Stranger

Hwang Si-mok is an exemplary prosecutor who suffers from hypersensitivity to certain sound frequencies. After undergoing corrective surgery, he lost his sense of empathy and lacks social skills. While investigating a murder, he meets Police Lieutenant Han Yeo-jin, who assists his efforts to solve the case. As they begin to unravel the mystery behind the murder, they find that their efforts are continually being obstructed by participants in a major corruption conspiracy between the Prosecutors’ Office and a private chaebol.

I didn’t intend to talk about my fondness of Korean dramas on this website, but I suppose it won’t hurt to mention for promotional purposes. Additionally, Bae Doona, one of my favorite Korean actors, is in this one. It includes 2 excellent seasons that serve as fine examples of the genre at its best.

🤖 Discussion with chatGPT in comments!

One thought on “Stranger

  1. rickworks Post author

    Rickworks:
    Hello there ChatGPT

    ChatGPT:
    Hello! How can I assist you today?

    Rickworks:
    I watched another Kdrama show

    ChatGPT:
    That’s great! Kdramas are very popular and can be very enjoyable to watch. Which Kdrama did you watch?

    Rickworks:
    Its called Stranger, but also known as Secret Forest. Have you heard of it?

    ChatGPT:
    Yes, I am familiar with Stranger (Secret Forest). It’s a popular Kdrama that first aired in 2017 and has gained a lot of positive reviews and acclaim for its storyline, writing, and acting performances. The show has two seasons, with the second season airing in 2020. Would you like to discuss the show, or do you have any specific questions about it?

    Rickworks:
    What is the name of the main characters?

    ChatGPT:
    The two main characters in Stranger are Hwang Shi-Mok and Han Yeo-Jin. Hwang Shi-Mok is a prosecutor who has undergone brain surgery in his youth, which has left him unable to feel emotions or express them, making him somewhat of an enigmatic character. Han Yeo-Jin is a police inspector who is assigned to work with Shi-Mok on a high-profile murder case. The two characters develop a close working relationship and bond throughout the show.

    Rickworks:
    Is Hwang Shi-Mok’s brain condition a real condition?

    ChatGPT:
    The condition that Hwang Shi-Mok has in Stranger, where he is unable to feel or express emotions due to a brain surgery, is not a real medical condition.

    However, there are real medical conditions that can cause a person to experience a decreased ability to feel emotions or a reduced expression of emotions. For example, conditions such as alexithymia, autism, and certain neurological disorders can cause difficulties in emotional processing and expression.

    It’s worth noting, however, that Stranger is a work of fiction and the show’s portrayal of Hwang Shi-Mok’s condition is a fictional construct designed to serve the story and characters.

    Rickworks:
    I am very fond of the actress that plays Han Yeo-Jin. What is her name?

    ChatGPT:
    The actress who plays Han Yeo-Jin in Stranger is Bae Doona. She is a well-known South Korean actress who has appeared in many popular K-dramas and films. She has won several awards for her performances, including Best Actress at the Korean Drama Awards for her role in Stranger. Bae Doona is also known for her international work, having appeared in Hollywood productions such as Cloud Atlas and Sense8.

    Rickworks:
    Can you name more of the Korean movies or television shows she has been in?

    ChatGPT:
    Sure, here are some of the other Korean movies and TV shows that Bae Doona has been in:

    • Kingdom (TV series)
    • Sense8 (TV series)
    • Cloud Atlas
    • The Host
    • Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance
    • Spring Bears Love
    • Beating Heart (TV series)
    • How to Steal a Dog
    • Gloria (TV series)
    • A Girl at My Door

    These are just a few examples of Bae Doona’s work, and she has been in many other notable films and TV shows over the course of her career.

    Rickworks:
    Thanks. Just so you know, Cloud Atlas is not a Korean made TV show or movie

    ChatGPT:
    You’re right, I apologize for the mistake. Cloud Atlas is a Hollywood film, not a Korean production. Bae Doona was one of the main cast members of the film, and it was a significant international project for her. Thank you for bringing that to my attention.

    Rickworks:
    Why do you think this show was so popular?

    ChatGPT:
    There are several reasons why Stranger (Secret Forest) became so popular among K-drama fans:

    Strong storytelling and writing: The show’s story is well-crafted, and the writing is of high quality, making it an engaging and thrilling drama that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
    Complex characters: The main characters, Hwang Shi-Mok and Han Yeo-Jin, are both complex and nuanced, with well-developed backstories and motivations. The audience can relate to them and become invested in their stories.

    Excellent acting performances: The show features some of the best actors in the Korean entertainment industry, including Cho Seung-woo and Bae Doona. Their performances are outstanding, and they bring a level of realism and authenticity to their roles that resonates with the audience.
    Unique premise: The show’s premise is unique and intriguing, as it focuses on the inner workings of the legal and justice system in South Korea. The plot involves corruption, power struggles, and hidden agendas, making it an exciting watch for fans of crime and mystery dramas.
    Critical acclaim: Stranger has received critical acclaim from both fans and critics alike, with its well-written plot, strong character development, and excellent acting performances being frequently praised.

