. Kim and Maddie chat about some of the deeper themes, show some major appreciation for Bogummie’s acting range, and shout out all the outfits they wish they could recreate.

Kim and Maddie review the 2019 Kdrama, Angel’s Last Mission: Love, a 10/10 binge. They discuss Yeon-seo’s resilience, Angel Dan’s dimples, and express some ~slight~ dissatisfaction with the ending. In all honesty, probs not a rewatch kind of show but it was enjoyable while it lasted.

Our Beloved Summer wrapped up last week on Netflix so of course Kim and Maddie had to talk through all their feels. They discuss the many, many tendy moments, the journey of growth for each of our characters, Woong raising the standard for men and the genius style of writing. Other MVP's include: the OST, Woong's hair, Ji-woong's sad puppy eyes, and just Ep 16 in general. OBS, you are a 10/10 and def our new starter kdrama rec for the locals. #woongsu4ever

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Categories: The Skinny (4:28), MVP Characters (11:22), Tender Moments (35:36), LOL's (1:14:32), Swoony/Spicy (1:23:37), Weenies (1:40:08), Reasons why Ep. 16 is a BANGER (1:47:45), Ranking update!! (2:05:55)

Welcome to a two part mini-series on a relatively recent fav KPop group, Astro!!! In this short but slightly chaotic intro episode for the group, Kim and Maddie discuss how they got into Astro (hey True Beauty), share tidbits about the members (hi JinJin), throw out some fav songs and discuss various dance practice videos.

RECS

Knock Dance Practice: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-y7aXFRJESg

Crazy, Sexy, Cool Dance Practice: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lOlQJ9VO2rM

Kim and Maddie review the Netflix Original Do Do Sol Sol La La Sol, a show that certainly kept them guessing with ALL the plot twists. They debate whether Jun is an MVP character or a weenie (hot take!!!!!) as well as talk about some of their favorite tender moments, Maddie’s conspiracy theories, and Kim’s love of leading men in shorts!

Kim and Maddie decided to finally watch Goblin, lest their kdrama podcast mics get taken away for not having watched this ~classic~ show. This 2017 kdrama is still widely referenced and two episodes in, it's easy to see why - an adorable FL, two tall and v attractive male leads (seriously, those jaw lines could cut through glass!!!), and an intruiguing plot setup. Kim might need a hot sec to get on board with this low key cringey age gap, but this show is everything Madison could ever dream of and more. They talk through the first two episodes, the questions they want to see answered, and lots of references to Gong Yoo's face bc we're only human ya know.

In part 2 of this Seventeen KPop Break, Kim and Maddie are back with their guest and friend Amelia, to run through some mini-rankings of fav songs, performances/choreo, and Going Seventeen moments. Big winners include: the Anyone racecar track concept (give everyone a raise for that bad boy), Gam3 Bo1 for appearing on someone's top 5 songs, and 24H (the song but also the performance which is maybe the best everyone has ever looked). Also shout out to Seventeen for being comedy kings - we could've easily talked about gose eps for hours.

Kim and Maddie take a break from Kdramas to talk some Kpop and this month features their newish interest in SuperM, a supergroup formed under SM Entertainment (shout out to The Ringer for the intro!!). They discuss the different members, some of their fav songs, notes from Maddie’s flurry of Youtube viewing, and some unabashed fangirling over ya boi Mark Lee.

RECS

we jopping: https://open.spotify.com/track/5WrEilrRI5cIW0DxMvQYPZ?si=zJiqDp7TR0KKCS0KyLVhAQ

follow ya boi Mark Lee on the 'gram: https://www.instagram.com/onyourm__ark/?hl=en

ANNOUNCEMENT!! 

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Maddie is launching her very own KDrama Review Podcast: YA GIRL MADDIE! Give it a listen on Spotify and check it out @yagirlmaddie_pod ~ Episode 1 is already out! 

