Dr. Romantic 3 (2023)

I should have stayed home and watched Chicago Med

I'll acknowledge that seasons 1 and 2 were a very hard act to follow and that expectations may have been unduly high. For a short time. My expectations were brutally squashed in the episode 1 reality check. Episode 1 was a huge red flag when half the doctors of a rural hospital in the woods ended up playing geopolitics on a coastguard vessel in the East Sea as though there were no such thing as a Korean Navy or a hospital with a helipad on the Gangwon coast. It slightly improved in the next few episodes but 7 and 8 were unbearably loaded with a perfect storm of cliche catastrophes... and that was it for me.

You may argue with me about this but I feel that this series unwisely went from character driven to plot driven. The plots are indistinguishable from the high-octane junk that American television serves in the slot that follows CSI: Fort Wayne or whatever. And the worst part was that half the plot was driven by nosy characters lurking behind every corner and door. The walls in that place might as well have been painted with ears. The first two series were bad for that but this show used up half the world's annual supply of eavesdropping. This is when they were not tripping over each other as all departmental boundaries and organizational discipline were thrown into the wind like it was Chicago Frickin' Med on a full moon.

And yet it may have been the smarter choice to let it be plot driven. Apart from Nurse Park the characters have failed to evolve in our absence. Kim Sabu was the Anti-House Zen Master in 1 and 2. Here he's a toothless, ageing tiger pacing in his cage and swatting at things he doesn't like. Dr Jung and Dr Yang and the other characters who didn't really want to be there last time have let themselves be trapped in BFE for the last three years... why? Dr Cha Sr. has no valid reason to even be there. ("Chief") Manager Jang still doesn't manage to cross the line from village idiot to credible comic relief. The nursing staff is still one All-Knowing Matron, one Tall Dark and Handsome, and a chorus of undeveloped chittering halfwits. The romantically involved couples are in some kind of middle class rut.

It's not good. DR3 veered past my lowest expectations and crashed into my worst fears.

Dropped, unfortunately.

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Overall enjoyable, but not that great. S1&S2 better.

I enjoyed this season, but S1&S2 were better.
I've seen Lee Kyung Young (in drama as Cha Jin Man) in other dramas as an antagonist or villain. In this drama, in my opinion, he wasn't an antagonist. He and Master Kim have different beliefs. It's like on a spectrum both of them are on opposite sides (one on the left and the other on the right). In some cases presented in the drama, it would be hard to determine who is right because both brought in valid points. However, I found myself questioning most actions and words of Cha Jin Man throughout the drama. Most of them I disagreed with. His type of character is quite realistic in a way.
I liked how this drama they focused on support roles such as Nurse Euntak and Jung In Soo. We get to see more of their stories and their background. As far as relationships, there were minor misunderstandings between both couples (Euntak and Areum & Woojin and Eunjae) that were resolved and didn't drag out too long.
The cameo role of Kang Dong Joo was a great addition. His character is like the center of a spectrum. He's a mix of both Cha Jin Man and Master Kim. He may not be perfect, but he balances the two sides.
My issues with the drama is medical-related issues. There's a lot of unprofessional behavior shown and most of it is not even corrected or addressed properly. At times, I was even frustrated with Woojin and Eunjae. The two made very silly decisions sometimes but no one bothered to correct their behavior. The drama made it seem like their choices were reasonable when it was not. Doctors are humans that can make mistakes. But it's important to set your ego/pride off to the side and accept where you were at fault and learn from it.
Also some of the things shown were quite unrealistic as well.

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Watching for the 2nd time.

i was excited but nervous that season 3 would not live up to previous seasons but for me it did. It is by far the best medical drama i have seen no matter where it came from be it the USA or my home country the UK. The acting is superb throughout no matter the character big or supporting. They become the characters in the story. i cannot praise them enough.
This is my second time i am watching this series and i am really enjoying it again.
I was uncomfortable with how the story of objections and refusal to work came across. As a once nurse, now retired, i am quite old, i have been faced with difficult questions before. Perhaps in the UK it was looked on differently, But given recent events here, ie strikes of hospital professionals, an attitude i never thought i would see. I find it heartbreaking,
But as all good storytelling does as it should, challenges the viewers. It certainly gave me pause for thought. Which is no bad thing. I may be old but not too old to learn, change if needs be. All very stimulating.
It was a more case driven series, but for me even more interesting , however the character grew as they met each challenge.
I sincerely hope that there will be a season 4, bringing back some old characters, but i hope it will not take 3 years for it to appear, given my age. Ha Ha.
My thanks to all the team be it the crew, the writers, directors, who obviously did a fantastic job , and without whom the actors would not be free to do such a brilliant job.

