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Love Story in Harvard vs. Law School - A Tale of Romance, Justice, and Academic Intrigue

  • Writer: BAKA
    BAKA
  • Dec 11, 2023
  • 5 min read

Updated: Dec 12, 2023


Hey K-Drama enthusiasts! Today, let's take a stroll down the memory lane of Korean dramas with two compelling series that capture the essence of romance and legal drama – "Love Story in Harvard" and "Law School." Grab your popcorn and let's dive into the world of legal battles, heartwarming romances, and a pinch of academic drama!


📘 Love Story in Harvard: A Classic Love Tale with a Legal Twist

The picturesque setting of Harvard University, where love blooms amidst legal battles and academic pursuits. "Love Story in Harvard" (2004) unfolds the tale of Kim Hyun Woo, an aspiring Korean lawyer played by the charismatic Kim Rae Won, alongside his American-Korean classmate Alex Hong and the lovely medical student Lee Soo In, portrayed by the sweet, but cute Kim Tae Hee.


In this 16-episode rollercoaster of emotions, the drama takes a unique spin on the classic American tearjerker "Love Story." While the setting echoes the hallowed halls of Harvard, the story evolves into a gripping narrative of love, principles, and corporate treachery. The characters, particularly the growth of Kim Hyun Woo from a carefree young man to an idealistic advocate for justice, add layers of depth to the plot.


The romance is both passionate and light-hearted, with Kim Rae Won and Kim Tae Hee's on-screen chemistry stealing hearts. The slow-paced journey lets viewers savor the nuances of the characters' relationships, making it a memorable experience. The legal backdrop, complete with a demanding professor and a case against a chemical corporation, adds an intriguing layer to the narrative.


The drama isn't just about romantic escapades; it delves into serious issues, provoking outrage at big business and cunning lawyers. From a picturesque Harvard to the bustling streets of Seoul, the characters face separation, challenges, and heartbreak, creating a captivating love story that tugs at the heartstrings.


📚 Law School: Where Legal Drama Meets Academic Mystery


Fast forward to the present with "Law School." A 2021 release, this K-drama takes us to Hankuk University Law School, where legal eagles-in-training are in for more than just mock trials. In a departure from the traditional rom-com, "Law School" presents a murder mystery, arrests, and a gripping investigation. Based on the information provided, "Law School" is a Korean drama that revolves around the events at Hankuk University Law School. The story begins with a mock trial conducted by law students, but things take a dark turn when the professor overseeing the trial, Seo Byung-ju, is found dead. The discovery leads to an investigation, and a former prosecutor turned professor, Yang Joon-hoon, becomes involved. Former prosecutor turned professor Yang Joon-hoon, played by Kim Myung-min, steps into the scene, questioning the apparent suicide. The storyline weaves through the lives of law students, tackling issues of justice, corporate intrigue, and personal vendettas.


The plot involves the mystery surrounding Seo's death, with initial indications suggesting suicide. However, Yang Joon-hoon believes it's a murder and starts to delve into the case. Flashbacks reveal a complex relationship between Seo and Yang, as well as the challenging dynamics within the law school.


The series also touches on another storyline involving a professor, Kim Eun-sook, who had previously given a light sentence to a rapist named Le Man-ho. The release of Le Man-ho becomes a significant plot point, leading to further complications.


The characters include students such as Kang Sol A, who received a scholarship for disadvantaged applicants, and Han Joon-hwi, a top student with a connection to Seo. The first episode introduces various characters and storylines, creating a complex narrative.


The review suggests that despite a somewhat muddied timeline and an abundance of characters, "Law School" has the potential to be an engrossing series. The main focus appears to be on the students trying to uncover the truth behind Seo's death and the legal challenges faced by Yang Joon-hoon.


SPOILER: The ending scene involves Yang being taken away in handcuffs, setting up a dramatic turn of events and leaving viewers intrigued about the unfolding mysteries. The review recommends streaming the series, expressing optimism that the writers can maintain focus on the main story and deliver a compelling series.


"Law School" introduces characters like Kim Hyun Woo, a lawyer advocating for the less fortunate, and Kim Eun-sook, a former judge navigating the release of a convict. The legal drama unfolds against a backdrop of mystery, addressing serious issues with a promise of an engrossing narrative.


While "Law School" adopts a different tone compared to the romance-centric "Love Story in Harvard," it shares a common thread – the exploration of legal complexities. With a focus on a murder case and academic challenges, the drama keeps viewers on the edge, awaiting the next twist in the tale.


Comparing the Two: Romance vs. Legal Intrigue


"Love Story in Harvard" and "Law School" cater to diverse tastes within the K-Drama universe. The former weaves a classic love tale against the backdrop of legal pursuits, while the latter opts for a suspenseful legal drama with academic mysteries.


While "Love Story in Harvard" indulges in character growth and a slow-burning romance, "Law School" provides a fast-paced legal thriller with twists and turns at every corner. The former is a journey through picturesque Harvard, while the latter navigates the complexities of a law school murder mystery.


In essence, the choice between the two would depend on your preferred K-Drama flavor – the timeless romance of "Love Story in Harvard" or the gripping legal intrigue of "Law School." In either case, both dramas offer a delightful escape into the worlds of love, justice, and the unpredictable realm of academia. Korean dramas have certainly evolved from the past, where main characters often faced tragic fates like dying from cancer. If you could be anything in a world, what would you choose? The answer seems to be simple: be your magical, ugly skeleton self. Instead of conforming to societal expectations, you'd choose to stand out and embrace your uniqueness. The message here is simple yet powerful—why try to fit in when you have the opportunity to shine as the truest version of yourself? In the spirit of individuality, it's a call to be akin to Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, proudly showcasing what makes its distinct and special. Channel your inner Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and celebrate what makes you different in a world that push for conformity to "what is silent but deadly" but not what is not.


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