A Reunion Fans Have Been Waiting For
It finally happened! After years of wishing and waiting, Suzy and Kim Woo Bin are back together in one screen—and yes, it’s every bit as dreamy as you’d imagine. Their new Netflix original drama, Genie, Make a Wish, brings these two powerhouse stars back into the spotlight in a story that blends romance, comedy, and fantasy into one sparkling package.
If you still remember the emotional rollercoaster that was Uncontrollably Fond, you probably shed a tear or two (or ten). This time, though, you can put the tissues aside because Genie, Make a Wish is lighter, funnier, and downright magical. The chemistry is still there, but now it’s wrapped in laughter, adventure, and a pinch of Arabian Nights-inspired wonder.
And just wait until you find out where they filmed—this drama doesn’t just take you across emotional worlds, it literally takes you to Dubai! The desert sands, the stunning skylines, the luxury—it’s the perfect setting for a fantasy romance that feels larger than life.
So, ready to make a wish and see what happens? Let’s talk about everything that makes this drama shine.
Genie Make a Wish The Story That Feels Like a Modern Fairy Tale
The heart of Genie, Make a Wish lies in its whimsical yet surprisingly emotional story.
The drama follows Ki Ka Young (played by Suzy), a young woman with a frosty personality and a past that explains every wall she’s built. As a child, she was sent away from her family and raised by her grandmother, growing up with a quiet bitterness that slowly froze her emotions.
Fast-forward to adulthood, Ka Young travels to Dubai after hearing that her estranged mother has opened a restaurant there. But during her trip, something extraordinary happens—she stumbles upon an ancient lamp buried deep in the golden dunes.
And you can probably guess what happens next.
After a few accidental shakes and a burst of desert wind, out comes Genie (Kim Woo Bin), a powerful spirit who’s been trapped inside that lamp for centuries. He’s relieved, excited, and maybe a little too dramatic about his newfound freedom. In classic genie fashion, he declares Ka Young his “Master” and insists she make three wishes.
The problem? Ka Young couldn’t care less.
Cold, logical, and not at all impressed, she tries to brush him off. But Genie isn’t one to give up easily. His relentless (and often hilarious) efforts to get Ka Young to make her wishes set the stage for a relationship that’s full of bickering, laughter, and heartwarming growth.
Underneath all the fantasy, Genie, Make a Wish cleverly explores the idea of emotional healing—how two broken souls, one ancient and one human, end up teaching each other how to feel again.
The Dynamic Duo of Suzy and Kim Woo Bin
Let’s be honest—this casting alone could carry an entire show.
Suzy steps into Ka Young’s shoes with her signature blend of grace and emotional depth. Her character may come across as detached at first, but Suzy gives her layers—vulnerability hidden beneath sarcasm, loneliness masked by confidence. She’s even described as having psychopathic tendencies (yes, you read that right), but instead of playing it dark, Suzy makes it quietly fascinating. It’s not about being emotionless—it’s about learning how to deal with emotions that have been buried too long.
Then there’s Kim Woo Bin. If you expected another brooding, cool-headed lead like his previous roles, prepare to be surprised. His Genie is playful, dramatic, and adorably chaotic. Imagine a centuries-old spirit who still hasn’t figured out how modern humans work—and then falling headfirst for one. That’s Genie in a nutshell.
His comedic timing is spot-on, but Woo Bin doesn’t shy away from showing Genie’s deeper, more poignant side either. There are moments where his ancient loneliness seeps through the laughter, and you realize just how perfectly balanced his performance is.
The two together? Magic. Their banter feels natural, their chemistry electric, and their emotional connection… well, let’s just say it’s the kind that makes you smile at your screen like a fool.
A Fresh Genre Twist
What makes Genie, Make a Wish stand out from your typical romantic comedy is how effortlessly it combines fantasy and humor.
Instead of leaning too heavily into magical gimmicks, the show uses fantasy as a tool for storytelling. The magical lamp, the wishes, the desert—all of it feels purposeful. It’s not just for spectacle, but to explore how people deal with longing and loss.