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What an amazing series! Definitely worth the wait since season 2 aired!

For all of the Dr Romantic fans our there, this is a long-awaited romance, slice-of-life and medical drama out there. Even when you would think the directors cannot bring anything new to the table, they somehow manage to find a way and impress the viewer in many ways. Personally, while watching season 3, I could not help but reminisce the previous seasons, try to remember the characters and their own stories. For hardcore fans, this season ties in well with the rest of the series and brings up new themes about family, career path, ethics etc. Overall, a must watch for fans of season 1 and 2. For newcomers - please go ahead and have a marathon for all three of the seasons and you really will not be disappointed.

As for the last scene of episode 16 - can we please have a season 4 I beg!!!!

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My Own Thoughts

Dr. Romantic 3 has undoubtedly raised the bar for the series, introducing a fresh and engaging cast that adds a new dynamic to the beloved medical drama. The intricate storytelling and complex characters continue to be the show's strengths, keeping viewers hooked from episode to episode.

While the addition of new characters breathed life into the series, the portrayal of Eunjae and Woojin's relationship left something to be desired. The constant challenges thrown at Woojin felt relentless, denying him moments of respite and growth. It would have been more satisfying to see a more balanced exploration of their relationship, allowing for moments of joy and connection amidst the trials.

The depiction of Eunjae's character, too, raised some concerns. The decision to portray her with some negative aspects might have been an attempt to add depth, but it left some viewers feeling uneasy. There was a missed opportunity to showcase her and Woojin enjoying simple, romantic moments like going on a date, which would have added a more wholesome layer to their relationship.

Despite these critiques, Dr. Romantic 3 remains a stellar Korean drama that deserves a 10/10 rating. The compelling narrative, exceptional performances by the cast, and the intense medical cases keep audiences eagerly anticipating each episode. It's a series that not only entertains but also delves into the complexities of human relationships and the challenges faced by those in the medical profession.

In conclusion, Dr. Romantic 3 is a must-watch for K-drama enthusiasts, offering a riveting storyline that outweighs its minor shortcomings. The outstanding performances and captivating plot make it an excellent addition to the Dr. Romantic series.

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A worthy series to continue

The cast of Lee Kyung Young always deter me from wanting to watch but he's literally everywhere. I paused for a while but eventually circled back to this but had to skipped 90% of his lines.
Then there's Cha Eun Jae's mom, I skipped her lines too. Control of a 30 year old is not something that's relatable to me.

S3 Positives:
-I loved the addition of the 2 new doctors that offered some comedy relief. Jang Dong Hwa & ex army doc Lee Seon Wung.
-They also kept most of the S2 cast including my favorite pair Cha Eun Jae & Seo Woo Jin. Hands down Seo Woo Jin is the best character.
-Master Kim evolved in this season to grand mentor status, no longer a hot head but super calm providing guidance.
-When the mentee becomes the mentor Seo Woo Jin character development.
-Relationship progressed with the couples as expected after 3 years.
-More screen time for veteran supporting cast Dr. Jung in Soo in all 3 seasons was very nice.
-Return of S1 Dr. Kang Dong Joo to the storyline felt nostalgic although he wasn't my favorite character in S1.

I hope this franchise can continue as there are so many interesting characters.

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A fast-paced season 3 with the usual flair of exaggeration and humour

Back in 2021, I marathoned the first two seasons in a week during a period of "sabbatical". While I thought S2's storyline was way too far-fetched and its cohesiveness generally weaker than S1, I thoroughly enjoyed S3.

