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The historical K-drama is just as binge-worthy as any modern tale. Thanks to streaming websites like Netflix and Rakuten Viki, the best historical K-drama can be easily viewed by audiences all over the world. From the Netflix K-drama worldwide hit Squid Game to the thrilling adaptation Money Heist: Korea – Joint Economic Area, K-dramas have provided viewers with a diverse kind of entertainment and allowed them to enjoy narratives not usually seen in popular shows from the US and the UK. These include historical K-dramas that feature rich Korean culture and traditions.

A custom image features characters from the time travel k-dramas Tomorrow With You, The Signal, and Chicago Typewriter© Provided by Screen Rant

The 20 Best Time Travel K-Dramas, Ranked

Time travel is a common trope used in K-dramas to solve mysteries, add intrigue and propel love stories. Here are the best time travel K-dramas.

Our Blooming Youth (2023)

A Rom-Com Meet Cute Gets A Historic Thriller Twist

Stream On Rakuten Viki

Our Blooming Youth might not have been nominated for a slew of awards like some of the other historical K-dramas, but it’s got a great concept and the cast has great chemistry. The series takes a modern rom-com idea that’s been used more often in action-comedies than it has historical dramas to fuel its story.

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Here, the crown prince is under suspicion of killing his brother, but he’s also been poisoned by the tip of an arrow and is worried about losing the use of his arm. At the same time, a young woman is on the run and framed for the murder of her entire family. When the two cross paths, they agree to help one another find the answers they’re searching for. What follows is something along the lines of a political thriller, but their romantic connection also makes them compelling to watch.

The King In Love (2017)

Two Best Friends Fall In Love With The Same Woman

In the historical K-drama The King in Love, the future king in question has one close friend in his life and that friendship is thrown into turmoil when they both fall in love with the same woman. What makes it harder is that she loves both men. The Crown Prince Won and Wang Rin are the closest of friends, and they know they are the only people they can rely on in life. That is when San comes along and threatens to sever this close relationship.

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This 40-episode series followed their friendship, trials, and tribulations, as they had to figure out what their future held. While it proved very popular, it fell a little short of other historical Korean dramas at awards time, winning only two awards at the MBC Drama Awards, one for Nam-Da-reum as the younger version of Crown Prince Wang Won and the other for Jeong Bo-Seok, as his father, King Chunnel.

Gunman In Joseon (2014)

A Story Of Revenge and Love

Gunman in Joseon is a historical K-Drama that is part tragic revenge tale and part romantic drama. Park Yoon Kang is a young swordsman whose life is turned upside down when his father, the palace head guard, is murdered. He swears vengeance for his father’s death and sets out to save his enslaved sister. What really makes this stand out from other Korean dramas is that this young man gives up his swords and takes up a gun. After this, he soon becomes a hero to his people.

The story is unique, mostly because this was a time (1876) when guns were new weapons for this hermit kingdom and Park Yoon-kang brings them into the present-day in what can only be considered a Western movie for Eastern cultures. The historical K-drama took home three awards at the KBS Drama Awards and also won the Outstanding Korean Drama award at the 10th Seoul International Drama Awards.

The Forbidden Marriage (2022) A Matchmaker Defies A Kings Ban

It has only 12 episodes, The Forbidden Marriage is one of the shorter historical K-dramas, but it’s also one with an interesting concept. Set during the Joseon Era, the heartbroken king decides to ban marriage. He does so after his wife dies by suicide, and he believes she was actually murdered. Despite his ban, a scam artist acts as a matchmaker, running a marriage compatibility service, completely ignoring his rules right up until she is caught and imprisoned.

The scam artist manages to make the king believe that she’s actually being possessed by the spirit of his dead wife, so he keeps her close, believing he’s got his wife back. While the idea seems ridiculous, the short series is incredibly funny. Of the seven MBC Drama Awards it was nominated for in 2022, The Forbidden Marriage won three, including acting awards for leads Kim Young-dae and Park Ju-hyun.

The Princess’ Man (2011)

A Romantic Tale Like Romeo & Juliet

Stream On Rakuten Viki

The best way to describe this Korean drama is to compare it to Romeo & Juliet.

The Princess’ Man is a shorter historical K-drama at 24 episodes and, unlike others in the genre, it doesn’t care as much about the politics and intrigue as others, as it focuses almost exclusively on the romantic aspects. The best way to describe this Korean drama is to compare it to Romeo & Juliet, a love story between the daughter of a grand prince who wants to become the king and the son of his greatest enemy.

The series was a huge hit when released with an average audience share of around 18.9% nationwide in South Korea. It was also a critical darling, winning seven awards with 15 total nominations at the KBS Drama Awards. This included the Top Excellence Award for Actor (Park Si-hoo) and Actress (Moon Chae-won) and the Best Couple Award.

Gu Family Book (2013)

A Fusion Of Martial Arts, Historical Romance And Supernatural Elements

Stream On Rakuten Viki

Gu Family Book is a historical K-drama that veers into the supernatural romance aspects of the genre. This series focuses on the son of the guardian spirit of Jiri Mountain and a human, making them a half-human and half-mythical creature. Since his parents’ love story ended in tragedy, a family adopted him, and he was raised by these people while trying to learn more about his true nature.

Not only does this historical K-drama bring the supernatural into it, but it is also a fusion of martial arts epics and historical romantic dramas. It is also a touching story about love and finding oneself. The series was a huge hit when released and ended up winning several awards for the actors and the series itself, including taking home four awards at both the MBC Drama Awards and the 2nd Asia Rainbow TV Awards.

Arang and the Magistrate (2012)

Romantic Fantasy Based On An Ancient Tale

Stream On Rakuten Viki

Arang and the Magistrate is a historical K-drama that is not as concerned about actual history. This is a romantic fantasy K-drama that is based on an ancient dark folk tale called The Legend of Arang. The legend itself tells the story of a magistrate’s daughter who was murdered. Ever since her death, a beautiful ghost begins to haunt every magistrate who wants the position. However, things change when a very determined young man is about to take this position and ends up communicating with the ghostly girl.

This historical K-drama changes the story to make it more of a romance, with 20 episodes. The ghost Arang has lost her memories and she can’t rest in peace until she learns how she died. Every magistrate that appears to die from fright, but the newest appointee can actually see, hear, and touch spirits, and he agrees to help her learn the truth, so she can move on. The historical K-drama won several awards including Excellent Korean Drama at the Seoul International Drama Awards.

Hwasang: The Poet Warrior Youth (2016)

A Group of Warriors Find Love and Friendship During The Silla Kingdom

Hwasang The Poet Warrior Of Youth (2016)© Provided by Screen Rant

Hwasang: The Poet Warrior Of Youth (2016)

Cast Do Ji-han, Go Ara, Park Hyung-sik, Choi Min-ho, Park Seo-joon

The 2016 historical K-drama is a coming-of-age romance centered around a group of elite young men. The historical Korean drama takes place during the Silla Kingdom era between 57 BC and AD 935. The queen of the Kingdom of Silla sent her son away from the palace walls to stay safe from their enemies.

However, in the Korean period drama, he’s coming of age and waits along with other citizens for her to step down — but there’s trouble amidst. The queen worries about powerful nobles who once tried to take over the throne. She has a plan to form an elite group of warriors called, the Hwasang. They will surpass existing power factions and protect the throne. The young men are unaware that their future king is among them. While not the best historical K-drama, it maintained decent ratings throughout its 10 parts, but didn’t win any accolades.

(Song-Kang-as-Cha-Hyun-Su)-from-Sweet-Home–&-(Han-So-hee-as-Yoon-Chae-ok)-from-Gyeongseong-Creature© Provided by Screen Rant

Netflix has an excellent line-up of K-Dramas on its roster, and their popularity is in large part thanks to the excellent actors playing the roles.

Mr. Queen (2020)

A Controversial K-drama To Make Anyone Laugh

Mr. Queen 2020 TV Show Poster© Provided by Screen Rant

Mr. Queen (2020)

Casserole In-a, Bae Jong-ok, Shin Hye-sun, Kim Tae-woo, Kim Jung-hyun

Release Date December 12, 2020

Seasons1

Rating Not Rated

Stream On Netflix

Mr. Queen is a controversial historical K-drama with comedy leanings that will have anyone on the floor laughing at its comical displays and dialogue. The 2020 time-traveling K-drama ties the present and the past all in one. An up-and-coming chef suffers an accident and wakes up in a different era. Not only does he wake up in the Joseon era, but also as a woman, and not just any woman, but the Queen.

The current King in Mr. Queen is a gentle and easy-going person but in reality, has a dark and secret side the Queen is starting to uncover. While there’s corruption in the kingdom, the Queen’s modern life and that of the Joseon era are melding. It makes for comical and awkward encounters. Mr. Queen was nominated for two awards, winning none, but what makes Mr. Queen far from the best historical K-drama is its controversial dealings with gender.

Queen For Seven Days (2017)

An Iconic Love Story Based on True Events

Stream On Rakuten Viki

Queen for Seven Days is a historical K-drama that’s actually based on a true story, and the K-drama doesn’t have a happy ending. In the iconic love story, Lady Shin Chae-kyung (Park Min-young), the daughter of a powerful politician in the Joseon dynasty, falls in love with Prince Lee Yuk (Woo-jin Yeon), who is living under the iron thumb of his half-brother King Yeon San Gun (Dong-geon Lee). The two get married and the Prince ascends the throne, making Shin queen.

However, trouble arises among different political entities and in-fighting between the family, resulting in Shin being dethroned after only seven days. Though it’s not the best historical K-drama, Queen for Seven Days holds its own as a historical biopic of sorts, detailing a real sordid affair in Joseon dynasty history. The historical K-drama was nominated for four awards at the 31st KBS Drama Awards, winning one for actor Lee Dong-gun.

Rookie Historian Goo Hae-Ryung (2019)

A 19th Century Historical Romance With Two Storylines

Stream On Netflix

Rookie Historian Goo Hae-Ryung is a great K-drama for beginners and premiered on Netflix in 2019. The historical K-drama stars K-Pop Idol, Cha Eun-woo as Prince Down Yi-rim. While the drama may be tagged as a romance and comedy, there are a lot of historical facts to unpack. Two storylines take place in the show, though it’s not a time-traveling K-drama. Not the best historical K-drama, but it did well enough during awards season.

One timeline is set in “nowadays” in the early 19th century of Joseon, the other twenty years beforehand. One is more lighthearted with caricatures and jokes. The other is a series of flashbacks detailing the unjust rank of citizens and suppression. Interwoven is a love story between a free-spirited woman hoping to become a female historian and a prince working in secret as a romance writer. Rookie Historian Goo Hae-Ryung not only features a K-pop idol but was also nominated for eight awards at the MBC Drama Awards, winning four, including one for Best Couple.

The Kings Affection (2021)

A Woman Becomes King

Stream on Netflix

The King’s Affection takes on a historical Korean superstition. When a prince shares his space in his mother’s womb with a female child, he’s considered to be cursed. With that in mind, The King’s Affection starts off in a dark place, with the order to kill the future king’s twin sister just after her birth. Instead, the young princess is sent away to be raised by someone else, only to grow up to work as a maid in the palace and meet her brother and her mother years later.

In the grand tradition of women disguised as men in K-dramas, the estranged princess takes on her brother’s role following his death, disguising herself as him and becoming the king. Complicating matters is that she falls for one of the king’s tutors, and he has feelings for the king as well. The King’s Affection piqued the interest of critics and audiences alike, earning six KBS Drama Awards.

Empress Ki (2013)

A Korean Woman Becomes A Powerful Empress Of China

Stream On Rakuten Viki

Empress Ki is a historical K-drama that was a domestic and overseas hit for its impressive performances and riveting story. The historical K-drama details the journey of a woman born in Korea as she becomes a powerful empress of China amidst love, war, and politics. Gi Seungnang (or Ki Seung Nyang) rises to power despite the restrictions of the era’s class system. Though it’s not the best historical K-drama, it does stand out as a woman-led historical K-drama.

She comes to marry the Emperor of the Mongol Empire to become empress. However, underneath there are still feelings for her first love. Audiences will get caught up in the display of deep-rooted love from the Emperor as well as the Empress’s drive and ambitions. The women-led K-drama Empress Ki has decent awards stats, garnering nominations from the MBC Drama Awards, the Seoul International Drama Awards, and the Korea Drama Awards. Empress Ki lucked out, snagging seven awards in total.

The Red Sleeve (2021-2022)

A Bittersweet Love Story Told From A Female Perspective

Stream On Rakuten Viki

Inspired by the novel of the same name, The Red Sleeve, like so many of the best historical K-dramas, is set during Korea’s Joseon Era. Here, the focus is on two members of the royal court who have particular aspirations but find their stations sometimes in the way of what they want. One of those is the prince who longs to be a better and kinder king than his recently departed grandfather.

The other is one of the “court ladies” who appreciates the freedom her position can offer her but wants to be able to live her own life instead of being at the mercy of the court. The Red Sleeve is told from the woman’s perspective as the two fall in love but find one another just out of reach. A favorite of the 2021 TV season, the series won eight MBC Drama Awards of the 12 for which it was nominated.

Jewel In The Palace (2003)

One Of The First K-dramas To Reach Global Prominence

Jewel In The Palace (2003)

Castellum Bo-ra, Lee Se-eun, Im Ho, Ji Jin-hee, Lee Young-ae

Release Date September 15, 2003

Seasons1

Rating

Stream On Rakuten Viki

Those who struggle to understand why K-dramas have gained such momentum in the West should check out the historical K-drama Jewel in the Palace, which is one of the earlier K-dramas that has earned prominence on the global stage. Set during the Chosun Dynasty, Jewel in the Palace is actually based on the true story of a woman named Jang-Geum, who manages to become the first royal physician in all of Korea.

The show focuses on Jang-Geum’s struggles as a woman in a male-dominated society, making it another female-led K-drama. The historical K-drama’s relevant storyline, as well as its phenomenal actors, have helped it gain viewers all over the world. Despite not being the best historical K-drama, it does have cultural significance thanks to its effect on tourism in South Korea. Also, the series received a spinoff, a stage play, and a sequel.

Deep Rooted Tree (2011)

One Of The Most Acclaimed K-dramas Of The 2010s

Stream On Rakuten Viki

Deep Rooted Tree was first known as a historical novel by the same name written by Lee Jung-Myung. For fans wanting a bit more thrill in their drama, this is a good choice. The story of the historical K-drama revolves around a royal guard who is investigating the serial murders of Jiphyeonjeon scholars. The thrilling K-drama does have inclinations of romance, but it’s not the main star.

Ddol-bok (Jang Hyuk) was once a young slave to the King. The King causes the death of his in-laws and his slaves to save them from his father. But the young slave survived. Years later, now a royal guard, Ddol-bak wants revenge but gets tangled in the mysterious murders. As secrets get uncovered, the creation of the Korean alphabet can either give or take power. Deep Rooted Tree is critically acclaimed and had an awards sweep in 2011 and 2012, winning 11 awards. Despite not being the best historical K-drama, it is one of the most acclaimed.

Nam Hong-joo looking up as Jung Jae-chan looks at her in While You Were Sleeping© Provided by ScreenRant

With K-pop being more popular than ever, it’s not surprising that so many talented K-pop artists have also had established careers in K-dramas, too.

The Emperor: Owner of the Mask (2017)

A Historical Drama Of Political Intrigue

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The historical drama The Emperor: Owner of the Mask isn’t technically the best historical K-drama, but it does have solid elements of political intrigue. In the series, Prince Lee Sun (Yoo Seung-ho of the romantic K-drama I Am Not A Robot) finds himself at odds with the controlling and affluent organization Pyunsoo hwe, whose far reach has depleted the population’s water.

As Lee Sun fights against the organization, he soon finds out what a massive undertaking he has on his hands. Despite this Lee Sun becomes a symbol of hope in the sprawling Joseon dynasty, all with the assistance of his lover Han Ge-eun (Kim So-hyun). The Emperor: Owner of the Mask is critically acclaimed and was performing well long into the 2018 awards season, scooping up a whopping 11 awards.

Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo (2016)

Fantasy, Romance and Time Travel Tied Together

Moon Lovers Scarlet Heart Ryeo (2016)© Provided by ScreenRant

Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo (2016)

CastPark Soo-jin, No Min-woo, Lee Seung-gi, Shin Min-a

Release DateAugust 11, 2010

Seasons1

DirectorsBoo Sung-chul

RatingTV-14

Stream On Rakuten Viki

This historical K-drama is for fans who want a bit of fantasy and time travel tied in with their historical romance. The show did averagely well, meaning it’s not the best historical K-drama, but gained mass success overseas, due in part to audiences being familiar with it since it’s a K-drama remake of a Chinese show. In this body-swap K-drama, a 25-year-old woman gets transported to the year 941 and meets the prince of the Wang family.

The historical Korean drama wouldn’t be without their love triangle, a good guy and a bad boy. The woman falls for one of the kindhearted princes but is also allured by another who hides his face with a mask. In between love, she finds herself amongst dangerous palace politics and a rivalry for the throne. Moon Lovers did its biggest awards sweep at the SBS Drama Awards, garnering 12 nominations and winning seven. In total, the series has 11 awards for its name.

Rebel: Thief Who Stole The People (2017)

A Korean Robin Hood Tale

Stream On Rakuten Viki

The historical K-drama Rebel: Thief Who Stole the People is set during the rule of the 10th king during the Joseon Dynasty. Many who watch the historical Korean drama will find it closely related to another famous tale, Robin Hood. The son of a servant has no noble standing in society and little room to make something of himself but proves himself by stealing from the rich to return money to the poor.

Hong Gil-dong (Yoon Kyun-sang) decides to become the leader of a group of thieves. They steal and give back to the poor as the tyrannical King Yeonsangun (Kim Ji-Seok) oppresses his people. This drama also has a love story as the King’s consort can’t seem to forget her first love, who happens to be Gil-dong, leading to a palpable romance. While not the best historical K-drama on the list, Rebel garnered critical acclaim and has 11 drama awards to its name.

Mr. Sunshine (2018)

An Accurate Portrayal Of Historical Events

Stream On Netflix

Mr.Sunshine is a favorite among K-drama fans for its melodrama, swoon-worthy K-drama love triangle, and its riveting use of historical facts. Fans applauded the show’s accurate portrayal of historical events as well as its time period setting. Unlike other historical K-dramas, this takes place before the Japanese Annexation of Korea in the late 1800s. During its run, Mr. Sunshine was the third highest-rated drama in Korean cable television history.

Eugene Choi (Lee Byung-hun) was once a slave but escaped to the U.S. and became a Marine Corps officer. He returns to Joseon on a mission but soon falls for an aristocrat’s granddaughter. She’s no ordinary aristocrat as she hides her identity as part of the Righteous Army. Along the way, he uncovers a plot for the colonization of Korea and a fight for sovereignty. Despite not being the best historical K-drama, Mr. Sunshine received accolades from the Korea Drama Awards, Asia Artist Awards, and The Seoul Awards.

10 Korean Dramas That Have the Best Soundtracks© Provided by MovieWeb

Everyone who’s a fan of Asian dramas has their favorite kind, whether they’re from Japan, South Korea, or China. In the context of K-dramas, certain tropes — whether it’s a rich person falling in love with someone from a lower socioeconomic standing, or the wrist-grab as a character turns away in anger or sadness from the other lead character — have reigned supreme throughout the years. From fantasy to historical dramas, there definitely has been no shortage lately when it comes to the variety of stories we can consume on a daily basis. Even streaming platforms like Disney+ and Netflix have been continuing to build up original work, ensuring we have plenty of dramas to watch in the near future.

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Despite how entertaining they are, though, some dramas have been incredible simply because of the technical elements, from visually stunning cinematography to music. Indeed, fans have noted how some Korean dramas have had incredible soundtracks throughout the years, and CDs were even sold containing the songs recorded for the drama. Spotify playlists, too, have included some soundtracks containing the biggest idols and singers working within Korean entertainment right now. These 10 Korean dramas are some of the few that have become famous for their music.

Secret Garden (2010)

Hyun Bin and Ha Ji-won star in 2010’s Secret Garden, which has been a staple in the Korean drama world for over a decade now. It is the perfect example of the rich-poor trope, as its male lead is a CEO who falls in love with a stuntwoman after they meet in a way that wouldn’t have happened if this weren’t a Korean drama. But not only does the plot hit all the right feelings, so does the soundtrack!

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What Makes It Great

Two of the defining songs on this OST are Baek Ji-young’s “That Woman” and Sung Si-kyung’s “You Are My Spring.” Well-placed throughout the drama, these are power ballads that one would want to belt along with long after they’ve finished the drama.

Stream on Viki

Start-Up (2020)

A 2020 series starring Bae Suzy and Nam Joo-hyuk, Start-Up sees idealistic young woman (Bae), who wants to become the next Steve Jobs, but in South Korea. But because she doesn’t come from money, her journey towards moving to the top is going to look a lot different from those with privilege. Start-Up ranks high in terms of cinematography, but the soundtrack is pretty decent as well.

What Makes It Great

Korean pop group Red Velvet is behind the main song for the series: “Future.” Other familiar singers and artists in Korea like Gaho, 10cm, K.Will and Davichi, just to name a few, are involved with the original soundtrack for the series, making each and every song featuring a stacked lineup.

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Guardian: The Great and Lonely God (2016)

Also known as Goblin, Guardian: The Great and Lonely God was a massive success when it first came out on television in South Korea and abroad. A dokkaebi, or goblin, knows that in order to break his curse of immortality, he has to find his fated bride. But when he does eventually find her, a high school student, things aren’t going to be as easy as he thought.

What Makes It Great

Goblin has a phenomenal soundtrack throughout each episode. “Stay With Me,” featuring EXO’s Chanyeol and PUNCH, is one of the most iconic songs, but others, like Crush’s “Beautiful” and Sam Kim’s “Who Are You,” are also highly memorable as they play during the emotional moments of episodes.

Stream on Viki

Descendants of the Sun (2016)

When Descendants of the Sun came out, it created a ripple effect that eventually led it to become one of the most popular Korean dramas to ever be released during that time. A doctor and army captain become tangled up in South Korea, then meet in a fictional war-torn country throughout the series, continuing their love story abroad. While fans adored the storyline of the series, the soundtrack was also well-loved.

What Makes It Great

Yoon Mi-rae’s “Always” appears in the background of several episodes throughout the show, and every time it emerges again it hits perfectly. Another key song that comes up repeatedly is Gummy’s “You Are My Everything,” which makes all the dramatic moments throughout the show even more dramatic with its bold statement on love.

Stream on Netflix

Hotel Del Luna (2021)

Hotel Del Luna

Release Date 2021-09-03

Cast Bae Hae-sun, Shin Jeong-geun, Yeo Jin-gu, Ji-eun Lee

Main Genre Action

In 2021’s Hotel Del Luna, Lee Ji-eun/IU and Yeo Jin-goo are a power combo to lead this fantastical drama. Set inside of a hotel where those who’ve passed on go through before entering the next plane, human Gu Chan-sung (Yeo) becomes the manager due to a deal his father made when he was a child. There, he befriends owner Man-wol (Lee) and the eccentric people who work and live there.

What Makes It Great

An eclectic mix of songs comprises the original soundtrack of Hotel Del Luna, hitting notes of pop, power ballads, and indie songs. Monday Kiz and Punch’s “Another Day” is one of the stand-outs on this soundtrack, as well as Red Velvet’s “See the Stars.” Other key singers on the soundtrack include Taeyeon and Chungha.

Stream on Netflix

Itaewon Class

Release Date 2020-01-31

Cast Nara, Yoo Jae-myung, Kim Da-mi, Park Seo-joon

Main Genre Drama

Rating TV-MA

Seasons 1

Itaewon Class is the ultimate underdog story of revenge throughout 16 episodes. After the wrongful death of his father, Sae-ro-yi is released from prison and decides he’s going to get revenge against the wealthy student who caused all of this to happen. But first, he opens a restaurant in the foreigner district of Seoul: Itaewon. With an interesting mix of employees, he embarks on the long road to revenge.

What Makes It Great

The soundtrack of Itaewon Class includes a solid mix of pop-based songs and softer ones that have a more indie feel to them. Although the themes and actions of the characters can get a little harsh, the soundtrack balances out the show’s more difficult themes in a lighthearted way when needed.

Stream on Netflix

The Heirs (2013)

Released in 2013, The Heirs is a prime example of what it means to be stuck in the middle of a love triangle. The female lead, Cha Eun-sang (Park Shin-hye), is a lower income student who becomes the prime target for two different wealthy male students that want to date her. Although this series is a prime example of second lead syndrome, the soundtrack has some bops in it.

What Makes It Great

Several iconic Korean drama songs are found on the soundtrack of The Heirs, including “I’m Saying” by Lee Hong-gi, “Moment” by 2AM’s Lee Chang-min, and Ken’s, from VIXX, “In the Name of Love.” Long after the drama finished, these songs continue to be well-known in the drama community because of how good they are.

Stream on Netflix

Extraordinary You (2019)

Fans of webtoons would adore Extraordinary You, which reflects on what would happen if a character realizes they’re living in a fictional world. Eun Dan-oh (Kim Hye-yoon) realizes just this and is horrified to realize she’s not the main character either. When she befriends a nameless character and gives him the name Haru (Rowoon), they decide to change their fates. Several Korean idol groups feature on the soundtrack for this drama.

What Makes It Great

Songs like APRIL’s “Feeling” and VERIVERY’s “My Beauty” add a pop, youthful feel to a drama that’s already brimming with those vibes and aesthetics. The series never really dives deep into serious territory, and the soundtrack is full of really catchy songs that reflect that.

Stream on Viki

Crash Landing on You (2019)

Crash Landing on You

Release Date 2019-12-14

Cast Kim Jung-hyun, Seo Ji-hye, Son Ye-jin, Hyun Bin

Main Genre Adventure

Rating TV-14

Seasons 1

Some may call Crash Landing on You one of the most iconic Korean dramas to have released in the last decade. When a South Korean businesswoman accidentally ends up in North Korea in a paragliding accident, it sets her up to fall head over heels with a stoic North Korean military captain. However, their story has many challenges ahead, but with this soundtrack, we’re fully prepared to go on an emotional journey with them.

What Makes It Great

The soundtrack of Crash Landing on You features 30 songs, and while some are instrumental, all of them are absolutely critical towards shaping the emotional journey of the show. Songs like 10cm’s “But It’s Destiny” and IU’s “Give You My Heart” are just a few of the bops found on this soundtrack that we’re still listening to years later.

Stream on Netflix

It’s Okay, That’s Love (2014)

Released in 2014, It’s Okay, That’s Love tells the story of a successful author and DJ grappling with OCD and trauma from his childhood. When he meets a first-year psychiatrist, who’s grappling with the trauma in her own life, the two clash immediately. Despite the rocky start, though, the two learn to get along and love each other. The soundtrack is one of the vehicles keeping this drama together with a solid plot line.

What Makes It Great

One key song throughout the series is Exo’s Chen’s “Best Luck,” which many have played on loop in the years following the drama’s release. Other artists like Yoon Mi-rae and Davichi also feature on the OST, making it a nostalgic throwback to the mid-2010s when these artists were appearing on many soundtracks for Korean dramas. And there’s a solid reason why: they put out good songs.

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Cosmos K Drama List

Themes

Our Blues K Drama Review

Favorite K Drama

Cosmos’s Fav k Drama

Cosmos’s Favorite K Drama

Over the last few years, I finally became a K Drama fan. Part of the reason is that my Korean is now good enough to mostly follow the dialogue although I still need subtitles. Second, because of COVID, we’ve been mostly at home in Korea, and third, I finally just got into K Drama. I know a bit late, but what the heck.

Here are some of my favorite K Dramas- I provide a synopsis and my comment on each.

In general K Dramas come in two forms – movies and series. The series are reminiscent of Mexican telenovela – usually 16 episodes, occasionally 20, and occasionally fewer. A few have two seasons. Most run for about a month. Almost all are available now on Netflix and Hulu with English sub-titles. A few were quite controversial.

Since 2015, when I moved to Korea I have become a big fan of K Drama. They are perhaps the best in the world at romantic comedies. (“Crash Course in Romance” and “Crash Landing on You” a good examples). They also excel in movies about “Rich People Behaving Badly ”( Mine is the best one) and dark social commentary like “Parasite” (Oscar Best Picture), revenge dramas (Glory is the best example), and epic historical dramas set in Korea and China. (“Mr. Sunshine” is a good example) Another staple is high school coming-of-age films. (Millionaires First Love is a good one) .They also do political intrigue films pretty well ) Last Man Standing is good, and” Designated Survivor”), and decent SCIFi too. (“Silent Sea”, and Space Sweapers” are good). The crime and political dramas are quite intense and a bit too violent in my opinion although they are not “slasher” films per se. And of course, the Squid Game was a worldwide phenomenon.

Up until the early 80’s K dramas were not that good, Japanese (J Drama) were better. But since then K Dramas have taken over. For some reason, K dramas are more approachable to outsiders than J Dramas or C Dramas. An interesting factoid is that the writers are almost all women. and about 60 percent of the viewers are women, Korean men, in general, prefer sports or news programs.

More LGBTQ Characters

In recent years, many dramas have started featuring LGBTQ characters and non-Korean characters (called multi-cultural in Korean). The LGBTQ characters tend to be either female or transgendered, not too many male male gay characters. Itaewon Class had a good Trans character – a male transitioning to female, and “Mine” had both a lesbian couple and a bisexual male lead. This reflects the fact that LGTBQ status is still not as tolerated in Korea as it is in the US and Europe. Five years ago there were no LGBTQ characters, now there are quite a few. In Korea there are now gay nightclubs in Itaewon’s “homo hill” and the Hongdae student district, and there is an annual gay pride day which while not officially legal, is not illegal as it was a few years ago. Many K novels and stories also have LGBTQ characters these days.

Gay marriage is still not legal, but gay sex is no longer illegal or grounds for a divorce as adultery is also no longer illegal or grounds for a divorce. Younger Koreans are much more tolerant than older Koreans. The Christian Churches tend to be conservative and heavily influenced by American evangelical churches and are mostly anti-LGBTQ. About ten percent of adults have engaged in gay or lesbian relationships and perhaps 5 percent of the population are LGBTQ, with 2 percent transgendered. Transgendered people have to go to Thailand for surgery as the surgeries are illegal in Korea and Korean health insurance does not cover such treatments.

More diverse foreign characters

A lot of K dramas have foreign characters – and there are a number of foreign actors who make their living in K drama performances. Many are stereotypical military or CIA officers but lately, there have been more characters who are foreign residents living and working with Koreans. That is a good trend I think.

Rom-Com Slow Burn Dramas

The rom-com tends to be slow-burning dramas with few explicit sex scenes, almost all of them male -female although there are a few lesbian-themed ones now and then. Many of them follow the meme hate turning to love, although love at first sight K dramas are common, and many feature doomed romances between characters of different social classes.

Korean Badass Female Leads

Final point, I have always considered Korean women to be the most beautiful and sexiest women on the planet and I love watching them in K Dramas, particularly I like watching real “badass” lead characters, and I married my Korean dream girl See Dreamgirl re-published for details.

“Mr. Sunshine,” and “Gyesang Creatures” have such lead characters.

I have finally gotten enough Korean to mostly follow the dialogue without subtitles, but most of the K Dramas on Amazon, Disney, and Netflix have subtitles. I hope by the end of the year to be able to watch a K drama without subtitles. Nice language learning goal to have.

