Unknown – Series Review & Ending Explained

Episode 1

Episode 1 Review

An emotional moment in the first episode is when Qian tells Yuan to come home. The powerful meaning only becomes clear when we learn Yuan's story. He was an abandoned child, starving and sleeping on the streets, until Qian took him in. Beyond offering a place to stay, a home comes with a huge emotional sentiment. It implies safety, stability, and most importantly, permanence. Telling Yuan to "come home" means Qian has chosen to make him part of his life forever.

In the opening scene, Lili and Yuan banter during family dinner. Lili makes a hurtful jab and says, "You're not from our family." What she says is rude but true. Yuan may live with the siblings, yet he isn't supposed to be part of their family. He is, technically, a guest. However, Qian scolds his sister because he doesn't want to alienate Yuan as an outsider. Part of the reason the characters identify as "brothers" is to make Yuan feel included while living in this house. However, this label also creates ambiguity, blurring Yuan's role in Qian's life. The story wants us to think about the complexity of their bond.

Another interesting moment is when San Pang gives Qian red envelopes for New Year's. Qian fills the packets with money before offering them to Yuan & Lili. Giving red envelopes is a tradition commonly practiced among family members. However, this wasn't Qian's idea. It originated from San Pang, a friend who encourages Qian to do it. This subtle distinction shows that Qian may not initially think of Yuan as family, but San Pang imposes a traditional structure onto these three youths. They absorb the idea over time, and Yuan becomes included as part of the family.

My first impression of Qian is that he shows a lot of compassion. Can we summarize his heroic deeds in the first episode? He gives food to a starving child, rescues a homeless orphan from the streets, and protects this vulnerable boy from gangster violence. Wow, we need to nominate Qian for sainthood! Qian's background also plays a factor. Growing up in an abusive household makes him more sympathetic to other helpless kids. He may relate to Yuan's circumstances and feel a natural instinct to protect him.

After the fight, Yuan blames himself for Qian getting hurt and says, "You should've left me behind." As an orphan, Yuan believes he's destined to be abandoned. However, Qian reassures him, "If I lost you, I'd have nothing left." He wants to validate Yuan's existence, letting him know that he matters. The episode closes with meaningful imagery. Yuan and Lili's height measurements on the wall are shown at the same level, symbolizing how Qian sees them as equals in his life. Qian views Yuan as important as his biological sister.

Episode 2

Episode 2 Review

My favourite part of this episode is when Qian takes a shower~ OMG, that is such a BL scene. 😅 It's supposed to be a serious moment that reveals his childhood abuse. However, the series juxtaposes the violent flashbacks with close-up shots of Qian's nipple. LOLWTF? Like killing two birds with one stone, Unknown wants to deliver a tragic backstory and include gratuitous shirtless shots of the lead actor. Amazing. We love it when a BL drama knows how to multitask.

On a more serious note, Qian's childhood trauma has affected him in his adult life. As witnessed by his unsuccessful dates, he seems to have little interest in finding a romantic partner. He even disrupts one of his dates after an unpleasant memory of his mother resurfaces. The story highlights how her physical and psychological abuse left deep emotional scars. Not only is Qian cautious, but he also seems uncomfortable in forming intimate connections. It will require someone Qian trusts a lot for him to open his heart.

Yuan also struggles due to his childhood trauma. This episode highlights how he has trouble adjusting socially and doesn't have friends in school. The situation is alarming enough that a teacher takes time out of his busy day to visit the student's guardian. However, we don't actually see Yuan overcome this hurdle. Apparently, he joins a club and starts socializing more, but the character development doesn't occur on-screen. The story reveals through dialogue that Yuan is talking to people now, but um…where are these so-called friends? Are they imaginary?

Episode 3

Episode 3 Review

Qian is now the founder of a tech start-up for a video game, which feels like a bizarre career choice for him. In Episode 1, he worked for a gangster and showed no interest in computer science or gaming. Suddenly, he's an expert in this niche field. The story explains that Xiong gave him a job, paid his tuition, and started a business with him, but none of this is shown on screen. As usual, these plot developments only occur through dialogue. I'm annoyed to constantly be fed information instead of seeing the journey.

