Encounter started off with vibrant colors, the sweet charm of Park Bo Gum, and the sophisticated class of Song Hye Kyo. It is not even fully subbed yet, but Kdrama Jen has some first impressions and pretty much stream-of-consciousness unfiltered thoughts. Read for first impressions of Encounter.
I love the vibe. I love the colors. I love a smiling Bo Gum!
As I watched this raw, I immediately texted my fellow fangirls and proclaimed my desire to travel to Cuba. I know it is probably not realistic to expect every corner to have dancers clad in colorful clothing wearing inviting smiles, but I will now be very disappointed if that is not reality.
I also want to see Park Bo Gum with his luscious locks snapping pictures like he is working for National Geographic. I am pretty sure that part won’t happen, but I at least want to see one impromptu salsa dance at sunset! This first episode has spoiled me. The images and cinematography are just gorgeous!
Song Hye Kyo is polished and sophisticated
I know there is already an age difference between Park Bo Gum and Song Hye Kyo, but it seems even larger during this first episode. She is polished perfection with her VIP status and entourage, and he is so young and carefree in comparison. The weight of her responsibilities can be seen in the world-weary way she approaches life.
I think Song Hye Kyo is playing her part perfectly. I loved seeing her begin to relax under the influence of Bo Gum’s infectious charm. I did not feel immediate sizzling OTP chemistry, but there was a warm connection that made me smile.
Ooh! The secretary is really catching my eye.
Kwan Sun Young is the actress playing the part of the business-focused secretary by day, and feisty friend by night. I loved how she completely transformed from day to evening and seemed like a totally different person. I have no idea how big of a role she will play in the plot, but she is stealing scenes for me. I hope we get to see more of this actress in the future!
Do you think Song Joong Ki is cool with his friend romancing his wife?
I did say these were unfiltered thoughts, right? Well, I can’t help but let my mind wander to the idea that Park Bo Gum and Song Joong Ki are buddies. I have to imagine they probably hang out at the Song-Song couple’s home and maybe chat over drinks or whatever Kdrama actors like to do for funsies in their off time. So, are they ultra professional and never mention the fact that Bo Gum is very likely going to be smooching Mrs. Song? Or…do they have these awkward little exchanges where they try not to think about it, but end up joking about it? I ponder these things and wonder. And sometimes these thoughts float unfiltered from my brain to the page. But, seriously, doesn’t it have the potential to cause some stilted conversations here and there?
A chance encounter that may lead to something more?
So, I am only one episode in and I watched it with almost no subtitles. Quite a bit of it was in English and Spanish, so I was able to get the gist, and you don’t really need words to enjoy the charming encounter between our two main characters. I was also thoroughly entranced by the sight of Park Bo Gum dancing with the little girl. Ack! My heart! It was on the same level of the cuteness scale as Corgi puppies snuggling with Kpop idols. I could probably watch Park Bo Gum dancing with random strangers for this whole show and feel satisfied.
Parting Thoughts:
It’s a little early to tell where this is going, but I like the juxtaposition of the business woman constantly trying to keep up appearances with the happy-go-lucky youth she encounters. I would love it if we could stay on location in Cuba for a while because I adored the sights and sounds in this first episode. If that is not possible, I hope they will be able to keep the lively-feeing atmosphere even when they return to Korea. I am one episode in, but I am definitely invested. It appears our carefree youth may be headed toward employment in the company run by the lady he met on his Cuban adventure. I can’t wait to see where this goes!
Until the next unfiltered thought…
Kdrama Jen
Drama with a Side of Kimchi
I was not interested in this drama because of plot and teasers didn’t change my thoughts either. I was waiting to read the first impressions of this drama and this is the first one. I am not a big fan of any of the actors but it will feel like this drama will be quite slow. I might give it a try when it finishes airing depending on the reviews and ratings.
I was so entranced by the colors and scenery, so time passed quickly for me while watching. I will be looking for more plot development as we move forward, though!
I was surprised by te first episode. It was better than I had thought. I honestly get bored by SHK and this role is right up her alley however, the first episode passed by and I didn’t even realize. It was a breezy watch. I actually don’t see any kind of romance chemistry between them as of yet but they could play as good comrades. But we know it will go there. Your random thoughts also crossed my mind but maybe actors are always prepared for that and don’t take it that seriously. Plus yes SHK kinda looks really older than PBG here.
I am glad I am not the only one thinking such random thoughts! I agree there is a warm connection, but I did not feel that zap of romantic chemistry we expect when an OTP meets. If that is the direction this heads, then it will likely develop over time.
It was a nice first episode, and I’d watch Bo Gum’s smile for hours…they chose the perfect actor for this role because he is indeed charming and his smile contagious. BTW, loved his hair here too, those long locks are kind of sexy.
Regarding the romance, not sure about the future chemistry between them. She looked very cold and restrained, but I guess it’s how she is supposed to be. Maybe she will loosen later and we will see some sparks.
Finally, if he’s working for her, I’m crossing my fingers that they will travel to Cuba together at some point. I’d love to see the romance bloom between them in a second trip…
I’ve read too much about the human rights situation in Cuba to want to watch this one. Wouldn’t any other of the West Indies do?
Sounds positive. Can’t wait to start watching it. I also was iffy about the relationship between Song Joong Ki and PBG romancing his wife. It’s really very weird. How do you look at your friend after this? I hope this doesn’t impact their friendship or the marriage.
I want to watch it but wait for a lot of episodes
There are probably enough now for you to start! I am still enjoying it. It is slow-moving, but I am just enjoying the scenery and the romance. I was not sure I could get behind a romance between these two, but they definitely sold me on it!
Did it get cancelled? Viki has a note saying “finale” but it’s only at 14 episodes…
Oh, never mind. They just put the flag up before showing that there were more episodes.
Thank goodness!!