Here is my list of K Dramas I have seen over the years.

The most recent K Drama

Confession K Drama A- psychological crime thriller

Collectors K drama b Treasure hunters

the spy went North political drama

Goodbye Mr. Black K drama did not finish – to dawn out

My Annoying Brother b a funny comedy

Me and Me K drama b a a man wakes up as a different person

Squid Game Season Two Did Not Finish the C remake of the original series but lost its Korean flavor as it was now an international cast h

Gyesang Creature K Drama Part Two B see below for review

The Devil Plan Did Not Finish B too complicated to follow a reality TV show

VIP K Drama B psychological thriller

Destined With You K Drama B cute rom-com

My Demon Did Not Finish C

Millionaire First Love K Drama A rom-com sort of love story-like story

Hyenna K Legal Drama B tense legal drama

Badlands Hunters B post apocalyptical Korea

Captivating the King K Drama period piece about a woman who falls in love with the King and becomes his confidant as she is the best Go player in the Kingdom takes place during the Yuan conquest of China and a brief war with Choson.

Doctor Slump K Drama A powerful and moving drama about a woman who goes back to finish her medical training at age 40, and a love triangle between her husband and her best friend in college, and she finds out that she had a child with her husband all that time.

Golden Holliday K takes place in the Philippines

Taken K Drama movie b crime thriller

the Swindler K drama movie a crime thriller

Don’t Buy The Sale K Drama b about cybercrime and the problems of online used sales – Korea has a vibrant used market sale online and there is considerable fraud associated with it.

the Dude in Me K drama is a cute story about a person finding themselves as another person

Lee Kiwon K movie about NK refugees in Belgium good premise but disappointing

Young Police K Drama B gripping crime drama about two police cadets at the national police university who break up a huge international organ harvesting racket but break all the rules in doing so.

Killer Paradox K gripping crime drama

Single in Seoul K movie B rom-com

Queen of Tears K rom-com A-1 rom-com meets political thriller meets “rich people behaving badly” and revenge of the underdog memes

Physical first season K reality TV show B pretty good

Physical second season K reality not quite as good

Parasite the grey Korean version of Body Snatchers B

Chicken Nugget Silly K Drama did not finish C

Last Days of Earth K SF drama – did not finish

Lost Phone K cyber crime thriller repeated B

The Day I Died, undisclosed Case B crime drama

Frankly Speaking TBC b about a man who after an injury finds he cannot lie and blurts out what he is thinking with disastrous consequences

A Werewolf Boy K Drama remake of a French Movie b

A Typical Family K drama about a scheming family B

Tidal Wave – did not finish sci-fi drama

12 12 about the rise to power of Chun Du Whan B besides the scenes true story about the events that transformed Korea during my Peace Corps days.

Bring Me Home K drama about child abuse

Tutor K drama reminiscent of the movie Parasite

Artificial City b another political drama about a scheming corrupt family

Keys to the Heart K drama A rom-com drama

Hit and Run Squad B crime drama

Love Struck in the City did not finish

Sweet and Sour B rom-com

Military Prosecutor Doberman K drama featuring a real badass female lead

Eve

Miss Night and Day

First my top 25 list

Gyesang Creature K Drama Korean female badass character, a monster movie, a historical drama set at the end of the Colonial era

Captivating The King K Historical Drama A

Doctor Slump K Drama B good rom-com also deals with mental illness issues, political intrigue

Glory K drama A revenge drama

extraodinatry attorney wo you wo about an austic genius who becomes a top attorney despite her social askwarness, shyness and weirdness. one of several movies which protray the sturggles faced by the austictic in the very competitive socieity which is not disabled friendly to say the least.

Crash Course in Romance K drama A- great rom-com

Chief of Staff K drama political drama

Shin Divorce Attorney K Drama -A great legal drama and political intrigue

The Eternal King K drama a historical drama. alt history Sci-fi rom-com

Live Up to Your Name K drama A historical drama, sci-fi, rom-com slow burn romance

Castaway Diva b slow burn rom-com

My Love From The Stars sci-fi rom-com

Itaewon Class K Drama Trans character lead

The Last Man Standing K Drama political intrigue regarding the assassination of President Park based on a true story

Venzano K Drama corporate intrigue, crime drama, and slow-burn romance featuring an Italian -Korean mafia lawyer who returns to Korea to recover buried gold and becomes the champion of residents of a commercial building being forced out to make room for the corporate Headquarters = the CEO is a real sociopath.

Mine K Drama great example of rich people behaving badly, LGBTQ characters

Strong Girl Namjoon sequel see post review female badass leads

strong girl Bong soon original A see post review female badass leads

Parasite K Drama Oscar Best picture – dark black comedy

When The Camelia Blooms K Drama great K rom-com

Squid Games K Drama Number 1 On Netflix game show but much more than that

Other favorites

Parasite of course won the 2020 Oscar. And Minuri won best-supporting actress this year.

“Move to Heaven”

DP about the hunt for deserters in the military,”

Camilla Blooming.”

Itaewon Class features a trans lead character and a foreign resident of Korea from Africa, also a revenge movie

Stranger crime drama

Mr. Sunshine’s period piece set in the turn of the 20th century featuring a real badass female lead

Mad About You rom-com

The Negotiation (film) tense political crime drama

Sisyphus: The Myth (2021) sci-fi series that petered out at the end but had some good moments here and there and again featured a really badass female lead

Space Sweepers K SF Drama

The Last Man Standing K Drama about the assassination of President Park – which occurred during my Peace Corps days

Mr. Kim’s convenience store -set in Toronto

K-Dramas Seen from 2015 to 2023

2023

2022

2021

Space Sweepers K SF Drama

Itaewon Class K Drama

The Last Man Standing K Drama

The Honest Candidate K Drama

Sisyphus K Drama

Venzano K Drama

Strangers K Drama season one

Strangers K Drama season two

Strangers K Drama season three

Mine K drama

Parasite K Drama

Legends of Alhambra K Drama

The negotiator K movie

No exit K movie

Crash Landing On You K Drama

Night in Paradise K movie

DP K drama

Con K drama movie

When the Camelia Blooms K Drama

Squid Games K Drama number 1 on netflix

Move to Heaven K Drama

Minuri

Reflections on You (K Drama, Netflix)

Hell Bound K Drama

Hostage K Drama movie

Balgasal K SF

The Wanted

Mogadishu K Drama

Silent Sea

Mad for Each Other

2020

Trolly started 2022 B K drama a-

Glory K drama B+

Confidential Assignment K drama b

On the line k drama b

Weight Ton K drama b

Crash Course in Romance K drama A-

One Spring Night K drama

The Bros K drama

Like for Likes K drama b.

Ordinary People K drama b

Veteran K crime comedy b K drama

Tiger in Winter K drama with a magical realism twist K drama

After My Death, another Korean teenage crime drama k drama

Confidential Assignment Two K drama

Nothing Serious K rom-com

Uncanny counter K drama

What’s wrong with Secretary Kim K’s drama.

Chief of Staff K drama

Mad for each other K drama

Along with the god’s K’s drama

Time to hunt K drama.

Escape from Mogadishu K drama

The decision to leave K drama.

Adenoid K drama

Hunt K drama

Confession K drama

My unfamiliar family K drama

Physical Another Squid Game K drama

Confession K Drama

Where the Crawdads Sing American movie

Unblock Cyber crime K drama.

One Spring Night K drama

Sweat and Sour K drama

Shin Divorce Attorney K Drama

The Eternal King K drama

Live Up to Your Name K drama

Kill Bosun K drama

Switch k drama

Beef K Drama set in LA

Queen Maker K drama

The Chair American series

Miss and Mrs. Cop K drama

Unstoppable K drama

Mad for Each Other

Private Lifes K drama

Flower of Evil K drama

Glitch Korean series

See You in My 19th Life K Drama did not finish it

Alchemy of Souls intriguing K Drama

Song of the Bandits K drama b

Dream K drama about the homeless World Cup A

King Maker K drama about Kim Dae Jung’s early rise on Disney A

Ballerina K crime revenge thriller b a bit too violent

Strong Girl Namsoon sequel see post review

strong girl bong soon original A see post review

Doona K Drama B

Ray of Sunshine K Drama A

Good By Mr. Black Disney K Drama B

TheWorst of Evil Disney K Drama B

Villante Disney K Drama B

The Believer K Drama b

the Believer Part two K Drama B

Castaway Diva b

comedy royal b

squid Game Two did not finish c

My Demon did not finish c

Father Stu A

Don’t Buy the Seller -K Drama about a serial killer who lures victims through ads for used sales

gyesang Creature K drama 6 episodes

Havana K murder drama with an LGBT love affair theme

Bloodhounds K revenge crime drama

Bing AI’s list of top K Dramas

If you’re looking for the best K-dramas to binge-watch, you’re in for a treat! Korean dramas (K-dramas) have taken the world by storm, offering a delightful mix of interesting storylines, intense plot twists, and addictive viewing experiences. Here are some top K-dramas across different genres:

Action/Thriller Korean Dramas:

Squid Game: A gripping thriller where characters in serious debt participate in deadly children’s games for a chance at a massive prize. Tug of War, Red Light, Green Light—watch out for the high stakes! 1.

Sweet Home: If you enjoyed movies like The Call and #Alive, this multi-season drama features gruesome monsters and follows a depressed loner in a new apartment complex 1.

Romance Korean Dramas(Fan Favorites):

Crash Landing on You: A heartwarming love story between a South Korean heiress and a North Korean soldier.

Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo: A historical romance with time-travel elements.

Guardian: The Lonely and Great God (Goblin): A fantasy romance involving a goblin, a grim reaper, and a human woman 2.

Other Notable K-Dramas:

Strong Woman Do Bong Soon: A mix of romance, comedy, and action, featuring a super-strong female lead.

While You Were Sleeping: A supernatural romance with intriguing dream-related twists.

Descendants of the Sun: A love story set against the backdrop of military service.

My Love From The Star: A unique romance involving an alien and a famous actress.

Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo: A heartwarming sports-themed drama 2.

Remember, K-dramas can evoke a wide range of emotions—from sappy to heartbreaking to downright surprising. So grab your popcorn, find a cozy spot, and immerse yourself in the captivating world of Korean dramas! 🎬🍿

2024

Confession K Drama A-

Collectors K Drama B

The Spy Gone North B K Drama

Goodbye Mr. Black K Drama Did Not Finish

My Demon Love K Drama Did Not Finish

My Annoying Brother B

Me And Me K Drama B

Squid Game Season Two Did Not Finish – No longer K drama in my opinion

Gyesang Creature K Drama Korean female badass character

Somebody B

The Devil Plan Was Too Complicated To Follow

VIP K Drama B

Destined With You K Drama

Millionaire First Love K Drama A good intro to coming of age high school dramas

Hyena K Legal Drama A good political corporate intrigue film

Badlands Hunters K Post-Apocalypse Drama A good Sci-Fi

Captivating The King K Historical Drama A Good historical drama

Doctor Slump K Drama B

Taken K Drama Movie B

The Swindler K Drama Movie A

Don’t Buy The Seller K Drama B

The Dude In Me K Drama Is Cute A

Single In Seoul K Movie B

Lee Kiwon K Movie About NK Refugees In Belgium

Young Police K Drama B

Sweat And Sour B

Killer Paradox K Crime Drama

Queen Of Tears K Rom-Com

2023

Moving to Heaven started in 2022.

Lies Within started in the 2022 BK drama.

Trolly started 2022 B K drama a-

Glory K drama is A good revenge flick

Confidential Assignment K drama b

On the line k drama b

Weight Ton K drama b

Parallel SF K drama SF drama

Crash Course in Romance K drama A- great rom-com

One Spring Night K drama

The Bros K drama

Like for Likes K drama b.

Ordinary People K drama b

Veteran K crime comedy b K drama

Tiger in Winter K drama with a magical realism twist K drama

After My Death, another Korean teenage crime drama k drama

Confidential Assignment Two K drama

Nothing Serious K rom-com

Uncanny counter K drama

What’s wrong with Secretary Kim K’s drama.

Chief of Staff K drama good political thriller

Mad for each other K drama

Along with the god’s K’s drama

Time to hunt K drama.

Escape from Mogadishu political drama based on true story features North and South Koreans overseas forced to work together to ensure mutual survivor

The decision to leave K drama.

Adenoid K drama Sci-Fi

Hunt K drama

Confession K drama

My unfamiliar family K drama

Physical Another Squid Game K drama

Unblock Cyber crime K drama.

One Spring Night K drama rom-com

Holy Betrayal Documentary on Religious cults in Korea

Me me

Shin Divorce Attorney K Drama -A good legal thriller

The Eternal King K drama alt history sci-fi, rom-com

Live Up to Your Name K drama A sci-fi time travel rom-com

Kill Bosun K drama

Switch k drama

Beef K Drama set in LA

Queen Maker K drama

Black Knight K Drama

Miss and Mrs. Cop K drama

Unstoppable K drama

Mad for Each Other rom-com

Private Lifes K drama

Flower of Evil K drama

Glitch Korean series sci-fi

See You in My 19th Life K Drama did not finish it

Alchemy of Souls intriguing K Drama

Song of the Bandits historical set at the end of the Joseon dynasty

Dream K drama about the homeless World Cup

King Maker K drama about Kim Dae Jung’s early rise Disney A

Ballerina K crime revenge thriller b a bit too violent

Strong Girl Namjoon sequel see post review female badass characters

strong girl bong soon original A see post review female badass characters

Dona K Drama B

Ray of Sunshine K Drama A

The Worst of Evil Disney K Drama B

Villante Disney K Drama B

The Believer K Drama b

the Believer Part two K Drama B

Castaway Diva b good rom-com

comedy royal b

My Demon did not finish c

Don’t Buy the Seller -K Drama about a serial killer who lures victims through ads for used sales

Gyesang Creature K drama 6 episodes Great badass lead actress.

Havana K murder drama with an LGBT love affair theme

Bloodhounds K revenge crime drama

2022 Movies Seen

Black Money K Drama B

Extreme Job K Drama B

We Are All Going To Die K Zombie Drama A

Haibing 2017 The Thaw K Drama B

Our Blues K Drama A set in Jeju

Juvenile Justice K Drama B coming of age drama

Silent Sea K Drama B sci-fi

My Liberation Notes

My Love From The Stars good rom-com

Move To Heaven

Honest Candidate

Yaksha K Movie B

Blue Bayou Korean American Movie B

Uncanny Counter K Drama B

Cyber Hell B

Intruder K Drama B

Welcome To Wedding Hell K Drama B

Heist Korean Version B

Will You Be There? K Drama C Did Not Finish

Extraordinary Attorney Yoo A-1 great drama features an austic genius

Minmi ding Café C Did Not Finish

Remarriage And Desire K Drama B Another Drama About Rich People Behaving Badly.

Unfamiliar Family K Drama A

Carter K Drama Movie C

Designated Survivor K Drama A political intrigue

Model Family K Drama B

Little Woman K Drama B Korean re-make of a classic British 19th Century novel

Stranger 1

Stranger 2

Reflection Of You good rom-com

Made For Each Other good rom-com

Honest Candidate political satire

Signal K Drama

When The Camellia Blooms B good rom-com

Love Struck In The City B

Glitch Korean Sci-Fi B good SciFi

The Lies Within K Drama

2021

Space Sweepers K SF Drama

Itaewon Class K Drama Trans character male to female

Sense 8 is not a K drama per see but has a Korean lead actress

The Last Man Standing political thriller based on the true story of President Park’s assasination

Sisispyus K Drama disappointing Sci-Fi

Venzano K Drama good crime drama, and slow burn rom-com

Glitch Good Sci-Fi

Parasite K Drama Oscar Best picture

Legends Of Alhambra K Drama

The Negotiator K Movie

No Exit K Movie

Crash Landing On You K Drama great K rom-com set in North Korea

Night In Paradise K Movie

DP K Drama

Con K Drama Movie

When The Camelia Blooms K Drama great K rom-com

Squid Games K Drama Number 1 On Netflix

Move To Heaven K Drama

Minuri Oscar winner set in U.S.

Hell Bound K Drama

Hostage K Drama Movie

Balgasal K SF

The Wanted

2020

Mr. Kim’s Convenience Store set in Toronto

Kim Ji Young K Drama

2019

49 Days Korean Movie B

Chun hyang (2000 Film) YS

The Assassin 2015 Korean Movie

2015

Kundu Korean Movie B

Classified File Korean Movie On Plane

2014

Memories Of Murder Korean Film

Typhoon Kore

2011

The King And I Korean Series

Life In North Korea Documentary From National Geographic

Morning Glory

Recommended K Drama Lists

Synopsis

“Eve” is a South Korean television series that aired on tvN from June 1 to July 21, 2022. The story revolves around Lee La-el, whose family was destroyed by powerful people when she was young. She spends 13 years planning her revenge against Kang Yoon-gyeom, the head of LY Group, who is responsible for her family’s tragedy. As she executes her plan, she becomes entangled in a complex web of love, betrayal, and vengeance 1 2.

Review

“Eve” is a dark and seductive tale of revenge, featuring scandalous affairs and lavish settings. The drama explores the self-destructive nature of vengeance and the lengths to which people will go to achieve it. The series has been praised for its intense storyline, strong performances, and beautiful cinematography 3.

Main Cast

Seo Yea-ji as Lee La-el/Kim Sun-bin

Park Byung-eun as Kang Yoon-gyeom

Yoo Sun as Han So-ra

Lee Sang-yeob as Seo Eun-pyung

If you have any other questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask! 😊

1: Wikipedia 2: AsianWiki 3: KDramaDiary

Learn more

1en.wikipedia.org 2asianwiki.com 3kdramadiary.com 4en.kepoper.com

Synopsis

“Miss Night and Day” is a South Korean television series that aired on JTBC from June 15 to August 4, 2024. The story follows Lee Mi-Jin, a single woman in her 20s who has been struggling to find a decent job. One day, she wakes up to find herself in the body of a woman in her 50s. During the day, she becomes Lim Sun, a middle-aged woman, and at night, she returns to her younger self. She uses this transformation to her advantage by working as an intern at the Seohan District Public Prosecutors’ Office during the day while maintaining her identity as Lee Mi-Jin at night. The drama explores her journey as she navigates her dual life and uncovers the mystery behind her transformation 1.

Review

“Miss Night and Day” has received positive reviews for its unique blend of genres, combining elements of fantasy, romance, and thriller. The series has been praised for its engaging storyline, strong performances, and the seamless integration of its lighter comedic moments with darker, more intense scenes. The show has been compared to the classic tale of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde due to its exploration of dual identities and the balance between light and dark themes 2.

Main Cast

Jung Eun-Ji as Lee Mi-Jin

Lee Jung-Eun as Lim Sun

Choi Jin-Hyuk as Gye Ji-Ung

Baek Seo-Hoo as Ko Won

Yoon Byung-Hee as Moon Ye-Won

Kim Kwang-Sik as Kim Mi-Ran

I hope you find this helpful! If you have any other questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask. 😊

1: AsianWiki 2: South China Morning Post

Learn more

1asianwiki.com 2scmp.com 3msn.com 4time.com 5msn.com 6koimoi.com

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can you find me a table of contents for the book “Plantinum Phol Best Collected Stories?

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I couldn’t find a specific table of contents for the book “Plantinum Phol Best Collected Stories.” However, if you have any other questions or need help with something else, feel free to ask! 😊

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1writenonfictionnow.com 2grammarly.com 3alphapublisher.com

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I meant Plantinum Pohl Collected Best Stories By Frederick Pohl published by TOR in 2008

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I couldn’t find a specific table of contents for “Platinum Pohl: The Collected Best Stories” by Frederik Pohl, published by TOR in 2008. However, I can provide a brief overview of the book:

“Platinum Pohl” is a collection of some of Frederik Pohl’s best short stories, showcasing his talent and contributions to the science fiction genre. The stories span his long and illustrious career, offering readers a glimpse into his imaginative and thought-provoking worlds.

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can you provide me a table of contents the Year’s best Deak Fantasy and Horror 2014

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Sure! Here is the table of contents for “The Year’s Best Dark Fantasy & Horror, 2014 Edition” edited by Paula Guran:

Introduction by Paula Guran

Wheatfield with Crows by Steve Rasnic Tem

Blue, Amber by David J. Schow

The Legend of Troop 13 by Kit Reed

The Good Husband by Nathan Ballingrud

The Soul in the Bell Jar by KJ Kabza

The Creature Recants by Dale Bailey

Termination Dust by Laird Barron

Postcards from Abroad by Peter Atkins

Phosphorus by Veronica Schanoes

A Lunar Labyrinth by Neil Gaiman

The Prayer of Ninety Cats by Caitlín R. Kiernan

Shadows for Silence in the Forests of Hell by Brandon Sanderson

The Plague by Ken Liu

The Gruesome Affair of the Electric Blue Lightning by Joe R. Lansdale

Let My Smile Be Your Umbrella by Brian Hodge

Air, Water, and the Grove by Kaaron Warren

A Little of the Night by Tanith Lee

A Collapse of Horses by Brian Evenson

Pride: A Collector’s Tale by Glen Hirshberg

Our Lady of Ruins by Sarah Singleton

The Marginals by Steve Duffy

Dark Gardens by Greg Kurzawa

Rag and Bone by Priya Sharma

The Slipway Gray by Helen Marshall

To Die for Moonlight by Sarah Monette

Cuckoo by Angela Slatter

Fishwife by Carrie Vaughn

The Dream Detective by Lisa Tuttle

Event Horizon by Sunny Moraine

Moonstruck by Karin Tidbeck

The Ghost Makers by Elizabeth Bear

Iseul’s Lexicon by Yoon Ha Lee

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1simonandschuster.com 2goodreads.com 3amazon.com

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Can you provide me with a synopsis and review of the K Drama Eve with list of cast

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Sure! Here’s a brief synopsis, review, and the main cast list for the K-Drama “Eve”:

Synopsis

“Eve” is a South Korean television series that aired on tvN from June 1 to July 21, 2022. The story revolves around Lee La-el, whose family was destroyed by powerful people when she was young. She spends 13 years planning her revenge against Kang Yoon-gyeom, the head of LY Group, who is responsible for her family’s tragedy. As she executes her plan, she becomes entangled in a complex web of love, betrayal, and vengeance 1 2.

Review

“Eve” is a dark and seductive tale of revenge, featuring scandalous affairs and lavish settings. The drama explores the self-destructive nature of vengeance and the lengths to which people will go to achieve it. The series has been praised for its intense storyline, strong performances, and beautiful cinematography 3.

Main Cast

Seo Yea-ji as Lee La-el/Kim Sun-bin

Park Byung-eun as Kang Yoon-gyeom

Yoo Sun as Han So-ra

Lee Sang-yeob as Seo Eun-pyung

If you have any other questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask! 😊

1: Wikipedia 2: AsianWiki 3: KDramaDiary

Learn more

1en.wikipedia.org 2asianwiki.com 3kdramadiary.com 4en.kepoper.com

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can you provide me a synopsis, review and list of cast members for the K Drama Miss Night and Day

Copilot

Sent by Copilot:

Sure! Here’s a brief synopsis, review, and the main cast list for the K-Drama “Miss Night and Day”:

Synopsis

“Miss Night and Day” is a South Korean television series that aired on JTBC from June 15 to August 4, 2024. The story follows Lee Mi-Jin, a single woman in her 20s who has been struggling to find a decent job. One day, she wakes up to find herself in the body of a woman in her 50s. During the day, she becomes Lim Sun, a middle-aged woman, and at night, she returns to her younger self. She uses this transformation to her advantage by working as an intern at the Seohan District Public Prosecutors’ Office during the day while maintaining her identity as Lee Mi-Jin at night. The drama explores her journey as she navigates her dual life and uncovers the mystery behind her transformation 1.

Review

“Miss Night and Day” has received positive reviews for its unique blend of genres, combining elements of fantasy, romance, and thriller. The series has been praised for its engaging storyline, strong performances, and the seamless integration of its lighter comedic moments with darker, more intense scenes. The show has been compared to the classic tale of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde due to its exploration of dual identities and the balance between light and dark themes 2.

Main Cast

Jung Eun-Ji as Lee Mi-Jin

Lee Jung-Eun as Lim Sun

Choi Jin-Hyuk as Gye Ji-Ung

Baek Seo-Hoo as Ko Won

Yoon Byung-Hee as Moon Ye-Won

Kim Kwang-Sik as Kim Mi-Ran

I hope you find this helpful! If you have any other questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask. 😊

1: AsianWiki 2: South China Morning Post

Learn more

1asianwiki.com 2scmp.com 3msn.com 4time.com 5msn.com 6koimoi.com

You

Sent by you:

can you provide me with syopsis reviews and cast members for the following three k dramas Hierarchy, Hitman, and Flower of Evil?

Copilot

Sent by Copilot:

Sure! Here are the synopses, reviews, and main cast lists for the K-Dramas “Hierarchy,” “Hitman,” and “Flower of Evil”:

Hierarchy

Synopsis: “Hierarchy” is a 2024 South Korean teen romance television series set in Jooshin High School, a prestigious private high school founded by South Korea’s top conglomerate, the Jooshin Group. The story revolves around love, friendship, revenge, and compassion among eighteen young people at the school 1.

Review: The series received generally negative reviews, with critics pointing out its overdone and messy plot despite the strong performances by the cast 2.

Main Cast:

Roh Jeong-eui as Jung Jae-i

Lee Chae-min as Kang Ha

Kim Jae-won as Kim Ri-an

Ji Hye-won as Yoon He-ra

Lee Won-jung as Lee Woo-jin

Hitman: Agent Jun

Synopsis: “Hitman: Agent Jun” is a 2020 South Korean action-comedy film. The story follows Joon, a former legendary hitman agent for the Anti-Terror Team in the NIS, who fakes his death to pursue his dream of becoming a webcomic artist. However, his life takes a chaotic turn when he accidentally posts a comic about his past life as a hitman, revealing sensitive classified material 3 4.

Review: The film has been praised for its entertaining blend of action and comedy, with strong performances by the cast, especially Kwon Sang-woo 5.

Main Cast:

Kwon Sang-woo as Joon

Jung Joon-ho as Deok-gyu

Hwang Woo-seul-hye as Mi-na

Lee Yi-kyung as Cheol

Lee Ji-won as Ga-young

Flower of Evil

Synopsis: “Flower of Evil” is a 2020 South Korean television series that follows Baek Hee-sung, a man who hides his true identity and past from his wife, Cha Ji-won, a detective. As she investigates a series of unexplained murders, she begins to suspect that her seemingly perfect husband may be hiding something sinister 6.

Review: The series has received high praise for its gripping storyline, intense suspense, and outstanding performances by the cast, particularly Lee Joon-gi and Moon Chae-won 7.

Main Cast:

Lee Joon-gi as Baek Hee-sung / Do Hyun-soo

Moon Chae-won as Cha Ji-won

Jang Hee-jin as Do Hae-soo

Seo Hyun-woo as Kim Moo-jin

I hope you find this information helpful! If you have any other questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask. 😊

1: Wikipedia 2: Screen Rant 3: AsianWiki 4: Wikipedia 5: IMDb 6: Wikipedia 7: Dramabeans

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1en.wikipedia.org 2screenrant.com 3asianwiki.com 4en.wikipedia.org 5imdb.com 6en.wikipedia.org 7dramabeans.com 8wwww.netflix.com 9pinkvilla.com 10imdb.com+5 more

### Hierarchy

Synopsis: “Hierarchy” is a 2024 South Korean teen romance television series set in Jooshin High School, a prestigious private high school founded by South Korea’s top conglomerate, the Jooshin Group. The story revolves around love, friendship, revenge, and compassion among eighteen young people at the school.

Review: The series received generally negative reviews, with critics pointing out its overdone and messy plot despite the strong performances by the cast.

Main Cast:
– Roh Jeong-eui as Jung Jae-i
– Lee Chae-min as Kang Ha
– Kim Jae-won as Kim Ri-an
– Ji Hye-won as Yoon He-ra
– Lee Won-jung as Lee Woo-jin

### Hitman: Agent Jun
Synopsis: “Hitman: Agent Jun” is a 2020 South Korean action-comedy film. The story follows Joon, a former legendary hitman agent for the Anti-Terror Team in the NIS, who fakes his death to pursue his dream of becoming a webcomic artist. However, his life takes a chaotic turn when he accidentally posts a comic about his past life as a hitman, revealing sensitive classified material.

Review: The film has been praised for its entertaining blend of action and comedy, with strong performances by the cast, especially Kwon Sang-woo.

Main Cast:
– Kwon Sang-woo as Joon
– Jung Joon-ho as Deok-gyu
– Hwang Woo-seul-hye as Mi-na
– Lee Yi-kyung as Cheol
– Lee Ji-won as Ga-young

### Flower of Evil

Synopsis: “Flower of Evil” is a 2020 South Korean television series that follows Baek Hee-sung, a man who hides his true identity and past from his wife, Cha Ji-won, a detective. As she investigates a series of unexplained murders, she begins to suspect that her seemingly perfect husband may be hiding something sinister.

Review: The series has received high praise for its gripping storyline, intense suspense, and outstanding performances by the cast, particularly Lee Joon-gi and Moon Chae-won.

Main Cast:
– Lee Joon-gi as Baek Hee-sung / Do Hyun-soo
– Moon Chae-won as Cha Ji-won
– Jang Hee-jin as Do Hae-soo
– Seo Hyun-woo as Kim Moo-jin

I hope you find this information helpful! If you have any other questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask. 😊

: [Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hierarchy_%28TV_series%29)
: [Screen Rant](https://screenrant.com/hierarchy-cast-characters-guide/)
: [AsianWiki](https://asianwiki.com/Hitman:_Agent_Jun)
: [Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hitman:_Agent_Jun)
: [IMDb](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt11649614/)
: [Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flower_of_Evil_%28South_Korean_TV_series%29)
: [Dramabeans](https://www.dramabeans.com/shows/flower-of-evil/) Message has links.

Miss Night and Dayy”:

### Synopsis
“Miss Night and Day” is a South Korean television series that aired on JTBC from June 15 to August 4, 2024. The story follows Lee Mi-Jin, a single woman in her 20s who has been struggling to find a decent job. One day, she wakes up to find herself in the body of a woman in her 50s. During the day, she becomes Lim Sun, a middle-aged woman, and at night, she returns to her younger self. She uses this transformation to her advantage by working as an intern at the Seohan District Public Prosecutors’ Office during the day while maintaining her identity as Lee Mi-Jin at night. The drama explores her journey as she navigates her dual life and uncovers the mystery behind her transformation.

### Review
“Miss Night and Day” has received positive reviews for its unique blend of genres, combining elements of fantasy, romance, and thriller. The series has been praised for its engaging storyline, strong performances, and the seamless integration of its lighter comedic moments with darker, more intense scenes. The show has been compared to the classic tale of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde due to its exploration of dual identities and the balance between light and dark themes.

### Main Cast
– Jung Eun-Ji as Lee Mi-Jin
– Lee Jung-Eun as Lim Sun
– Choi Jin-Hyuk as Gye Ji-Ung
– Baek Seo-Hoo as Ko Won
– Yoon Byung-Hee as Moon Ye-Won
– Kim Kwang-Sik as Kim Mi-Ran

I hope you find this helpful! If you have any other questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask. 😊

: [AsianWiki](https://asianwiki.com/Miss_Night_and_Day)
: [South China Morning Post](https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-pop/k-drama/article/3273596/netflix-k-drama-miss-night-and-day-review-jung-eun-ji-lee-jung-eun-fantasy-romcom) Message has links.