After Semantic Error, Our Dating Sim, and A Boss and a Babe, here's yet another BL series set in the video game development industry. Is this just a coincidence, or is there a pattern? Previously, BL office dramas had always occurred in generic marketing agencies. Now, the latest trend is generic video game start-ups. Unfortunately, the workplace scenes in Unknown are so boring. Sorry, but a bunch of dudes talking business in the office isn't my idea of entertainment. I wish Qian could have a more exciting occupation instead.

Team Lili all the way! It's a cute top, and she's rocking it, so what's the problem? Qian should stay in his lane and stop policing what women wear. And the irony is rich, considering this is the same guy who participated in a shirtless boxing match, yet he condemns Lili for being "too revealing" in public. While I disagree with Qian, his outdated views are consistent with his character's behaviour throughout the series. He isn't the most open-minded guy. His response in this episode hints at how he might react when Yuan comes out to him later.

Episode 4

Episode 4 Review

This episode begins with Yuan's 18th birthday party. Hehe, Yuan looks so adorable in that photograph. I love how he holds up the wallet Qian gave him as a present, making sure it's included in the picture. Lili and San Pang also bought him gifts, but of course, he only cares about the wallet lol. A minor detail I like is how the characters made Yuan's birthday the same day he joined Qian and Lili's household. It adds an emotional significance to this celebration.

Yuan has a secret crush on Qian, seeing him in an unbrotherly way. From cuddling in bed to intimate hugs, their affection crosses the boundaries of a platonic relationship. Yet, Qian doesn't interpret these gestures romantically. His mind refuses to see Yuan as desirable. Meanwhile, Yuan is clearly smitten. He agonizes over his unrequited feelings and seems hyper-aware of every touch. Even a hand on his shoulder feels meaningful. The boxing lesson is a metaphor. A sport that demands courage and confrontation represents the same challenges Yuan must face in his love life.

I love learning that Yuan cries while reading and watching sad gay love stories. lmaoooo he's one of us! I wanna get BL recommendations from Yuan. He looks like he knows some good tearjerkers. However, it must be nerve-wracking after he finds out Qian & Lili have been snooping through his room. They know about his gay literature with a suggestive picture of two men on the book cover. It's a revealing clue to his sexuality. When Qian tells him, "If there's anything on your mind, you can tell me," that's like the discreet version of saying, "I know what you are."

The lead goes on a fishing trip. Yuan quits midway, and Qian scolds him for his impatience. I love Yuan's snarky rebuttal: "The most patient one is me."  Hehe, this line is funny because he secretly alludes to his crush on Qian. He has waited for years (and will continue to wait even longer) for Qian to reciprocate his romantic feelings. Fishing, which requires patience and has no guaranteed results, mirrors Yuan's predicament.

Are Qian and Yuan the most injury-prone characters in BL history? So far, every episode has a scene where one of the leads is hurt or sick, and the other person must look after them. This couple has dealt with everything, including bruises, sprained ankles, strained muscles, pneumonia, and even blood clots. The story should make Qian and Yuan work in the medical profession instead of game development. With how often Yuan treats Qian's wounds, he already has the skills to become a nurse or doctor.

This episode is one of my favourites, showcasing how beautifully Unknown can tell a love story. I love how everything comes together, from tender moments to ambiguous interactions. I gasped when the couple suddenly hugged, held my breath when Yuan reached for Qian's seatbelt, and nearly screamed at the near-kiss in the ending. Beyond these juicy moments, the soundtrack and cinematography are stunning. The actors deliver great performances, with Kurt Huang (Yuan) capturing his character's emotional burden.

Episode 5

Episode 5 Review

OMG. I thought the kiss at the start of the episode was real, only for the story to reveal Yuan is dreaming up erotic scenarios in broad daylight lmao. However, the difference between Yuan's fantasy and reality devastates me. When he comes out, Qian's response is harsh. "Did I raise you right? You make me feel like I didn't." Oh damn, the mood of this love story just got dark and heavy. Put this reply under the category of ~what not to say~ when someone opens up to you about their sexuality.