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(https://open.spotify.com/episode/20TOpfNuBJBmZnvYZyEU1g?si=ZUtFdiDARL6yJMY5_9S53w)

Kim and Maddie finally get around to reviewing one of their fav shows, Strong Woman Do Bong-soon. And by fav shows, they mean fav main ship because tbh not much else is memorable. BUT Park-Hyung-sik and Park Bo-young have CHEMISTRY and carry the show on their backs. Kim and Maddie talk through the couple's many memorable moments, President Ahn's swoony patience, and Bong-soon's personal growth. They also discuss Park Hyung-sik's face, Gook-doo's shortcomings, and all the other side plots + characters that probs can be skipped (#nojudgementzone).

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Categories: The Skinny (8:30), MVP's (11:30), Tenderest of Moments (23:15), LOL's (50:44), Hoo-Joon Swoonies (57:38), Spicy Moments (1:04:08), Weenies (1:10:13), Thoughts on the Ending (1:13:22)

Kim and Maddie are halfway through Business Proposal (this is technically an After 6 lol) and wanted to do a quick check-in. They talk through the first half, make some predictions for the second half, and then answer the classic 10 questions from the red solo cup. Topics discussed include: Kang Tae-moo's impeccable fashion, Kim Se-jeong's comedic range, our second lead couple stealing the show, one recast wish, and the best skinship moment (it's so obvious Kim couldn't even breathe between the question and the answer lol).

Kim and Maddie watched the first two epsiodes of yet another currently airing Netflix original, Business Proposal ft. every single Kdrama trope known to man! They discuss the ridiculous nature of the show so far, but talk through why it's working for them. Reasons include: the plot set up (tropey but we aren't complaining - fake dating! catfishing! long, drawn-out, slow mo sequences! give us more!!!!), Shin Ha-ri's unhingedness (and why it's relatable), bff vibes (both the girls and the #bromance), Ahn Hyo-seop's face, and Kim Min-kyu's face. Actual comps made: Hannah Montana, Lizzie McGuire, What's Wrong with Secretary Kim and 1% of Something. Warning: this ep is about as unhinged as Ha-ri is in both her forms running away from Pres Kang sorry not sorry.

Kim and Maddie watched the final two episodes of True Beauty that aired this week (is anyone else experiencing post show hangover from this??) and reviewed it all in the same weekend (what a time to be alive!!). They discuss Ju-kyung’s character growth (you go girl!!) and another case of Second Lead Syndrome. Plus, Maddie defends Su-ho’s weenie moments and Kim talks about her wish for Seo-jun to have some choreo in his idol career.

For Part 2, Kim and Maddie review the 2017 KDrama, Fight For My Way, starring Kim’s beloved Park Seo-joon. They discuss the fun moments between the two leads, the secondary relationship snoozefest (but shout out to sweet Seol-hee), and mainly just talk about all the reasons why PSJ as Dong-man is Kim’s ideal man (hint: lots of athleisure and goofy smiles). Discord Chat link (come say hi!!!): https://discord.gg/d34a6rWwgy

Kim and Maddie were PUMPED to hear their boy Park Hyung-sik was making his TV comeback, looking better than ever. However, they were not prepared for the roller coaster ride of episode 1. They discuss the plot, their predictions for where the show is heading and of course, speak at lengths about PHS in his groutfit and looking beefier than ever. (note: after a good night's sleep and pondering the beauty of PSH, they decided to give ep 2 a try and might now be watching the show in its entirety. ALL FOR YOU PARK HYUNG-SIK!!!)

In honor of Thanksgiving, a holiday that revolves around food and being thankful, Kim and Maddie are dropping a fun mid-week ep on BTS In the Soop 2, aka approx 350 minutes of their seven fav guys talking about food, eating food, eating more food, and reflecting on their thankfulness for each other and this journey they are on. Kim and Maddie discuss fav moments, including their dark horse MVP, the chaotic maknae line, lots of Namjooning (ft aRMs), Jimin the slytherian (ft Hobi), and their fav chefs - Jin and Yoongi - as well as of course dive into the members' personalities and how those shine through in the soop soop soop soop soo-loo-loo-loop (woah woah woaaaaah baby).