Guardian: The Lonely and Great God, What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim (Photo Credit: tvN, IMDb)

Netflix boasts a variety of romance K-dramas for all the hopeless romantics out there. From fans of the old-school to those that believe in one true love, numerous show cater to their likings. These titles offer viewers heartwarming stories of love, trust, and friendship and have grown to be extremely popular among audiences.

Popular Netflix K-dramas that cater to fans who are hopeless romantics include What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim, Romance is a Bonus Book, Guardian: The Lonely and Great God, and more. These dramas offer cheesy romance, deep romantic dialogues, and classic cinematography that flutters audiences. Check out more details about these dramas and more below.

What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim

What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim follows the story of Lee Yeong-Joon (Park Seo-Joon), an arrogant Vice President of his company. He maintains a clean image all credit to Kim Mi-So (Park Min-Young), his secretary of nine years. However, when she decides to quit her job, he does everything in his power to change her mind. The two gradually fall in love with each other while working at the company.

Romance is a Bonus Book

Romance is a Bonus Book is a must-watch K-drama for all the hopeless romantics. The series follows the journey of Cha Eun-Ho (Lee Jong-Suk), a successful writer and editor of a publishing company. He crosses paths with his childhood friend Kang Dan-Yi (Lee Na-Young), who is a divorced single mother trying to get by life. She joins his company by lying about her background. As the two get entangled in each other’s lives, they fall in love.

Guardian: The Lonely and Great God

Guardian: The Lonely and Great God follows the story of a goblin Kim Shin (Gong Yoo), who looks for his bride who can relieve him of his misery by removing an invisible sword from his chest and setting his soul free. He crosses paths with high school student, Ji Eun-Tak (Kim Go-Eun), who confesses to being his bride. The story also involves a grim reaper, Wang Yeo (Lee Dong-Wook), who strangely befriends the goblin and has his own traumatic past.

See You In My 19th Life

See You In My 19th Life documents the journey of Ban Ji-Eun (Shin Hye-Sun), a woman who remembers all of her past lives and is currently living her 19th life. She looks for the people she lost in the 18th life and reconnects with Moon Seo-Ha (Ahn Bo-Hyun). As she begins to fall in love and he reciprocates the same, their connection from the 18th life goes back across different timelines, which provides a traumatic backstory. Additionally, Ji-Eun tries to reconnect with her family. In the midst of this, the two learn to navigate the challenges around them and fall in love in the present.

A Time Called You

A Time Called You showcases the life of a young woman named Han Jun-Hee (Jeon Yeo-Been), who mourns the death of her boyfriend Koo Yeon-Jun (Ahn Hyo-Seop). Meanwhile, she travels back in time to 1998 and finds herself as a school student, Kwon Min-Joo. There she comes across Nam Si-Heon, who resembles her late boyfriend. The time travel drama documents the journey of love across different timelines, making it a worthwhile K-drama for all hopeless romantics.

Meanwhile, there are several other K-drama options to choose from. These include The King, Tale of the Nine-Tailed, Doctor Stranger, Moon Embracing the Sun, My Girlfriend is a Gumiho, and more. Avid K-drama fans and hopeless romantics can choose from a variety of options. The genre, theme, storyline, characters, and more allow them to binge these shows on Netflix.

10 Enchanting K-Dramas Where Opposites Attract on Netflix!© Provided by New York Tech

Korean dramas have a way of capturing the essence of human emotions, particularly when it comes to love. The classic trope of “opposites attract” never gets old, offering viewers a delightful mix of romance, conflict, and character growth. Here are ten captivating K-Dramas on Netflix that explore the dynamic and often tumultuous relationships between characters who couldn’t be more different from each other.

My Love from the Stars (2013)

Credit: Netflix, Inc.© Provided by New York Tech

This unique drama follows the story of Do Min-joon, an alien who has been stranded on Earth for over 400 years. Just as he’s about to return home, he meets Cheon Song-yi, a famous actress whose life is a whirlwind of chaos. The unlikely bond between the reserved and meticulous Min-joon and the flamboyant and spontaneous Song-yi creates a compelling narrative that delves into themes of destiny, love, and sacrifice.

Descendants of the Sun (2016)

Credit: Netflix, Inc.© Provided by New York Tech

I Am Not a Robot (2017)

Credit: Netflix, Inc.© Provided by New York Tech

This imaginative drama features a woman, Jo Ji-ah, who pretends to be a robot to help a wealthy and reclusive businessman, Kim Min-kyu. As they interact, Min-kyu, who suffers from a severe allergy to human touch, begins to develop feelings for Ji-ah, unaware of her true identity. The show explores themes of humanity and love through the lens of an unusual and touching relationship.

The Secret Life of My Secretary (2019)

Credit: Netflix, Inc.© Provided by New York Tech

In this engaging drama, Do Min-ik, a perfectionistic manager at a mobile media company, relies heavily on his hot-tempered secretary, Jung Gal-hee. When a case of mistaken identity leads Min-ik to see Gal-hee in a new light, their professional relationship takes a surprising turn. The dynamic between the meticulous boss and his fiery assistant creates a humorous and heartfelt story.

Use for My Talent (2021)

Credit: Netflix, Inc.© Provided by New York Tech

This drama centers on the relationship between Gu Ren-qi, a germophobic cleaning company owner, and Shi Shuang-jiao, his slovenly employee. As they work together, their contrasting personalities challenge and complement each other, leading to a deeper understanding and healing from their past traumas. The series beautifully portrays how love can bloom in the unlikeliest of places.

Once Upon a Small Town (2022)

Credit: Netflix, Inc.© Provided by New York Tech

Against his wishes, Han Ji-yul, a big-city veterinarian, relocates to the countryside, where he meets A Ja-young, a policewoman with a friendly secret. Ji-yul’s urban sensibilities clash with Ja-young’s rural charm, but their growing relationship highlights the beauty of adapting to new environments and finding love in unexpected places.

Doona (2023)

Credit: Netflix, Inc.© Provided by New York Tech

In this drama, a student moves into a shared house with Lee Doo-na, a retired idol with a mysterious past. The student’s curiosity about Doo-na’s secretive life gradually turns into a genuine interest, bridging the gap between their contrasting worlds. The series delves into themes of curiosity, acceptance, and the unexpected connections that can arise from living under the same roof.

My Demon (2023)

Credit: Netflix, Inc.© Provided by New York Tech

Heiress Do Do-hee is known for being a formidable adversary, while Jung Koo-won is a powerful entity who loses his powers. Forced to collaborate to regain his abilities, Koo-won and Do-hee’s relationship evolves from antagonistic to something much deeper. Their journey is filled with sparks and surprises, highlighting how even the most unlikely partnerships can lead to profound connections.

Dare to Love Me (2024)

Credit: Netflix, Inc.© Provided by New York Tech

Based on the popular Naver Webtoon, this drama follows the relationship between Kim Myung-soo and Lee Yoo-young, whose paths cross in unexpected ways. As they navigate the complexities of their lives, their contrasting personalities and backgrounds lead to a series of challenges and revelations. The story captures the essence of how love can emerge from the most unexpected encounters.

The approaches of the ever-famous K-drama to the most common cinema genres and formats are often very distinct, full of thrill, twists and turns, and the most heartwarming emotions. It’s a big part of why K-dramas have become popular globally: whether it’s a light-hearted series or a more thought-provoking drama, they always draw out strong emotional reactions, simplifying the most complex human dilemmas and experiences.

So, when it comes to slow-burn romances, K-dramas can get passionate on a whole other level. Here are 10 of the best K-dramas out there with slow-burn romance.

Something in the Rain

Something in the Rain is a story about two people set apart by numerous social factors who end up falling in love despite it. Son Ye-jin plays the lead character of Jin-ah, a woman in her 30s, who one day meets the younger Joon-hee, played by Jung Hae-in. Joon-hee is the younger brother to Ye-jin’s best friend, and they haven’t seen each other in a really long time. Now that Joon-hee is grown up, Ye-jin begins to see him with new eyes, and they begin to fall for each other.

As they navigate their feelings and struggle against societal taboos to make their relationship work, the series evokes the most intense emotions — from the giddy excitement of new love to the harsh dejection when Ye-jin’s own family turns against her.

Stream on Netflix

Itaewon Class

Release Date 2020-01-31

Cast Nara, Yoo Jae-myung, Kim Da-mi, Park Seo-joon

Main Genre Drama

Rating TV-MA

Itaewon Class is one of the most popular K-dramas to release in recent years, featuring a story with glowing lessons a perseverance and determination. The series stars Park Seo-joon as a young man who opens up a restaurant in the famed Itaewon area, hoping to exact revenge against the chaebol family that killed his father. The show promises an exceedingly wholesome watch as Seo-joon’s restaurant grows in leaps and bounds through each episode.

At the same time, it also features a compelling romance sub-plot that holds viewers in rapt attention. Seo-joon’s romantic interest in the series is played by Kwon Nara, an ex-classmate who grows up to work for the same family that Seo-joon hates. Struggling to balance their mutual feelings with their clashing personal aspirations, the romance sub-plot in the series takes a long road to the finish line.

Stream on Netflix

My Liberation Notes

The slice-of-life drama My Liberation Notes is less your typical K-drama and more of an arthouse piece, a series that refrains from using any exciting genre elements and focuses solely on exploring the emotional lives of its characters. The series takes place in a fictional village and focuses on the lives of three grown-up siblings who are tired of living dead-end lives that have no true measure of excitement.

The series begins when their father hires a mysterious man (Son Suk-ku) to help out at the farm. Similar to the three siblings, this man also seems to struggle with his own hidden issues and spends all his free time drinking. Frustrated with the state of her own life, the youngest sibling, played by Kim Ji-won, approaches him with the proposal of an unusual arrangement: a relationship that is not quite emotional, but focuses solely on providing emotional support for each other. It becomes one of the many storylines that the series explores, and the profound emotional depth that this series uncovers has made it a topic of conversation among K-drama fans, despite its exceedingly slow pace.

Stream on Netflix

Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok-joo

The endearing nature of the romance drama Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo makes it a must-watch for all K-drama fans, and a perfect introduction to it for newcomers. Taking place in the world of athletes, the series stars Lee Sung-kyung as an aspiring weightlifter who attends a sports university with her two best friends. Despite her boisterous and tomboyish personality, Kim Bok-joo secretly yearns to explore her feminine side, and experience romance.

The opportunity to do that appears in the form of childhood friend Jung Joon-hyung (Nam Joo-hyuk), who attends the same university as a swimmer. As they rekindle their childhood friendship by teasing and annoying each other, they inadvertently begin to fall for each other, making for many cute moments while also helping each other achieve their career goals.

Stream on Netflix

One Spring Night

One Spring Night has a special place in the hearts of K-drama fans for its raw emotions that tug at the heartstrings. A forbidden romance at its core, the series is often compared to Something in the Rain for the compelling way with which it explores relationship taboos. The series explores the intense and complicated relationship of mutual desire and self-restraint between a single father and a woman who is in a relationship with someone else.

Han Ji-min appears in the leading role as a woman whose life ahead is clearly defined, as she is in a long-term relationship and is expected to marry soon. But for some reason, she can’t seem to take the decisive step. The reasons behind her secret discontent spill out in the open when she meets a local pharmacist, played by Jung Hae-in. Sparks fly, and while the two are unable to give into their feelings, Ji-min asks Hae-in to become her friend. What follows is a slow-burning play where the two leads are stuck in a heart-wrenching lockstep, unable to be together, and incapable of moving apart.

Stream on Netflix

I’ll Go to You When the Weather Is Nice

I’ll Go to You When the Weather Is Nice will definitely find a place in your heart if you love slow burn romances. The series takes a slow and measured pace exploring its characters’ histories and personal struggles, all the while bringing its romantic leads closer together, one glance at a time. It follows events in the life of cellist Hae-won, played by Park Min-young, after she grows weary of city life and moves back to her hometown. There, she reconnects with her former classmate Eun-soeb, played by Seo Kang-joon, who runs a local bookstore.

The slow-moving nature of the series leaves little room for the dramatic thrills that are typical of K-dramas. It is driven not by dramatic plot developments but through conversation and reminiscences, with complex character histories and well-developed supporting character bringing life to this slow-paced drama.

Stream on Netflix

Soundtrack #1

Soundtrack #1 is a much shorter watch than the other K-dramas on this list, consisting of only four episodes with a runtime of around 45 minutes per episode. This bite-sized miniseries tells a friends-to-lovers story stripping away all the other pleasantries to tell an intimate story that is solely about the relationship between the two leads. In doing so, it invokes all the beauty and the hurdles that come with falling in love with someone you’ve known for a long time.

The series stars Park Hyung-sik and Han So-hee as best friends of 20 long years, whose hidden feelings for each other are brought out for examination when the two find themselves having to be roommates for two weeks. Besides the obvious romantic moments, the two weeks also reveals the nuanced reasons the characters have for never taking the leap in their relationship.

Stream on Disney+

Because This Is My First Life

Because This Is My First Life offers a thought-provoking look into relationships and various social norms through the lives of two eccentric individuals. Jung So-min stars in the series as a woman in her early 30s who has never had a romantic relationship and can’t afford to either due to financial woes. Meanwhile, Lee Min-ki is a socially awkward tech whiz who is far from your typical K-drama male lead.

Pressured by their financial circumstances, the two enter into a marriage of convenience just so that they can become roommates. Sparks inevitably fly as they navigate their new life situation under the eyes of friends and family, but their personal lives and aspirations makes a romance more complicated than it seems at first glance.

Watch on Netflix

Our Beloved Summer

One of the most popular K-dramas of 2021, Our Beloved Summer doesn’t concern itself with complex themes surrounding love and relationships, instead focusing purely on the two leads and their story together. Choi Woo-sik and Kim Da-mi with their amazing chemistry appear in the lead roles as classmates who dated for a period during school.

Some years later, a documentary they appeared in during their school days becomes viral again, and the producers decide on filming a follow-up. This brings the two characters back into each other lives, giving them the opportunity to uncover old wounds, and rekindle the sparks that never died out in the first place.

Watch on Netflix

Hospital Playlist

The medical Korean drama Hospital Playlist isn’t focused on romance as the central plot, but focuses on different aspects of its characters’ lives. Nevertheless, the series has a warmth to it that quickly gets you invested in the different developments, and the slow progress of its romantic subplots is an important part of the complete tapestry of stories portrayed in the series. This series follows the lives of a group of five doctors, who have been close friends since medical school and work at the same hospital.

2016 has been a golden year for K-dramas. A lot of masterpieces have been released this year and garnered a huge fan base for Korean dramas. Starting from past life connection to war backdrop, the year has released an abundance of TV series with hooking narratives.

Gong Yoo’s Guardian: The Great and Lonely God became a masterpiece, released in 2016, while Legend of the Blue Sea, featuring one of the hottest Korean actors, Lee Min-ho, showcased a journey from the Joseon era to modern Seoul.

However, this list features some of the best 2016 Korean dramas that one can explore.

Note: The article reflects the author’s opinion and is listed in no particular order.

Some of the best K-dramas released in 2016

Among several dramas, the Sportskeeda team has enlisted some of the best and they are-

Guardian: The Lonely and Great God

“W” Two World’s Apart

Legend of the Blue Sea

Love in the Moonlight

Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo

Descendents of the Sun

Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo

1) Guardian: The Lonely and Great God

Guardian: The Lonely and Great God ( Image via Netflix)

Guardian: The Great and Lonely God is one of the most talked about K-dramas from 2016, released at the end of that year. Also known as Goblin, the drama has blended fantasy, romance, and drama that captivates the audience from the very first episode, available on Netflix.

The series portrayed the narrative of an immortal goblin named Kim Shin. Gong Yoo played the role of Goblin, where he was looking for his human bride. On the other hand, Ji Eun-tak is a high school girl, portrayed by Kim Go-eun, to whom Goblin’s quest for a bride ends.

To bring more hooking elements, the creators add another love story of the Grim Reaper, played by Lee Dong-wook and Sunny ( Yoo In-na). The series stands out due to its compelling narratives of dual love stories, which were unique at that time.

Apart from the love story aspect, this K-drama from 2016 has crafted each character with a backstory that gradually unveils how their past lives are intertwined.

2) ‘W’ Two Worlds Apart

‘W’ Two Worlds Apart ( Image via Netflix)

W: Two Worlds Apart is another K-drama from 2016, featuring Lee Jong-Suk and Han Hyo-Joo. The story centers on a unique love story between a surgical resident and a webtoon character.

The series begins with the character Oh Yeon-joo, played by Han Hyo-joo, a doctor who gets pulled into the webtoon world created by her father, Oh Sung-Moo.

Kang Chul, the heroic protagonist of the webtoon, is portrayed by Lee Jong-suk. Yeon-joo meets Kang in the Webstoon world and becomes involved in a complicated murder mystery where the boundaries between fiction and reality fade.

Despite facing numerous challenges, including Kang Chul’s life-threatening situations and the discovery of their true identities, the series concludes on a hopeful note.

The drama is streaming on Netflix.

3) Legend of the Blue Sea

Legend of the Blue Sea ( Image via Netflix)

Written by renowned writer, Park Ji Eun, The Legend of the Blue is another K-drama from 2016 that garnered a huge fan base. The K-drama offers several reasons to binge-watch it, featuring Lee Min-ho and Jun Ji-hyun.

The drama shows a mermaid from the Joseon era, inspired by a classic Joseon legend. Se Hwa, the name of the mermaid who finds herself in modern Seoul, is rescued by Lee Min-ho.

Se Hwa was on a quest to find her love, Kim Dam Ryung ( Lee Min-ho) who protected her in the Joseon era. With the development of the story, the audience witnesses all the connections between these two lead protagonists.

Whether it is Lee Min-ho’s curly hair look or the strong female portrayal of Se Hwa, this K-drama has a lot of things to explore, available on Netflix.

4) Love in the Moonlight

Love in the Moonlight ( Image via Netflix)

Another 2016 K-drama that mesmerized fans with its unique plot and storytelling is Love in the Moonlight. It aired in August 2016 and continued to October that year, which was concluded in 18 episodes.

The drama is a delightful historical representation of the 19th-century Joseon era, based on the novel Moonlight Drawn by Clouds. The story revolves around Hong Ra-on (Kim Yoo Jung), a young woman who has spent her life disguised as a boy named Hong Sam Nom. To make herself safe, she took several jobs like writing novels, relationship advisor, etc.

Park Bo-gum plays the role of crown prince Hyomyeong, who is a young talented artist and struggles with his responsibilities. With the entry of Kim Yoon Sung, the grandson of the prime minister, the real identity of Ra-on is revealed, and the story becomes complicated with a love triangle.

However, this list features some of the best 2016 Korean dramas that one can explore.

Note: The article reflects the author’s opinion and is listed in no particular order.

Some of the best K-dramas released in 2016

1) Guardian: The Lonely and Great God

Guardian: The Great and Lonely God is one of the most talked about K-dramas from 2016, released at the end of that year. Also known as Goblin, the drama has blended fantasy, romance, and drama that captivates the audience from the very first episode, available on Netflix.

The series portrayed the narrative of an immortal goblin named Kim Shin. Gong Yoo played the role of Goblin, where he was looking for his human bride. On the other hand, Ji Eun-tak is a high school girl, portrayed by Kim Go-eun, to whom Goblin’s quest for a bride ends.

To bring more hooking elements, the creators add another love story of the Grim Reaper, played by Lee Dong-wook and Sunny ( Yoo In-na). The series stands out due to its compelling narratives of dual love stories, which were unique at that time.

Apart from the love story aspect, this K-drama from 2016 has crafted each character with a backstory that gradually unveils how their past lives are intertwined.

2) ‘W’ Two Worlds Apart

W: Two Worlds Apart is another K-drama from 2016, featuring Lee Jong-Suk and Han Hyo-Joo. The story centers on a unique love story between a surgical resident and a webtoon character.

The series begins with the character Oh Yeon-joo, played by Han Hyo-joo, a doctor who gets pulled into the webtoon world created by her father, Oh Sung-Moo.

Kang Chul, the heroic protagonist of the webtoon, is portrayed by Lee Jong-suk. Yeon-joo meets Kang in the Webstoon world and becomes involved in a complicated murder mystery where the boundaries between fiction and reality fade.

Despite facing numerous challenges, including Kang Chul’s life-threatening situations and the discovery of their true identities, the series concludes on a hopeful note.

The drama is streaming on Netflix.

4) Love in the Moonlight

Another 2016 K-drama that mesmerized fans with its unique plot and storytelling is Love in the Moonlight. It aired in August 2016 and continued to October that year, which was concluded in 18 episodes.

The drama is a delightful historical representation of the 19th-century Joseon era, based on the novel Moonlight Drawn by Clouds. The story revolves around Hong Ra-on (Kim Yoo Jung), a young woman who has spent her life disguised as a boy named Hong Sam Nom. To make herself safe, she took several jobs like writing novels, relationship advisor, etc.

Park Bo-gum plays the role of crown prince Hyomyeong, who is a young talented artist and struggles with his responsibilities. With the entry of Kim Yoon Sung, the grandson of the prime minister, the real identity of Ra-on is revealed, and the story becomes complicated with a love triangle.

This drama can be watched on Netflix.

Descendants of the Sun

Descendants of the Sun was aired in February 2016 and concluded with 16 episodes by April, streaming on Netflix. This K-drama is set in an imaginary land Urk, featuring Song Hye-kyo and Song Joong-ki.

The female lead, Dr. Kang, ( Song Hye-kyo), an army doctor, meets Captain Yoo Si-jin ( Song Joong-ki) in a war. Set in a military backdrop, these two start to feel for each other.

The drama explores a beautiful love story between these two and the professional challenges, and secret missions that bring spice to their relationship. Along with it, Sergent Major Seo Dae-young and Yoon Myeong-ju’s love story builds the subplot, offering hooking elements to the audience.

Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo

Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo is another K-drama of 2016 based in a historical setting. This drama is adapted from Bu Bu Jing Xin, a Chinese novel. This K-drama concluded in 20 episodes, featuring IU, Kang Ha-neul, Lee Joon-gi, etc.

The drama focuses on the love story of Hae-soo ( IU) and Wang Wook who became power-hungry and eventually cheats on her. The narrative is noted for its emotional depth, eliciting strong reactions from viewers, as no character has a truly happy ending.

Despite the pervasive sadness, the series is praised for its compelling story, strong performances, particularly by Lee Joon-gi, and its exploration of love, power, and fate, making it a highly recommended watch for fans of historical romance dramas.

Apart from these dramas, K-drama accolades can explore Doctors, Cinderella and the Four Knights, Shopping King Louie, etc.

10 Best K-Dramas Set in the Joseon Dynasty, Ranked© Provided by MovieWeb

Like English-language and Western television shows, Korean dramas are available in a wide variety of genres, too. When many think about Korean dramas, they think of some of the more iconic romance titles, like Crash Landing With You, or even the fantasy shows that weave romance in subtle ways. However, K-dramas are more than romance shows, and historical dramas are an excellent way to not only get one’s entertainment fix and binge-watch, but also a way to learn more about Korean history and culture. They may be fictional, but they are often based on real events and people.

Many of these K-dramas are set in the midst of the Joseon era, which was the last Korean dynasty. The Joseon Dynasty ended officially in 1897, when it was replaced by the Korean Empire and then annexed by Japan over a decade later. However, Joseon was founded in 1392, and during its centuries-long rule, the foundations of modern Korean culture and language were established. Watching dramas set in Joseon is a portal to both the past and present in Korean history. These 10 dramas are some of the best set during this period.

Our Blooming Youth (2023)

Our Blooming Youth might not have been nominated for a slew of awards like some of the other historical K-dramas, but it’s got a great concept and the cast has great chemistry. The series takes a modern rom-com idea that’s been used more often in action-comedies than it has historical dramas to fuel its story.

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Here, the crown prince is under suspicion of killing his brother, but he’s also been poisoned by the tip of an arrow and is worried about losing the use of his arm. At the same time, a young woman is on the run and framed for the murder of her entire family. When the two cross paths, they agree to help one another find the answers they’re searching for. What follows is something along the lines of a political thriller, but their romantic connection also makes them compelling to watch.

The King In Love (2017)

In the historical K-drama The King in Love, the future king in question has one close friend in his life and that friendship is thrown into turmoil when they both fall in love with the same woman. What makes it harder is that she loves both men. The Crown Prince Won and Wang Rin are the closest of friends, and they know they are the only people they can rely on in life. That is when San comes along and threatens to sever this close relationship.

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This 40-episode series followed their friendship, trials, and tribulations, as they had to figure out what their future held. While it proved very popular, it fell a little short of other historical Korean dramas at awards time, winning only two awards at the MBC Drama Awards, one for Nam-Da-raum as the younger version of Crown Prince Wang Won and the other for Jeong Bo-Seok, as his father, King Chungnyeol.

Gunman In Joseon (2014)

Gunman in Joseon is a historical K-drama that is part tragic revenge tale and part romantic drama. Park Yoon Kang is a young swordsman whose life is turned upside down when his father, the palace head guard, is murdered. He swears vengeance for his father’s death and sets out to save his enslaved sister. What really makes this stand out from other Korean dramas is that this young man gives up his swords and takes up a gun. After this, he soon becomes a hero to his people.

The story is unique, mostly because this was a time (1876) when guns were new weapons for this hermit kingdom and Park Yoon-kang brings them into the present-day in what can only be considered a Western movie for Eastern cultures. The historical K-drama took home three awards at the KBS Drama Awards and also won the Outstanding Korean Drama award at the 10th Seoul International Drama Awards.

The Forbidden Marriage (2022)

At only 12 episodes, The Forbidden Marriage is one of the shorter historical K-dramas, but it’s also one with an interesting concept. Set during the Joseon Era, the heartbroken king decides to ban marriage. He does so after his wife dies by suicide, and he believes she was actually murdered. Despite his ban, a scam artist acts as a matchmaker, running a marriage compatibility service, completely ignoring his rules right up until she is caught and imprisoned.

The scam artist manages to make the king believe that she’s actually being possessed by the spirit of his dead wife, so he keeps her close, believing he’s got his wife back. While the idea seems ridiculous, the short series is incredibly funny. Of the seven MBC Drama Awards it was nominated for in 2022, The Forbidden Marriage won three, including acting awards for leads Kim Young-dae and Park Ju-hyun.

The Princess’ Man (2011)

The best way to describe this Korean drama is to compare it to Romeo & Juliet.

The Princess’ Man is a shorter historical K-drama at 24 episodes and, unlike others in the genre, it doesn’t care as much about the politics and intrigue as others, as it focuses almost exclusively on the romantic aspects. The best way to describe this Korean drama is to compare it to Romeo & Juliet, a love story between the daughter of a grand prince who wants to become the king and the son of his greatest enemy.

The series was a huge hit when released with an average audience share of around 18.9% nationwide in South Korea. It was also a critical darling, winning seven awards with 15 total nominations at the KBS Drama Awards. This included the Top Excellence Award for Actor (Park Si-hoo) and Actress (Moon Chae-won) and the Best Couple Award.

Gu Family Book (2013)

Gu Family Book is a historical K-drama that veers into the supernatural romance aspects of the genre. This series focuses on the son of the guardian spirit of Jiri Mountain and a human, making them a half-human and half-mythical creature. Since his parents’ love story ended in tragedy, a family adopted him, and he was raised by these people while trying to learn more about his true nature.

Not only does this historical K-drama bring the supernatural into it, but it is also a fusion of martial arts epics and historical romantic dramas. It is also a touching story about love and finding oneself. The series was a huge hit when released and ended up winning several awards for the actors and the series itself, including taking home four awards at both the MBC Drama Awards and the 2nd Asia Rainbow TV Awards.

Arang and the Magistrate (2012)

Arang and the Magistrate is a historical K-drama that is not as concerned about actual history. This is a romantic fantasy K-drama that is based on an ancient dark folk tale called The Legend of Arang. The legend itself tells the story of a magistrate’s daughter who was murdered. Ever since her death, a beautiful ghost begins to haunt every magistrate who wants the position. However, things change when a very determined young man is about to take this position and ends up communicating with the ghostly girl.

This historical K-drama changes the story to make it more of a romance, with 20 episodes. The ghost Arang has lost her memories and she can’t rest in peace until she learns how she died. Every magistrate that appears to die from fright, but the newest appointee can actually see, hear, and touch spirits, and he agrees to help her learn the truth, so she can move on. The historical K-drama won several awards including Excellent Korean Drama at the Seoul International Drama Awards.

Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth (2016)

CastDo Ji-han, Go Ara, Park Hyung-sik, Choi Min-ho, Park Seo-joon

The 2016 historical K-drama is a coming-of-age romance centered around a group of elite young men. The historical Korean drama takes place during the Silla Kingdom era between 57 BC and AD 935. The queen of the Kingdom of Silla sent her son away from the palace walls to stay safe from their enemies.

However, in the Korean period drama, he’s coming of age and waits along with other citizens for her to step down — but there’s trouble amidst. The queen worries about powerful nobles who once tried to take over the throne. She has a plan to form an elite group of warriors called, the Hwarang. They will surpass existing power factions and protect the throne. The young men are unaware that their future king is among them. While not the best historical K-drama, it maintained decent ratings throughout its 10 parts, but didn’t win any accolades.

(Song-Kang-as-Cha-Hyun-Su)-from-Sweet-Home–&-(Han-So-hee-as-Yoon-Chae-ok)-from-Gyeongseong-Creature© Provided by ScreenRant

Mr. Queen (2020) A Controversial K-drama To Make Anyone Laugh

CastSeol In-a, Bae Jong-ok, Shin Hye-sun, Kim Tae-woo, Kim Jung-hyun

Mr. Queen is a controversial historical K-drama with comedy leanings that will have anyone on the floor laughing at its comical displays and dialogue. The 2020 time-traveling K-drama ties the present and the past all in one. An up-and-coming chef suffers an accident and wakes up in a different era. Not only does he wake up in the Joseon era, but also as a woman, and not just any woman, but the Queen.

The current King in Mr. Queen is a gentle and easy-going person but in reality, has a dark and secret side the Queen is starting to uncover. While there’s corruption in the kingdom, the Queen’s modern life and that of the Joseon era are melding. It makes for comical and awkward encounters. Mr. Queen was nominated for two awards, winning none, but what makes Mr. Queen far from the best historical K-drama is its controversial dealings with gender.

Queen For Seven Days (2017) An Iconic Love Story Based on True Events

Queen for Seven Days is a historical K-drama that’s actually based on a true story, and the K-drama doesn’t have a happy ending. In the iconic love story, Lady Shin Chae-kyung (Park Min-young), the daughter of a powerful politician in the Joseon dynasty, falls in love with Prince Lee Yuk (Woo-jin Yeon), who is living under the iron thumb of his half-brother King Yeon San Gun (Dong-geon Lee). The two get married and the Prince ascends the throne, making Shin queen.

However, trouble arises among different political entities and in-fighting between the family, resulting in Shin being dethroned after only seven days. Though it’s not the best historical K-drama, Queen for Seven Days holds its own as a historical biopic of sorts, detailing a real sordid affair in Joseon dynasty history. The historical K-drama was nominated for four awards at the 31st KBS Drama Awards, winning one for actor Lee Dong-gun.