I don't blame San Pang for being confused because Qian and Yuan's spooning in bed is WILD. Two men sleeping beside each other may not always be romantic, but their physical intimacy crosses a line in this case. Yuan's arms wrap around Qian's body like hugging a human pillow. Meanwhile, Qian's ass is nestled near Yuan's groin. No wonder San Pang gets the wrong idea after seeing them in this position. Later, he asks an employee if she sleeps with her sister and comes dangerously close to harassment due to how inappropriate it is. It's hard to keep pretending Qian and Yuan's bond is still brotherly.

This episode introduces Feng, a wealthy investor who used to give Qian money when he was a livestream host. How bizarre is that? We never see these scenes of Qian's past, while the story must reveal everything through dialogue. I have SO many questions. What kind of live streams was Qian hosting? His character doesn't seem charismatic, so how did he entertain an audience? Why would a rich woman give him money over other streamers? Without showing this backstory properly, the series seems to introduce a random love interest to force conflict.

Episode 6

Episode 6 Review

Feng's entire existence feels contrived, like a random character added solely to create conflict. Yuan becomes jealous, even though Qian shows zero romantic interest in her. They aren't even dating. These two are merely business acquaintances. Yet, Yuan spirals out of control, leading to an over-the-top meltdown in the supply room. I thought I'd be emotional over Yuan's confession, but the circumstances seem forced and break my immersion. I'm let down by one of the most pivotal moments of the story.

Yuan's meltdown stems from San Pang filling his head with nonsense earlier. San Pang gives anti-BL relationship advice, discouraging Yuan from having romantic feelings for Qian. Ugh, San Pang is so annoying in this episode. He's also one of the biggest culprits behind the "BUT YOU GUYS ARE BROTHERS" narrative, even though they are not. Yuan is more like an honorary brother to this family, similar to how celebrities receive honorary university degrees. The title is given out of politeness, but he hasn't actually earned it. Can we stop pretending Yuan is Qian's real sibling?

The conflict makes sense at this point in the series. Qian isn't ready to see Yuan in a romantic light, so understandably, he turns down the confession. However, I wish the storyline had been written better to build up to this outcome. Even though Yuan feels heartbroken right now, some distance away from Qian might be for the best. He has spent his entire childhood becoming too attached to Qian. Living apart would help Yuan become more independent, cool down from his feelings, and stop centring his whole world around one person.

Episode 7

Episode 7 Review

THE COLD WAR HAS STARTED. Qian and Yuan are apart for the first time in years, which creates a pretty boring episode lol. The story wants to show Qian is collapsing emotionally without Yuan. But idk… can he agonize more interestingly besides getting drunk and moping around for half an hour? Give us more memorable scenes to highlight what he misses about Yuan. Point out the specific void Yuan leaves in Qian's life instead of relying on vague misery. This arc could have been written so much better.

I'm annoyed we didn't see more exciting scenes during Yuan's time abroad. He's living on his own in a new country. Why not depict his experiences? Now would be the perfect chance to develop Yuan's character without Qian's influence. The story implies Yuan has a life outside of Qian, but we never get to see it. Instead, he's stuck in his room, reading old text messages. The focus on Yuan's love for Qian is redundant since we already know how he feels. Tell me something new about him. What are his aspirations, passions, or routines? I want the details that make him a complex character.

Did Yuan even complete his studies? He returns home abruptly just because Qian sends him a random text message. OMG! The guy I love just summoned me! I must drop out of school immediately and be by his side! Okay, I guess Yuan can continue studying online or whatever… But still, it's pretty funny that he comes home *one minute later* after Qian gives him permission. He wasted no time getting his ass on the next flight back home lol!

Episode 8

Episode 8 Review

After returning home, Yuan's new strategy is to flirt with Qian until they fall in love. If you're wondering what he studied overseas, Yuan has learned the art of seduction and makes subtle moves to hit on Qian. Wake up next to him so he sees your face first thing in the morning. ✔️ Cook homemade meals because the way to a man's heart is through his stomach. ✔️ Put your face as close as possible while gazing into his eyes. ✔️ Yuan 2.0 is way more assertive in expressing his feelings!

