Review: Moon in the Day (낮에 뜨는 달)
Moon in the Day (2023) is a fantasy romance K-drama starring Kim Young-dae (The Forbidden Marriage, Shooting Stars) and Pyo Ye-jin (Taxi Driver 2, What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim). The drama blends historical and modern timelines, weaving a tale of love, revenge, and reincarnation.
Plot Summary
The story follows Han Jun-oh (Kim Young-dae), a man whose body is possessed by the spirit of a vengeful nobleman from the Silla era, Do Ha. In the past, Do Ha was betrayed and killed by his beloved, Kang Young-hwa (Pyo Ye-jin). In the present, Jun-oh crosses paths with Young-hwa’s reincarnation, Han Ri-ta (also played by Pyo Ye-jin), a firefighter-turned-celebrity bodyguard. As Do Ha’s spirit seeks revenge, Jun-oh and Ri-ta become entangled in a fated romance that transcends time.
Strengths
Unique Premise – The drama’s mix of historical tragedy and modern-day romance offers an intriguing twist on the reincarnation trope.
Strong Performances – Kim Young-dae effectively portrays both the cold, vengeful Do Ha and the aloof yet kind Jun-oh. Pyo Ye-jin balances toughness and vulnerability well in her dual roles.
Atmosphere & Cinematography – The historical flashbacks are beautifully shot, with a haunting, melancholic tone. The contrast between past and present enhances the emotional weight.
Fast Pacing – At 14 episodes, the drama avoids excessive filler and maintains tension throughout.
Weaknesses
Underdeveloped Side Characters – Some supporting roles, like Jun-oh’s half-brother (Lee Jung-shin), feel underutilized.
Predictable Tropes – While engaging, the story relies on familiar K-drama clichés (amnesia, past-life connections, corporate intrigue).
Ending Controversy – Some viewers found the conclusion rushed or unsatisfying, particularly regarding Do Ha’s resolution.
Final Verdict
Moon in the Day is a visually striking and emotionally charged fantasy romance with solid lead chemistry. While it doesn’t break new ground in the genre, its compelling dual timelines and Kim Young-dae’s standout performance make it worth watching for fans of supernatural love stories.
Rating: 7.5/10
Recommendation: If you enjoyed Goblin, My Roommate Is a Gumiho, or The Tale of the Nine-Tailed, this drama offers a similar mix of fantasy, romance, and historical tragedy.