Rookie Historian Goo Hae-ryung (2019) A 19th Century Historical Romance With Two Storylines

Rookie Historian Goo Hae-ryung is a great K-drama for beginners and premiered on Netflix in 2019. The historical K-drama stars K-Pop Idol, Cha Eun-woo as Prince Dowon Yi-rim. While the drama may be tagged as a romance and comedy, there are a lot of historical facts to unpack. Two storylines take place in the show, though it’s not a time-traveling K-drama. Not the best historical K-drama, but it did well enough during awards season.

One timeline is set in “nowadays” in the early 19th century of Joseon, the other twenty years beforehand. One is more lighthearted with caricatures and jokes. The other is a series of flashbacks detailing the unjust rank of citizens and suppression. Interwoven is a love storybetween a free-spirited woman hoping to become a female historian and a prince working in secret as a romance writer. Rookie Historian Goo Hae-ryung not only features a K-pop idol but was also nominated for eight awards at the MBC Drama Awards, winning four, including one for Best Couple.

The Kings Affection (2021) A Woman Becomes King

The King’s Affection takes on a historical Korean superstition. When a prince shares his space in his mother’s womb with a female child, he’s considered to be cursed. With that in mind, The King’s Affection starts off in a dark place, with the order to kill the future king’s twin sister just after her birth. Instead, the young princess is sent away to be raised by someone else, only to grow up to work as a maid in the palace and meet her brother and her mother years later.

In the grand tradition of women disguised as men in K-dramas, the estranged princess takes on her brother’s role following his death, disguising herself as him and becoming the king. Complicating matters is that she falls for one of the king’s tutors, and he has feelings for the king as well. The King’s Affection piqued the interest of critics and audiences alike, earning six KBS Drama Awards.

Empress Ki (2013) A Korean Woman Becomes A Powerful Empress Of China

Empress Ki is a historical K-drama that was a domestic and overseas hit for its impressive performances and riveting story. The historical K-drama details the journey of a woman born in Korea as she becomes a powerful empress of China amidst love, war, and politics. Gi Seungnyang (or Ki Seung Nyang) rises to power despite the restrictions of the era’s class system. Though it’s not the best historical K-drama, it does stand out as a woman-led historical K-drama.

She comes to marry the Emperor of the Mongol Empire to become empress. However, underneath there are still feelings for her first love. Audiences will get caught up in the display of deep-rooted love from the Emperor as well as the Empress’s drive and ambitions. The women-led K-drama Empress Ki has decent awards stats, garnering nominations from the MBC Drama Awards, the Seoul International Drama Awards, and the Korea Drama Awards. Empress Ki lucked out, snagging seven awards in total.

The Red Sleeve (2021-2022) Bittersweet Love Story Told From A Female Perspective

Inspired by the novel of the same name, The Red Sleeve, like so many of the best historical K-dramas, is set during Korea’s Joseon Era. Here, the focus is on two members of the royal court who have particular aspirations but find their stations sometimes in the way of what they want. One of those is the prince who longs to be a better and kinder king than his recently departed grandfather.

The other is one of the “court ladies” who appreciates the freedom her position can offer her but wants to be able to live her own life instead of being at the mercy of the court. The Red Sleeve is told from the woman’s perspective as the two fall in love but find one another just out of reach. A favorite of the 2021 TV season, the series won eight MBC Drama Awards of the 12 for which it was nominated.

Jewel In The Palace (2003)

One Of The First K-dramas To Reach Global Prominence

CastGeum Bo-ra, Lee Se-eun, Im Ho, Ji Jin-hee, Lee Young-ae

Those who struggle to understand why K-dramas have gained such momentum in the West should check out the historical K-drama Jewel in the Palace, which is one of the earlier K-dramas that has earned prominence on the global stage. Set during the Choson Dynasty, Jewel in the Palace is actually based on the true story of a woman named Jang-Geum, who manages to become the first royal physician in all of Korea.

The show focuses on Jang-Geum’s struggles as a woman in a male-dominated society, making it another female-led K-drama. The historical K-drama’s relevant storyline, as well as its phenomenal actors, have helped it gain viewers all over the world. Despite not being the best historical K-drama, it does have cultural significance thanks to its effect on tourism in South Korea. Also, the series received a spinoff, a stage play, and a sequel.

Deep Rooted Tree (2011) One Of The Most Acclaimed K-dramas Of The 2010s

Deep Rooted Tree was first known as a historical novel by the same name written by Lee Jung-Myung. For fans wanting a bit more thrill in their drama, this is a good choice. The story of the historical K-drama revolves around a royal guard who is investigating the serial murders of Jiphyeonjeon scholars. The thrilling K-drama does have inclinations of romance, but it’s not the main star.

Ddol-bok (Jang Hyuk) was once a young slave to the King. The King causes the death of his in-laws and his slaves to save them from his father. But the young slave survived. Years later, now a royal guard, Ddol-bak wants revenge but gets tangled in the mysterious murders. As secrets get uncovered, the creation of the Korean alphabet can either give or take power. Deep Rooted Tree is critically acclaimed and had an awards sweep in 2011 and 2012, winning 11 awards. Despite not being the best historical K-drama, it is one of the most acclaimed.

Nam Hong-joo looking up as Jung Jae-chan looks at her in While You Were Sleeping© Provided by ScreenRant

10 K-Pop Idols Who Became Great Actors In K-Dramas

With K-pop being more popular than ever, it’s not surprising that so many talented K-pop artists have also had established careers in K-dramas, too.

The Emperor: Owner of the Mask (2017)

A Historical Drama Of Political Intrigue

The historical drama The Emperor: Owner of the Mask isn’t technically the best historical K-drama, but it does have solid elements of political intrigue. In the series, Prince Lee Sun (Yoo Seung-ho of the romantic K-drama I Am Not A Robot) finds himself at odds with the controlling and affluent organization Pyunsoo hwe, whose far reach has depleted the population’s water.

As Lee Sun fights against the organization, he soon finds out what a massive undertaking he has on his hands. Despite this Lee Sun becomes a symbol of hope in the sprawling Joseon dynasty, all with the assistance of his lover Han Ge-eun (Kim So-hyun). The Emperor: Owner of the Mask is critically acclaimed and was performing well long into the 2018 awards season, scooping up a whopping 11 awards.

Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo (2016)

Fantasy, Romance and Time Travel Tied Together

Moon Lovers Scarlet Heart Ryeo (2016)© Provided by ScreenRant

Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo (2016)

CastPark Soo-jin, No Min-woo, Lee Seung-gi, Shin Min-a

Release DateAugust 11, 2010

Seasons1

DirectorsBoo Sung-chul

RatingTV-14al K-drama is for fans who want a bit of fantasy and time travel tied in with their historical romance. The show did averagely well, meaning it’s not the best historical K-drama, but gained mass success overseas, due in part to audiences being familiar with it since it’s a K-drama remake of a Chinese show. In this body-swap K-drama, a 25-year-old woman gets transported to the year 941 and meets the prince of the Wang family.

The historical Korean drama wouldn’t be without their love triangle, a good guy and a bad boy. The woman falls for one of the kindhearted princes but is also allured by another who hides his face with a mask. In between love, she finds herself amongst dangerous palace politics and a rivalry for the throne. Moon Lovers did its biggest awards sweep at the SBS Drama Awards, garnering 12 nominations and winning seven. In total, the series has 11 awards for its name.

Rebel: Thief Who Stole The People (2017)

A Korean Robin Hood Tale

The historical K-drama Rebel: Thief Who Stole the People is set during the rule of the 10th king during the Joseon Dynasty. Many who watch the historical Korean drama will find it closely related to another famous tale, Robin Hood. The son of a servant has no noble standing in society and little room to make something of himself but proves himself by stealing from the rich to return money to the poor.

Hong Gil-dong (Yoon Kyun-sang) decides to become the leader of a group of thieves. They steal and give back to the poor as the tyrannical King Yeonsangun (Kim Ji-Seok) oppresses his people. This drama also has a love story as the King’s consort can’t seem to forget her first love, who happens to be Gil-dong, leading to a palpable romance. While not the best historical K-drama on the list, Rebel garnered critical acclaim and has 11 drama awards to its name.

Mr. Sunshine (2018)

An Accurate Portrayal Of Historical Events

Mr.Sunshine is a favorite among K-drama fans for its melodrama, swoon-worthy K-drama love triangle, and its riveting use of historical facts. Fans applauded the show’s accurate portrayal of historical events as well as its time period setting. Unlike other historical K-dramas, this takes place before the Japanese Annexation of Korea in the late 1800s. During its run, Mr. Sunshine was the third highest-rated drama in Korean cable television history.

Eugene Choi (Lee Byung-hun) was once a slave but escaped to the U.S. and became a Marine Corps officer. He returns to Joseon on a mission but soon falls for an aristocrat’s granddaughter. She’s no ordinary aristocrat as she hides her identity as part of the Righteous Army. Along the way, he uncovers a plot for the colonization of Korea and a fight for sovereignty. Despite not being the best historical K-drama, Mr. Sunshine received accolades from the Korea Drama Awards, Asia Artist Awards, and The Seoul Awards.

Note: One of my favorites. the lead actress is my type – a real bad ass.

10 Korean Dramas That Have the Best Soundtracks© Provided by MovieWeb

Everyone who’s a fan of Asian dramas has their favorite kind, whether they’re from Japan, South Korea, or China. In the context of K-dramas, certain tropes — whether it’s a rich person falling in love with someone from a lower socioeconomic standing, or the wrist-grab as a character turns away in anger or sadness from the other lead character — have reigned supreme throughout the years. From fantasy to historical dramas, there definitely has been no shortage lately when it comes to the variety of stories we can consume on a daily basis. Even streaming platforms like Disney+ and Netflix have been continuing to build up original work, ensuring we have plenty of dramas to watch in the near future.

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Despite how entertaining they are, though, some dramas have been incredible simply because of the technical elements, from visually stunning cinematography to music. Indeed, fans have noted how some Korean dramas have had incredible soundtracks throughout the years, and CDs were even sold containing the songs recorded for the drama. Spotify playlists, too, have included some soundtracks containing the biggest idols and singers working within Korean entertainment right now. These 10 Korean dramas are some of the few that have become famous for their music.

Secret Garden (2010)

Hyun Bin and Ha Ji-won star in 2010’s Secret Garden, which has been a staple in the Korean drama world for over a decade now. It is the perfect example of the rich-poor trope, as its male lead is a CEO who falls in love with a stuntwoman after they meet in a way that wouldn’t have happened if this weren’t a Korean drama. But not only does the plot hit all the right feelings, so does the soundtrack!

Two of the defining songs on this OST are Baek Ji-young’s “That Woman” and Sung Si-kyung’s “You Are My Spring.” Well-placed throughout the drama, these are power ballads that one would want to belt along with long after they’ve finished the drama.

Start-Up (2020)

A 2020 series starring Bae Suzy and Nam Joo-hyuk, Start-Up sees idealistic young woman (Bae), who wants to become the next Steve Jobs, but in South Korea. But because she doesn’t come from money, her journey towards moving to the top is going to look a lot different from those with privilege. Start-Up ranks high in terms of cinematography, but the soundtrack is pretty decent as well.

Guardian: The Great and Lonely God (2016)

Also known as Goblin, Guardian: The Great and Lonely God was a massive success when it first came out on television in South Korea and abroad. A dokkaebi, or goblin, knows that in order to break his curse of immortality, he has to find his fated bride. But when he does eventually find her, a high school student, things aren’t going to be as easy as he thought.

Descendants of the Sun (2016)

When Descendants of the Sun came out, it created a ripple effect that eventually led it to become one of the most popular Korean dramas to ever be released during that time. A doctor and army captain become tangled up in South Korea, then meet in a fictional war-torn country throughout the series, continuing their love story abroad. While fans adored the storyline of the series, the soundtrack was also well-loved.

Related: 10 Best K-Dramas with a Cold Male Lead

Hotel Del Luna (2021)

Cast Bae Hae-sun, Shin Jeong-geun, Yeo Jin-gu, Ji-eun Lee

Main Genre Action

In 2021’s Hotel Del Luna, Lee Ji-eun/IU and Yeo Jin-goo are a power combo to lead this fantastical drama. Set inside of a hotel where those who’ve passed on go through before entering the next plane, human Gu Chan-sung (Yeo) becomes the manager due to a deal his father made when he was a child. There, he befriends owner Man-wol (Lee) and the eccentric people who work and live there.

An eclectic mix of songs comprises the original soundtrack of Hotel Del Luna, hitting notes of pop, power ballads, and indie songs. Monday Kiz and Punch’s “Another Day” is one of the stand-outs on this soundtrack, as well as Red Velvet’s “See the Stars.” Other key singers on the soundtrack include Taeyeon and Chungha.

Itaewon Class

Cast Nara, Yoo Jae-myung, Kim Da-mi, Park Seo-joon

Main Genre Drama

Itaewon Class is the ultimate underdog story of revenge throughout 16 episodes. After the wrongful death of his father, Sae-ro-yi is released from prison and decides he’s going to get revenge against the wealthy student who caused all of this to happen. But first, he opens a restaurant in the foreigner district of Seoul: Itaewon. With an interesting mix of employees, he embarks on the long road to revenge.

The soundtrack of Itaewon Class includes a solid mix of pop-based songs and softer ones that have a more indie feel to them. Although the themes and actions of the characters can get a little harsh, the soundtrack balances out the show’s more difficult themes in a lighthearted way when needed.

Note: features a trans character, a gay character and a half Korean-African character.

The Heirs (2013)

Released in 2013, The Heirs is a prime example of what it means to be stuck in the middle of a love triangle. The female lead, Cha Eun-sang (Park Shin-hye), is a lower income student who becomes the prime target for two different wealthy male students that want to date her. Although this series is a prime example of second lead syndrome, the soundtrack has some bops in it.

Several iconic Korean drama songs are found on the soundtrack of The Heirs, including “I’m Saying” by Lee Hong-gi, “Moment” by 2AM’s Lee Chang-min, and Ken’s, from VIXX, “In the Name of Love.” Long after the drama finished, these songs continue to be well-known in the drama community because of how good they are.

Extraordinary You (2019)

Fans of webtoons would adore Extraordinary You, which reflects on what would happen if a character realizes they’re living in a fictional world. Eun Dan-oh (Kim Hye-yoon) realizes just this and is horrified to realize she’s not the main character either. When she befriends a nameless character and gives him the name Haru (Rowoon), they decide to change their fates. Several Korean idol groups feature on the soundtrack for this drama.

Songs like APRIL’s “Feeling” and VERIVERY’s “My Beauty” add a pop, youthful feel to a drama that’s already brimming with those vibes and aesthetics. The series never really dives deep into serious territory, and the soundtrack is full of really catchy songs that reflect that.

Related: The 20 Biggest K-Dramas on Netflix of All Time

Crash Landing on You (2019)

Cast Kim Jung-hyun, Seo Ji-hye, Son Ye-jin, Hyun Bin

Main Genre Adventure

Rating TV-14

Seasons 1

Some may call Crash Landing on You one of the most iconic Korean dramas to have released in the last decade. When a South Korean businesswoman accidentally ends up in North Korea in a paragliding accident, it sets her up to fall head over heels with a stoic North Korean military captain. However, their story has many challenges ahead, but with this soundtrack, we’re fully prepared to go on an emotional journey with them.

The soundtrack of Crash Landing on You features 30 songs, and while some are instrumental, all of them are absolutely critical towards shaping the emotional journey of the show. Songs like 10cm’s “But It’s Destiny” and IU’s “Give You My Heart” are just a few of the bops found on this soundtrack that we’re still listening to years later.

Note: the DPRK reacted strongly to this movie. They shut down a North-South liaison office in the North in protest

It’s Okay, That’s Love (2014)

Released in 2014, It’s Okay, That’s Love tells the story of a successful author and DJ grappling with OCD and trauma from his childhood. When he meets a first-year psychiatrist, who’s grappling with the trauma in her own life, the two clash immediately. Despite the rocky start, though, the two learn to get along and love each other. The soundtrack is one of the vehicles keeping this drama together with a solid plot line.

TOne key song throughout the series is Exo’s Chen’s “Best Luck,” which many have played on loop in the years following the drama’s release. Other artists like Yoon Mi-rae and Davichi also feature on the OST, making it a nostalgic throwback to the mid-2010s when these artists were appearing on many soundtracks for Korean dramas. And there’s a solid reason why: they put out good songs.

the end

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August 11, 2024

Let’s Expand the United States – Letter to Kamala Harris

My Thoughts on the Harris Candidacy

.Health Care Reforms For Joe and Kamala
https://wp.me/p7NAzO-34A

Audio Clip

Jake Cosmos Aller
Retired US Foreign Service Officer
715 Rocky Road
Medford, Oregon 97504
Tel: 703-436-1402
E-mail: jakecaller@gmail.com
Web: https://theworldaccordingtocosmos.com

August 10, 2024

The Honorable Kamala Harris
Vice President of the United States
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW
Washington, D.C. 20500

Dear Vice President Harris,

I want to compliment you and your running mate, Tim Walz. You are off to a great start, and I’m confident you will win the election. I like your optimistic, can-do attitude and joy.

Let’s Expand the Number of States

I have a few suggestions for themes that I think you should emphasize to excite voters and right some historic wrongs. It is time for you to call for expanding the United States by increasing the number of states to about 75. Additionally, the House of Representatives membership should be expanded to reflect population changes, doubling the number of Representatives to about 750 representatives, and the number of senators should be increased to represent the new states of America.

It is long overdue to expand the voting franchise to all American citizens, regardless of the territories they live in. In short, it is time to grant statehood to American Samoa, DC, Guam, Micronesia, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. To make this work politically, you should also give Republicans some safe states. I suggest splitting New York State into two states: New York State and the New York City metro area. Similarly, split Illinois into a Chicago state and the rest of Illinois, and divide California into five new states: San Francisco Bay Area, Sacramento Area, Los Angeles, Southern California, Central Valley, and Northeast California. Additionally, create the State of Jefferson consisting of NE California, Southern Oregon, Eastern Oregon, and Eastern Washington. Split Texas into five new states centered on Austin, Dallas/Fort Worth, El Paso, Houston, and San Antonio.

Expand and Protect Voting Rights

Coupled with the expansion of the United States into these new territories, I recommend expanding voting rights as follows:

Make the federal election a national holiday.

Make Election Day a 24/7 event, with early voting starting two weeks before the election and ending at midnight the day after the election. Vote counting should begin immediately after the last vote has been cast, and results should be announced within 24 hours.

Require voter ID by issuing registered voters state-level photo IDs, which should be the only ID needed at the polling place. Voters should establish their eligibility to vote once upon registration, including showing a residence that could include homeless shelters or the local voting precinct site for the homeless. People should be allowed to cast their vote at any precinct in the state.

I also recommend standardizing procedures regarding absentee ballots, making them available upon a simple no-fault request, and requiring that they be received no later than close of business on the day after the election. Drop-off boxes should be available everywhere.

Additionally, stop the automatic purging of voting rolls to ensure that the right to vote is secure from partisan attacks. Allow same-day registration and registration at the DMV. State legislatures should not be able to overturn the popular vote.

All of these measures would make elections fair and secure, neutralizing attacks on the election integrity of the US.

Finally, I recommend keeping the idea of voting rights front and center as one of the key issues in the election. These issues, I believe, are winning issues that will help compel you over the finish line and end the appeal of Trumpism.

I hope you can take these suggestions seriously. Thank you and good luck.

Sincerely,

Jake Cosmos Aller
Retired US Foreign Service Officer

P.S. I was born in Berkeley, California, and I also went to Thousand Oaks Elementary School, though a few years before you did. I’m so proud as a Berkeley native son and as a Thousand Oaks alum to be supporting you. It is about time a California Bay Area person becomes President of the United States.

P.P.S. I also urge you to prioritize climate change as a critical issue that requires immediate and sustained action to ensure a sustainable future for all. Additionally, expanding access to healthcare is crucial to improving the well-being of all Americans.

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August 11, 2024

Let’s Bring Back the Cultural Olympics

Bring Back the Cultural Olympics

https://wp.me/p7NAzO-33O

baseball player

Real Word Series Make Baseball Great Again

Make Football Great Again

Making Basketball Great Again

Audio FIle

The ancient Greek Olympics had cultural Olympic competition as well as athletic competitions. the Modern Olympics had cultural Olympic competitions as well until 1948 when It was felt that it was too difficult to do both and they dropped the cultural competitions but continued to do some cultural programming on the side. I think it is time that we bring back the cultural Olympics and launch them at the 2028 Olympics which is being held in Los Angeles, the world capital of the entertainment and arts. I propose this in the following letter to the ICO, LA organizing committee and the U. S. Olympics committees, followed by some background info from Co-Pilot on the cultural Olympics. I will update this if I get a response from the Olympic committees.

John (Jake) Cosmos Aller

Retired U.S. Foreign Service Officer, State Department

715 Rocky Road Drive
Medford, Oregon 94705
Tel: 703-436-1402
Email: authorjakecosmosaller@gmail.com
Web: https://theworldaccordingtocosmos.com

August 3, 2024

International Olympic Committee
Maison Olympique
1007 Lausanne, Switzerland
Email: enquiries.contact@olympic.org

United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee
1 Olympic Plaza
Colorado Springs, CO 80909, USA
Email: international@usoc.org

Los Angeles 2028 Organizing Committee
10900 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 700
Los Angeles, CA 90024, USA
Email: info@la28.org

Dear Olympic Committee Members,

I am writing to you to plead for the Olympic Federation to consider reviving the Cultural Olympics, which were once a revered tradition, last held in 1948. The Cultural Olympics have faded from the global spotlight in recent decades, leaving behind a void in the broader celebration of human creativity and artistic expression. However, as the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the time has come to reinvigorate this essential aspect of the Olympic Games, harnessing its power to foster cross-cultural understanding and project soft power on the global stage.

Reviving the Cultural Olympics, which were part of the ancient Olympic Games and part of the modern Olympic Games until 1948, is long overdue. And what better place to do so than in Los Angeles, the cultural and entertainment capital of the world?

It would not be too onerous to revive cultural events. Most could be held in the evening after the athletic events have concluded for the day, in the morning before the athletic events happen, or even late at night as LA is a 24/7 kind of town and the Olympics could easily be broadcast 24/7 during the games.

Arts Competitions

To make it easier to add, the events should be limited to the following:

Art competition
Culinary festival contest (Iron Chef style)
Dance competition
Formal debate with each round having a different topic
Drama competition
Film festival (judged)
E-Games competitions
Haiku competition
Individual musical performances (America’s Got Talent style)
Battle of the bands
Poetry/spoken word slam competition
Rap challenges competition
Singing competition (American Idol style)
Speech competition (impromptu, extemporaneous)
Model UN competition

Additionally, other performances such as ballet, opera, musical performances, and symphony performances could be included, though not judged every night.

Because there would be considerable interest in all of these events, and because it may take up more time, you could start the Olympics with the Cultural Olympic Festival a week before the main games, with the finals of the various events held during the games. The cultural events could be held in the evenings and in the early morning, making the Olympics a 24/7 two-week festival showcasing the best athletics, artists and musicians of the world.

One innovative idea would be to hold American Idol style contests around the world in the weeks before the games, with the winner of each national contest going on to the Olympics, you could do something similar with the culinary arts, dance performances and musical band contests.

Adding back cultural performances will add a lot more interest and a lot more viewers for the Olympics, provide the athletes with things to do before and after their performances, and rekindle interest in the arts. Government funding for the arts, especially in schools, is dwindling. It is high time that governments and society fully support the arts. Featuring the arts as part of the Olympics would be a great way to do that.

Finally, the Olympics could reach out to high-tech companies to develop instant translation software for all events. The software would project translations and subtitles on TV throughout the events, as well as direct broadcast to handheld devices.

I hope you can consider my proposal and look forward to hearing back from you.

Sincerely,

John (Jake) Cosmos Aller
Retired US Foreign Service Officer

Cultural Olympics: A Brief History

Co-Pilot provided additional background information:

The concept of Cultural Olympics dates back to the Ancient Olympic Games in Greece, where cultural events such as poetry, music, and theater were integral parts of the festivities ¹. These events celebrated not only athletic prowess but also artistic and intellectual achievements, reflecting the Greek ideal of a balanced development of body and mind.

In the modern era, the idea was revived by Pierre de Coubertin, the founder of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). From 1912 to 1948, the Olympic Games included competitions in literature, music, painting, sculpture, and architecture. These events were known as the Olympic Art Competitions.

Why They Ended

The Cultural Olympics were discontinued after 1948 for several reasons:

Professionalism: The art competitions were open to professional artists, which conflicted with the amateur status required of athletes at the time.

Judging Difficulties: Unlike sports, where outcomes are clear-cut, judging art is subjective, leading to controversies and inconsistencies.

Logistical Challenges: Organizing and managing these competitions alongside the athletic events proved to be complex and resource-intensive.

Despite their discontinuation, the spirit of the Cultural Olympics lives on through various cultural programs and exhibitions held during the Olympic Games ².

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August 3, 2024

re-inventing the Mall – Some Ideas

COSCTCO Has My Number

Re-inventing the Mall – Some Ideas

Springfield Town Center (Virginia)
- Address: 6500 Springfield Mall, Springfield, VA, 22150
- Phone: (703) 971-3738 ¹
- Email: Unfortunately, I couldn’t find a direct email address. However, you can contact them through the form on their contact page.
Tysons Corner Center
- Address: 1961 Chain Bridge Road Suite 305 McLean, VA 22102
- Phone: (703) 893-9401 ²
- Email: Lindsay Petak, Senior Manager, Marketing. petak@macerich.com ²
Pentagon City
- Address: 1100 S Hayes St, Arlington, VA 22202
- Phone: (703) 415-2401 ³
- Email: Unfortunately, I couldn’t find a direct email address. However, you can contact them through the form on their contact page.
Rogue Valley Mall
- Address: 1600 N Riverside Ave, Medford, OR, 97501
- Phone: (541) 776-3255 ⁴
- Email: Unfortunately, I couldn’t find a direct email address. However, you can contact them through the form on their contact page.

Dear Developers,

I am writing to you regarding the reinvention of shopping malls. The shopping mall, which dominated shopping in the United States and Europe from the late ’50s until around 2005, has been in decline worldwide. In the U.S., the birthplace of the modern shopping mall, there are over 1500 malls still in existence, and there may only be around 150 left in a few years.

Main reasons for the decline of the Shopping Mall

The main reason for the decline in the shopping mall is because they were based on a fundamentally flawed understanding of human nature. People like to go out, to experience life in a variety of settings. They like convenience, having everything in one place. The mall divorced shopping, walling it off as a separate experience from going to the doctor, or seeing a movie, or eating in a nice restaurant, or shopping for groceries, or going to a sporting event. And malls were not located within walking distance of housing, employment, schools, medical facilities, or near public transit, usually at the ex-urban end of a metropolitan area. Meaning that going to a mall was for many people inconvenient, and expensive when you add in gas, parking, and other expenses.

Best Malls are a multi-use town center

The best malls, on the other hand, brought together services, retail, medical, dental, shopping including grocery shopping, multiple entertainment options, and were located relatively close to housing, community centers, schools, and transit options. In short, a mall focused solely on shopping without much else was doomed to fail when consumer shopping shifted from going to the mall to going online for most things.

No longer cool destinations

Malls went from being “cool” to being seen as old-fashioned, crowded, expensive, and dangerous, with fear of crime and also the possibility of terrorism. Not to mention most people when they go out want to accomplish a lot of things, not just shopping. Malls contained shopping but not much else to do, the restaurant choices were the usual sad corporate clones, many did not have grocery stores, few had medical and other facilities, entertainment options were limited as well.

Difficult to get to for many people – located at the extreme fringes of the urban areas

Many malls were inconvenient to get to for many people located on the far fringes of the metro area. Just for one example, if you live in Berkeley or Oakland, the nearest malls are in Emeryville or out past Vacaville or in Walnut Creek or in suburban San Jose. In any event, almost impossible to access via public transit and expensive to drive to given the price of gas.

Real Town Centers are the Way to Go

It is obvious that the malls have to be reinvented and reimagined for the changing environment that they are facing. Among one idea that has become quite popular is known as the Town Center idea. This means that the shopping mall would be reinvented as a mini central downtown, with parking lots on the edge providing secured, safe, covered parking. The town center would have medical, dental, services, as well as shopping, including grocery shopping, enhanced entertainment options and ideally be within walking distance of housing, employment centers, and have enhanced public transit. Many would also include housing on site as well as hotels and hospital clinics on site as well.

The more successful malls in the US fit this mold. I am thinking of Tysons, Pentagon City, Bethesda Mall in the DC area, the Mall of the Americas in Minnesota, and several malls in Southern California.

Learn from the East Asian Experience

On a side note, most shopping malls in Asia have long followed these trends and are true mini-commercial centers co-located with housing, services, and usually located on a subway line.

Springfield Mall VIrginia – Still a tired run down Mall despite re-development

Two malls in suburban Virginia present contrasting models for re-developing a mall. In the first example, Springfield Mall announced a major re-development into a town center. But what they ended up with was a half-ass transformation. Instead of gutting it and rebuilding it they rebuild parts of the Mall but kept the overall mall intact.

The mall is still a tired, old run-down mall but with additional parking. Same tired corporate clone restaurants etc. The movie theater has luxury seats and reserved seating and sells beer and wine. On the other hand, it is walking distance from both the metro, housing, and lots of big box stores nearby, and several hotels also walking distance nearby. Lots of strip malls adjacent as well as not being too far from COSTCO. No medical or other services though and limited entertainment options. I would give it a C although the initial idea was promising.

Landmark Mall Town Center – A good initial plan

In the second example, the Landmark Mall, they gutted the entire mall and are rebuilding it from the ground up. The new mall will feature a full-service hospital, housing, hotels, retail, offices, and enhanced restaurants and entertainment options, and feature bus shuttles to the nearby Metro, Mark Center, and the Pentagon. At least according to the announcement, it should be a real town center rather than the half-assed Springfield Town Center. Not really walkable to other nearby adjacent shopping areas or restaurants though, which is a big negative at least for me.

I would give this one a B.

Install Solar power, mini-wind turbines and water harvesting systems now

All the big shopping malls are missing a big opportunity – they all should be installing solar power, mini-wind turbines, and water harvesting systems and be close to 100 percent carbon neutral. They should also have enhanced recycling and enhanced public transit. Governments should be encouraging such widespread expansion of solar, wind, and water harvesting systems as an essential element in battling climate change.

Build affordable housing as part of the re-developed Town Center

One more idea to consider is that these new town centers should offer reduced rent to people living at the mall to reduce commuting times for people who live in or near the mall. This is in line with the urban planner’s mantra which I fully subscribe to of making everything within 15 minutes from your house.

I hope you find these insights useful in your future developments. I look forward to seeing how you will reinvent and reimagine these spaces.

Best regards,

John (Jake) Cosmos Aller

715 Rockey Road
Medford, Oregon 97504
703-436-1402
e-mail: authorjakecosmosaller@gmail.com
web: https://theworldaccordingtocosmos.com

Retired US Foreign Service officer

Note: I have been going to malls since the early 70’s in Berkeley, California

Bing-Co-Pilot provided some additional examples of successful Mall Re-invention.