Lili and San Pang's romance is an intriguing plot development that challenges Qian's rigid views. San Pang is a close friend who looked after Lili all her life. He's almost seen as part of the family. Now that they're dating, Qian is confronted with the complexities of romance and family. There are nuances he must examine deeply. How do you define family? What is San Pang's role in Lili's life? These questions push Qian to reassess his relationship with Yuan. How would Qian describe his feelings for Yuan if he stopped thinking of him as a brother?

Thanks to Lili for not getting in the way, Qian and Yuan go on another fishing trip. I like how there are parallels to Episode 4, like the seatbelt scene. Yet, the differences show that both characters have changed. Yuan is now assertive and self-assured in his feelings. He seems confident enough to express his affection playfully. Meanwhile, Qian is more self-conscious since he starts questioning the nuances of their relationship. As the episode closes, I'm excited when Yuan initiates physical contact. OMG. Are we getting the steamy sequel to the Fishing Trip Kiss???

Episode 9

Episode 9 Review

Yuan confronts Qian at the start of the episode. "If you like me, is it just because you see us as brothers?" Yuan wants Qian to recognize they have a complex relationship with many dimensions. Qian is so used to defining them only as brothers that he won't consider another possibility. "Do you not want, or do you not dare to want?" This is the BL version of Hamlet's ~to be or not to be~ quote lmao. Yuan suspects Qian does have romantic feelings, but he represses his desires out of fear that they seem unbrotherly.

Unknown, the series title, refers to several uncertainties. One interpretation is that it represents Qian's confusion over his feelings for Yuan. In the early years, he only saw them as brothers, a simple label to describe their bond. The orphan I'm looking after is my "little brother". But as Yuan matures and a romantic attraction develops, their connection becomes ambiguous. Qian doesn't know how to define their relationship anymore. As Qian struggles to understand his love for Yuan, his true feelings remain unknown to him.

WTF is with the ridiculous gangster drama in this episode!? The gang leader has lost his marbles, and all his antics seem hilariously unhinged. These grown men should stop holding a silly grudge against two kids from years ago. Let it goooo. Also, I laughed when Yuan says he ~knows things~ about the gang because he works in "web technology". Can he elaborate on what he means? Is there some dark web where gangsters post gossip online? Please share with the class what web technology informs you about mobster activities.

Episode 10

Episode 10 Review

Qian has a blood clot pressing on his cranial nerves, a condition made worse by his recent fight with Le. He needs surgery, but it comes with potential complications. I have no idea what his medical diagnosis actually means, but it sounds ~serious~. Is he gonna die omg? Considering Qian's daily habits, it's no surprise he has long-term health problems. He drinks too much, smokes constantly, skips meals, overworks himself, and treats everything with headache pills. I'm no doctor, but that lifestyle seems far from healthy.

Qian's mental barrier comes from years of viewing Yuan as a brother. Qian cares for Yuan in the same way as Lili, treating him like another younger sibling. Their closeness was rooted in family affection, and he never thought to question it. However, Yuan's romantic confession challenges Qian's perception of their bond. Innocent gestures, like drying Yuan's hair or sharing a bed, now feel more complicated. Qian must confront the possibility that their relationship has been mislabelled. Instead of brotherly love, his feelings for Yuan may be deeper and more intimate.

Qian's medical diagnosis forces him to face the fragility of life and the uncertainty of the future. The possibility of dying during his operation, or Yuan perishing in an avalanche while abroad, makes him realize how fleeting time is. San Pang encourages him, reminding Qian that life is too short to waste on hesitation. In the final scene, Qian clings to Yuan's hand, showing he has let go of his mental barrier. He embraces his feelings and leaves no room for doubt. The "unknown" that once clouded his emotions is clear, because Qian understands how much Yuan means to him.

Episode 11

Episode 11 Review

SCREAMING at how Yuan immediately takes Qian into the bedroom. Five seconds after Qian reciprocates Yuan's feelings, they jump into sex without wasting time. Yuan moves with the speed of someone seizing a rare window of opportunity. I'm gonna suck his dick before he changes his mind! Qian hesitates and wonders if they're moving too fast, but Yuan is DESPERATE for them to continue. "I've been waiting my whole life for this. You don't know what I dream of at night." Please don't stop the sex train! It must leave the station tonight!