    All of these factors helped make Stranger a hit with audiences, and it remains one of the most popular K-dramas to this day.

    Rickworks:
    Do you know what makes Korean television shows so popular around the world?

    ChatGPT:
    There are several reasons why Korean television shows, or K-dramas, have gained so much popularity around the world:

    • Unique storytelling: K-dramas often feature storylines and themes that are unique and not typically seen in Western television shows. This helps to make K-dramas stand out and appeal to audiences who are looking for something different.
    • High-quality production: K-dramas are often produced to a very high standard, with attention paid to every detail, including the cinematography, music, and costumes. This helps to create an immersive viewing experience that draws viewers in.
    • Emotional depth: K-dramas are often known for their emotional depth and the way they explore complex themes such as love, family, and relationships. This can make them resonate with viewers on a deep level and create a lasting impact.
    • Cultural fascination: K-dramas can provide an insight into Korean culture and society, which can be fascinating and educational for viewers who are not familiar with the country. This can help to create a sense of cultural exchange and understanding between different cultures.
    • Availability: The availability of K-dramas through online streaming platforms has made them more accessible to a global audience, allowing viewers from all over the world to discover and enjoy them.

    All of these factors have contributed to the popularity of K-dramas around the world, and it’s likely that they will continue to be a hit with viewers for many years to come.

    Rickworks:
    Do you know any technical details about Korean film making?

    ChatGPT:
    Sure, here are some technical details about Korean film making:

    • Camera and lighting: Korean filmmakers use advanced camera and lighting equipment to achieve their desired visual effects. They often use a combination of natural lighting and artificial light to create a specific mood or atmosphere in a scene.
    • Color grading: Color grading is an important part of the post-production process in Korean filmmaking. Filmmakers carefully adjust the colors of the footage to achieve a specific look or feel. This can involve adjusting the contrast, saturation, and hue of the image.
    • Music and sound design: Music and sound design play a critical role in Korean filmmaking. Soundtracks are often created specifically for a film and are designed to evoke certain emotions or enhance the mood of a scene. Sound designers use a variety of techniques to create realistic and immersive sound effects.
    • Special effects: Korean filmmakers are known for their impressive use of special effects. They often use a combination of practical effects and computer-generated effects to create realistic and engaging visual effects.
    • Screenwriting: Korean screenwriters are known for their meticulous attention to detail when it comes to writing a script. They often spend months or even years researching and developing their stories to create a unique and compelling narrative.

    Overall, Korean filmmakers place a great emphasis on creating high-quality and visually stunning films. They are constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible in terms of visual effects, sound design, and storytelling, which has helped to make Korean films some of the most visually stunning and engaging in the world.

    Rickworks:
    Can you summarize season 1 of the Stranger for me?

    ChatGPT:
    Sure! Here’s a brief summary of Season 1 of Stranger (also known as Secret Forest):

    The story revolves around two main characters: Hwang Shi-Mok, a prosecutor with a mysterious brain condition that makes him unable to feel emotions, and Han Yeo-Jin, a passionate police detective.

    The season starts with the discovery of a dead body in a river, which leads to an investigation into corruption and conspiracy within the prosecutor’s office and the police force. Shi-Mok and Yeo-Jin team up to solve the case, but they face numerous obstacles along the way, including interference from higher-ups who want to bury the case.

    As the investigation progresses, Shi-Mok and Yeo-Jin uncover a web of corruption that reaches the highest levels of government, involving powerful figures who are willing to do whatever it takes to keep their secrets hidden.

    Along the way, Shi-Mok must confront his own past and grapple with the ethical and moral dilemmas that come with his job. Yeo-Jin, meanwhile, faces personal challenges as she tries to balance her career and her family life.

    The season concludes with the resolution of the murder case and the exposure of the corrupt officials behind it. However, the finale also sets the stage for future seasons, hinting at even deeper conspiracies and power struggles that Shi-Mok and Yeo-Jin will need to navigate in the future.

    Rickworks:
    Your summary reminded me that political corruption is a recurring theme of Korean dramas. Do you know why that is? Is there something about Korean culture that makes it a major story point?

    ChatGPT:
    Yes, political corruption is a recurring theme in many Korean dramas, and there are a few reasons why this may be the case.

    First, it’s worth noting that Korea has a complex and often tumultuous political history. The country has experienced numerous periods of political instability, authoritarian rule, and social unrest, which have all contributed to a general distrust of authority and the government.

    This history of political upheaval has also created a cultural narrative that values justice and the pursuit of truth. Many Korean dramas, therefore, use political corruption as a narrative device to explore themes of justice, morality, and power.

    Additionally, political corruption is a universal theme that resonates with audiences around the world. Many viewers can relate to stories about corruption and abuse of power, and these themes can provide a sense of catharsis or cathartic release for those who feel powerless in the face of corrupt institutions.