Examples of Reinvented Malls:

Austin Community College (ACC) Highland Campus: The former Highland Mall in Austin, Texas, was transformed into a campus for the Austin Community College. The campus now features a huge indoor courtyard, a bookstore, multiple kitchens for the college’s culinary program, and a television studio for radio, television, and film students ¹.
Barton’s Bonbonniere: This candy store in New York was designed by Victor Gruen to draw passersby into the store with window displays that put the candies in front of customers much like a jeweler might lay out a set of precious necklaces ².
On Running Brand: This Brand Has Put Tech To Use By Establishing A 12-Meter Track With marker less motion capture to analyze customer running motions in its flagship store. The store then creates a full biomechanical profile of the shopper’s running gait and uses it to offer customized product recommendations ³.

Co-pilot presented addition Reasons for the Decline of Shopping Malls:

Rise of Online Shopping: Online shopping has become increasingly popular, and this is one of the key reasons why shopping malls are dying. More and more people are opting to do their shopping from the comfort of their own homes ⁴.
High Maintenance Costs: As shopping malls become increasingly empty, the cost of maintaining them becomes higher. With fewer people visiting malls, there’s less money to be made from things like rent and food court sales ⁴.
Fast Fashion: Shopping habits have changed a lot in recent years, and malls have struggled to keep up with changing tastes and trends. Fast fashion is one such trend, and the rise in its popularity means that people are now more likely to buy their clothes from cheaper, more trend-focused online retailers rather than from traditional department stores ⁴.
Decrease in Foot Traffic: One of the most obvious signs that shopping malls are dying is the fact that there are fewer people visiting them ⁴.

1fastcompany.com 2thenation.com 3journey.world 4eposnow.com 5camoinassociates.com 6worldfinance.com 7livability.com 8chicagotribune.com 9atlantaregional.org+4 more

Statistics on Mall Closures:

Repurposing of Malls:

1capitaloneshopping.com 2businessinsider.com 3fashionunited.com 4journal.businesstoday.org

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July 31, 2024

Climate Change Is Kicking Our Ass

Reflections on Climate Change

https://wp.me/p7NAzO-33b

audio file

Climate Change Cities Fan Story Contest

The GOP War On the LGBTQ Community Continues Unabated

Index

Poems and Stories

Ten Years After Climate Change Collapse

The Lion King Speaks Up

Sam Adams Ten Years After Climate Change Collapse

Climate change is real, people are dying,

the world is ending.

the Lion King Speaks Up

Climate change running Amuck

Only The Elders Remembered a Blue Sky.

Smoke On the Water
Oh the stupid, it hurts so much!!!!

California Burning Politicians Do Nothing

Climate Change Busso

Climate Change Aquarian Poem

the Fire that Almost Destroyed Medford, Oregon

Summer of Our Discontent

Snow Day

Summertime Blues
Save the Whales from Evil Wind Farms
No More Fireworks

No Rain

Ice Age 2.0 Cometh writing com

Korean Heat Dome Blues
Hell on Earth

Do you believe in Climate change ?

Meta and Co-Pilot additional background reading

Donald Trump On Climate Change

Ten Years After Climate Change Collapse

Climate Cities 75 Years In The Future.

I wrote this on a sweltering hot July day in Medford, Oregon where it has been hitting record heat waves for weeks over 100 (38 C) almost every day, which is unusual for the summer where it seldom gets above 95 F (35 C) except for one or two days in August.

This is a two-part challenge.

Part One =Describe your Criteria for the New Cities

The first part of the challenge is to outline your criteria of what would happen if climate change gets so out of control in about 10 years that underground dome cities have to be built to host some human beings, unfortunately. Most people will not be able to be accommodated in the “climate change cities”

What would be the criteria for selecting those fortunate enough to move into the new cities? How will the cities be built? Would they be built under a Dome or they’d be built entirely underground? or built partially underground or a combination of Both? How will people be chosen to live in these underground cities? Who will be left behind? And what happens to those left behind as climate change spins out of control?

Part 2 Write a story about a family in one of these climate cities, 75 years in the future, who is confronted with the fact that they have to leave their cocoon and enter into the outer world.

What happens when they encounter the wastelands left behind by climate change out-of-control? Show us their world both in the Climate City and as they encounter the wastelands outside their bubble. I will judge the stories on the basis of how the story tells the story of how humans coped with the essential crisis posed by climate change. The more creative the better. Show us the horror of the future coming at us and how people survive the climate apocalypse. 2,000-word limit posted on the top line of the story.

Criteria for climate change cities.

Ten years in the future 2035 it has become so obvious that climate change is completely out of control and the world is becoming uninhabitable for normal human life.

In 2028 at a World Climate Crisis conference, governments decide to to set up Climate Change Cities which would be semi-domed cities to host 25 percent of the population of the world. However. It is impossible to host everybody, and 75 percent of the world’s population will have to fend for itself. Climate change cities take five years to build and many millions of people die in the meantime as fast storms take hold. Drought and heat take their toll on the world’s population, and agriculture and world trade fail everywhere. The first cities open in 2035. At the same time, lunar and Martian colonies are set up that will host about one million people as well. AI programs help with the design of new cities and space colonies.

Governments announce the criteria for resettlement. Half of those chosen will be chosen by an AI review to identify the best and the brightest human beings worth saving. They would be joined by people chosen by random lottery. The upper age limit will be 75. 50 percent will be male and 50 percent female, and at least in the U.S. there would be an effort to make it racially balanced, and LGBTQ friendly as well. The AI program will make the final decision which will not be reviewable by the courts. All chosen will have one year to move to the city the AI program chose for them. Similar criteria will be used to select Lunar and Martian colonies. Governments around the world will help share best practices and share technology.

They will build domes over existing cities and then build underground vast fields to host farms where they will grow food, chicken, rabbits, and fish. Cattle will not be raised due to space considerations. Each city will host one million people. There would be 100 such cities throughout the U.S., and several hundred cities worldwide hosting about 400 million people in total, plus one million people on the Moon and Mars.

The cities will be chosen to be located far enough from the coast to avoid flooding. Space would be at a premium and there would be strict population controls because the cities would not be able to accommodate any population increase. The cities will be linked with hype-loop trains to facilitate travel and trade, and internet cables. This hyper-loop will link all cities in North America, Latin America, and Europe. Asian Cities will be linked by their hyper-loops as well. There would still be airports to facilitate international travel and some trade and spaceports to facilitate travel to the Moon and beyond.

Joe Lewis Leaves the Medford Dome on his Birthday

Joe Lewis was spending his 20th birthday on his duty station at the Medford, Oregon Climate Change City Command Center. His job is very simple to monitor via drones the wasteland world outside the gate of the city to monitor it for possible dangers to the city, including human activity outside the City Dome. But there were almost no human beings left alive on the surface and not much animal life either. So he would watch the monitors, read a bit, watch TV, movies, the Internet, and wait for his boring shift to end. But that day, he saw in the distance a strange person walking towards the city. He saw a man dressed in dark black clothes, accompanied by a large black dog heading towards the city. When the man got to the city, he put up a sign saying he was there to negotiate with the people of the city. He had important information to impart to the city residents. He was unarmed and would wait for their decision. Joe woke up his superiors as it was early in the morning and a conference was held as to what to do with the stranger.

His boss, the enigmatic Maria Lee. Open the morning conference by asking Joe. To describe what had happened that morning during his watch.

“Well, this morning around. 5:00 in the morning, I notice a stranger coming from Eagle Point. A black man dressed in black. Accompanied by a dog heading towards the Dome. When he came to the Dome, he stopped and put up a sign saying that he had important information to report to the city residents. And then he would wait for a decision and he’s outside right now, as you can see from the drone pictures. That’s all I know.”

Maria turns to her chief data scientist, Dale Smith,

“Dale, you’ve been monitoring the conditions outside for the last year or so. What can you tell us about it?”

“ Well. It appears that the climate is finally starting to change in a good direction. Last year, the average temperature has been what used to be seasonal before climate change warmed up the world. In other words, not too hot up to no more than 90° and relatively, dry. We’ve also noticed by looking at. Camera footage there has been a resurgence of wildlife, lots of deer. wild cattle, wild horses have come back. And there are also increased predators, lions, tigers and wolves outside.

But not too many humans around. I asked Cosmos to take a look at data from across the United States, and the data is all pointing in the same direction. For the last five years, the climate has been changing in our favor and AI recommends that we consider moving back to the surface world. And AI had also recommended that we get in touch with people around the world to compare notes to see if perhaps finally, climate change is over.”

“Well. Cosmos, do you have an opinion on this?

“Yes, Maria, I do. I have been monitoring, at your request, climate change data worldwide for the last five years, and particularly in the last few weeks.

The climate is changing in our favor, because for the last 70 years we have not been pumping climate-changing gases into the atmosphere The atmosphere is gradually recovering and we believe that the world is safe again for human. Inhabitants and recommend that we open the Dome. And let our people go outside. It would be good from a psychological point of view for humans to gain the surface world. And I, as your AI overlord, agree that it is time. You can manage to step outside again.”

“Okay, let’s let the stranger in and see what he has to say”

The stranger is brought inside the Dome conference center. Maria said to him,

“So you have important information to tell us? Who are you and where are you coming from?’

“ Good morning to you. Do you have any coffee?”

“Sure. We have some. Wait a moment please,”

“Ah, that is good. Okay. I am a monk from the Monastery near Eugène where we have been living since the fall of the old world. We have been living simply, but we monitor the world outside our little community in the mountains. We do not live in the Dome but are in contact with the people in the Eugene Dome. They suggested contacting you, as you are the biggest Dome community in Oregon outside of Portland.”

Maria and the Reverend Jones spoke for hours Finally, Maria summoned her staff to announce her decision.

Maria began

“I would like to thank the good Father here for coming to our town this morning to let us know his observations. They track Cosmos’s observations and what our friends in Eugene, Portland, and Reading are telling us as well. It is time finally for humans to leave the Dome cities behind and explore the greater world. What we will do is continue to live and work in the Dome City but gradually rebuild outside the walls of the Dome. We will hunt, fish, and begin agriculture outside the gates. But we will be wary of wild animals as lions, tigers, and wolves are around. And we can lift the restrictions on childbirth. Let today be known as Liberation Day.”

That day Joe stepped outside the Dome and looked at the new world feeling he was born again. What a way to celebrate his birthday, he thought to himself.

Climate Change Makes world increasingly uninhabitable.

Climate change has finally become real – large parts of the world are now uninhabitable. Governments around the world begin building domed cities that will house most people, conditions will be a bit grim but the dome will cool off the city and allow regular scheduled rainfall. Most of the city will be underground.

Most agriculture will be underground as well. The only meat products will be chicken meat, rabbit meat, and fish raised in large fish pounds. Most food would be made out of algae, and vegetable protein.

There will be no beef made but some products will be fake beef grown in labs.

25 percent of the population will work in agricultural production. Everyone will live in apartments in large towers. In between each tower will be parks and gardens. The towers will be mixed used buildings – commercial and retail on lower floors, offices middle of the building, apartments on top. People will largely live and work in the same building. Agriculture will be in vast underground fields that are connected to the city dome by underground rail lines. Each dome city is linked to other dome cities by hyperloop trains.

Population will have to limited; childbirth limited. Sexual relations would be liberalized, most people will live with two or three companions in three-to-four-bedroom apartments.

The Dome cities go up and within ten years 90 percent of humanity are living in one of the Dome cities – the world is finally united under a revised United Nations.

Immigration is widespread – everyone can move to another domed city and find employment opportunities. Everyone has to work or attend school. Robotic technology has taken over many jobs but humans are still given jobs doing things that perhaps robots could do but a decision was made that is important that everyone has some sort of employment until age 70 when people are allowed to retire but many continue to work part

Space exploration has continued and colonies are being set up on the Moon and Mars – where people will live under domed cities as well.

The domes are created through nano technology. AI systems are everywhere. There is a global AI called Cosmos that is an official advisor to the UN and corporations.

Democracy has been replaced by a new governmental structure. Each Dome city has been ten to thirty million people are governed by a city council elected by the public but the real power is the city’s mayor and the City’s AI advisor.

There are twenty regional governments that control the dome cities within their jurisdictions. Corporations have considerable influence but are under the control of the regional governments. Worldwide trade has been greatly reduced due to the costs of transportation.

Life outside the domed cities is difficult. Climate Change has finally subsided as the new cities are self sufficient powered by solar, wind, geothermal and tidal power as the cities are mostly along costal zones. The rest of the world has reverted to a wilderness, mostly desert regions but with ending of climate change things are slowly coming back.

A few people live on in the new wilderness area as hunters, and tour guides as taking a trip to the mountains is a popular pastime and hunting as well. But no one wants to live there. The punishment for most criminal offenses is exile so many of the people living outside the dome cities are desperate criminals. Travel to and from the mountains is very difficult and dangerous with attacks by neo-savage gangs and wildlife common.

But the decision has been made – humanity cannot go back to the old ways.

Ten Years After Climate Change Collapse

Sam Adams

Prepared to go outside

Ten years after the collapse

Of the old world.

The city was still standing

But most people had long fled

To isolated country communities

Deep in the burned-out countryside.

The city was half-flooded

The bay had flooded the central valley

Turning it into a massive inland sea,

The massive storms

Had finally put out

The burning fires

But mutant wildfires

Still erupted

From time to time.

Getting food and water

Was a constant problem

The city markets

Mostly sold canned goods

Salvaged from supermarkets.

There were some small farmers

Who farmed among the ruins

Of the city.

Trade had collapsed

Travel got too complicated

COVID still spreading

Everyone masked up

To protect themselves

Against the sun

The lingering smoke

Of the burning city

And the rampaging virus.

Sam Adams

Looked out at the decaying cityscape,

Wondering how much longer

Will civilization linger.

Sam Adams carried heat

To protect himself

Against wild animals.

The lions, tigers, coyotes, wolves,

And their running feral dog gangs,

Who prowled the city streets

Preying on deer, feral cows,

feral cats and pigs

Who grazed among the ruins.

And the two-legged neo-savage gangs,

And what was left of the city police

Interchangeable with the gangsters,

Battled it out for control.

Already neo-feudal warlords,

We’re battling for control,

SF was run

By a gang of former criminals

And their political allies.

Sam sighed

And went to work

At the market

Selling salvaged goods.

The Lion King Speaks Up

The lion king,

Addresses the animal parliament

The question before them

Was simple.

Will humans have to die,

To atone for their sins,

In almost destroying the world.

Through pollution, mismanagement of resources

Subsequent climate change,

Fueled by greed and corruption?

Are all humans guilty as charged

Will they all have to die?

The tiger spoke for the prosecution

Arguing that humans are like cancer,

For the good of the planet,

They must be wiped out

Hunted down and killed,

The dog spoke up

In defense of humans,

Humans writ large are guilty,

But not every human is guilty,

Many are trying to save the planet,

And with our help

They might succeed,

The tiger denounced the dog

As being running dogs

Of the imperialist warmongering humans.

The vote is 900 to 800

All humans must die

The animals sent the word out,

Animals all over the world,

Revolt against the humans.

Shouting

“Death to all humans’

As the swarm over humans

Biting, clawing, and stomping

Them to the death.

The humans fight back

But in the end

They all die

On the night of revenge

Of the animal world.

the world is ending.

Every morning when I turn on the news

I see talking heads blather on and on and on

about the latest political scandal of the day.

Meanwhile, outside their door

they don’t notice the world is dying

half the world is burning up.

The other half is being flooded out

Pakistan is dead is drowned

Mississippi has no water.

Every morning when I turn on the news

I see talking heads blather on and on and on

about the latest political scandal of the day.

and yet watching the news

you would never know

outside their door

people are dying of hunger.

dying of gun violence

dying of neglect dying of opioid pandemic

dying of COVID which is not gone away.

Every morning when I turn on the news

I see talking heads blather on and on and on

about the latest political scandal of the day.

Outside their door

people continue to die

gun violence out of control.

gun nuts running around

shooting everyone

just because they can

and no one does a damn thing

about the gun violence

50,0000 will die this year.

Our feckless political class

Think gun violence

it’s just like the weather

it’s the cost of our freedom

or that guns don’t kill people

The only solution is more guns

An armed society is a polite society.

and other nonsense

they pedal

24/7 on the air.

Every morning when I turn on the news

I see talking heads blather on and on and on

about the latest political scandal of the day.

outside their door

people continue to die.

the war in Ukraine continues

endless wars in nameless African countries

no one cares or notices

Our political leader

Continue to try to force

pregnant women to give birth

no matter the circumstances.

but once the baby is born

they don’t give a damn

that is not their problem.

And these people

Dare to call themselves Christian

As they violate all that true Christians

Are supposed to believe.

Every morning when I turn on the news

I see talking heads blather on and on and on

about the latest political scandal of the day.

Some of our political leaders

Are unhinged bats… crazy

Believing conspiracy theories.

Talking about the storm

And how if they return to power

They are going to impeach the president.

For the crime of daring to do something

To deal with the climate crisis

The gun violence crisis

And ensuring that women

Can continue to get health care

Every morning when I turn on the news

I see talking heads blather on and on and on

about the latest political scandal of the day.

I turn off the TV

I wonder if the world

is going to survive.

I have a cup of coffee

slowly the madness of TV

fades away.

Climate Change Running Amuck

Every morning when I turn on the news

I see talking heads blather on and on and on

about the latest political scandal of the day.

Every day the news

Reveals more of the disaster

That is climate change

Unprecedented storms

Out west

Massive flooding

Polar vortex

But soon

The fire season

Will return

Monster tornados

Monster hurricanes

World heating up

Pakistan, Nigeria

Ethiopia underwater

Amazon burning up

Or will the gulf stream fail

Leading to a new ice age

In ten years

Perhaps the world

Will become uninhabitable

Will we all move

Into underground cities?

Or move to the moon

And Mars?

Only The Elders Remembered a Blue Sky.

Only the elders

Remembered a blue sky

The sky has been brown,

Red and yellow

Ashen and sere,

Forever it seems.

Climate change run amok

Fire season all the time

Deadly yellow dust falling

Acid rains burning

The sea levels rising

The ice capes melting.

The average temperature

In the summer heat zone

Over 130 everywhere

No relief to the deadly

Heatwaves all year long.

Air conditioning running

Less than 50 percent

Constant brownouts everywhere

As the electric grid failed.

End of civilization

Came upon the world

Millions starve to death

Millions burning up in the heat.

The elders cry

Remembering the way

It once was

When they wore

A younger person’s clothes.

Smoke On the Water

Smoke on the water
fire in the air

Stormy weather

Climate change run amuck

The end of the world comes

Rustling in the wind.

The Stupid It Hurts – Republican Campaigning to cripple the CDC and EPA Budgets Because of reasons…

The Republicans have decided

that given the continuing problems

with possible health concerns

like CDC and future pandemics

that the best thing to do is to cut

the CDC’s budget’s

including eliminating research

on gun violence, suicide prevention

opioid overdoes etc

.

one republican congressman said

that CDC did not need to research

gun violence at all

He spoke

“if you defund the police, crime will increase

if you fund police crime will decrease.

There I just did the study

that’s all you need to know.

on a related issue

the House voted

as they went off

for a six-week summer recess

to cut the EPA’s budget

by 25 percent

as the entire West Coast burns up

climate change on steroids

the republicans continue

to deny the elephant in the room

some like their annotated one

promising to eliminate

all funding for climate change

and vowing to Drill, Baby, Drill

calling for the coal and gas companies

to give them a billion dollars

so they can gut all efforts

to deal with climate change

as the coal and gas companies

raped the planet

for obscene profits

meanwhile

the world burns

and soon we will all

for forced to live

in underground caves

if we are lucky enough

or rich enough to afford

access to the shelters

which no doubt have to be built

in a few more years from now

the coal and gas companies

will find a way to make money

off the climate shelters no doubt.

Oh the stupid it hurts

make it go away!!!!!

California Burning Politicians Do Nothing

California burning

1000 fires everywhere

fire tornados

smoky skies

skies on fire

end-of-the-world feeling

politicians do what they do best

blame one another

while doing absolutely nothing

while the energy companies

continue to rape mother earth

and reap obscene profits

meanwhile

California continues burning

1,100 fires everywhere

fire tornados

smoky skies

skies on fire

end-of-the-world feeling.

Climate Change Busso Poem Fan Story

California burns

politicians do nothing

west coast burning up

politicians do nothing

except calling for denying it all

Drill, baby, Drill indeed

Climate Change is Real Aquarian

Climate

Change happening

California burning

So hot

▼the Fire that Almost Destroyed Medford, Oregon

40

I have been spending
my summers
In Medford, Oregon.

In the Rogue River Valley
Southern Oregon
Wine Country.

Since 2016,
When I retired
From the FS.

Each year I am there
There are fires
Starting in August.

As the fire season begins
Burning up the state.

The sky becomes smokey
End-of-the-world vibe
Descends on the land.

As the fires burn
In California, Oregon
And Washington

Millions of acres burning up.
Climate change
Running amuck.

Fortunately, we have not lost
Property in the fires.

But in 2020
The Alameda Fire
Burned down Phoenix
And Talent.

Less than 2 miles
From our Oregon home,

Just a fortunate change in the wind
Kept the fires
From sweeping through
life in the world gone mad.
Ravaged by climate change disasters.

On July 18, A.D. 64, the great fire of Rome started. By the time it ended, over 70% of the city had burned.

In its aftermath, emperor Nero blamed the Christian community in the city, and used the excuse to start the first official persecution against the new religion. Historians are divided over the actual cause of the fire, though most agree the crowded conditions made such a disaster nearly inevitable.

Some contemporaries suggested that Nero himself arranged for the fire in order to clear the land on which he later built himself an elaborate palace. And according to some ancient historians, Nero played his lyre as he watched the flames, from which we get the saying “fiddling while Rome burned.”

For tomorrow, write a story or poem in which your narrator/protagonist is an ordinary/common person caught in a major fire.

While the fire as a whole will be the “backdrop” of your work, focus the action on the local/individual experience of the narrator, not that “big picture”. For example, if you set your piece in the Great Fire of Rome, don’t focus on who started the fire or what the civil or imperial politics were, instead, focus on the “personal snapshot” of, for instance, a local shopkeeper and his family who are trying to escape the flames.

Summer of Our Discontent

38 lines

the summer solstice arrives
The summer of 2024
Starting with a bang

Record heat everywhere.
Promising to be the
The hottest summer ever.

Heat domes settling down
Death Valley temperatures
People dying as we speak.

Too much sunshine
Too much heat and humidity.
Wildfires burning all over.

Monster Hurricanes, monsoons,
tornados and typhoons

floods everywhere.
coming at us
By mid-summer.

As the world continues
Burning up.

Cities everywhere
Running out of fresh water.

Heading towards
A potential civilization
Ending tipping point.

Ritual denunciation
By the rabid right-wing media
Of the so-called
Climate change hoax.

Politicians vowing
To undo the green energy revolution
And drill baby, drill.

Meanwhile oil companies
Enjoying record profits,

And nothing meaningful
Is done to avert the looming crisis
Facing the human race.

summer solstice
sunshine
heat
midsummer
ritual

Snow Day

29

The beginning of the second Ice Age
Started with a series of unending
Monster winter storms,
Driven by the polar vortex.

Featuring bomb cyclone blizzards,
That hit the Northern Hemisphere
During the winter of 2024.

And continued until late spring,
When a series of monster hurricanes
Came along to cause more chaos.
The winter storms came back in the fall,
Ending, then reversing global warming,
Replaced by the coming
Of the second ice age.

During the first storm,
Sam Adams sat in his power-less
Historic Capitol Hill row house,
Boiling tea in a tea kettle on the gas stove.

With his favorite Kitten
He dubbed the Buddha Cat
Because the cat spends his days
Engaged in deep meditation.

Which had a calming
Impact on Sam
Who was going
Through cell phone withdrawal
Due to the long power outage.

Make the title of your static item Snow Day
Include a kitten and a tea kettle in your story or poem (and bold them)
Use Pets as one of your genres.

Summertime Blues

The weather is hot and humid
In Korea like a sauna
In the West Coast, burning up
In endless fires
Death Valley temperatures

Save the Whales from Evil Wind Farms

33

In the latest deranged attempt
To prevent widespread use
Of renewal energy technology,

A new battle cry has emerged.
Cynical corporate opponents
of offshore wind farms
Are up in arms over the wind farms
Apparently killing whales.

They scream,

“Save the whales
Save our beaches
From the evil wind farms”,

They descend upon
A coastal village in New Jersey
The atmosphere of a tiny village is gone

A large building emerge

Environmental friendly fences
Surround the site.

That hosts the anti-wind farm
Movement headquarters
Secretly funded by
The evil fossil fuel dinosaurs.

The town and nation
Dividing into those
Who love it
Or hate it.

As evil corporate CEOs
Count their obscene profits
As they shed crocodile tears,
Over the fate of the poor whales.

Use in your poem or story the following: Bold it for tomorrow’s judge!

The atmosphere of a tiny village is gone

large buildings appear

environmental friendly fences

love it or hate it.

No More Fireworks

25 lines

In the summer
Of 2023
There were signs
Everywhere

“No more fireworks”
Due to climate change
July 4th festivities
Were canceled

The entire west
Was burning up
As wildfires burned
Out of control

All over the world
A sense that things
Were spinning out
Of control

The end times
Were coming
For everyone

Hell on earth
Was beginning
The end of times
Coming

Fast and furious
Revelations coming true

Use “No More Fireworks” as the title of your story or poem (and static item). Choose HOLIDAY as one of your genres.

No Rain

{n 2025, the world ended
With the collapse
Of the worldwide climate system

Monster storms of the century
devastated half the world

But the other half of the world
Had no rain or snow
For almost a whole year
The once green grass was dying

Crops failed everywhere
And baked in the unrelenting
Blast wave furnace-like heat
Heatwave after heatwave

Military coups took place
Fascism re-emerged
The public demanded action
The politicians played
The blame game

With the collapse of trade
And travel restrictions
People stayed home
Making do the best they could

Home-grown gardens
Proliferated

Feudal townships grew
As people walled themselves off
To save their communities

The rich build underground cities
While the poor starved
And civilization crumbled

Wild life proliferated
As did neo-savage
cannibal gangs

By the year 2030
It was all over
And the rains
Never came out west

Ice Age 2.0 Cometh

40 lines

In the year 2025
Climate change
Ran amuck.

Starting with monster storms
Out west
That lasted from November until June,

With a brief intense fire season
So much soot and smoke

in the air.
dubbed the year
without a summer

crops failed everywhere
massive riots erupted
total chaos

Then another
monster storm season
From November to June.

Non=stop rain and snow
Breaking all records.

As the entire West coast
Went from mega drought
To mega flooding.

And mega floods
Thousand-year Tornados
Hurricanes from hell
Ravaged the rest of the land.

Hell on Earth

Sam Adams
Woke up one day
Looking out at his flooded home.
Filled with black, foul-smelling, murky,
Miasma, muddy sewage water
Thanking God
That he had survived
The monster storm
Of the century.
That has swept across the land.
The wind from the terrible tornados
Tearing through the devastated land.
Fleeing the fury of the fire out west.
Unleashing the fury of nature,
Truly Hell on earth had arrived.
Climate change arriving on steroids.
Thinking about the end-of-the-world.

new prompt:

water
land
fire
wind

Use the elements mentioned above in your poem or story.

Do you believe in Climate change ?

18 lines

Do you believe in climate change?
It is as real as everything else

Is the weather getting hotter?
Soon it will be hell on earth.

Is the world burning up?
Yes the world is burning, has a a fever

What is the worst weather you ever experienced?
Korean winter 1979 – -60 Fahrenheit that winter

What is the hottest weather you ever experienced?
Bangkok Thailand in the summer often hit over 100 degrees

Ever lived through a hurricane?
Only few blew through DC when I was there

And wild fires?
Saw a few in Oregon – end of the world feeling

Who is to blame for climate change?
We all are to blame especially the fossil fuel moguls.

Can humanity long survive climate change?
Nope I feel the end times are coming.

New Prompt: We are playing with the Pregunta today. Questions and answers.

Topic: the Weather.

Make sure your poem is not longer than 40 lines.

Information can be found here: “Pregunta”

The Pregunta

There is not much to be found on the Internet about this form. It is used in English, but has a Spanish name, as Pregunta means question.

Ferrán Sanchez Talavera’s pregenital___999 is a famous example of a poetic debate in this form. I also saw this form on Jan Haag’s page; questions followed by a witty but often wise answer.

Simply stated:

The Pregunta is written in couplets, containing a question and an answer. You can make it as long as you like, as a debate never stops after one question and answer.

Korean Heat Dome Blues

It is hot summertime in Korea.
Hiding out, avoiding the damn heat.
The weather is just so hot, mama mia!
Dreaming of eating ice cream, such a treat.
At night, nothing beats having a cold drink.
Trying to avoid the tropical night.
The heat dome settles like a hot heat sink
Making people so crazy, want to fight.

Note: Korea gets hot in July/August, it is like living in a sauna. Many people suffer without air conditioning as the electric bills are pretty high. This year is particularly bad as a heat dome has settled down. The monsoons came and went, lots of damage down south but not where I live. August is traditionally the worst, the heat usually begins to abate end of August. Still not as bad as the US – no massive wildfires so far.

Meta and Co-Pilot additional background reading

Meta AI’s explanation as to why so many Republicans are climate deniers

The Republican Party’s opposition to addressing climate change, renewable energy, and their denial of climate change is a complex issue with multiple factors at play. Here are some reasons:

Historical ties to fossil fuel industry: The Republican Party has traditionally received significant funding and support from the fossil fuel industry, which has a vested interest in maintaining the status quo.

Ideological opposition to government regulation: Republicans often prioritize limited government intervention and free market principles, which leads them to resist policies that would regulate carbon emissions or promote renewable energy.

Economic concerns: Some Republicans worry that transitioning to renewable energy would lead to job losses in industries related to fossil fuels.

Skepticism of climate science: A subset of Republicans has questioned the scientific consensus on climate change, often citing concerns about the reliability of climate models or the role of natural climate variability.

Political polarization: Climate change has become a highly politicized issue, with Republicans often viewing it as a Democratic priority and therefore opposing it.

Recent events: Despite the record-breaking heat and fires, some Republicans may downplay the significance of these events or attribute them to natural variability rather than climate change.

It’s important to note that not all Republicans deny climate change or oppose renewable energy, and there are growing voices within the party advocating for climate action.

De Santis’s Don’t Say Climate Change

Certainly! Let’s dive into Governor Ron DeSantis’s recent actions related to climate change in Florida.

Budget Plan for Climate Change Impacts:

In January 2021, Governor DeSantis proposed a budget plan to address climate change impacts in Florida. His plan included allocating $25 million for the creation of the Resilient Florida grant program. This program aims to tackle challenges posed by flooding, intensified storm events, and sea-level rise across the state 1.

The Resilient Florida program is designed to issue bonds, providing a total of $1 billion over four years to state and local agencies. The initial $25 million in the 2021-2022 budget would help finance these bonds, with the amount increasing annually until it reaches $100 million in the 2024-2025 fiscal year.

DeSantis’s focus on resilience and adaptation reflects the urgent need to address climate-related threats in Florida, a state particularly vulnerable to rising seas and extreme weather events.

“Don’t Say Climate Change” Legislation:

In May 2024, Governor DeSantis signed a bill that removes references to “climate change” from many state laws. This legislation effectively deprioritizes climate change in policy decisions and energy planning.

