When Genie, Make a Wish, premiered on October 3, 2025, it arrived with big expectations. It reunites Kim Woo-bin and Bae Suzy after years, and carries the signature romantic fantasy vibe that fans love.
However, the reaction has been mixed so far. Some call it charming. Others call it chaotic. In this review, I’ll break down what works, what doesn’t, and whether it lives up to its promise.
Plot & Premise of “Genie, Make A Wish”
The series is built on a simple but intriguing premise. A genie named Iblis (Kim Woo-bin) awakens from a thousand-year slumber and meets Ga-young (Suzy), a woman who struggles to feel emotion.
Ga-young accidentally obtains a magical lamp and gains three life-changing wishes. From there, she challenges Iblis to prove human beings are not just greedy or selfish.
On paper, the stakes are interesting. Behind the fantasy layer lies a question: Can love reach someone who seems unfeeling? That premise gives room for emotional moments. The fact that Iblis is not just a whimsical magical being, but is tied to mythology, lends extra weight.
The Good: What Works Well
1. Cast & Chemistry
The reunion of Kim Woo-bin and Suzy is a big draw. Their previous on-screen pairing in Uncontrollably Fond (2016) remains a fond memory for many fans. The script allows them room for comedic banter, awkward moments, and emotional beats. Many moments feel charming when they play off each other.
Supporting roles also deliver. Ahn Eun-jin and Lee Joo-young (as Mi-joo / the grandmother / best friend) give depth beyond the leads. The ensemble helps balance the intensity of the lead pair.
2. Ambitious Genre Mix
This drama tries to blend fantasy, romance, comedy, and even existential ideas. That ambition is bold. It leans into the whimsical and supernatural, giving visual spectacle, mythical lore, and metaphors about humanity. When it leans into its strengths, such as magical moments, romantic tension, or moral dilemmas, it can feel fresh and engaging.
3. Moments of Humor & Meta Touches
The show doesn’t take itself too seriously. Some lines poke fun at pop culture, use playful banter, or play with fantasy tropes. Those moments allow breathing space between heavier scenes. For viewers who enjoy a touch of whimsy, those details can win you over.
The Flaws: What Falls Flat, Sometimes
1. Tone Whiplash & Chaos
One consistent criticism is that Genie, Make a Wish oscillates wildly in tone. It shifts from dramatic revelations to slapstick humor to grand mythic battles—and not always smoothly. That can leave some viewers disoriented or frustrated when the emotional flow is interrupted. Some even “turned it off after one episode.”
2. Weak CGI & Visuals at Times
The fantasy elements call for visual appeal—but the execution is uneven. Some CGI scenes, especially those involving flying carpets or magical effects, appear jarring rather than immersive. For viewers sensitive to visual consistency, those missteps distract from the story.
3. Controversy Over Religious Sensitivity
This is a serious matter. The show names its genie character Iblis, a name directly linked to Satan or a devil figure in Islamic tradition. Many viewed that as trivializing or romanticizing a religious figure. Some international fans openly criticized the choice.
The show generated backlash for promoting what some see as religious insensitivity. It’s a flaw not tied to storytelling per se, but it affects how audiences perceive the show.
4. Exposition & Pacing in Early Episodes
Early episodes sometimes rely heavily on exposition to establish the mythology. That can make things feel lecture-like. For viewers hoping to jump into emotional or romantic beats immediately, the world-building can feel slow.
Overall Verdict: Worth Watching, But With Reservations
Genie, Make a Wish is not perfect. It’s messy, uneven, and overreaches at times. The tonal shifts can be jarring. The visual effects don’t always land. The religious controversy is not something that can be easily ignored.
Yet despite its flaws, it has spark. The lead chemistry often carries it. The plot concept is imaginative. When the show balances its fantasy and romance, it sings. For fans of dreamy, magical K-dramas who don’t mind taking a risk, it offers reward.
If you prefer tight, consistent tone or strong visual polish over bold ideas, this may frustrate you. But if you enjoy dramas that dare to bend genres and make you question character and morality, it’s worth trying. I’d rate it a B or about 7 out of 10 in its current form.
Final Thoughts
If you enjoy Goblin, Hotel Del Luna, or other fantasy K-dramas with supernatural romance, this will hit your sweet spot. If you’re okay with imperfections and want something bold, this might be your next binge. But if you prefer grounded stories, I’d tread carefully and manage my expectations
Have you started watching Genie, Make a Wish yet? Let me know your favorite moments or what you had trouble accepting. And for your daily dose of K-pop and K-drama updates, don’t forget to visit Saranghero for the freshest scoops.