If you’re a friend of The SEOULMATES Pod then you probably know that Princess Hours (aired in 2006) has a v special place in Kim’s heart as her first Kdrama ever in 2008. Maddie has been planning on watching at ~some~ point but when the first news of the remake was announced, she figured now was as good a time as any! After watching the first seven episodes, they talk through some of Maddie’s initial thoughts and reactions (the hair!!! the fashion!!!!! the flip phones!!!!! the plot which STILL stands up!!!) as well as decide Cha Eun-woo is currently their first choice to play Shin Goon in the remake (but only because Kim Seon-ho is probs a little out of age range it’s fine).

Kim and Maddie review the recently concluded KDrama, So I Married The Anti-Fan, a show that wasn’t particularly deep but gave them almost everything they wanted. They discuss Geun-young’s relatability and introduce a new category named in honor of Hoo-Joon. Other talking points include: all the reasons why JJ is the literal worst, a mini-ranking of the different versions of Pop Star, and all the Hoo-Joon outfits that live in our minds rent free.

To ease back into the podcasting swing of things (or szn 2 as someone insists on thinking about it), Kim and Maddie decided to intro a new segment they are calling "KPopp'd" (no e, bc e's are EW), which will likely be chaotic and full of mini-rankings. In this first enstallment, they cover Maddie's conversion to all things Ten, Johnny + Mark 5ever, and Ateez. Other topics discussed include: Lucky One supremacy, Run BTS!, and Chen as Benny in the Korean ver. of 'In the Heights'?!????!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! #dreamy (there is footy on YouTube kids!) They also make a last minute pitch for why Dive Studios should want their ~tAleNt~ (#bribriorbust).

Kim and Maddie started the 2016 Kdrama, Love in the Moonlight, a couple of months ago. However, after a promising start, they struggled to make it to the end. In their final review, they discuss what didn’t work for them, talk about the charm of Bogummie despite not loving a couple of his shows so far, and their love for the long-haired guard friend.

Kim and Maddie have booked it through the first half of Goblin and by popular request, hopped on the mics for an After 8 ep. They quickly talk through where they stand currently, as compared to when the show started, and they both still basically have their same original stances. Then they answer some more fun questions including best ost moment, best fit, and biggest cry. See y'all on the flip side where things better make sense or Kim is going to lose it on air.

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Time stamps: Initial thoughts on 1 - 8 (1:41), Biggest plot twist (9:55), Biggest winner (13:34), Best skinship moment (16:30), Best cry moment (19:44), Tastiest food award (22:00), Do Do Sol Sol Random Murder Plot Award (23:38), Biggest loser (26:00), Biggest prediction (27:24), Best outfit (30:05), Best OST moment (33:35)

Each month, Kim and Maddie’s fun KDrama Discord chat fam (link in bio to join!!! come say hi!!!!!) does a watch party and for May, everyone is watching the 2020 show, 18 Again. This show is based on 17 Again, the classic Zac Efron movie, which if you are a friend of this podcast, you know Kim and Maddie reference him like every two seconds so it’s no surprise they’re ALL IN here. After watching the first two episodes, they discuss some of the similarities to the movie, but also talk about all the fresh depth this show is bringing so far. Plus, Maddie shares why this might be the first show to effectively use flashbacks to get her in her feels and Kim talks about the many reasons Dae-young might be her ideal man (basketball? athleisure? yes plz!!!)

Link to join the Discord Chat: http://discord.gg/kWqpcZya

In this two part mini-series, Kim and Maddie watched beloved shows that the other would not have watched on their own. First up, the 2018 Kdrama 100 Days My Prince which is in Maddie’s Top 5 of all time (and jump started her OBSESSION over Do Kyung-soo aka D.O. of EXO). They discuss Won-deukie’s sweet one-liners (men take note!!!), our spunky heroine, her attractive assassin brother, the OST (might be on Maddie’s 2021 Spotify Wrapped at this point) and Kim makes a v last minute case for 100 Days as a musical (ft some choreo from our boy).

RECS:

The Eve Dance Practice: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b6ycw7p9-bE

Wondeukie teaching the cast some choreo: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F1_pma9bK-M

Kim and Maddie give their full (and we mean FULL, aka 2 hour long) review of the 2006 KDrama Princess Hours - the show that got it all started. They gush about main girl Chae-kyung, discuss some of Shin’s tenderest moments (love a good back hug), talk about their long list of weenies (Shin?? hot take weenie anyone!!!), and vent about the political heavy plot. While this show will always be a classic, they also discuss things they hope the remake improves.