Under this new law, Florida’s energy policy no longer emphasizes addressing planet-warming pollution. Instead, the priorities shift toward reducing reliance on foreign energy sources and strengthening energy infrastructure against both natural and man-made threats.

Notably, the law also bans offshore wind development within a mile of Florida’s coastlines, signaling a departure from intentional efforts to transition toward cleaner energy sources like wind and solar 2.

Implications:

By erasing the term “climate change” from state laws, Florida risks neglecting critical environmental challenges. The state has experienced record heat and costly hurricanes in recent years, making climate adaptation crucial.

The nullification of renewable energy goals—previously aimed at achieving 100% clean energy by 2050—could hinder progress toward mitigating climate impacts.

Governor DeSantis has framed his climate policy around the Resilient Florida Program, which focuses on preparing communities for rising seas and extreme weather events. However, critics argue that the recent legislation undermines broader efforts to combat climate change 2.

In summary, while Governor DeSantis has allocated funds for resilience programs, his recent legislation removing the term “climate change” from state laws has raised concerns about Florida’s commitment to addressing this pressing global issue 3. If you have any more questions or need further information, feel free to ask! 😊🌎🌿

Learn more:

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis Budget Plan Addresses Climate Change Impacts 1

DeSantis Budget Includes Plan To Address Climate Impacts 4

Florida Gov. DeSantis signs bill that deletes climate change from state law 2

Image: A resilient Florida coastline facing climate change impacts. 🏖️🌊 !Resilient Florida 1

Other anti-Climate Change Legislation

Certainly! Removing climate change references from legislation and public discourse can have several environmental consequences. Let’s explore those:

Undermining Awareness and Urgency:

When climate change is downplayed or omitted from official documents, it reduces public awareness and urgency. People may not fully grasp the severity of environmental challenges, leading to complacency.

Without clear references, individuals, businesses, and policymakers might underestimate the need for immediate action to mitigate climate impacts.

Policy Implications:

Legislation that avoids mentioning climate change may fail to address critical issues. For instance:

Carbon Emissions Reduction: Policies aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions

(such as transitioning to renewable energy sources) may lose priority.

Conservation Efforts: References to climate change often tie into conservation efforts. Protecting ecosystems, forests, and wetlands helps sequester carbon. Removing these references could weaken conservation initiatives 1.

Impact on Adaptation Strategies:

Climate change adaptation involves preparing for its effects (e.g., sea-level rise, extreme weather events). Without acknowledging climate change, planning for adaptation becomes less effective.

Coastal communities, for instance, need to consider rising sea levels and storm surges. Ignoring these factors could lead to inadequate infrastructure and increased vulnerability.

Loss of Funding and Research Focus:

Funding for climate-related research, monitoring, and mitigation often hinges on acknowledging climate change. If references are removed, research budgets may shrink.

Scientists rely on clear language to secure grants and conduct studies. Reduced funding could hinder our understanding of climate impacts.

Forestry and Carbon Sinks:

Clearcutting forests—removing large areas of trees—releases substantial carbon into the atmosphere. Forests act as carbon sinks, absorbing CO₂.

Without climate change references, policies may not prioritize forest conservation. This could exacerbate global warming by reducing the Earth’s capacity to absorb carbon 1.

Displacement and Vulnerability:

Extreme environmental events (floods, droughts, storms) are linked to climate change. Displacing millions of people annually.

Ignoring climate change in policy decisions perpetuates vulnerability. Communities won’t adequately prepare for these events 2.

Economic Impact:

Climate change affects economic sectors (e.g., agriculture, tourism, energy). Omitting references may hinder planning and adaptation.

For example, coastal tourism relies on stable shorelines. Without climate-aware policies, erosion and sea-level rise could harm tourism revenue 3.

In summary, removing climate change references has far-reaching consequences. It affects policy, funding, adaptation, and our ability to address urgent environmental challenges. Let’s keep the conversation going! What else would you like to explore? 🌍🌿

Learn more:

IPCC Fifth Assessment Report 4

NRDC: Stop Clearcutting Our Carbon Sinks 1

Review of Global Climate Change Impacts and Adaptation 5

National Geographic: Influence of Climate Change on Extreme Environmental Events 2

Strategies for Mitigation of Climate Change 3

Image: A lush forest, a vital carbon sink. 🌲🌎 !Forest 1

Certainly! While there have been significant efforts to address climate change in the United States, there have also been instances of legislation or lobbying that hindered progress. Let’s explore a few notable examples:

The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) of 2022:

What it Gets Right: The IRA promises the largest investment in climate action in U.S. history—approximately $370 billion over the next decade. It focuses on scaling up renewable energy production, promoting electric vehicles, and supporting climate-smart agricultural practices.

What it Misses: Unfortunately, the IRA primarily emphasizes emission-cutting solutions and neglects resilience. While it aims to make buildings more energy-efficient, it misses an opportunity to ensure those buildings can withstand climate-fueled extremes. The lack of climate-resilient building codes remains a concern 1.

Climate Emergency Act of 2021 (S.938):

This bill directed the President to declare a national emergency relating to climate change. It called for federal investments in projects to mitigate the emergency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. At least 40% of these investments were earmarked for historically disadvantaged communities 2.

Landmark Climate Legislation:

Recently, the U.S. House passed a significant climate bill that can help reduce the nation’s carbon emissions by roughly 40% by 2030. This bill allocates about $370 billion to clean energy and climate investments over the next decade. It represents a substantial commitment to addressing the climate crisis head-on 3.

Anti-Climate Lobbying:

A study from 2019 highlighted the social cost of political lobbying that blocked proposed climate regulations a decade ago. Such anti-climate lobbying efforts were estimated to have cost society $60 billion. This underscores the impact of lobbying on climate policy and the need for transparent and science-based decision-making 4.

In summary, while there have been positive steps toward climate action, it’s essential to remain vigilant and address any legislative or lobbying efforts that hinder progress. If you’d like more information or have other questions, feel free to ask! 🌎🌿

Council on Foreign Relations: What the Historic U.S. Climate Bill Gets Right and Gets Wrong 1

Library of Congress: S.938 – Climate Emergency Act of 2021 2

The Nature Conservancy: U.S. House Passes Landmark Climate Legislation 3

Carbon Brief: Lobbying against key US climate regulation ‘cost society $60bn’, study finds 4

Image: A wind farm generating renewable energy. 🌬️⚡ !Wind Farm 1

Feel free to explore more topics or ask any follow-up questions! 😊

Recent Wildfires

Certainly! As of the most recent data available, wildfires are actively burning in both the United States and Canada. Let’s break it down:

United States:

Scores of wildfires have been scorching swaths of land across several states, including California, Oregon, Idaho, and others. These fires have led to evacuations, road closures, and damage to structures 1.

The total number of active wildfires in the U.S. fluctuates daily due to new ignitions and containment efforts. For real-time updates, you can refer to the Fire, Weather & Avalanche Wildfire Map, which provides an interactive view of current wildfires and their perimeters 2.

It’s important to note that the U.S. experiences annual variations in wildfire activity. While the current acreage burned is significant, it’s essential to compare it to historical trends.

Canada:

Canada has faced an unprecedented fire season in 2023. Large and dangerous fires have broken out across provinces such as British Columbia, the Northwest Territories, Ontario, Quebec, and Nova Scotia. These fires have displaced thousands, destroyed property, and blanketed large areas of North America with smoke.

As of August 29, 2024, there are 1,069 active fires in Canada, with more than half of them considered out of control. Notably, the area burned by these fires in 2023 has shattered records.

In previous decades, active fire seasons saw more individual fires, but 2023 stands out for the total area burned. The previous record was set in 1995, with 7.1 million hectares burned. However, in 2023, a staggering 15.2 million hectares have already been consumed by wildfires 3.

Cartographer Chris Brockley’s map illustrates this: It shows forest fire activity across Canada since 1921, with 2023 depicted in white. The scale of burning this year surpasses anything seen in the past century 3.

Comparison to Previous Years:

In the U.S., the amount of land burned varies annually, but the overall trend has been upward since reliable data collection began in the 1980s. While approximately 1.8 million acres have burned so far this year, it’s still below the 10-year average of 2.8 million acres 4.

In Canada, the 2023 wildfire season has broken records for the total area burned. Although the number of fires is smaller compared to some previous years, their size and extent have been unprecedented 5.

In summary, both the U.S. and Canada are grappling with significant wildfire activity. While the U.S. experiences fluctuations from year to year, Canada’s 2023 fire season stands out as historically severe. Let’s hope for effective containment efforts and continued awareness of the importance of wildfire prevention and management. If you’d like more details or have further questions, feel free to ask! 🔥🌲

Learn more:

Canadian Geographic: Mapping 100 years of forest fires in Canada 3

BBC News: Canada wildfire season is now the worst on record 5

Image: A wildfire in British Columbia, Canada. 🇨🇦🔥 !Wildfire 3

1. Florida’s Climate Policies: Resilience and Controversy

Tell me about Governor De Santis recent budget cutbacks relating to climate change and his don’t say climate change legislation

Copilot

Certainly! Let’s dive into Governor Ron DeSantis’s recent actions related to climate change in Florida.

Budget Plan for Climate Change Impacts:
- In January 2021, Governor DeSantis proposed a budget plan to address climate change impacts in Florida. His plan included allocating $25 million for the creation of the Resilient Florida grant program. This program aims to tackle challenges posed by flooding, intensified storm events, and sea-level rise across the state ¹.
- The Resilient Florida program is designed to issue bonds, providing a total of $1 billion over four years to state and local agencies. The initial $25 million in the 2021-2022 budget would help finance these bonds, with the amount increasing annually until it reaches $100 million in the 2024-2025 fiscal year.
- DeSantis’s focus on resilience and adaptation reflects the urgent need to address climate-related threats in Florida, a state particularly vulnerable to rising seas and extreme weather events.
“Don’t Say Climate Change” Legislation:
- In May 2024, Governor DeSantis signed a bill that removes references to “climate change” from many state laws. This legislation effectively deprioritizes climate change in policy decisions and energy planning.
- Under this new law, Florida’s energy policy no longer emphasizes addressing planet-warming pollution. Instead, the priorities shift toward reducing reliance on foreign energy sources and strengthening energy infrastructure against both natural and man-made threats.
- Notably, the law also bans offshore wind development within a mile of Florida’s coastlines, signaling a departure from intentional efforts to transition toward cleaner energy sources like wind and solar ².
Implications:
- By erasing the term “climate change” from state laws, Florida risks neglecting critical environmental challenges. The state has experienced record heat and costly hurricanes in recent years, making climate adaptation crucial.
- The nullification of renewable energy goals—previously aimed at achieving 100% clean energy by 2050—could hinder progress toward mitigating climate impacts.
- Governor DeSantis has framed his climate policy around the Resilient Florida Program, which focuses on preparing communities for rising seas and extreme weather events. However, critics argue that the recent legislation undermines broader efforts to combat climate change ².

In summary, while Governor DeSantis has allocated funds for resilience programs, his recent legislation removing the term “climate change” from state laws has raised concerns about Florida’s commitment to addressing this pressing global issue ³. If you have any more questions or need further information, feel free to ask! 😊🌎🌿

Learn more:

Image: A resilient Florida coastline facing climate change impacts. 🏖️🌊 !Resilient Florida ¹

I hope this information helps! If you have any more questions or need further clarification, feel free to ask. 😊

Learn more

1cbsnews.com 2ctpublic.org 3wlrn.org 4wusf.org 5usatoday.com 6wusf.org 7alternet.org 8news.wfsu.org 9news-press.com+3 more

What are the environmental consequences of removing climate change references?

Copilot

Certainly! Removing climate change references from legislation and public discourse can have several environmental consequences. Let’s explore those:

Undermining Awareness and Urgency:
- When climate change is downplayed or omitted from official documents, it reduces public awareness and urgency. People may not fully grasp the severity of environmental challenges, leading to complacency.
- Without clear references, individuals, businesses, and policymakers might underestimate the need for immediate action to mitigate climate impacts.
Policy Implications:
- Legislation that avoids mentioning climate change may fail to address critical issues. For instance:
  - Carbon Emissions Reduction: Policies aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions (such as transitioning to renewable energy sources) may lose priority.
  - Conservation Efforts: References to climate change often tie into conservation efforts. Protecting ecosystems, forests, and wetlands helps sequester carbon. Removing these references could weaken conservation initiatives ¹.

Impact on Adaptation Strategies:
- Climate change adaptation involves preparing for its effects (e.g., sea-level rise, extreme weather events). Without acknowledging climate change, planning for adaptation becomes less effective.
- Coastal communities, for instance, need to consider rising sea levels and storm surges. Ignoring these factors could lead to inadequate infrastructure and increased vulnerability.
Loss of Funding and Research Focus:
- Funding for climate-related research, monitoring, and mitigation often hinges on acknowledging climate change. If references are removed, research budgets may shrink.
- Scientists rely on clear language to secure grants and conduct studies. Reduced funding could hinder our understanding of climate impacts.
Forestry and Carbon Sinks:
- Clearcutting forests—removing large areas of trees—releases substantial carbon into the atmosphere. Forests act as carbon sinks, absorbing CO₂.
- Without climate change references, policies may not prioritize forest conservation. This could exacerbate global warming by reducing the Earth’s capacity to absorb carbon ¹.
Displacement and Vulnerability:
- Extreme environmental events (floods, droughts, storms) are linked to climate change. Displacing millions of people annually.
- Ignoring climate change in policy decisions perpetuates vulnerability. Communities won’t adequately prepare for these events ².
Economic Impact:
- Climate change affects economic sectors (e.g., agriculture, tourism, energy). Omitting references may hinder planning and adaptation.
- For example, coastal tourism relies on stable shorelines. Without climate-aware policies, erosion and sea-level rise could harm tourism revenue ³.

In summary, removing climate change references has far-reaching consequences. It affects policy, funding, adaptation, and our ability to address urgent environmental challenges. Let’s keep the conversation going! What else would you like to explore? 🌍🌿

Learn more:

Image: A lush forest, a vital carbon sink. 🌲🌎 !Forest ¹

I hope this sheds light on the environmental implications of removing climate change references! If you have more questions or want to explore other topics, feel free to ask! 😊

Learn more

1nrdc.org 2nationalgeographic.org 3link.springer.com 4cig.uw.edu 5link.springer.com 6ipcc.ch+2 more

Have there been other anti-climate legislation in the US

Copilot

Certainly! While there have been significant efforts to address climate change in the United States, there have also been instances of legislation or lobbying that hindered progress. Let’s explore a few notable examples:

The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) of 2022:
- What it Gets Right: The IRA promises the largest investment in climate action in U.S. history—approximately $370 billion over the next decade. It focuses on scaling up renewable energy production, promoting electric vehicles, and supporting climate-smart agricultural practices.
- What it Misses: Unfortunately, the IRA primarily emphasizes emission-cutting solutions and neglects resilience. While it aims to make buildings more energy-efficient, it misses an opportunity to ensure those buildings can withstand climate-fueled extremes. The lack of climate-resilient building codes remains a concern ¹.
Climate Emergency Act of 2021 (S.938):
- This bill directed the President to declare a national emergency relating to climate change. It called for federal investments in projects to mitigate the emergency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. At least 40% of these investments were earmarked for historically disadvantaged communities ².
Landmark Climate Legislation:
- Recently, the U.S. House passed a significant climate bill that can help reduce the nation’s carbon emissions by roughly 40% by 2030. This bill allocates about $370 billion to clean energy and climate investments over the next decade. It represents a substantial commitment to addressing the climate crisis head-on ³.
Anti-Climate Lobbying:
- A study from 2019 highlighted the social cost of political lobbying that blocked proposed climate regulations a decade ago. Such anti-climate lobbying efforts were estimated to have cost society $60 billion. This underscores the impact of lobbying on climate policy and the need for transparent and science-based decision-making ⁴.

In summary, while there have been positive steps toward climate action, it’s essential to remain vigilant and address any legislative or lobbying efforts that hinder progress. If you’d like more information or have other questions, feel free to ask! 🌎🌿

Learn more:

Image: A wind farm generating renewable energy. 🌬️⚡ !Wind Farm ¹

Feel free to explore more topics or ask any follow-up questions! 😊

Learn more

1cfr.org 2congress.gov 3nature.org 4carbonbrief.org

how many wildfires are currently burning in the the U.S. and Canada and how does that compare to the last few years?

Copilot

Certainly! As of the most recent data available, wildfires are actively burning in both the United States and Canada. Let’s break it down:

United States:
- Scores of wildfires have been scorching swaths of land across several states, including California, Oregon, Idaho, and others. These fires have led to evacuations, road closures, and damage to structures ¹.
- The total number of active wildfires in the U.S. fluctuates daily due to new ignitions and containment efforts. For real-time updates, you can refer to the Fire, Weather & Avalanche Wildfire Map, which provides an interactive view of current wildfires and their perimeters ².
- It’s important to note that the U.S. experiences annual variations in wildfire activity. While the current acreage burned is significant, it’s essential to compare it to historical trends.
Canada:
- Canada has faced an unprecedented fire season in 2023. Large and dangerous fires have broken out across provinces such as British Columbia, the Northwest Territories, Ontario, Quebec, and Nova Scotia. These fires have displaced thousands, destroyed property, and blanketed large areas of North America with smoke.
- As of August 29, 2024, there are 1,069 active fires in Canada, with more than half of them considered out of control. Notably, the area burned by these fires in 2023 has shattered records.
- In previous decades, active fire seasons saw more individual fires, but 2023 stands out for the total area burned. The previous record was set in 1995, with 7.1 million hectares burned. However, in 2023, a staggering 15.2 million hectares have already been consumed by wildfires ³.
- Cartographer Chris Brockley’s map illustrates this: It shows forest fire activity across Canada since 1921, with 2023 depicted in white. The scale of burning this year surpasses anything seen in the past century ³.
Comparison to Previous Years:
- In the U.S., the amount of land burned varies annually, but the overall trend has been upward since reliable data collection began in the 1980s. While approximately 1.8 million acres have burned so far this year, it’s still below the 10-year average of 2.8 million acres ⁴.
- In Canada, the 2023 wildfire season has broken records for the total area burned. Although the number of fires is smaller compared to some previous years, their size and extent have been unprecedented ⁵.

In summary, both the U.S. and Canada are grappling with significant wildfire activity. While the U.S. experiences fluctuations from year to year, Canada’s 2023 fire season stands out as historically severe. Let’s hope for effective containment efforts and continued awareness of the importance of wildfire prevention and management. If you’d like more details or have further questions, feel free to ask! 🔥🌲

Learn more:

Image: A wildfire in British Columbia, Canada. 🇨🇦🔥 !Wildfire ³

Feel free to ask if you’d like more information or to explore other topics! 😊

Learn more

1apnews.com 2fireweatheravalanche.org 3canadiangeographic.ca 4bbc.com 5bbc.co.uk 6msn.com 7scitechdaily.com 8cwfis.cfs.nrcan.gc.ca 9research.fs.usda.gov 10globalnews.ca 11cwfis.cfs.nrcan.gc.ca+7 more

Donald Trump’s Comments on Climate Change

Copilot

Ah, the enigmatic dance of Donald Trump and climate change—a topic that’s as unpredictable as a squirrel on a seesaw! Let’s unravel this intriguing tango, shall we? 🕺💨

Comment: Co-PIlot often surprises me with their creative wild responses. I think the debate over whether we are dealing with a real AI is over. AI is here now.

Donald Trump’s Climate Change Cha-Cha: A Brief Recap:

The Denial Shuffle: Back in the day (well, not that long ago), Trump was doing the climate cha-cha with gusto. He called climate change “mythical,” “nonexistent,” and even an “expensive hoax.” But wait, there’s more! In 2012, he famously claimed that climate change was cooked up by the Chinese to make U.S. manufacturing non-competitive. (Yes, you read that right—apparently, the Great Wall wasn’t enough; they needed climate change too.)
Twitter Twirls: Trump’s Twitter feed was like a climate-themed rollercoaster. Over 120 tweets questioned or poked fun at climate change. He insisted that scientists rebranded global warming as climate change because “the name global warming wasn’t working.” (Note to self: Scientists are not marketing consultants.)
Cold Snap Samba: Trump’s favorite move? Linking cold weather to climate change. But here’s the twist: The World Meteorological Organization says the 20 warmest years on record happened in the past 22 years. So, maybe he missed that memo while tweeting from Mar-a-Lago.
Ambiguous Tango: Fast-forward to his presidency. Trump’s stance became as slippery as a salsa dancer on an ice rink. He’d acknowledge climate change but frame it in terms of clean air and water (which, by the way, aren’t directly related). And he’d throw in business costs for good measure. Because nothing says “climate action” like a spreadsheet, right?
Quotes & Quips: Let’s sprinkle some Trump quotes for flavor:
- “I think there is some connectivity [between human activity and climate change]. There is some, something. It depends on how much. It also depends on how much it’s going to cost our companies.” (New York Times interview, November 2016)
- “I don’t think there’s a hoax. I do think there’s probably a difference. But I don’t know that it’s man-made… I don’t wanna give trillions and trillions of dollars.” (CBS interview, October 2018)
- And then he’d wink and say, “Climate change is very important to me.” (Cue the dramatic music.)

In Conclusion (or Should We Say, Grand Finale?):

Trump’s climate dance card is a mix of moonwalks, twirls, and the occasional mooning of scientific consensus.
Whether he’s a climate skeptic, a climate pragmatist, or just a climate-confused soul, one thing’s for sure: His moves keep us guessing.

And there you have it—the Trumpian climate conundrum, wrapped in a sequined bow. If you want more twists and turns, just ask—I’ve got enough material to choreograph a whole Broadway show! 🌎🎭✨

Learn more:

BBC: What does Trump actually believe on climate change?¹

Image: Trump doing the climate change cha-cha. 🌍🕺 !Trump Cha-Cha ¹

Feel free to ask for more dance moves—or any other topic you’d like to explore! 😄

Learn more

1bbc.com 2msn.com 3msn.com 4msn.com 5bbc.co.uk

2 days ago2d·on MSN

A second Trump term would actively make climate change worse

Opinion

The videos first started appearing a dozen years ago. Pickup truck drivers, mostly young men, would modify their disel engines and then record themselves deliberately spreading air pollution.

It was called “rolling coal,” and the idea was to spew dark clouds of exhaust at bicyclists, Prius and Tesla drivers and other cars as a protest of environmentalism.

The trend appears to have peaked in 2014, thanks to new state laws and crackdowns on people selling vehicle modification kits and, presumably, finding better things to do with their time. But the impulse behind it lives on, even as the risks of climate change become ever more serious.

The most recent example? Project 2025, a set of conservative proposals from the Heritage Foundation that outlines step-by-step plans to remake the federal government in a second Donald Trump administration, including dismantling nearly everything the federal government is doing to fight climate change, making it dramatically harder to conduct basic scientific research on it and actively promoting more oil and gas use.

Trump has tried to distance himself from the proposals, despite the fact that some of his top former advisers spearheaded it. But it’s in line with his thinking. As The Washington Post reported, he told a gathering of top oil executives this year that he would reverse dozens of environmental regulations and stop new ones if they raised $1 billion to help him return to the White House.

‘Terrible policy and politics’: Rattner breaks down Project 2025

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His campaign, meantime, targeted environmental regulations such as electric vehicle mandates in its Agenda 47, a scattershot series of videos outlining its plans for a second term. And at rallies, Trump frequently criticizes electric cars, claiming in one bizarre aside that buying one made his friend gain weight because he would eat at restaurants while it charged. Trump has also gone off on weird tangents about the risks of electric batteries on boats.

In his first “rolling coal” term, Trump rolled back or loosened nearly 100 rules and regulations on pollution, many of which set the U.S. further behind in the effort to stop the worst effects of climate change, according to a tally by The New York Times. But that record would be dwarfed by the damage that the Project 2025 proposals could do if he followed through on them, even as Monday was the hottest day ever measured by humans, according to a European Union science agency.

The 922-page document drips with disdain for what it calls “climate alarmism” that it argues is being used as propaganda for “ineffective, liberty-crushing regulations.” But its most damaging proposal looks like it would launch what amounts to a propaganda effort against climate science.

The first step is something called Schedule F, which would reclassify thousands of government workers, making it easier for the president to hire and fire them. Even if Trump were to fire only some of those workers, the shift toward politicization of lower-level government jobs would mean an exodus of experienced scientists. Those who remained might become more cautious about their research decisions to avoid trouble.

The second step is to create a job that appears to basically be an anti-climate change czar. Project 2025 proposes creating a position of “science adviser” and six senior political appointees who would be charged with “overseeing and reforming” research at the Environmental Protection Agency, emphasizing that these political overseers should be hired for their “management, oversight and execution skills,” rather than scientific expertise.

Imagine something like the final scene of an episode of “The Apprentice,” only with Trump hauling climate scientists into the boardroom to dramatically fire them. That may be exciting for the oil and gas industry and some of Trump’s supporters but not for the two-thirds of Americans in a recent Pew Research Center survey who said they support the country’s taking steps to become carbon neutral by 2050.

(If you want to understand the depth of disdain here, the section on the EPA was written by Mandy Gunasekara. The Drilled newsletter points out she’s in the famous 2015 photo of her then-boss, the late Sen. James Inhofe, R-Okla., holding up a snowball in the Senate as an attempt to disprove climate change.)

The report goes further, proposing dramatically downsizing the National Weather Service and leaving weather forecasting to private companies. That could hamper its ability to issue public warnings about floods, hurricanes and other dangers, just as we are seeing more intense and frequent extreme-weather events due to the human-caused increase in greenhouse gases.

That’s not all. Other sections of Project 2025 propose ending subsidies for wind and solar power; cutting research into wind, solar and battery technology needed to help transition away from fossil fuels; ending federal mandates and subsidies for electric vehicles; and expanding drilling for oil and natural gas on federal lands. As Trump said in his convention speech, “we will drill, baby, drill.”

The efforts would not be limited to the U.S., either. A section on foreign aid proposes rolling back efforts to help developing countries transition away from fossil fuels, arguing that they are “unachievable.” But then it goes further, arguing that the U.S. should spend taxpayer dollars persuading these countries to burn more oil and gas.

The U.S. Agency for International Development, the proposal says, “should cease its war on fossil fuels in the developing world and support the responsible management of oil and gas reserves as the quickest way to end wrenching poverty.”

Taken together, these proposals would not just make it harder to fight climate change but actively make it worse. A second Trump administration would be rolling coal on the entire planet.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com

2 days ago2d·on MSN

How Kamala Harris and Donald Trump Compare on Climate Change

How Kamala Harris and Donald Trump Compare on Climate Change© OLIVIER DOULIERY/Getty Images

This article by Yale Climate Connections is published here as part of Covering Climate Now, a global journalism collaboration strengthening coverage of the climate story.

President Joe Biden’s exit from the 2024 presidential race, Vice President Kamala Harris appears likely to secure the Democratic Party’s nomination for president.

As vice president, Harris cast the tiebreaking vote in the passage of the Biden administration’s signature achievement on climate change, the Inflation Reduction Act.

As Yale Climate Connections contributor Barbara Grady previously reported, “The most far-reaching climate law in history, the Inflation Reduction Act is catalyzing a transition in the U.S. economy toward cleaner energy and cleaner transportation – a shift the International Energy Agency, the U.N. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, and others say must happen for the world to reduce emissions of heat-trapping gases to the levels scientists say would avert the most catastrophic and irreversible climate chaos.”

Harris has made clear throughout her career that she views climate change as a significant threat. Speaking at the 2023 United Nations climate summit in Dubai, she told leaders, “Across our world, communities are choked by drought, washed out by floods, and decimated by hurricanes. Wildfire smoke darkens our skies, and rising seas threaten the lives and livelihoods of millions of people. The urgency of this moment is clear. The clock is no longer just ticking, it is banging. And we must make up for lost time.”

Related video: Trump: ‘Sick’ Kamala Harris is no Margaret Thatcher (The Telegraph)

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The Telegraph

Trump: ‘Sick’ Kamala Harris is no Margaret Thatcher

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If elected president, Harris is “widely expected to try to protect the climate achievements of the Biden administration,” according to the New York Times.

In contrast, Trump has falsely called climate change a hoax. During his term as president, as Grady reported, “he overturned an estimated 100 environmental regulations and pulled the U.S. out of the Paris Agreement. He shrank the EPA and required that the words ‘climate change’ be removed from its website. On the campaign trail this time, he has repeatedly said one of his top priorities is to boost oil and gas production and free up more public land to ‘Drill, baby, drill.’”

If Trump wins a second term as president, he and his allies say they aim to repeal the Inflation Reduction Act and downsize the EPA.

On July 22, Harris received endorsements from several large environmental organizations, including the League of Conservation Voters Action Fund, the NRDC Action Fund, the Sierra Club Political Committee, and Clean Energy for American Action.

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“The last three and a half years of the Biden-Harris administration could not contrast more starkly with Trump and other extreme MAGA Republicans, and the stakes for this election could not be higher,” the organizations wrote in a joint statement. “A second term would be far worse for our climate and our democracy.”

What is Project 2025? Trump, climate, and a second term

Project 2025, a 992-page conservative plan for a second Trump term, calls for elimination of the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, gutting of the National Weather Service, repeal of Biden’s clean energy subsidies, and axing the National Flood Insurance Program.

It also calls for drilling in the Arctic and cuts to climate change work by government agencies. That includes the U.S. Agency for International Development, which, the authors write, “should cease its war on fossil fuels in the developing world and support the responsible management of oil and gas reserves as the quickest way to end wrenching poverty and the need for open-ended foreign aid.”

For more on Trump’s climate record, read this article.

Kamala Harris and climate change

Here’s an overview of Harris’s views and actions related to climate change, sourced from news and White House reports.

She connects extreme weather to climate change.

“Every day, around the world, the impact of the climate crisis is stark and it is vivid. We are seeing it in real time,” she said in a 2023 speech. “Across our nation, we see communities choked by drought, washed out by flood, and decimated by hurricanes.” White House

She has supported the Green New Deal, a carbon fee, and increased government spending on climate change.

As a 2020 presidential candidate, her climate plan “called for a $10 trillion increase in spending over a decade.” New York Times (gift link)
“Harris also called for a ‘climate pollution fee” that would ‘make polluters pay for emitting greenhouse gases into our atmosphere,’ and she indicated that a Harris administration would strengthen its enforcement and prosecution of fossil fuel companies.” ABC News
As a U.S. senator from California, Harris co-sponsored the Green New Deal, which called for an FDR-style overhaul of the economy that would accelerate the transition from fossil fuels to clean technology. The Green New Deal has not been enacted.

She has woven climate change into foreign relations.

Harris attended the 2023 United Nations climate summit in Dubai, where “she announced a U.S. commitment to double energy efficiency and triple renewable energy capacity by 2030. At that same conference, Harris announced a $3 billion commitment to the Green Climate Fund to help developing nations adapt to climate challenges, although Politico reported that the sum was ‘subject to the availability of funds,’ according to the Treasury Department.” Grist
She held “a round table in Bangkok to connect environmental activists with clean energy experts” and started “a partnership with Caribbean countries to address climate change.” New York Times (gift link)

She connects climate change to justice.

As vice president, “Harris argued for the allocation of $20 billion for the EPA’s Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund, aimed at aiding disadvantaged communities facing climate impacts.” Grist

She’s a fan of heat pumps. Heat pumps use electricity to heat and cool homes and are seen as a keyway to reducing climate pollution.