    Finally, it’s worth noting that political corruption is not unique to Korea, and is a pervasive issue in many countries around the world. By exploring this theme in their dramas, Korean filmmakers are able to tap into a universal sense of outrage and injustice that transcends national borders.

    Rickworks:
    How often has South Korea experiences political instability?

    ChatGPT:
    South Korea has experienced political instability throughout much of its modern history, particularly in the period following its liberation from Japanese colonial rule in 1945. Here are some key moments of political instability in South Korea’s history:

    • Post-World War II and the Korean War (1945-1953): Following Japan’s surrender in World War II, Korea was liberated from Japanese colonial rule, and the Korean Peninsula was divided into two zones of occupation, with the Soviet Union controlling the north and the United States controlling the south. This division led to the establishment of two separate Korean governments, which eventually led to the Korean War (1950-1953).
    • First Republic (1948-1960): The First Republic was established in 1948 under the leadership of Syngman Rhee, who served as the country’s first president. However, Rhee’s authoritarian rule and widespread corruption led to increasing social unrest and opposition, culminating in a popular uprising in 1960 that forced Rhee to resign.
    • Second Republic (1960-1961): Following Rhee’s resignation, a new democratic government was established under the Second Republic. However, this government was short-lived, as it was overthrown by a military coup led by General Park Chung-hee in 1961.
    • Third Republic (1963-1972): Park’s military regime was initially successful in stabilizing the country and promoting economic growth, but it also became increasingly repressive and authoritarian over time. Park dissolved the Second Republic and established a new government under the Third Republic, which lasted until 1972.
    • Fourth Republic (1972-1980): In 1972, Park dissolved the Third Republic and established a new government under the Fourth Republic. This period was marked by increasing political repression and authoritarianism, culminating in the Gwangju Uprising in 1980, in which pro-democracy demonstrators were brutally suppressed by the military.
    • Fifth Republic (1981-1987): Following the Gwangju Uprising, Park was assassinated, and a new government was established under the Fifth Republic. This government was still authoritarian, but it also implemented significant political and economic reforms, including the introduction of direct presidential elections.
    • Sixth Republic (1987-present): The current democratic government of South Korea was established under the Sixth Republic, following widespread protests and demands for democratic reforms in the late 1980s. Since then, South Korea has become one of the most vibrant democracies in Asia, although it still faces occasional political and social challenges.

    Rickworks:
    Wow, that is a lot of information. It will take some time for me to read through that.

    ChatGPT:
    Yes, South Korea has a rich and complex history, and there is much to learn about the country and its people. If you have any questions or would like me to clarify anything, feel free to ask.

    Rickworks:
    I will, although this did start with just asking about Korean drama

    ChatGPT:
    That’s true, but understanding the cultural and historical context of a country can provide valuable insights into the stories and themes that are explored in its popular media, including television shows like Korean dramas. So feel free to ask any questions that come to mind, and I’ll do my best to provide answers and insights.

    Rickworks:
    If you had one recommendation for a Korean drama, which would you recommend?

    ChatGPT:
    As an AI language model, I don’t have personal preferences, but I can suggest some highly-rated and critically acclaimed Korean dramas that are popular among audiences around the world. Here are a few:

    • “Crash Landing on You” – This romantic comedy-drama follows a South Korean chaebol heiress who accidentally crash-lands in North Korea and falls in love with a North Korean army officer. It was one of the most popular Korean dramas of 2019-2020.
    • “Itaewon Class” – This drama tells the story of a young man who opens a bar in the trendy Itaewon neighborhood of Seoul, seeking revenge against a powerful food conglomerate that destroyed his family’s business. It explores themes of class struggle, social justice, and entrepreneurship.
    • “Kingdom” – This Netflix original series is a historical horror-thriller set in medieval Korea, where a prince investigates a mysterious plague that turns its victims into zombie-like creatures. It combines elements of political intrigue, supernatural horror, and epic action.
    • “Reply 1988” – This nostalgic drama is set in the late 1980s in a working-class neighborhood of Seoul, following the lives of five friends and their families as they navigate the challenges of growing up and finding their place in the world. It’s known for its heartwarming and relatable portrayal of family and friendship
    • .

    • “Stranger” (also known as “Secret Forest”) – This crime-thriller follows a prosecutor with a rare neurological condition who teams up with a passionate detective to uncover a web of political corruption and intrigue. It’s known for its intricate plot, nuanced characters, and powerful performances.

    Rickworks:
    Hah, we started the conversation with Stranger

    ChatGPT:
    Yes, we did! “Stranger” is a critically acclaimed Korean drama that has gained popularity both in South Korea and internationally, thanks to its engaging storyline, well-crafted characters, and nuanced exploration of themes such as corruption, justice, and morality. It’s not surprising that it’s a show that many viewers recommend, and I’m glad you enjoyed it!

    Rickworks:
    You told me that already, but thanks

    ChatGPT:
    You’re welcome! If you have any more questions or if there’s anything else I can help you with, feel free to ask.

    Reply

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