Categories: The skinny (4:19), MVP’s (8:45), Tenderest of moments (27:02), LOL’s (1:13:22), Spicy moments (1:17:36), Weenies (1:24:43), Thoughts on the ending (1:37:13) + MISC (1:49:42)!!!

Kim and Maddie introduce a new segment called Yah or Nahh where they watch the first two episodes of a show and decide if it’s worth binging. First up, they try the new Netflix Original, Run On, and discuss the awko conversations, Sun-Kyum’s terrible running form, and all the athleisure outfits as they make their decision.

Everyone has a journey to becoming hardcore KDrama bingers. For some it’s gradual, for others it’s more like jumping off a cliff. (Because let's be real, seeing Hyun Bin's dimples for the first time is a life changing experience.) In this intro episode, Kim and Maddie share their individual stories towards obsession, the shows that hooked them, how it has brought them closer as friends + roommates, AND how it resulted in this podcast!

Maddie and Kim recap and review the new(ish) Netflix Original, Start-Up, AKA the show that saved 2020! They discuss their favorite characters, how every single moment between Halmeoni and Good Boy made them cry (and other tender moments), if the kiss was ~possibly~ the best KDrama kiss of all time, and ALL their thoughts about the ending. Categories: The Skinny (06:55), MVP Characters (12:23), The Tenderest of Moments (42:30), Spicy Moments (1:28:08), Weenies (1:52:30), Thoughts on the Ending (1:57:55), Kim & Maddie Ranking Update (2:07:18)

Kim and Maddie take a (quick) break from KDramas to convince their KPop fav ERIC NAM to be their BFF. They chat up his best songs, react to his Wiki page (Man of the Year by GQ Korea?!), and even recite an original ode written just for him. 

Look up Eric Nam, y'all! You won't be sorry. (And Eric - just let us know when you wanna come on the show).

Kim watched the first two episodes, Maddie jumped in on episode three and now they are HOOKED. (Seriously, who wouldn't be? Forbidden love between an angel and a human?? SPICY!!) In this Yah or Nahh episode of the 2019 Kdrama, Angel’s Last Mission: Love, Kim talks how she found the show, how the leading man's dimples live up to her standards, and Maddie compares yet another drama to Twilight. 

Kim and Maddie review Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok-joo, a 2016 KDrama, which was Nam Joo-hyuk’s first leading role and he did NOT disappoint. They discuss the show’s deeper themes, including mental health + Kim Bok-joo’s insecurities as a woman, some hot take weenies, and their fav LOL moments (#swag).

Introducing another new segment! In these "After 8" episodes, Kim and Maddie will answer various questions after they hit the midway point of shows. The show in question today is Hometown Cha Cha Cha and topics discussed include: best fits (there's an obvious answer), questions they still have (there are a lot), and their dream cameo, plus much more. Hope y'all enjoy and please submit any questions you would like added!

Our After 8 Picks: Biggest answer so far (2:38), Would we re-cast? (5:14), Do Dol Sol Sol Murder Plot Award (6:40), Biggest questions we still have (8:54), Best cameo + the one we want!! (11:05), Best outfit (12:40), Most intriguing moment (16:32), Biggest plot twist (18:50), Biggest LOL so far (21:20), & Tastiest food award (24:30) 

Kim and Maddie are still slightly distraught over Hometown Cha Cha Cha coming to an end, but they work past it to record their FULL review. They talk through Hye-jin's character growth in Gongjin, Hong Banjang healing from his traumatic past and the couple's mature, adult relationship (you LOVE to see it). Other discussion topics include: the abundance of children (shout out to the baby who was never seen again iykyk), Kim Seon-ho's RANGE, and the sweetest Halmeoni as well as the loving community of townspeople and working through their individual stories. There also may be way too much gushing over PD-nim sorry not sorry including: mini ranking of outfits and accessories (the glasses though!!!!), how he raised the standard for men, and the NEED for a spin-off kdrama for him and writer Ji-won. This show handled so many sensitive topics in a beautiful and poignant way and it's going to be hard to move on from the sweetest of seaside villages (brb SOBBING).