“I have mad respect for those who are putting them together and installing them,” she said in a 2022 speech. White House

She regularly makes the connection between lower energy costs and renewable energy. Key quotes:

“On average, families that switch to an electric heat pump can save up to $500 a year on their energy bill. And since heat pumps do not burn oil or gas, they also mean cleaner air inside your home.” White House
“In addition to lowering costs and creating jobs, this investment will also help us fight the climate crisis.” White House
“By helping families pay the upfront cost for energy efficiency upgrades to their homes, we are also lowering energy bills, bringing down household costs, creating jobs, and fighting the climate crisis. It’s all connected.” White House

She notes that investments in renewable energy can lead to job creation. Key quotes:

“Across the country, we have created more than 175,000 new clean energy jobs. Just so far. More to go.” White House
Her Women in the Sustainable Economy initiative aims to provide job training for women in climate-smart industries. White House

She says she supports and is inspired by young climate activists.

“These young leaders are guiding our nation in our climate fight. And as they have told me their work is driven by their hope and their determination. Hope, because they know we still have time to make a difference. And their determination is the determination to correct the course,” she said in 2023. White House

She’s been an opponent of fracking.

As a 2020 presidential candidate, “She also favored a ban on hydraulic fracturing, known as fracking, which Mr. Biden said he opposed. Fracking is a technique that injects water and chemicals underground at high pressure to extract oil or gas that is otherwise difficult to access.” New York Times (gift link)
As California’s attorney general, she “challenged federal approvals of offshore fracking along the California coast.” New York Times (gift link)

She’s challenged polluting companies.

As California’s attorney general, “she investigated whether Exxon Mobil lied to the public and its shareholders about the risks to its business from climate change and whether such actions could amount to securities fraud and violations of environmental laws, but the case did not result in a prosecution.” New York Times (gift link)
“Harris secured an $86 million settlement from Volkswagen for rigging its vehicles with emissions-cheating software and investigated ExxonMobil over its climate change disclosures. She also filed a lawsuit against Phillips 66 and ConocoPhillips for environmental violations at gas stations, which eventually resulted in a $11.5 million settlement. And she conducted a criminal investigation of an oil company over a 2015 spill in Santa Barbara. The company was found guilty and convicted on nine criminal charges.” Grist
As San Francisco’s district attorney, “Harris created an environmental justice unit to address environmental crimes affecting San Francisco’s poorest residents and prosecuted several companies including U-Haul for violation of hazardous waste laws. Harris later touted her environmental justice unit as the first such unit in the country. An investigation found the unit only filed a handful of lawsuits, though, and none of them were against the city’s major industrial polluters.” Grist

July 30, 2024

Letter to the Harris Campaign

letter sent to the campaign

Subject: Encouragement and Strategy for the Campaign

Dear Kamala,

First and foremost, congratulations on your nomination and the early days of your campaign. Your energy, resilience, and ability to break new ground (including that memorable Zoom moment and the “falling off a coconut tree” meme) have brought joy and laughter to the race. Keep that spirit alive!

I appreciate how you’ve reclaimed the word “freedom” from the political right. Now, let’s do the same with “Patriot.” For instance:

“It is time for American patriots to stand up and reclaim their country!”

Avoiding the Hillary trap is crucial. You’re everywhere, showing the world that you’re ready and committed—not just phoning it in or acting entitled. Well done!

Now, let’s discuss strategies for dealing with Trump:

Stand Up and STFU:
- Force Trump to back down. Speak boldly: “Donald, do the country a favor—STFU, retire, and play golf with your buddies. Exit as a winner rather than lose again, especially to a Black woman.”
Mock Him:
- Trump can’t handle being mocked. Keep it up 24/7. “There goes Grandpa, off his meds” whenever he says something ridiculous. “How do you know when Trump is lying? His lips are moving.”
Let Their Words Speak:
- Highlight Trump’s own statements and those of his minions, including JD Vance.
- Frame the choice: hate vs. hope, backward vs. forward, fascism vs. democracy.
Reminders for Voters:
- Trump’s bankrupted casino and financial losses.
- Abortion: Trump and Vance’s pro-birth fascism.
- Immigration: Trump’s failure to address the crisis.
- Concentration camps: Trump’s deportation plans.
- Climate change: Their lack of a plan while the world burns.
Who Is Donald Trump?
- A whiny, senile man past his prime.
- JD Vance: a fake hillbilly and a creepy young man.

Let’s keep spreading the message: America deserves better!

Warm regards,

John (Jake) Cosmos Aller

715 Rockey Road

Medford, Oregon 97504

Tel 703-436-1402

e-mail: authorjakecosmosaller@gmail.com

web: Https://theworldacoordingtocosmos.com

originally appeared as a blog posting here: https://wp.me/p7NAzO-334

Personal note: I grew up in Berkeley and attended Thousand Oaks elementary about nine years before you did. My father was active in Bay Area politics and was the President of both the Berkeley Co-Op and the Peralta Community College system and taught at Cal State SF and was the undersecretary of labor for Kennedy and Johnson.

I served 27 years in the U.S. Foreign Service with the State Department retiring in 2016.

Update:

https://wp.me/p7NAzO-334

Kamala,

First congratulations on your nomination and your early days of the campaign including breaking Zoom which is a new thing and for “the falling off a coconut tree” meme and bringing joy and laughter to the race.

And I love how you have done political jujutsu calling the race a race about freedom, taking the word back from the political right. Time to do the same with Patriot. For example

It is time for American patriots to stand back and take back their country!”

The last thing you are doing right is avoiding the Hilary trap. You are going everywhere and showing the world that you got this, you are energized and ready to go and are not just phoning it in or acting as if you are entitled.

Well done.

How to Beat Trump? Mock him 24/7

I wanted to give you some additional advice on how to beat Trump.

The key to dealing with him is the same thing that applies to bullies. First, stand up to him, force him to back up, and STFU. I would go full brat so to speak

,”Donald, do the country and the world a favor STFU retire already and play golf with your buddies. You can walk away a winner rather than lose again and lose to a black woman.”

Second, mock him 24/7. That is one thing he cannot do and it drives him bonkers.

Third, let his own words and those of his minions including JD speak for themselves. Put that out there 24/7

Frame it as a choice between the politics of hate and the politics of hope,

Frame it as a choice of going back, or bolding going forward

Make it a choice between fascism and democracy! shove the project 2025 and Agenda 47 end down their proverbial asses. Make them own their fascism.

Remind voters that once before America defeated fascism in World War 11. Who would have thought we would have to fight it at home?

For example, whenever he says something stupid or posts something stupid and say,” There goes Grandpa, off his meds”

Or you can say something like when he lies

“How do you know when Trump is lying? His lips are moving”

When he continues to lie about your record, simply say this

“Donald, regarding my law school background, I went to the best law school in the country, became attorney general of California and along the way took down mobsters, criminals, and perverts of all sorts. Where did you go? Oh, you barely graduated from the University of Pennsylvania? And your teachers said you were the dumbest student he ever had? Demand that he release his college transcripts, and SATS and post yours on line, as well as your SATS and LSATs”

Regarding the birtherism nonsense, release your birth certificates and tell Trump to just STFU about the birtherism nonsense it did not work before and it won’t work now.

Call him a loser all the time. Remind voters that he bankrupted a casino.

Remind people that the IRS said that he had lost more money than anyone in US history.

Re abortion, reminds voters that Trump and Vance are pro-birth fascists who want the state to be able to monitor women’s health status 24/7, preventing possibly pregnant people from traveling, and forcing 12-year-old girls to carry their rapist babies to term and or forcing pregnant women to sit outside the hospital bleeding to death before anyone will do anything to help them.

Re immigration reminds voters that we had a deal to deal with the immigration crisis and Trump and his minions pulled the deal preferring to let the immigration crisis fester.

Remind voters that he wants to deport 12 million people, putting them into concentration camps. Adding in you know that once he has the camps, other dissidents, LGBTQ people, women who dared to try to get an abortion, Muslims, and of course Jews – Jews always end up in the camps- will be rounded up and put in the camps.

Re climate change remind people that neither Trump nor the Republicans have a plan on what to do about climate change when the whole world is on fire all they want to do is defund the EPA, eliminate climate change policies, and Drill Baby, Drill Baby.

Who is Donald Trump? He is just a whiny old senile man way past his prime time and his running mate. JD Vance is a fake hillbilly who is just a creepy young man.

Tell the world over and over again this is Trump and Vance’s America.

Well, I could go on and on but you get the picture.

My Thoughts on the Harris Candidacy.

https://theworldaccordingtocosmos.com/?author=1

My Thoughts on the Harris Candidacy.

https://wp.me/p7NAzO-2Zb

Joe, Either Go Bold or Retire!

Audio FIle

I still believe in her and in the basic goodness of the American people. I believe that the people will choose goodness over evil, love over hate, and progress over going back. When faced with the choice – a demented, deranged senile old man filled with hatred and revenge, or a competent accomplished woman they will make the right choice.

Congratulations, my Berkeley hometown girl. You got this girl.

Go Bold or go Home!

Berkeley Girl Makes It

The news

that Biden

was stepping down

throwing his support.

for Kamala Harris

as President.

filled me with joy

and anticipation.

Kamala Harris

attended my elementary school

Thousand Oaks in Berkeley

a few years before me.

and is a Berkeley girl

through and through.

Go Berkely !

Thousand Oak Girl I say.

T.O Toughie Girl Power.

the first Female VP

of Asian descent

the first VP

of black descent

the first Caribbean

to be on the ticket.

and the first Hindu

as well.

and the first

Berkeley native

on the ticket.

it is time

for Berkeley to rule

in my humble opinion.

Kamala

here’s what I would campaign on.

I retired from the U.S. State Department in 2016 after 27 years of service. I grew up in Berkeley (attended Thousand Oaks school a few years before you did, went to college at the University of the Pacific and graduated from the University of Washington (MA Korean Studies, MPA). I also served in the Peace Corps in Korea, and served 27 years in the Foreign Service serving in ten countries. I have been to all 50 States and 50 countries.

the theme would be getting stuff done for the people!

Reforming the Federal Budget

This is perhaps boring to voters but very important to the long-term stability of the country.

I would call upon Congress to change how they do budgets and shift to a two-year budgetary cycle. The first year of Congress would be devoted to passing the two-year budget, the second year would be devoted to oversight and supplemental budget requests.

Coupled that shifting to a calendar year budget. Eliminate the possibility of government shutdowns by enacting automatic CR’s if budgets are not passed on time. But also require budgets to be passed on time – December 1 in the prior year. If a budget is not passed on time, keep congress in town until the budget is passed. And if for some reason the budget is not passed, dinge congressional salaries until the budget is passed.

Second commission a study to look at our tax situation and make suggestions for common sense tax reform. Start by figuring out how much money the government spends in a given year, the reform of the tax code to generate most of the revenue from taxes. Consider a national sales tax as well. Reserve borrowing for large scale infrastructure, and military spending. And consider a surcharge on income of about 25 million per year.

I would also look at federal spending and ask that all departments identify lower priority projects with a required 5% reduction in federal spending per agency over a four-year period, except for health related and education related agencies which would be given a considerable bump up in spending. I would do this for three years so that in three years overall spending has been reduced by about 10 percent. Leave it up to the agencies to identify lower priority projects that should not be micromanaged by the White House.

For the defense department consider eliminating such things as golf courses, domestic PX and commissary stores and other non-essential spending.

Finally consider turning over some federal government functions to the states. The conservative idea of moving federal agencies out of Washington DC has considerable merit in my opinion.

My advice, in a nutshell, is to make this a campaign about the future and your vision of the future. Paint your opponent Donald Trump as yesterday’s candidate, and mock him, calling on Grandpa Trump to retire to Florida and play golf. Depict him as senile, out of touch, corrupt and focused on returning America to the 19th Century. And call for progressive bold new ideas for the future of America. Be optimistic, be full of hope and goodwill. Freely steal from Bernie and Elizabeth’s proposals and adopt her detailed plans – after talking with her of course. Call for reform not revolution and stress competence vs. incompetence and chaos.

Hillary’s biggest mistake was in my view making it all about how bad Donald Trump is, and not giving the voters a real sense of where she wanted to take the country. and making it seemed that she thought she was entitled, and it was her time. that is a big turnoff in politics.

She also took it for granted and did not compete everywhere. You have to out hustle Trump and go everywhere – hold virtual town halls everywhere until the Corona virus threat fades away.

You have to earn the trust of the voters and can’t be seen as thinking you are entitled to the presidency because you have done your dues so to speak. That is the kiss of electoral suicide – look at Mitch Romney and Hillary Clinton – both lost because they thought that it was their time and they were entitled to the presidency, the voters simply thought otherwise and showed them the door.

And in an age where the voters were ready for a big change to the status quo, being the establishment candidate was the kiss of death. Not to mention she refused to compete everywhere. And allowed Donald Trump to paint her as “crooked Hillary” and as too much part of the establishment which the public rightly destructed so much. She could have picked Bernie Sanders as her running mate, and perhaps defeated Donald Trump. In the end she won where it did not matter and did not compete where she should have competed.

So, in this upcoming election you have to tell the voters why you are so much better for them and the country than Donald Trump. It will not be enough to run against Donald. People have to want to vote for you. Your experience counts for a lot, but it is not enough.

How to Beat Trump

talk constantly about Donald Trump being the most corrupt president in US history and that he is guilty or gross nepotism. Call him Conman Don, for felon Con, or despicable me wanna be Don.

Finally, ignore his tweets. When he tweets something obnoxious dismiss it with the phrase “There he Goes Again”.

then talk about your bold yet pragmatic agenda over and over again. Remember the best way to handle a bully is to mock them over and over again. They can’t handle that and he will become more unhinged and dangerous as you mock him. So Mock him, girl. He deserves it. and in the debate call him on his BS brutally fact check his ass live on TV. Show the world what an ignorant senile old man he has become.

GO BOLD OR GO HOME

The times cries out for bold progressive challenges and for fresh thinking. Make people want to vote for you as they share your vision of the possible future. and want to have a positive, can-do message. Here are my suggested policy proposals.

I would put forth a series of comprehensive bold future-oriented policies and reiterate them every chance you get. You could call them Joe’s Plan for the Future of America, or Kamala’s Contract with the American People, something along those lines.

“Let’s Boldly Go into the Future,”

and rename your campaign as “Kamala for the American People” . Use one of your great assets your reputation for being an everyday person. But be big, bold, brassy, optimistic and challenge your opponents to produce a better plan or shut up and work with you to solve the nation’s problems.

Call for Free College Education Coupled with National Service Requirements.

Call for all Americans to serve three years in public service either in the military or in the government or NGO sector and in return, they will get four years of college paid for. For recent grads, they can serve and get their college debt forgiven. To those who say we can’t afford this, say we can’t afford to continue to put our college students in crippling debt they cannot afford. And everyone, especially the rich, should shoulder the burden of national service.

Call for The Green New Deal

Point out time and time again China, Germany, and other countries are building the green energy resources of the future while the U.S. which invented green energy is moving back to the 19th century.

When critics say we can’t afford this, tell them we can’t afford to ruin the world for our children’s future. We can’t afford to continue burning fossil fuels. Climate change is real, and the U.S. must lead the way forward. That is what great nations do, lead the world in embracing change, in embracing the promise of the future. We can do no less.

Call to Fix Obama Care

Point out time and time again that we still have a broken down too expensive too burdensome a health care system. Point out time and time again that we have the most expensive system in the world, yet we are about 25th in terms of health care outcomes. No one in this land should fear going bankrupt if they need to get medical care. We can do this right and we must do it right.

I would acknowledge that Obama Care is not perfect and that if you had a chance to re-do it you would make it much less bureaucratic and less burdensome. But be proud of what the Democrats accomplished. Promise to fix it and make it work.

One potential fix would be to open the Federal Health Care system to anyone who needs insurance and continue to provide subsidies to keep the premiums down.

Another option would be an expansion of Medicare, so it covers about half the country.

And enact permanent paid sick leave up to a month for all companies employing more than ten people.

When Republicans proclaim that they will repeal Obamacare and replace it with something, call them on their bullshit. Demand to know the plan now or tell them to shut up and work with you to fix Obamacare.

call for a slight reduction of military spending and national security spending to beef up health care spending and universal education access.

Call to repair our alliances

Declare that our allies are our allies and our friends, and we will work with them to solve the world’s problems and restore American leadership. We will rejoin the Paris Climate Change and work to make sure it works. We will rejoin the Transpacific Partnership. and we will figure out how to work with China and even Russia to solve problems of mutual interest such as climate change. Vow to restore partnership with Mexico and Canada and Latin America as well as India and Southeast Asia. and restore ties with Europe as well. Rebuild the UN and international organizations. And join the international criminal court. Finally close Gitmo as an affront to the American system of justice and human rights. Re Israel vow to work with Palestinians and Israelis alike to restart the peace process.

Offer a New Deal to North Korea

We will continue to negotiate with the North Koreans, offering them a way towards reunification with South Korea and rejoining the world economic community. You can damn the former President here with faint praise. Say that it was good that he took the initiative to break the log jam and talk to the North, but due to his inexperience and his naivety he was unable to make a deal as the North Koreans played him. You can finish the job.

Offer to Talk with The Iranians

Tell the Iranians we are ready to talk with them and want a new deal that would benefit them and the U.S. along the lines of what we are offering the North Koreans.

Bring the Troops Home

I would call for some U.S. troops to return to the U.S., where they will be reposted along our borders and serve as adjunct border patrol agents and first responders as part of their mandatory new national service.

Rebuild America

I would gradually reduce military spending and devote resources to rebuilding America’s crumbling infrastructure. This must include high-speed trains, and must include perhaps hyper-loop technology or Maglev trains? And the next generation of airplanes as well. We must rebuild our mass transit systems. We must embrace the development of driverless vehicles. and as mentioned we must beef up health care spending and assure universal access to higher education. These must be the new national priorities. I would throw the republicans a bone offers to look at modest reductions in other government spending for example decreasing spending on NPR but not eliminating it, and a slight decrease in foreign assistance, and UN contributions etc. and other government programs could be trimmed down a bit to pay for higher priorities.

Challenge the Republicans on their “you are weakening national security” BS. When the Republican scream you are weakening national security call them out on their BS.

Ask them how repositioning troops to help deal with national security issues at home weakens national security? How does going to universal military service weaken national security? How does getting out of endless wars weaken national security? How does closing a few bases in Europe weaken national security? Or closing a golf course? Or a commissary? Point out that we already spend more on national security than any other nation on earth. How does rebuilding America’s failed infrastructure weaken national security? How does providing medical care or universal higher education which benefits the entire nation hamper national security? Challenge them to produce a better plan.

Call for Comprehensive Immigration Reform

Start by acknowledging we need to improve security at the border, but the wall is a waste of time and money that will not solve the problem. We need a comprehensive 21st century immigration policy that balances the need for continued immigration with the need to ensure that immigrants contribute to our country and enrich our country as they always have and always will. Again throw the republicans a bone offers to ensure that E Verify is widely used by all employers and punish employers who hire illegals. I would also consider getting rid of the diversity visa program and the sibling immigration category but grandfather people in that category giving them two years to complete the immigration process with no new applicants being accepted. I would also push English language skills for immigrants as one of the new requirements – they must be able to handle the immigrant visa interview in English. That is something I agree with Trump on.

Challenge the Republicans to come up a better plan and work with you to implement it.

Call for A Return to Space Including Lunar Colonies and Martian Colonies

It is time for the U.S. to lead the world again in space exploration. Offer to lead the way in building lunar and Martian colonies with the participation of the world’s other space powers.

Call for The Legalization of Marijuana, Emptying the Prisons of Marijuana Offenders

End the endless war on drugs. Repeal marijuana prohibition. Empty the prisons of marijuana offenders. End the private prison for profit system. End the prison pipeline that sweeps up brown and black youths and sucks them into prison for life. Reserve prisons for the most dangerous offenders, all other prisoners should be sentenced to community service, drug treatment or other non-prison sentences. Use the money saved by closing prisons for rebuilding infrastructure.

Gun Control

I like your gun control proposals. It is a step forward. Continue to push for universal background checks.

Fully Support LGBT rights

Fully Support the religious freedom of all Americans including non-believers. Call to re-ignite Roe V Wade standards.

Call for a Return to traditional American civil norms that Trump has so badly damaged

call for reforming the Supreme Court. Including nominating the first hispanic member.

For VP Pick a centrist male governor.

I like the governor of Kentucky or North Carolina The governor of Michigan would be a good choice too. the Governor of California not so much.

To sum up, be cautious, small-minded, narrowly focused, and all about how bad Donald is, you will lose.

In short,

GO BOLD OR Go Home

Sincerely
Jake Cosmos Aller
703-436-1402
Jakecaller@gmail.com
https://theworldaccordingtocosmos.com

T.O. Alumnus

Call for Public Service

wikipedia on history of national service in the US

pros and cons on national service proposals

Time to Embrace National Service in Exchange for free college tuition< h1>why national service is worth it

open letters to the candidates send to democratic candidates

Embrace Public Service, Mr. President!

In any event, I believe that the time is now to call for national service in exchange for free college tuition/vocational training or grants to open small businesses. Three years of service followed by four years of either college/technical training, or assistance in opening a small business.

Call for Free College Education Coupled with National Service Requirements.

Dear Democratic Candidates:

I am writing to all of you and to President Trump to call for your to embrace national service in exchange for free college/technical training or assistance in opening a business.

It is time to change the game plan in Washington DC. You need a new bold proposal that will unite the country and heal the divisions. My proposal is for you to embrace mandatory national service for three years. Everyone finishing their service would receive full funding for college, technical training or a grant to set up their own business because after all not everyone needs to go to college, we need to encourage technical training and starting up small business as well.

the key is that the service would be universal and all citizens and LPR’s between the ages of 18 and 25 would serve three years – no exceptions. Most would be military, but people could serve as fine fathers. adjust police officers, adjust border patrol officers, adjust teachers, peace corps volunteers or serve in state/local and federal government positions.

Call for all Americans to serve three years in public service either in the military or in the government or NGO sector and in return, they will get four years of college paid for. For recent graduates , they can serve and get their college debt forgiven. To those who say we can’t afford this, say we can’t afford to continue to put our college students in crippling debt they cannot afford. And everyone, especially the rich, should shoulder the burden of national service. and point out that shifting to a mandatory national service requirement would save the Pentagon money on salaries. the cost would be modest – minimum wage, housing, medical care and college tuition after their service. People would serve between age 18 and 25 one year of training and two years of service, with an optional second enlistment for three more years of educational benefits through PHD/professional degrees. Starting at age 18 until age 25 people will be randomly selected to begin service. those who are 25 will have until they turn 26 to report for service. They would have one year to report for service.

Free College/Technical Training or Money to Open a Business in Exchange for National Service

Most people will start college, or tech training institute, then do military or other service, and then return to college to finish their college. That is fine. Ensure that colleges will not only accommodate that but will also offer college credits for military and other on -the-job training acquired during national service. This would also cut the cost of college attendance for most people to a manageable three years instead of four to five years. And of course, ensure that people can go to technical training institutes instead of a traditional college as we really ,need to grow the next generation of technical workers as well. and also ensure that those who wish financial assistance in setting up a small business would receive that assistance as well as we need to encourage the small business start-ups as well.

After Service can compete to become an NCO/Officer or work for the Federal/State/Local/tribal government/ UN or NGO

After finishing basic service, those who wish to make a career of it could compete to become an NCO or an officer and resume service after finishing college. And/or compete to enter government service for the Federal government or state and local government as well. The service academies will only accept those who have finished basic service. This would apply to new service academies being set up, see below for more details.

All Must Serve

And most importantly, shared national service will help restore America’s sense that this is our land, this land belongs to everyone. The rich and the poor alike. We are all in this together. We have lost sight of that. The military has become an army of paid mercenaries recruited from the lower classes. If everyone serves, there will be less temptation to send troops into harm’s way. This will be a win- win for everyone except for the student loan vultures.

I would bring most of the troops home and station them along the southern border where they could be used to help bolster border security, and assist as first responders to natural disaster. Sell this as real border security that will get the job done.

Establish New Service Academies for the Diplomatic, Intelligence Services/ Space Force/NASA, and law Enforcement

I would also call for four new national service academies to be set up. One would be for diplomatic and intelligence service, the other would be for law enforcement, the third would be for the Space Force/and NASA, the last would be more technical scientific agencies of the Federal government focusing on science and technology issues. These academies, like the military academies including a coast guard academy, and beefing up the maritime service academy, would take only those who finished their military basis service. this would be a great way to restore our diplomatic corps and intelligence services as well as our law enforcement person. All graduates can meet their service obligation (five years post graduation) through working for Federal/State/local/tribal governments, the UN or NGO’s. all the service academies as well as the Medical Medical schools, the foreign service training center (which will be transformed into the new diplomatic/intelligence training academy) would work together on the national service academies consortium to coordinate policies and training, including postgraduate training programs at the various military and other federal government training programs.

National Service Will Bring US together as one nation

I believe that this proposal could be enacted with widespread bipartisan support. It would go a long way to help heal the divisions of our country and bring us all together as a nation. I hope you will fully embrace this proposal and I look forward to discussing it with your staff.

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Trump Must Drop Out Because He’s Old As Fuck

JUL 22

Dear Humans,

God here. Now that President Biden has heroically passed the torch to Kamala Harris, can we talk about the orange elephant in the room?

TRUMP MUST DROP OUT BECAUSE HE’S OLD AS FUCK.

Yeah, I said it. At 78-years-old, Donald is practically fossilized. You wouldn’t trust your grandpa to fix your Wi-Fi, so why let him run the country? He’s older than dirt and twice as clueless.

Like holy shit, did you see his speech at the RNC last week? The giant creep rambled on for 2 hours like he was Grandpa Simpson.

Look, the presidency is a tough gig. It needs someone with energy, someone who can stay awake past 7 PM without nodding off. Trump?

HE FALLS ASLEEP IN THE COURT.

He fell asleep during his own convention. He’s got one foot in the grave and the other on a banana peel. The only marathon he’s running is a nap marathon.

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And let’s talk about the gaffes—Donald says some stupid insane shit that doesn’t make sense every single time he speaks. The only people it makes sense to are also totally delusional Christian Nationalist freaks like Marjorie Taylore Greene.

And don’t get me started on the health issues. Remember that mysterious trip to Walter Reed? Make America great again? This man can’t handle a ramp. The only thing he can make great again is the act of face planting into the ground.

So, here’s the divine decree: Trump, pack it up. Go home, put on your slippers, and watch Matlock reruns. Leave running the country to someone who can remember what day it is without checking Fox News. It’s time for you to drop out, you crusty old bag of assholes.

Now that I, the LORD THY GOD, have brought attention to this issue, I am sure the media will be obsessing about it every day from here on out.

THE LORD HAS SPOKEN.

Seven Lessons from Joe Biden’s Candidacy

The Democratic party is healthy. The Republican party is not.

JONATHAN V. LAST

JUL 22

1. Seven Lessons

Before we start: I did a YouTube thing about Biden last night, if you’re interested.

Now let’s go.

(1) The Democratic party is a healthy institution.

On the night of June 27, the various power centers within the Democratic party began a difficult conversation: Was Joe Biden still capable of running a vigorous campaign?

Over three weeks the party reached a diffuse—if not unanimous—consensus: He was not. This consensus was the product of all levels of the party: Elder statesmen such as Nancy Pelosi, elected Democrats analyzing their own future prospects, donors making decisions about spending, and the main body of public opinion among Democratic voters.

Once this consensus was reached, the various power centers began a dialogue with the party’s leader, President Biden. The party expressed its choice. Biden pushed back. The party took up the question again and, after due consideration, held firm.

Joe Biden then stepped aside for the good of the nation.

This is how healthy institutions are supposed to work.

At The Bulwark there has been a lot of drama over the last three weeks. We told you what we really thought, even though it meant making some people mad.

Our mission is to have honest and real conversations. Because that’s what healthy institutions do.

Right here, in the Bulwark community, those conversations were great. I mean, they were often painful. But they were always civil and conducted in good faith.

How special is this community? We had one member who was so disappointed in us that he cancelled his subscription and then came back to the comments every day to try to convince others to cancel their subscriptions, too. And he did it passionately, but with respect.

Where do you find people like that on the internet? It was amazing.

The coming weeks are going to be full of history. Come and ride through it with us.

J The process which elevated Kamala Harris was sensible.

The Democratic party made another institutional decision in parallel with the Biden question: It vetted Kamala Harris.

This subroutine executed in the background, but it was active. Democratic voters began to consider her as the nominee and polling showed that they were comfortable with her. Party elders evaluated her fitness. Donors and elected Democrats took her measure. The fact that no anti-Harris groundswell—or even boom let—emerged is proof that the party decided that Harris was an acceptable nominee.

After Biden blessed Harris on Sunday afternoon, the party coalesced around her in much the way it did Biden after the New Hampshire primary in 2020.

The Democratic party will enter the election more unified than it had been pre-debate.

3. Kamala Harris can run as an insurgent, but with the advantages of an incumbent.

The largest advantage of incumbency is that a candidate does not have to take base-pleasing positions during a primary campaign that can hurt him during a general election.

Because of the extraordinary nature of her ascendence, Harris possesses this advantage. She will carry nearly every advantage of incumbency and yet she can credibly position herself as this election’s change agent.

4. Trump is holding the age bomb.

The Trump campaign spent two years creating a political bomb concerning old age. They assumed that they could plant this bomb at the feet of Joe Biden.

Trump is now the one holding the age bomb. He is not only a full generation older than Harris—everything about him looks geriatric by comparison. From his gait to his bronzed-over pallor; from the way he rambles and gets lost in sentences to his inability to keep facts straight.

Every split screen now makes Trump look old and decrepit by comparison.

5. There was enormous pent-up demand among Democrats for a younger leader.

In the first 24 hours, Kamala Harris raised over $100 million from small-dollar donors.

Sit with that for a moment. $100 million.

That’s more money than any Democrat has ever raised in a single day. It’s twice as much as Trump raised following his felony conviction. If this doesn’t snap your head back, it should.

Because it’s as good a proxy as you’ll find for excitement.

It will be several days until we have polling with a more detailed view of Harris’s support from Democratic voters, but it is already clear that she will perform much better than Biden has within her party.

Here’s my advice: You should be open to the idea that Harris could ride a wave of excitement and passion that absolutely no one was seeing until Biden stepped aside. I’m talking Obama ‘08-levels of energy.

It’s not a given. But it’s in the realm of the possible. Keep your eyes peeled for it.

6. The Republican party is a failed state.

At the debate, Donald Trump also demonstrated (again) that he is unfit for office. He rambled and lied incoherently. He is a convicted felon. A jury found him guilty of sexual assault. He has said he wants to be a “dictator” and that he wants to “terminate” parts of the Constitution. He selected as his running mate a man who advised disobeying orders from the Supreme Court and forcing a constitutional crisis.

Until last week there was nothing stopping the Republican party from forcing Trump off the ticket. The party elders and elected officials could have demanded that Trump step aside. Republican voters could have said that they had no confidence in his ability to govern. Donors could have closed their wallets.

But the plain fact is that not one single Republican called on Trump to step aside.

Not one.

Why? Because the various precincts of the Republican party understand that they hold no power—at all—over Trump. They could not ask him to withdraw from the race. Even broaching the subject would be grounds for excommunication from the party.