Qian and Yuan's sex scene has several iconic moments, starting with how the couple is making out as they go up the staircase. They are LITERALLY kissing every step along the way, defying any practicality or physical logistics. During their makeout session, there's a moment when Qian goes from kissing Yuan's lips to sucking on his chin instead. When you can't stop kissing a guy, no matter what body part he puts in your mouth lmaooo. However, the WORST moment is when they randomly include the childhood flashbacks in the middle of sex. Eww, get those kids away from the screen!? Talk about a mood killer. 😓

Besides sex, I enjoy watching Qian and Yuan's lovey-dovey moments as a couple. Their restaurant date is super charming! Qian takes Yuan out for a steak dinner, but they end up at a humble street stall instead. Even so, their playful banter, a sudden kiss, and Qian's shyness still make the moment feel romantic. This date suits them perfectly, showing how their love transforms the least glamorous setting into something sweet. I also like seeing Qian act coy when he's in love. He seems slightly embarrassed yet secretly giddy, and his reactions are so endearing.

During a chat, Qian asks, "What about Lili?" Yuan casually replies, "Don't worry about her." Later, Yuan plans to make Qian's favourite dish for dinner, even if Lili doesn't like it. "Who cares about her?" While Yuan's remarks seem dismissive, they reveal a subtle shift in his attitude. His feelings for Lili are purely sisterly, but his love for Qian exceeds a sibling bond. To Yuan, Lili and Qian aren't equals. Lili comes second, while Qian holds the top spot as the most important person in his life.

Qian's test results aren't good. The doctor's ominous diagnosis, "Even if you regain consciousness after the surgery…" offers little comfort. His health adds another unknown in the story, symbolizing the uncertainty of the future. Having witnessed his mother's death, Qian feels cynical about survival. His biggest fear is becoming a burden to his loved ones. What if he goes blind and needs constant care? However, Yuan reassures him with unwavering support. The episode ends as they kiss, hold hands, and walk home. No matter the future, this couple will face their journey together.

Episode 12

Ending Review

The finale shows Qian conquering his mental barriers. He reluctantly accepts Lili's relationship with San Pang after they reveal her pregnancy. Qian fears she might repeat their mom's mistakes, but her reassurances comfort him. Letting go of his cynicism, he supports Lili's happiness. Qian also reflects on his mom's struggles, showing empathy instead of resentment. Talking about his mother openly without antagonizing her indicates his past no longer haunts him. He's healing from his childhood trauma.

Yuan holds Qian's hands and gently says, "Don't be afraid." This simple line carries a quiet but profound strength. Sometimes, offering comfort and reassurance to your partner can feel more romantic than saying I love you. Later, Yuan delivers a heartfelt monologue about "my Wei Qian". His words sound even more poetic in the original language than what the English subtitles can convey. Yuan reaffirms his commitment to stand by Qian's side, share his burdens, and face hardships together. The story captures the understated emotions beautifully, making this my favourite moment in the finale.

I enjoyed the sentimental chats in the finale until Lili's odd remark to her brother. "You're like a father when you provide for the family. You're like a mother when you nag." Excuse me? WTF are these outdated gender norms? She also makes that weird, unnecessary comment about Yuan being her sister-in-law. Okay, what the hell are with these gender stereotypes? You're supposed to be an ally! I did not have Lili's character tarnishing her likability in the final episode on my Bingo card. Lili, please refresh your views for the 21st century.

Near the end of the episode, Yuan walks home along the same route where Qian first found him. Each step reflects his character's growth as Yuan transforms from a helpless orphan into a well-adjusted adult. In his monologue, he reflects, "I've found a home, a family, and the person I want to love for the rest of my life." It's important to note that Yuan goes on this journey alone, emphasizing his self-sufficiency. The story shows that even without Qian, Yuan can stand independently and support himself.

The finale barely mentions Qian's health issues, but the question of his survival after the operation lingers in our minds. Thankfully, the final scene shows him doing well. Enough time has passed for Lili to give birth and raise her child, which suggests that Qian's procedure was successful. The best ending is when Qian kisses Yuan with a lighthearted remark, and his good spirits show that a heavy burden has been lifted. After enduring so much misfortune in their childhoods, it is a relief to see our protagonists finally happy. They deserve a stable life in a loving home together.