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TIME STAMPS:  SEOULMIE Name Reveal! (00:38),  Welcome, first time listeners! (3:24),  The skinny (6:35), ALL THE MVP'S (12:00), Our main ship + all the feels (47:50), Adorable moments from everyone else (1:24:00), Kim Seon-ho acting range appreciation (1:49:24), LOL's (1:57:23), Our leading men's fashion (2:07:39), all aboard the PD-Nim / writer Ji-won ship!! (2:16:05), Weenies (2:27:17), Thoughts on the ending (2:32:24), What's Next for SEOULMATES? (2:52:32)

Love Alarm (a 2019 Netflix Original) was on both Kim and Maddie’s radars. So during a lull between shows and before Season 2's release, they decided to give it a try and Nahh'd it hard. They break down what wasn’t working for them (angst CENTRAL), toss out some alternative story lines, and welcome any arguments for why it should be given a second chance (AKA if Jojo chooses the friend, let us know plz).

Kim and Maddie took a big pivot this week and spontaneously started binging the 2015 Kdrama, Oh My Venus. The plot is problematic, but the two leads are intruiging and their chemistry is already off the charts. Plus the three musketeers ft. our boy John Kim, the Korean Snake, and yet another kdrama character named Ji-woong are a dream. (Spoiler alert: after recording we binged three more episodes so it's a Yah for us!)

Kim and Maddie watched the 2020 Kdrama, 18 Again, with their discord friends and give their full review (apologies for the length, time stamps for the different categories are below to help navigate lol). This show has so many deeply moving moments, not just between our two leads, but also as we see Dae-young the dad through the years. (sobbing!!!) Kim and Maddie discuss all their fav tender moments, the many reasons why Da-jung is the goat of leading ladies, and cheering for Ji-ho to get out of the friend-zone. Plus, Maddie talks her fav age-gap tension moments, Kim runs through her long list of weenies, and they give some love to Hwang In-yeop and yet another character of his who they want to find happiness after some 10/10 character growth! ... Cute BTS of the cast: https://youtu.be/u_RB0DGktLI ... Categories: the skinny (04:57), MVP’s (09:48), ~tenderest~ of moments (42:36), LOL’s (2:09:41), spicy moments (2:14:16), weenies (2:31:40), and thoughts on the ending (2:41:19)

Happy Valentine's Day Seoulmies!!!! Kim and Maddie decided to hand out some last minute superlatives in honor of this day, for both kdrama characters and some kpop boys. Categories include most likely to: forget vday, plan a romantic date, give the best gift, be the most annoying on insta and many more. Hope y'all enjoy and if you don't, we probs won't ever do it again lol

Kim and Maddie get on the mics to react in real time to their 2021 Spotify Wrappeds. There are a few surprises, but let's be real, they mostly knew what was awaiting them and both feel v good about their top songs. (Head to (28:00) for our complete list of 2021 KPop recs!!)

Kim and Maddie gave the first two episodes of Thirty Nine (currently airing on Netflix) a try after it was requested by many Seoulmies and it more than exceeded their expectations. It's a sweet story of friendship and love ft. some cute boys, a definite weenie, and some uncertain futures for our main characters. Shout out to unnie and sweet little Hoon from the orphanage, they might be the real MVP's! But also to our three leading ladies (Son Ye-jin you are a QUEEN), their chemistry as friends really carries this show so far.

Kim and Maddie watch the first four episodes of Netflix’s Korean remake of A Love So Beautiful and are divided on whether it’s a Yah or Nahh. They debate whether Heon is a weenie (Kim makes a strong argument for why he is) and discuss Maddie’s love for the original Chinese drama.

