In the engaging Korean drama Dreaming of a Freaking Fairy Tale, we meet the enigmatic character Baek Do Hong, portrayed by Kim Hyun Jin. His arrival at Cheongdam Heaven, a prestigious social club for the elite, sets the stage for a series of intriguing revelations. Upon his introduction to Shin Jae Rim (Pyo Ye Jin), Do Hong presents himself as a successful film director. However, this facade quickly unravels as his brother exposes three significant lies that Do Hong has been telling.
Pretending to Be From High Society
Baek Do Hong’s first lie revolves around his purported high-society background. By seeking membership at Cheongdam Heaven, he successfully creates the illusion of belonging to the upper class. This elite social club is known for its wealthy and influential members, and Do Hong’s behavior reinforces this deception. When Jae Rim is accidentally pushed by a rich girl during an event, Do Hong’s reaction is cold and dismissive, indicating his supposed disdain for lower-class behavior.
Footage Of The Drama Dreaming Of A Freaking Fairy Tale (Doc. Tving/Dreaming Of A Freaking Fairy Tale)
However, the truth surfaces when Do Hong admits that he comes from a background similar to Jae Rim’s, a revelation that shatters his carefully constructed image. Despite his current financial success, Do Hong’s origins are far from the aristocratic lineage he claims.
Claiming Passion for His Work
The second lie Do Hong tells is about his professional life. Inviting Jae Rim to his studio, he expresses gratitude for his success and credits his parents for allowing him to pursue his passions. This narrative paints a picture of a privileged individual who has had the freedom to explore and excel in his interests. He even extends a hand to Jae Rim, offering to collaborate and suggesting that they both follow their passions together.
Footage Of The Drama Dreaming Of A Freaking Fairy Tale (Doc. Tving/Dreaming Of A Freaking Fairy Tale
Yet, this too is a fabrication. Do Hong’s brother reveals that Do Hong has never truly pursued his own passions; instead, he has lived his life according to others’ expectations. This stark contrast between Do Hong’s words and reality highlights the internal conflict he faces and the pressures that have shaped his life choices.
Concealing His True Source of Income
Lastly, Do Hong’s brother exposes the real source of his wealth. Contrary to his claims of being a filmmaker, Do Hong has made his fortune by writing BL (Boys Love) novels, a fact he tries to keep hidden. While his brother compares Do Hong’s work to that of J.K. Rowling in terms of success, he simultaneously demeans it, suggesting that the novels are of low quality and unworthy of pride.
Footage Of The Drama Dreaming Of A Freaking Fairy Tale (Doc. Tving/Dreaming Of A Freaking Fairy Tale)
Despite the success of his novels, Do Hong’s brother’s criticism and blackmail reveal the darker side of his accomplishments. Jae Rim, however, views Do Hong’s success in a more positive light, expressing a desire to learn from him despite the revelations.
My Thoughts
Dreaming of a Freaking Fairy Tale masterfully peels back the layers of Baek Do Hong’s character, exposing the lengths to which he goes to fit into a society that values status and image over authenticity. His journey underscores the complexities of identity and the societal pressures that drive individuals to fabricate their lives. While Jae Rim’s supportive stance towards Do Hong is heartwarming, it also serves as a reminder that understanding and empathy can coexist with the acknowledgment of one’s flaws.
In the end, Do Hong’s story is a compelling commentary on the struggles between personal truth and societal expectations, a theme that resonates deeply in the context of modern-day pressures to present a curated version of oneself to the world. This drama not only entertains but also invites viewers to reflect on the nature of success and the true meaning of living authentically.
