#kwon yool

One of the things that hooked me in the early stages of this drama was how very aware the creators are about language, and the power of language, and how that plays in to status in society. By showcasing Moo Hak's poor English skills, even poking a bit of fun at them, they emphasise his new-rich status in a completely believable way, and juxtapose that to Da Li's old-rich capabilities.

They show Moo Hak quickly labelling Da Li as a girl who grew up with privileges he didn't get, who's had an easier time of things because of the background she's from, and the difference between them at that first party just shines a light on how true all of that is.

And as the show progresses, they expand that into a bigger narrative of status and power, beyond just language (but language always still plays a part - his "foolish" slip of tongues or poor grasp of idioms and sayings are a running joke).

Later on in the show we see him picking out second-hand luxury goods, and in no big plot twist learn that he loves the gaudy, flashy things that scream "I have money" - and you contrast that to what we saw Da Li wanting to wear to the party when her boss first drives up to her home - ridiculous, but probably also ridiculously expensive. Cut to what Gong Joo says about Da Li's shoes when they find out their pay is going to be delayed - as much as she struggles, Da Li doesn't deny the truth of it. Or the scene in the car when Tae Jin is swapping out his tie because he needs to send the right message based on who he's eating dinner with.