The Genius Idol Is a Joseon Scholar

My Thoughts on The Genius Idol Is a Joseon Scholar

Okay, so I dove into The Genius Idol Is a Joseon Scholar with some pretty high expectations, and honestly, it mostly delivered. The premise alone – a Joseon scholar thrust into the modern world of K-pop – had me hooked. It's definitely a unique concept in a sea of similar stories, and I was eager to see how the author would pull it off.

First Impressions

My initial reaction was pure amusement. The culture clash is played up brilliantly, with the main character's complete and utter bewilderment at modern technology and social norms providing plenty of comedic moments. I found myself chuckling quite a bit at his outdated mannerisms and misunderstandings. The fish-out-of-water trope is a classic for a reason, and this novel uses it to great effect.

What Works Well

The humor is definitely a strong point. It's not just cheap laughs, though; the humor stems from the protagonist's genuine confusion and his earnest attempts to navigate this bizarre new world. Beyond the comedy, I also appreciated the protagonist's work ethic and determination. Despite being completely out of his element, he throws himself into learning the ropes of idol life, showcasing a strong will and a desire to succeed. I also noticed the story has some psychological and supernatural elements. I found these to be a unique addition to the plot and it helps make it more than just a comedy.

Areas of Concern

I don't have too many major gripes. The story does rely heavily on the fish-out-of-water trope, and I can see how that might get repetitive for some readers after a while. The level system, while present, doesn't seem to be a core focus, which might disappoint some who are looking for a more stat-heavy progression fantasy.

Final Verdict

Overall, I found The Genius Idol Is a Joseon Scholar to be a fun and engaging read. The unique premise, combined with the humor and the protagonist's determination, makes for a compelling story. If you're looking for something lighthearted and a little bit different, I'd definitely recommend giving this one a try. It's a breath of fresh air in the idol genre, and I think you'll find yourself rooting for this Joseon scholar as he tries to conquer the K-pop world.