Brb crying because we're halfway through Twenty Five Twenty One and we don't want it to ever end!! Kim and Maddie hopped on the mics to answer some questions, including: biggest plot twist, biggest laugh, tastiest food, and more. They didn't draw a question about outfits, but they run through some favs anyways, including: the Korean national team atheisure (FILA hook us up), Hee-do's tomboy looks, Moon Ji-woong's green sweater vest, and of course, our boy Nam Joo-hyuk in anything and everything - from a plain navy tshirt to a suit and everything in between. Also the glasses. #bless

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QUESTIONS: Best OST Moment (3:35), Dreamiest Scenery (5:08), Biggest Plot Twist (6:23), Who would we re-cast? (7:57), Biggest Loser (10:42), Biggest Winner (12:58), Biggest Answer (14:22), Best episode thus far (15:12), Tastiest Food Award (17:58), Our FAV FITS (18:56), and Biggest Laugh (22:42). 

For all the Seoulmies who have been asking for the deets from the Eric Nam concert experience, this ep is for you. Kim and Maddie detail some backstory for their pal (and hopefully future boss?) Brian - CEO of DIVE Studios. (If he ever decides to listen ofc - skip to 8:35 for the rest of the Seoulmies who know this). Kim and Maddie talk through the events of meeting Bri Bri in the flesh, and also discuss the actual concert (to quote Eric: "once you've seen me, every other concert will feel lame." and tbh, he may be right). Tl;dr - Maddie low key blacked out, we actually met Brian way faster than imagined, and Eric Nam is the king of bops and body rolls.

At the halfway point of My Roommate is a Gumiho, Kim and Maddie run through some 'After 8' questions. They discuss some of the plot holes, the winners so far, laughs and definitely show some appreciation for the abundance of pea coats. Categories: Random Murder Plot Award! (3:00), Best Skinship Moment (4:48), Best LOL (6:30), Best Episode Thus Far (9:00), Biggest Plot Twist (10:20), Have any of our questions been answered?? (12:14), Who's the Biggest Winner? (15:23), PEA COAT APPRECIATION (18:20), Best OST Moment (21:55), Dreamiest Scenery (23:40). Aaaand - What's Next for the SEOULMATES Pod? (30:04)

Kim and Maddie watched the first two episodes of the newly airing show, Jirisan, and just W O W. They knew very little going in besides the two main leads (SHIN GOOOOON), but they were gripped immediately. They talk through the plot set up ft. different timelines, the abundance of sportswear, the chemistry between our two leads, and the gorgeous backdrop of Mt. Jiri. Also discussed: our real MVP (the drone), the mystical element, theories for what is happening, and looking forward to the Jin OST!

Knock knock. Who’s there? Oh it's us, we’re dummies because we waited until THIS YEAR to get into EXO. It may have taken us awhile, but we’re all in on EXO now. In part one of this mini-series, Kim and Maddie talk about their individual turning points, the members (we tried to put Maddie on a time limit for her gushing about D.O.), fav songs, and all the moments that live in Kim’s head rent free!

In part three (!!!!!!) of their EXO mini-series, Kim and Maddie review EXO’s latest album, Don’t Fight The Feeling which was released on June 7. They guess each other’s fav songs, read through some of the lyric translations, and Kim listens to Maddie recap many EXO Arcade moments.

Kim and Maddie review Business Proposal, a show that gave them almost everything they needed ft. literally every single trope known to man (Maddie runs through a full list if anyone is curious lol). They discuss the four main characters, all the moments that had them swooning, and some major weenies (looking at u Minwoo) before diving into feeling let down by the ending. While BP mostly understood the assignment, the commitment to all the tropes eventually was their downfall.

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CATEGORIES: The skinniest of all skinnies (3:33), MVP Characters (4:40), Tender moments (28:38), LOL's (56:41), Spicy (1:03:20), Swoony (1:10:40), Maddie's Comprehensive Trope List (1:15:47), Weenies (1:19:05), The ending and why it let us down (1:24:58)

Kim and Maddie were a couple of days late to the first two episodes of Twenty Five Twenty One, but man they did not disappoint! They came to this currently airing kdrama for their boy Nam Joo-hyuk, but might be staying more for Kim Tae-ri as Na Hee-do. They discuss her feistiness, the way she's seamlessly pulling off a high school character (the dramatics, the tears, you name it!!!), and why Baek Yi-jin seems so intruiged by her already. They also talk through what is known about Yi-jin's backstory at this point and enjoying an ~edgy~ NJH character. Other notes include: our smooth talking sk8r boi Moon Ji-woong, the hard to read gold medalist Ko Yu-rim (all aboard the ship ppl!!!) and potential answers to the biggest question of the whole show.