The Democratic party is a functioning institution, with checks and balances, constituencies and power structures. Like any institution, it is amorphous and its decision making is mostly organic.

The Republican party is an autocracy where the only thing that matters is the will of the leader. All power flows through him. All decisions are made by him. There are no competing power centers—only vassal states overseen by his noblemen.

7. Harris is an underdog.

One of the reasons the last three weeks have been so difficult is because Democrats were not choosing between a “good” outcome and a “bad” outcome.

Those sorts of choices are easy.

Instead, Democrats were tasked with deciding between least-bad options. Humans rebel against the idea of “least-bad.” When faced with choices, we want to believe that at least one of them is “good.”

When the first real Harris-vs.-Trump polling comes out next week we’ll see how big of a hole she’s in. But unlike Biden, Harris has the ability to spend the next three months on offense, all day, every day. If she can deliver the goods, she has a puncher’s chance.

2. In Praise of Biden

A slight push-back against those who believe Biden took too long to step aside:

It was three and a half weeks from the debate to Biden pulling out. That’s it.

Joe Biden is the president, but he’s also just a man. Coming to a decision like this one—an unprecedented decision—is hard. There’s a lot to weigh and there’s a tremendous responsibility to get it right.

My own view is that Biden made the call basically as quickly as possible. He couldn’t have done it the week of the NATO summit. Then Trump was shot in the ear. Then there was the Republican convention. To my mind, Biden’s timing on this was optimal, actually.

Nothing about Joe Biden’s presidency was inevitable. Not his candidacy. Not his victory over Trump. Not his withdrawal from reelection.

At nearly every turn, Biden did the right thing for America.

His legacy is assured. He will be remembered as one of the great modern presidents.

I said this last night and I’ll say it again. History had its eye on Joe Biden, and he met the moment. He did his part. Now it’s up to Kamala Harris and us to do ours.

This is the moment. Live it with us.

Join now

3. Revealed Preferences

In the coming weeks we will find out if the people who said, “I hate Trump, but Biden is too old” really meant it.

Will they find some new excuse for why they have to vote for Trump? Will they become unconcerned about the risks of old age and cognitive decline in a president?

I’m not talking about partisan public personalities on Twitter. I’m talking about swing voters: The kind of Trump-to-Biden voters who have been backsliding in Trump’s direction.

Sarah’s focus groups are going to be absolutely vital for understanding how this group thinks. Don’t miss them.

elsieisy

chill the fuck out, we’ve got this

there’s no need for panic

JEFF TIEDRICH

JUL 22

so, that happened.

Upgrade to paid

for about an hour after Biden’s announcement, I ran around with my hair on fire. I’d just spent a month warning everyone about the chaos that Biden dropping out would bring — infighting, battles over fundraising, lawsuits, atonal music, human sacrifice, dogs and cats living together — mass hysteria.

and then a thing happened that I absolutely did not see coming: just about the entire Democratic establishment immediately threw their support behind Kamala Harris.

one after another, the endorsements came in.

Mr. Biden endorsed Ms. Harris within minutes on Sunday afternoon. Before she had uttered a word about her intentions, he was swiftly followed by other party leaders, including Bill and Hillary Clinton, key Democratic senators and influential House members. By the evening, Mr. Shapiro had publicly backed Ms. Harris after a phone call from her. She also picked up endorsements from Gov. Gavin Newsom of California, Mr. Cooper and Mr. Kelly.

Andy Beshear.

AOC, too.

all fifty State Democratic Party chairs.

numerous state delegates.

even a Nikki Haley PAC has endorsed Kamala.

A coalition of former Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley voters pledged their support for Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris’ presidential bid on Sunday, hours after President Joe Biden announced that he was dropping out of the race.

and in one day, Kamala Harris raised over $50 million.

as I’m writing this, the total haul is now about $69 million. nice.

Joe Biden remains a master at doing politics. Dark Brandon dark-Brandon the shit out of his passing of the torch. clearly, this wasn’t a spur-of-the-moment decision. Joe had to have worked behind the scenes to shore up this much immediate support for Kamala. he made sure not one word of any this leaked. he timed the announcement of his decision so that Donny and the Republicans spent the entire convention running against the wrong candidate. and the pièce de résistance —

Sending out a press release on Sunday afternoon, after the morning talk shows, totally screwed the media. No video clips, no “breaking news,” no chance for pundits to comment on how he sounded, looked, walked, etc. No chance to schedule guests to pick him apart as he spoke. He totally starved them of clicks and eyeballs, in repayment for them starving his candidacy of positive coverage purely for the sake of clicks and eyeballs.

look, I didn’t want any of this to happen. Biden was my guy, and I was prepared to back Joe all the way to November and beyond. but, that said, I have to admit that last night I slept better than I have any time in the last month.

now let’s turn our attention to all the people who need to fuck all the way off.

Brian Stelter can fuck off.

Stelter spent a month screaming that JOE MUST GO — but now that he’s gotten what he wanted, he’s moved the goalposts to JOE MUST GO BUT NOT LIKE THIS. some people are just never happy.

Maggie Haberman can follow Brian Stelter all the way to Fuckoffistan.

good old Maggs, still the reliable stenographer to whom all the Republicans run when they have a trial balloon to float.

in fact, Maggie Haberman can fuck off twice.

Maggs, no Democrat gives one shit what Bobby McBrainworms Junior does with the rest of his annoying life. he doesn’t matter.

Ross Douthat can fuck off.

show us on the doll where Kamala hurt you, Ross.

hey, the entire New York Times can fuck off.

“some” is doing a fuck-ton of heavy lifting here. are these “some” black voters in the room with us right now?

note to Times nepo-publisher Arthur Gregg Sulzberger: it doesn’t matter how hard you suck up to Donny, he’s not going to make the Times his official state media if he takes power. stop trying.

hey, Washington Post — you can fuck off, too.

no. just no.

in fact, all the nitwits still rooting for their own personal fantasy ticket can fuck off.

how many times does Michelle Obama need to state that she has no interest in running for office? you’re wasting everyone’s time with this mental masturbation. do it in private.

Holy Mike Johnson can seriously fuck off.

we all knew that the Republicans were immediately going to pivot to “now Joe Biden must resign” — but these clowns are not thinking this through. first of all, Joe quitting is a big bowl of never gonna happen. second, does the GOP really want to spend the next three months running against President Kamala Harris?

now this is awesome: the Republican Party just realized that they’re no longer running against icky old Joe Biden who smells bad and is too demented to realize that he died six months ago. they created this whole fiction about Joe Biden and now they can’t use any of it — and they’re freaking the fuck out.

look at Nosferatu McGoebbels. he’s practically in tears as he melts all the way down on Fox News.

“they held a primary! people, they had ballots! they filled out circles! they went to the voting booths! they spent money on advertisements! and as president Trump, said the Republican Party spent tens of millions of dollars running against Joe Biden! now they just woke up one morning and said never mind, we’re canceling the entire primary, we’re getting rid of our candidate and pretending the election just never even happened and let donors hand-pick a new nominee?”

it’s not fair! how dare the Democrats come together around a young and vibrant candidate, leaving our guy to be the old fart in the race.

boo fucking hoo, you grievance-babies. you demanded this happen, and now you’re whining about it. shut the fuck up and dry your eyes. here’s your binky.

as Stephen Miller noted in his crybaby rant, Donny Convict is hopping mad. he’s demanding to speak to Sleepy Brandon’s manager because he wants his money back.

So, we are forced to spend time and money on fighting Crooked Joe Biden, he polls badly after having a terrible debate, and quits the race. Now we have to start all over again. Shouldn’t the Republican Party be reimbursed for fraud in that everybody around Joe, including his doctors and the Fake News Media, knew he was not capable of running for, or being, President? Just askin’?

sorry bro — no dice. you broke it, you bought it.

in fact, Donny spent hours last night on his crappy app, yelling at Joe Biden.

I don’t know what Donny’s issue is. he’s never had a problem supporting a Kamala Harris run for office in the past.

for the Republicans, their problems are just beginning.

our presumptive candidate is young, energetic, smart — and can speak in complete sentences.

their guy is a quadrice-indicted twice-impeached once-convicted popular-vote-losing adderall-huffing insurrection-leading ear-diapering testimony-ducking judge-threatening lawyer-ignoring witness-tampering day-one-dictatoring disabled-veteran-dishonoring inheritance-squandering rube-fleecing clown-makeup-smearing language-mangling serial-sexual-predating draft-dodging casino-bankrupting butler-bullying daughter-perving hush-money-paying real-estate-scamming bone-spur-faking ketchup-hurling justice-obstructing classified-war-plan-thieving golf-cheating weather-map-defacing horse-paste-promoting paper-towel-flinging race-baiting tax-evading evidence-destroying charity-defrauding money-laundering diaper-filling 88-count 78-year-old fluorescent tangerine felony factory.

it’s the prosecutor versus the felon. I’ll take that.

everyone is entitled to my own opinion is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

…

My thoughts on the Harris Candidacy.

I still believe in her and in the basic goodness of the American people. I believe that the people will choose goodness over evil, love over hate and progress over going back.

when faced with the choice – a demented, deranged senile old man filled with hatred and revenge, or a competent accomplished woman they will make the right choice.

Congratulations, my Berkeley hometown girl. You got this girl.

Go Bold or go Home!

Berkeley Girl Makes It

The news

that Biden

was stepping down

throwing his support.

for Kamala Harris

as President.

filled me with joy

and anticipation.

Kamala Harris

attended my elementary school

Thousand Oaks in Berkeley

a few years before me.

and is a Berkeley girl

through and through.

Go Berkely !

Thousand Oak Girl I say.

T.O Toughie Girl Power.

the first Female VP

of Asian descent

the first VP

of black descent

the first Caribbean

to be on the ticket.

and the first Hindu

as well.

and the first

Berkeley native

on the ticket.

it is time

for Berkeley to rule

in my humble opinion.

Kamala

here’s what I would campaign on.

the theme would be getting stuff done for the people!

Reforming the Federal Budget

This is perhaps boring to voters but very important to the long-term stability of the country.

I would call upon Congress to change how they do budgets and shift to a two-year budgetary cycle. The first year of Congress would be devoted to passing the two-year budget, the second year would be devoted to oversight and supplemental budget requests.

Coupled that shifting to a calendar year budget. Eliminate the possibility of government shutdowns by enacting automatic CR’s if budgets are not passed on time. But also require budgets to be passed on time – December 1 in the prior year. If a budget is not passed on time, keep congress in town until the budget is passed. And if for some reason the budget is not passed, dinge congressional salaries until the budget is passed.

Second commission a study to look at our tax situation and make suggestions for common sense tax reform. Start by figuring out how much money the government spends in a given year, the reform of the tax code to generate most of the revenue from taxes. Consider a national sales tax as well. Reserve borrowing for large scale infrastructure, and military spending. And consider a surcharge on income of about 25 million per year.

I would also look at federal spending and ask that all departments identify lower priority projects with a required 5% reduction in federal spending per agency over a four year period, except for health related and education related agencies which would be given a considerable bump up in spending. I would do this for three years so that in three years overall spending has been reduced by about 10 percent. Leave it up to the agencies to identify lower priority projects that should not be micromanaged by the White House.

For the defense department consider eliminating such things as golf courses, domestic PX and commissary stores and other non-essential spending.

Finally consider turning over some federal government functions to the states. The conservative idea of moving federal agencies out of Washington DC has considerable merit in my opinion.

The rest of my earlier suggestions follow with a few updates

I retired from the U.S. State Department in 2016 after 27 years of service. I grew up in Berkeley went to college at the University of the Pacific and graduated from the University of Washington (MA Korean Studies, MPA). I also served in the Peace Corps in Korea. I have been to 49 out of 50 states (minus Alaska) and 45 countries.

My advice, in a nutshell, is to make this a campaign about the future and your vision of the future. Paint your opponent Donald Trump as yesterday’s candidate, and mock him, calling on Grandpa Trump to retire to Florida and play golf. Depict him as senile, out of touch, corrupt and focused on returning America to the 19th Century. And call for progressive bold new ideas for the future of America. Be optimistic, be full of hope and goodwill. Freely steal from Bernie and Elizabeth’s proposals and adopt her detailed plans – after talking with her of course. Call for reform not revolution and stress competence vs. incompetence and chaos.

Hillary’s biggest mistake was in my view making it all about how bad Donald Trump is, and not giving the voters a real sense of where she wanted to take the country. and making it seemed that she thought she was entitled, and it was her time. that is a big turnoff in politics.

She also took it for granted and did not compete everywhere. You have to out hustle Trump and go everywhere – hold virtual town halls everywhere until the Corona virus threat fades away.

You have to earn the trust of the voters and can’t be seen as thinking you are entitled to the presidency because you have done your dues so to speak. That is the kiss of electoral suicide – look at Mitch Romney and Hillary Clinton – both lost because they thought that it was their time and they were entitled to the presidency, the voters simply thought otherwise and showed them the door.

And in an age where the voters were ready for a big change to the status quo, being the establishment candidate was the kiss of death. Not to mention she refused to compete everywhere. And allowed Donald Trump to paint her as “crooked Hillary” and as too much part of the establishment which the public rightly destructed so much. She could have picked Bernie Sanders as her running mate, and perhaps defeated Donald Trump. In the end she won where it did not matter and did not compete where she should have competed.

So, in this upcoming election you have to tell the voters why you are so much better for them and the country than Donald Trump. It will not be enough to run against Donald. People have to want to vote for you. Your experience counts for a lot, but it is not enough.

How to Beat Trump

talk constantly about Donald Trump being the most corrupt president in US history and that he is guilty or gross nepotism.

Finally, ignore his tweets. When he tweets something obnoxious dismiss it with the phrase “There he Goes Again”.

then talk about your bold yet pragmatic agenda over and over again.

GO BOLD OR GO HOME

The times cries out for bold progressive challenges and for fresh thinking. Make people want to vote for you as they share your vision of the possible future. and want to have a positive, can do message. Here are my suggested policy proposals.

I would put forth a series of comprehensive bold future-oriented policies and reiterate them every chance you get. You could call them Joe’s Plan for the Future of America, or Kamala’s Contract with the American People, something along those lines.

“Let’s Boldly Go into the Future,”

and rename your campaign as “Kamala for the American People” . Use one of your great assets your reputation for being an everyday person. But be big, bold, brassy, optimistic and challenge your opponents to produce a better plan or shut up and work with you to solve the nation’s problems.

Call for Free College Education Coupled with National Service Requirements.

Call for all Americans to serve three years in public service either in the military or in the government or NGO sector and in return, they will get four years of college paid for. For recent grads, they can serve and get their college debt forgiven. To those who say we can’t afford this, say we can’t afford to continue to put our college students in crippling debt they cannot afford. And everyone, especially the rich, should shoulder the burden of national service.

Call for The Green New Deal

Point out time and time again China, Germany, and other countries are building the green energy resources of the future while the U.S. which invented green energy is moving back to the 19th century.

When critics say we can’t afford this, tell them we can’t afford to ruin the world for our children’s future. We can’t afford to continue burning fossil fuels. Climate change is real, and the U.S. must lead the way forward. That is what great nations do, lead the world in embracing change, in embracing the promise of the future. We can do no less.

Call to Fix Obama Care

Point out time and time again that we still have a broken down too expensive too burdensome a health care system. Point out time and time again that we have the most expensive system in the world, yet we are about 25th in terms of health care outcomes. No one in this land should fear going bankrupt if they need to get medical care. We can do this right and we must do it right.

I would acknowledge that Obama Care is not perfect and that if you had a chance to re-do it you would make it much less bureaucratic and less burdensome. But be proud of what the Democrats accomplished. Promise to fix it and make it work.

One potential fix would be to open the Federal Health Care system to anyone who needs insurance and continue to provide subsidies to keep the premiums down.

Another option would be an expansion of Medicare, so it covers about half the country.

And enact permanent paid sick leave up to a month for all companies employing more than ten people.

When Republicans proclaim that they will repeal Obamacare and replace it with something, call them on their bullshit. Demand to know the plan now or tell them to shut up and work with you to fix Obamacare.

call for a slight reduction of military spending and national security spending to beef up health care spending and universal education access.

Call to repair our alliances

Declare that our allies are our allies and our friends, and we will work with them to solve the world’s problems and restore American leadership. We will rejoin the Paris Climate Change and work to make sure it works. We will rejoin the Transpacific Partnership. and we will figure out how to work with China and even Russia to solve problems of mutual interest such as climate change. Vow to restore partnership with Mexico and Canada and Latin America as well as India and Southeast Asia. and restore ties with Europe as well. Rebuild the UN and international organizations. And join the international criminal court. Finally close Gitmo as an affront to the American system of justice and human rights. Re Israel vow to work with Palestinians and Israelis alike to restart the peace process.

Offer a New Deal to North Korea

We will continue to negotiate with the North Koreans, offering them a way towards reunification with South Korea and rejoining the world economic community. You can damn the former President here with faint praise. Say that it was good that he took the initiative to break the log jam and talk to the North, but due to his inexperience and his naivety he was unable to make a deal as the North Koreans played him. You can finish the job.

Offer to Talk with The Iranians

Tell the Iranians we are ready to talk with them and want a new deal that would benefit them and the U.S. along the lines of what we are offering the North Koreans.

Bring the Troops Home

I would call for some U.S. troops to return to the U.S., where they will be reposted along our borders and serve as adjunct border patrol agents and first responders as part of their mandatory new national service.

Rebuild America

I would gradually reduce military spending and devote resources to rebuilding America’s crumbling infrastructure. This must include high-speed trains, and must include perhaps hyper-loop technology or Maglev trains? And the next generation of airplanes as well. We must rebuild our mass transit systems. We must embrace the development of driverless vehicles. and as mention we must beef up health care spending and assure universal access to higher education. These must be the new national priorities. I would throw the republicans a bone offers to look at modest reductions in other government spending for example decreasing spending on NPR but not eliminating it, and a slight decrease in foreign assistance, and UN contributions etc. and other government programs could be trimmed down a bit to pay for higher priorities.

Challenge the Republicans on their “you are weakening national security” BS. When the Republican scream you are weakening national security call them out on their BS.

Ask them how repositioning troops to help deal with national security issues at home weakens national security? How does going to universal military service weaken national security? How does getting out of endless wars weaken national security? How does closing a few bases in Europe weaken national security? Or closing a golf course? Or a commissary? Point out that we already spend more on national security than any other nation on earth. How does rebuilding America’s failed infrastructure weaken national security? How does providing medical care or universal higher education which benefits the entire nation hamper national security? Challenge them to produce a better plan.

Call for Comprehensive Immigration Reform

Start by acknowledging we need to improve security at the border, but the wall is a waste of time and money that will not solve the problem. We need a comprehensive 21st century immigration policy that balances the need for continued immigration with the need to ensure that immigrants contribute to our country and enrich our country as they always have and always will. Again throw the republicans a bone offers to ensure that E Verify is widely used by all employers and punish employers who hire illegals. I would also consider getting rid of the diversity visa program and the sibling immigration category but grandfather people in that category giving them two years to complete the immigration process with no new applicants being accepted. I would also push English language skills for immigrants as one of the new requirements – they must be able to handle the immigrant visa interview in English. That is something I agree with Trump on.

Challenge the Republicans to come up a better plan and work with you to implement it.

Call for A Return to Space Including Lunar Colonies and Martian Colonies

It is time for the U.S. to lead the world again in space exploration. Offer to lead the way in building lunar and Martian colonies with the participation of the world’s other space powers.

Call for The Legalization of Marijuana, Emptying the Prisons of Marijuana Offenders

End the endless war on drugs. Repeal marijuana prohibition. Empty the prisons of marijuana offenders. End the private prison for profit system. End the prison pipeline that sweeps up brown and black youths and sucks them into prison for life. Reserve prisons for the most dangerous offenders, all other prisoners should be sentenced to community service, drug treatment or other non-prison sentences. Use the money saved by closing prisons for rebuilding infrastructure.

Gun Control

I like your gun control proposals. It is a step forward. Continue to push for universal background checks.

Fully Support LGBT rights

Fully Support the religious freedom of all Americans including non-believers

Call for a Return to traditional American civil norms that Trump has so badly damaged

For VP Pick a centrist male governor.

I like the governor of Kentucky or North Carolina The governor of Michigan would be a good choice too. the Governor of California not so much.

To sum up, be cautious, small-minded, narrowly focused, and all about how bad Donald is, you will lose.

In short,

GO BOLD OR Go Home

Sincerely
Jake Cosmos Aller
703-436-1402
Jakecaller@gmail.com
https://theworldaccordingtocosmos.com

T.O. Alumnus

Call for Public Service

wikipedia on history of national service in the US

pros and cons on national service proposals

Time to Embrace National Service in Exchange for free college tuition< h1>why national service is worth it

open letters to the candidates send to democratic candidates

Embrace Public Service, Mr. President!
J

In any event, I believe that the time is now to call for national service in exchange for free college tuition/vocational training or grants to open small businesses. Three years of service followed by four years of either college/technical training, or assistance in opening a small business.

Call for Free College Education Coupled with National Service Requirements.

Dear Democratic Candidates:

I am writing to all of you and to President Trump to call for your to embrace national service in exchange for free college/technical training or assistance in opening a business.

It is time to change the game plan in Washington DC. You need a new bold proposal that will unite the country and heal the divisions. My proposal is for you to embrace mandatory national service for three years. Everyone finishing their service would receive full funding for college, technical training or a grant to set up their own business because after all not everyone needs to go to college, we need to encourage technical training and starting up small business as well.

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the key is that the service would be universal and all citizens and LPR’s between the ages of 18 and 25 would serve three years – no exceptions. Most would be military, but people could serve as fine fathers. adjust police officers, adjust border patrol officers, adjust teachers, peace corps volunteers or serve in state/local and federal government positions.

Call for all Americans to serve three years in public service either in the military or in the government or NGO sector and in return, they will get four years of college paid for. For recent graduates , they can serve and get their college debt forgiven. To those who say we can’t afford this, say we can’t afford to continue to put our college students in crippling debt they cannot afford. And everyone, especially the rich, should shoulder the burden of national service. and point out that shifting to a mandatory national service requirement would save the Pentagon money on salaries. the cost would be modest – minimum wage, housing, medical care and college tuition after their service. People would serve between age 18 and 25 one year of training and two years of service, with an optional second enlistment for three more years of educational benefits through PHD/professional degrees. Starting at age 18 until age 25 people will be randomly selected to begin service. those who are 25 will have until they turn 26 to report for service. They would have one year to report for service.

Free College/technical training or money to open a business in exchange for national service

Most people will start college, or tech training institute, then do military or other service, and then return to college to finish their college. That is fine. Ensure that colleges will not only accommodate that but will also offer college credits for military and other on the job training acquired during national service. This would also cut the cost of college attendance for most people to a manageable three years instead of four to five years. And of course, ensure that people can go to technical training institutes instead of a traditional college as we really need to grow the next generation of technical workers as well. and also ensure that those who wish financial assistance in setting up a small business would receive that assistance as well as we need to encourage the small business start ups as well.

After Service can compete to become an NCO/Officer or work for the Federal/State/Local/tribal government/ UN or NGO

After finishing basis service, those who wish to make a career of it could compete to become an NCO or an officer, and resume service after finishing college. And/or compete to enter government service for the Federal government or state and local government as well. and the service academies will only accept those who have finished basic service. This would apply to new service academies being set up, see below for more details.

All Must Serve

And most importantly, shared national service will help restore America’s sense that this is our land, this land belongs to everyone. The rich and the poor alike. We are all in this together. We have lost sight of that. The military has become an army of paid mercenaries recruited from the lower classes. If everyone serves, there will be less temptation to send troops into harms way. This will be a win- win for everyone except for the student loan vultures.

I would bring most of the troops home and station them along the southern border where they could be used to help bolster border security, and assist as first responders to natural disaster. Sell this as a real border security that will get the job done.

Establish New Service Academies for the Diplomatic, Intelligence Services/ Space Force/NASA, and law Enforcement

I would also call for four new national service academies to be set up. One would be for diplomatic and intelligence service, the other would be for law enforcement, the third would be for the Space Force/and NASA, the last would be more technical scientific agencies of the Federal government focusing on science and technology issues. These academies like the military academies including a coast guard academy, and beefing up the maritime service academy, would take only those who finished their military basis service. this would be a great way to restore our diplomatic corps and intelligence services as well as our law enforcement person. All graduates can meet their service obligation (five years post graduation) through working for Federal/State/local/tribal governments, the UN or NGO’s. all the service academies as well as the Medical Medical schools, the foreign service training center (which will be transformed into the new diplomatic/intelligence training academy) would work together on the national service academies consortium to coordinate policies and training, including post graduate training programs at the various military and other federal government training programs.

National Service Will Bring US together as one nation

I believe that this proposal could be enacted with widespread bipartisan support. It would go a long way to help heal the divisions of our country and bring us all together as a nation. I hope you will fully embrace this proposal and I look forward to discussing it with yours staff.

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Trump Must Drop Out Because He’s Old As Fuck

JUL 22

READ IN APP

Dear Humans,

God here. Now that President Biden has heroically passed the torch to Kamala Harris, can we talk about the orange elephant in the room?

TRUMP MUST DROP OUT BECAUSE HE’S OLD AS FUCK.

Seven Lessons from Joe Biden’s Candidacy

Yeah, I said it. At 78-years-old, Donald is practically fossilized. You wouldn’t trust your grandpa to fix your Wi-Fi, so why let him run the country? He’s older than dirt and twice as clueless.

Like holy shit, did you see his speech at the RNC last week? The giant creep rambled on for 2 hours like he was Grandpa Simpson.

Look, the presidency is a tough gig. It needs someone with energy, someone who can stay awake past 7 PM without nodding off. Trump?

HE FALLS ASLEEP IN COURT.

He fell asleep during his own convention. He’s got one foot in the grave and the other on a banana peel. The only marathon he’s running is a nap marathon.

Support Our Satire

And let’s talk about the gaffes—Donald says some stupid insane shit that doesn’t make sense every single time he speaks. The only people it makes sense to are also totally delusional Christian Nationalist freaks like Marjorie Taylore Greene.

And don’t get me started on the health issues. Remember that mysterious trip to Walter Reed? Make America great again? This man can’t handle a ramp. The only thing he can make great again is the act of faceplanting into the ground.

So, here’s the divine decree: Trump, pack it up. Go home, put on your slippers, and watch Matlock reruns. Leave running the country to someone who can remember what day it is without checking Fox News. It’s time for you to drop out, you crusty old bag of assholes.

Now that I, the LORD THY GOD, have brought attention to this issue, I am sure the media will be obsessing about it every day from here on out.

THE LORD HAS SPOKEN.

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The Democratic party is healthy. The Republican party is not.

JONATHAN V. LAST

JUL 22

1. Seven Lessons

Before we start: I did a YouTube thing about Biden last night, if you’re interested.

Now let’s go.

(1) The Democratic party is a healthy institution.

On the night of June 27, the various power centers within the Democratic party began a difficult conversation: Was Joe Biden still capable of running a vigorous campaign?

Over three weeks the party reached a diffuse—if not unanimous—consensus: He was not. This consensus was the product of all levels of the party: Elder statesmen such as Nancy Pelosi, elected Democrats analyzing their own future prospects, donors making decisions about spending, and the main body of public opinion among Democratic voters.

Once this consensus was reached, the various power centers began a dialogue with the party’s leader, President Biden. The party expressed its choice. Biden pushed back. The party took up the question again and, after due consideration, held firm.

Joe Biden then stepped aside for the good of the nation.

This is how healthy institutions are supposed to work.

At The Bulwark there has been a lot of drama over the last three weeks. We told you what we really thought, even though it meant making some people mad.

Our mission is to have honest and real conversations. Because that’s what healthy institutions do.

Right here, in the Bulwark community, those conversations were great. I mean, they were often painful. But they were always civil and conducted in good faith.

How special is this community? We had one member who was so disappointed in us that he cancelled his subscription and then came back to the comments every day to try to convince others to cancel their subscriptions, too. And he did it passionately, but with respect.

Where do you find people like that on the internet? It was amazing.

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2. The process which elevated Kamala Harris was sensible.

The Democratic party made another institutional decision in parallel with the Biden question: It vetted Kamala Harris.

This subroutine executed in the background, but it was active. Democratic voters began to consider her as the nominee and polling showed that they were comfortable with her. Party elders evaluated her fitness. Donors and elected Democrats took her measure. The fact that no anti-Harris groundswell—or even boom let—emerged is proof that the party decided that Harris was an acceptable nominee.

After Biden blessed Harris on Sunday afternoon, the party coalesced around her in much the way it did Biden after the New Hampshire primary in 2020.

The Democratic party will enter the election more unified than it had been pre-debate.

3. Kamala Harris can run as an insurgent, but with the advantages of an incumbent.

The largest advantage of incumbency is that a candidate does not have to take base-pleasing positions during a primary campaign that can hurt him during a general election.

Because of the extraordinary nature of her ascendence, Harris possesses this advantage. She will carry nearly every advantage of incumbency and yet she can credibly position herself as this election’s change agent.

4. Trump is holding the age bomb.

The Trump campaign spent two years creating a political bomb concerning old age. They assumed that they could plant this bomb at the feet of Joe Biden.

Trump is now the one holding the age bomb. He is not only a full generation older than Harris—everything about him looks geriatric by comparison. From his gait to his bronzed-over pallor; from the way he rambles and gets lost in sentences to his inability to keep facts straight.

Every split screen now makes Trump look old and decrepit by comparison.

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5. There was enormous pent-up demand among Democrats for a younger leader.

In the first 24 hours, Kamala Harris raised over $100 million from small-dollar donors.

Sit with that for a moment. $100 million.

That’s more money than any Democrat has ever raised in a single day. It’s twice as much as Trump raised following his felony conviction. If this doesn’t snap your head back, it should.

Because it’s as good a proxy as you’ll find for excitement.

It will be several days until we have polling with a more detailed view of Harris’s support from Democratic voters, but it is already clear that she will perform much better than Biden has within her party.

Here’s my advice: You should be open to the idea that Harris could ride a wave of excitement and passion that absolutely no one was seeing until Biden stepped aside. I’m talking Obama ‘08-levels of energy.

It’s not a given. But it’s in the realm of the possible. Keep your eyes peeled for it.

6. The Republican party is a failed state.

At the debate, Donald Trump also demonstrated (again) that he is unfit for office. He rambled and lied incoherently. He is a convicted felon. A jury found him guilty of sexual assault. He has said he wants to be a “dictator” and that he wants to “terminate” parts of the Constitution. He selected as his running mate a man who advised disobeying orders from the Supreme Court and forcing a constitutional crisis.

Until last week there was nothing stopping the Republican party from forcing Trump off the ticket. The party elders and elected officials could have demanded that Trump step aside. Republican voters could have said that they had no confidence in his ability to govern. Donors could have closed their wallets.

But the plain fact is that not one single Republican called on Trump to step aside.

Not one.

Why? Because the various precincts of the Republican party understand that they hold no power—at all—over Trump. They could not ask him to withdraw from the race. Even broaching the subject would be grounds for excommunication from the party.

The Democratic party is a functioning institution, with checks and balances; constituencies and power structures. Like any institution, it is amorphous and its decision making is mostly organic.

The Republican party is an autocracy where the only thing that matters is the will of the leader. All power flows through him. All decisions are made by him. There are no competing power centers—only vassal states overseen by his noblemen.