Genie’s powers are a metaphor for control—how having everything you want at your fingertips doesn’t necessarily make you happy. Meanwhile, Ka Young’s emotional detachment mirrors a generation that’s learned to guard their hearts too well.
But don’t worry—it’s not all deep thoughts and symbolism. There’s plenty of lighthearted fun here too. Genie’s cluelessness about modern life leads to some genuinely hilarious moments (there’s one involving a smartphone that’s pure gold). The show doesn’t take itself too seriously, which makes it the perfect comfort watch after a long day.
The Beauty of the Setting
If you thought Korean dramas couldn’t get any more visually stunning, Genie, Make a Wish is here to prove otherwise.
A big chunk of the series was filmed in Dubai, giving the show a unique visual texture that’s both grand and otherworldly. The sweeping desert shots, the vibrant cityscape, and the luxurious architecture create an atmosphere that feels straight out of a dream.
It’s not often we see a K-drama blend Korean storytelling with Middle Eastern scenery, and this cross-cultural backdrop adds a refreshing twist. The contrast between Dubai’s golden heat and Korea’s serene coolness makes the transitions between settings feel almost symbolic—like moving between two different worlds.
Even the wardrobe choices deserve a mention. Each outfit says something about the character wearing it. Suzy’s minimalist yet bold looks reflect Ka Young’s emotional restraint, while Woo Bin’s elaborate robes (and later, his awkward attempts at modern fashion) mirror his journey from mystical being to something more human.
Every visual detail feels intentional, and together they build a world that’s immersive, colorful, and a little bit enchanting.
The Supporting Cast That Completes the Magic
Of course, it’s not just Suzy and Woo Bin carrying this show. The supporting cast adds a lot of flavor to the story.
You’ll see familiar faces like Ahn Eun Jin, Noh Sang Hyun, Ko Kyu Pil, Lee Joo Young, and the ever-talented Kim Mi Kyung—each bringing something distinct to the mix. Their roles vary from comedic relief to emotional anchors, grounding the fantasy in a sense of reality.
And yes, rumor has it there are a few unexpected cameos that’ll make you squeal. Let’s just say you’ll want to keep your eyes peeled for those blink-and-you’ll-miss-it appearances.
A Visual Feast with a Feel-Good Heart
Beyond the humor and fantasy, Genie, Make a Wish has something else going for it—heart.
Every episode feels like it’s trying to remind you of something simple yet powerful: that love and connection can come from the most unexpected places. It’s not about perfect people or fairy-tale endings—it’s about growth, forgiveness, and learning to wish again.
With 13 episodes, the pacing feels tight and satisfying. There are no unnecessary fillers—just a smooth blend of emotional beats and comedic timing that keeps you invested from start to finish.
By the time the final episode rolls around, you’ll realize that what started as a fun fantasy has quietly turned into something much more meaningful.
Why Genie Make a Wish Drama Is Worth Adding to Your List
Let’s face it—Suzy and Kim Woo Bin reuniting is reason enough to tune in. But Genie, Make a Wish isn’t just banking on nostalgia. It’s charming, it’s clever, and it’s beautifully made.
The fantasy elements are creative without feeling overdone.
The humor lands naturally—nothing feels forced.
The romance develops slowly, making it more believable and emotionally satisfying.
Plus, it’s one of those rare dramas that can make you laugh one moment and reflect deeply the next. It’s escapism at its finest, with just enough realism to keep you grounded.
So if you’re looking for something to brighten your weekend—or if you just want to see Suzy and Woo Bin being effortlessly adorable again—this is your next binge.
Genie Make a Wish A Magical Reunion You’ll Remember
It’s been almost a decade since Uncontrollably Fond broke our hearts, and Genie, Make a Wish feels like a healing gift for fans who never quite recovered. This time, instead of tragedy, we get laughter. Instead of tears, we get magic.
It’s romantic without being cheesy, funny without losing its depth, and fantastical without losing touch with reality. In short, it’s the kind of K-drama that reminds you why you fell in love with K-dramas in the first place.
So, go ahead—grab that popcorn, dim the lights, and let Genie, Make a Wish take you somewhere between a dream and a desert sunset. You might just find yourself making a wish or two before the credits roll.