For the last ep of the year, Kim and Maddie thought it only right that they hand out some awards for the shows they watched in 2021 (spoilers spoilers SPOILERS ahead). They have quite a few unanimous winners but also show much love to the shows they watched individually this fall - The King's Affection and Happiness. They also introduce the characters for whom the Swoonies and Worst Of's were named in honor of and honestly moral of this entire story is that So I Married the Anti-fan might have been their fav of the entire year lol

It’s a new month so you know what that means!!!! It’s watch party time with our discord friends! This month’s show is the 2018 Kdrama, Tempted, starring many SEOULMATES favs, including Maddie’s OG leading lady Joy, recent fav Moon Ga-young and maybe our forever fav Kim Min-jae (also, hello ML’s jaw, we see you). Kim and Maddie discuss their initial thoughts on the first two episodes and talk about the intriguing plot but also the overabundance of side characters. In classic SEOULMATES fashion, they are down to watch episode 3 but also don’t be surprised if they drop it halfway through (or fast forward for just the good stuff).

Kim and Maddie take deep dives into all the Kdramas they have watched and occasionally take a break to rave about their Kpop favorites.

Following the finale of the very recently concluded KDrama, Twenty Five Twenty One (which #falseadvertising they were those ages for 2 seconds), Kim and Maddie spend the first few minutes of this review trying to figure out where they felt the most let down before jumping into the typical SEOULMATES categories. Topics discussed include: the real ship being friendship (seriously those Hee-do/Yu-rim hugs steal the show ppl), Moon Ji-woong and his long list of smooth one liners, Nam Joo-hyuk's acting range (also his stellar running form bc idk if you knew but he's an ~athlete~), and rooting for Hee-do (major props to Kim Tae-ri for slaying this role, what a queen).

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CATEGORIES: Finale talk real quick cause WHY (1:07),  MVP Characters (16:16), Tender Moments (AKA the entire show) (1:00:50), The two moments that made us LOL (1:52:02), Spicy (1:54:43), Kim's breakdown of The Moon Ji-woong Swoon (2:11:53), Weenies (2:20:56), Thoughts on the ending (where to even frickin begin!!??!) (2:25:23)

Many people have been looking forward to the currently airing KDrama, Doom At Your Service, starring a SEOULMATES fav Park Bo-young (and Seo In-guk as the ML). After watching the first two episodes, Kim and Maddie talk about the intriguing premise (oops sorry not sorry for yet another Twilight comparison #thegreatestplotofalltime), the charm of Bo-young, and the fascinating way In-guk is playing the character of Doom.

Kim and Maddie are back with another KPop Break (it's been a MINUTE) about 8 of their fav boys, Ateez! #8makes1team. In part 1 of this mini-series, they talk about this group that is still low key new to the kpop scene but performs like the've been doing it for decades. They discuss the members and, of course, hand out some song recs. They also sidebar for a five minute long rant about Imitation (Yunho, you were great, but MAN Ma-ha let everyone down) - sorry it really had nothing to do with Ateez but we had to get it off our chests (it starts at 31:35 if ya feel like skrrrting that bad boy).

A KDrama about KPop idols?? This is basically the DREAM for Kim and Maddie (okay fine, mostly Kim but Maddie didn’t take much convincing). After watching a slightly chaotic but definitely intriguing first episode, they break down all their thoughts. They discuss how they are def stanning Shax (Malo is a bop, don’t @ us), the excellent promo campaign for this show (fictional kpop group instas!!! dance practice vids!!!!! yes plz), and talk through some of their questions.

Malo (Shax) Dance Practice: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KWMHxVk-2EY

Kim and Maddie give their full review of the 2020 Kdrama, Do You Like Brahms, and it’s filled to the brim with pure gushing. They discuss the relationship progression of the main couple, including ~maybe~ the best first kiss, the most devastating breakup AND the greatest reunion kiss of all time?! They also talk about the leads’ growth as individuals, compile a long list of weenies, and Maddie makes a strong case for her inanimate MVP character.