The good: Plenty of emergency medical cases and surgeries to satiate the watcher. Questions on the needs for the welfare and protection of doctors are raised. Doctors having to make heartbreaking choices in a disaster scenario. Lee Hong Nae 's acting (makes me really root for his glittering success). Lee Sin Young's acting (makes me want to shake him by the shoulders until his head falls off, then give him a soda). Good amount of comedic moments.

The bad: Pointless political disputes. Not enough of Dr. Bae Moon Jeong. Dude needs more screentime and backstory. Nonsensical developments in the final two episodes. Nevertheless, it's okay, I accept it.

S3 had been an entertaining ride. I recommend it. Especially if you can't get enough eyefuls of surgical props like those rubbery, yellowed bodies they cut into, revealing red dyes and pink matter.

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The Spark is Back

I just finished watching the last episode of this season and I am still lost for words. The previous two seasons of this drama have ignited my passion to pursue a course in the medical field and it gave me a lot of knowledge needed for it. As the years passed, I was slowly losing interest in the field and was starting to question my decision. When the drama was revealed to be renewed for a new season, I was ecstatic. I remembered waiting for the first episode and staying up at night for it due to the time difference. While staying updated on the newly released episodes, I also had my work immersion experience in a hospital and I felt THE SPARK. Now, it is safe to say that this drama has ignited my passion ONCE AGAIN. Yes, as I enter college, I have this burning passion to become a doctor.

At the beginning of some episodes, they mention problems the world faces and along the way, they give solutions and encouragement. This drama has taught me a lot, made me laugh, and made me cry. I really do hope and will continue to hope for a new season. <3

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Kim sabu with all of them staff hospital amazin!!

A beautiful ending is very meaningful during the airing of this drama I was very touched by all the actors acting from difficult things to all the problems can be resolved well I hope there is a season 4 seeing at the end of the scene Dr. Yoon Seojung comes again to Doldam my desire for season 4 is very high
Kim sabu is a strong character in doldam the way he educates his students amazes me and the staff is very dedicated to building doldam until now.
Thank you to the actors and staff involved during the shooting you worked very well I wish you good health.
SEE YOU NEXT TIME DOLDAMZ TEAM!!!

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Medical Action and Romance, STAT delivery.

How do you watch Doctor Romantic 2? Just hold your breath for 16 hours. It is that exhilarating. While with Dr. Romantic 3 I did not need to hold my breath, nonetheless, I could not hold back the tears as I watched compelling heart tugging medical situations being portrayed .

Every Doctor Romantic series in the three seasons has had stellar cast members, including well seasoned actors. However, the main component of the Doctor Romantic series is the medical thrills received from watching the deep dive into new and unusual medical cases. My favorite to date in the series remains Doctor Romantic 2, but Doctor Romantic 3 delivered the K drama goods, with two additions to the Doctor’s list of characters. With a series like this, lasting over 3 seasons, it should become harder to invent new personalities, each character with their own little quirks and and gifts. Nonetheless, our new additions have their own entertaining personality strengths and failures. I took a week and finished all 3 in the series and enjoyed every minute. I think that Doctor Romantic 1, 2, and 3 should be added to everyone’s Korean Drama playlist. There is a smoking OST, featuring Baekhyun from EXO and Seungkwan from Seventeen. Add these to your “playlist”. Pun not intended.

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Dr Romantic Series.

I watched season 1 and was hooked. Then after watching Season 2 I was hoping for another. I was so happy to see Season 3. Now I am done watching all 3, I want another season. I will watch this series again when I have time. It is full of all the things that make up a great drama. Han Seok Kyu is brilliant as Master Kim. I love his acting. Lee Sung Kyung and Ahn Hyo Seop are my favourite couple.
One of the most amusing parts is whenever Jin Kyung, Nurse Oh, calls for Mister Guuuuuuuu LOL You can see when she is going to lose it and she is like a tornado lol. Lee Gyu Ho plays Mister Gu really well.
It seems everyone has one actor that they find the most attractive. I am no exception and choose Kim Min Jae. Nurse Euntak as my most attractive. I am a fan.
Roll on Season 4!

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