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Drama Review: Alchemy of Souls Part 1~ most favorite reverse harem so far for the year


Alchemy of Souls Part 1 20 episodes | Available on Netflix

Naksu is a shadow assassin who has the power to do the forbidden alchemy of souls. Meanwhile, Jang Uk's energy gates have been closed by his father, disabling him to use any spells. An unlikely, complicated relationship will be forged between the two.

The premise is just the tip of the iceberg. And there are twists upon twists. So many details... so many elements... But it's all neatly tied up. Yes, no first impressions. Straight-up drama review. This is my most favorite reverse harem so far for the year! 

Alchemy of Souls is a cross between shonen anime and fantasy novels. Without explaining further, the shonen aspect involves Jang Uk. The world-building reminds me of fantasy novels. If you're a sucker too for so many world-building elements this will hit the spot. I can't remember enjoying this many fantasy elements in a Korean drama or any Asian drama in a long time.  

promotional photo

Is there romance? Is Alchemy of Souls a reverse harem? Yes and Yes. Reverse harem-wise, there are indeed three men and there was even an instance where they have an obligatory scene with all of them by episode 7.  (Also see Levels of Reverse Harem) 

The second lead is cute and they had a lot of cute moments too. Under normal circumstances, I would have fallen hard for him but in this case, the main couple's chemistry is so strong that it averted the Second Lead Syndrome.

Now on to the third guy. He grew on me too but not in a romantic kind of way. You'll feel bad for him. and if my hunch is right the story is trying to throw us off that he might be the enemy, especially in the second season. He seemed an airhead but he's allowing her to treat him with impertinence.   

And saving the best for last, Jang Uk. I first watched Lee Jae Wook (the actor) in Extraordinary You and his character made me confused if I will root for him or hate him. Thus there were mixed feelings when I first started Alchemy of Souls. But he has this charm that pulls your heartstrings. Then his multi-faceted expressions unravel and if you stare at him for so long you'll have this urge to hug him or kiss him or something haha Fill in your blank. 

Now Naksu. It's hard to talk about her without giving away spoilers but whatever the rumors are for the second season let us lean on the optimistic side. The only thing I'm giving away is that I love how...oops can't say that either. Gahhhhh! I just love, love, love her. Period.

When you watch too many kdramas, you gain romance and chemistry tolerance. But the finale of the second episode really did it for me. One of the most memorable scenes in the series. I haven't felt that in a while. The slightest touch. The soundtrack. It seems too early but it is the turning point of their dual relationship. My interest waned a bit when they treat it like a transaction (which is funny too btw) and with all the action going on. But the timing is pretty clever because it builds up the anticipation of their encounters. Seriously, their conversations and metaphors! Ugh! And the drama brings hugging to an entirely different level. 

It has a top-notch romance and an entertaining storyline. But it will not be complete without the supporting characters and their side stories. They add more fun and layers to the series. So there. There's romance, fantasy, action, drama, and comedy. It has everything and if you don't watch it, I don't know anymore. The only thing that I hated in the drama is when the good guys think they are one step ahead now but the villains always find a way to get away with it.

This one is from Hong Sisters who also wrote My Sassy Girl, My Girl, My Girlfriend is a Nine-Tailed Fox, Hotel del Luna, and another reverse harem drama, You're Beautiful. And another reverse harem too from TVN. Click on the tag for other reverse harem shows under TVN. Share your thoughts on the drama in the comments. 

P.S. My sister-in-law mentioned if they can make this type of special effects... why not make Fushigi Yugi? Now I can't stop thinking about it. A Korean adaptation of Fushigi Yugi! Universe of the Four Gods do your thing!

Purchase titles/ related to the titles mentioned: (as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases):

FUSHIGI YUGI Complete Series 1 & 2 Ep 1-52 + OVA 1-9 (3-Box sets) 12 DVDS https://amzn.to/3DyGaWU
Fushigi Yûgi: Byakko Senki, Vol. 1 https://amzn.to/3eXUGNY

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  1. AnonymousOctober 26, 2022 at 2:47 PM

    I decided to finish this drama (I watched like 2 eps before) because of the review and wow!!! This drama is amazing!! It was a little bit slow at the beginning but I was finding myself unable to stop watching soon enough. I love how the main lead had three (possible) love interests but obviously Jang Uk will be endgame lol. Either way, I love her relationship with everyone. This drama is extremely well written and I enjoy that the main lead is extremely strong too. I like female leads in reverse harems who excel in something extremely well - intelligence, strength etc.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. ayreesaOctober 26, 2022 at 10:01 PM

      Yay! Glad you enjoyed it! I'm getting nervous with S2 now huhu

      Delete

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