After watching the first episode of Song Kang's highly anticipated new show, Nevertheless, Kim and Maddie break down everything that wasn't working for them (hint: it's a lot of things). Other topics mentioned include: D.O.'s movie Swing Kids (Maddie is still scarred), Song Kang's OG show Liar and His Lover (shout out to Mush + CO), and Kim makes yet another attempt to convince Maddie to watch A Witch's Romance since she loves age-gap shows SO MUCH.

Kim and Maddie finally get around to their full review of Extraordinary You, a 2019 KDrama they started back in the spring, and tbh their heads still kind of hurt. They talk about Dan-oh's spunk, Ha-ru's innocence (but also his 12-pack LOL), and how the writers failed Baek Kyung. Other discussion points include: SLS for violin boy, trying to make sense of the ending, and some general appreciation for Lee Jae-wook (in shorts!!!!!) and the OST (My Beauty is a BOP iykyk).   

Categories: Help ya girls out! (1:45), HI DIVE STUDIOS (4:35), The skinny (7:58), MVP's (11:57), Tenderest of moments (28:30), LOL's (44:25), The Hoo-joon Swoons (51:00), Spicy (58:32), Weenies (1:04:06), Thoughts on the ending (1:15:19), Jae-wook + Rowoon bromance appreciation (1:23:03), DM'ing Johnny Suh (1:29:01), What's next for SEOULMATES?? (1:32:01)

Before Kim and Maddie intro their newest segment, they spend approx 10 minutes screaming about the BinJin wedding that took place last week. #willnevergetoverit Then they have their first ever Trailer Talk, where they watch some kdrama trailers and try to piece it all together, then check in with the actual official summary before realizing it's still impossible to know anything until watching the show. (The hope and dream for this segment is that we all figure out what we should be watching this April!!)

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BinJin gushing #CLOYEpisode17 (00:30), Welcome to Trailer Talk! (09:17), Shooting Stars (14:11), Our Blues (20:54), Tomorrow (29:09), Soundtrack #1 (35:28)

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Links to trailers: Shooting Star ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j5laTTrbuyU / https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nn43g7pae2g ), Our Blues ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2mvVXqb2o58 / https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6JOcJOt_DCY ), Tomorrow ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zhmxDgBxGRk ), Soundtrack #1 ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rrXn8egfOrI / https://youtu.be/ikrA8w9p5To )

Kim and Maddie decided to check out So I Married The Anti-Fan because they both love a good enemies to lovers / fake marriage / fake dating trope. Also because Kim watched the OG Chinese movie (ft ya boy Channy) and decided that the plot was solid but needed a remake. It took them a few episodes to decide but at this point, they’re pretty much along for the ride. After watching the first three episodes, they discuss the super cute female lead (Maddie’s current bangs inspo), the cute co-worker friend (seriously, why is he not in the picture here) and what they want to see as the show progresses. Plus, things started off with some choreo and a solid practice room scene so there’s some screaming about that.

Kim and Maddie watched the first three episodes of the new Netflix KDrama, Our Blues, ft. their girl Shin Min-ah (although she is no where to be seen so far) and another seaside village. They discuss the interesting strategy of story telling, try to guess where the show might be going in the next 17 episodes and lament the lack of Kim Woo-bin. They def recommend to all the Seoulmies who are interested, but may not have the time in their schedules to follow closely right now.

It's Kim Seon-ho's world and we're all just living in it! Kim and Maddie, along with pretty much everyone else, have been excitedly awaiting his new show and it did not disappoint. They discuss the beautiful cinematography and the relationship already brewing between the two leads. They also chat theories about Chief Hong's back story, the charm of the townspeople, looking forward to watching Hye-jin win them over, and very much digging Kim Seon-ho as a handyman (give us all the jeans, flannels + dimples plz and thank you!!!)

Kim and Maddie finally review the 2020 Netflix Original SMASH HIT that is Crash Landing on You, a show that will for sure stand the test of time. They discuss the long list (seriously, there are MANY) of ~tender~ moments, the chemistry between the two leads (they were falling in love irl!!!!!), and their love for Hyun Bin in any form - pouting, in a suit, and everything in between!