The much-anticipated "Love Next Door" has finally dropped, and I must say, it lives up to the hype. Here’s a quick rundown of what happens: The show kicks off with a familiar and comforting scene—a group of women gathered together, chatting about their children. These aren't just any children, though; they’re the pride of their mothers and thriving in their respective fields.
One of these children is Choi Seung-Hyo, a young and successful architect. He’s not just accomplished in his career but also known for his good looks and impeccable manners. Seung-Hyo’s charm and respect towards his elders make him a role model in his community, a figure of admiration that mothers love to brag about.
On the other hand, we have Bae Seok-Ryu, Seung-Hyo’s childhood friend, who is his complete opposite in many ways. She’s been living and working in the United States, where she built an impressive career and even got engaged. As a child, Seok-Ryu was a bright academic star—sharp, ambitious, and always striving for more.
Despite their differences, Seung-Hyo and Seok-Ryu were inseparable as children, forming a deep bond that endured through their years apart. Now, after many years, Seok-Ryu has returned to South Korea. But something is different. All isn’t well in her world. She’s called off her engagement and seems to be carrying the weight of something heavy on her shoulders.
But the question remains—why did she break off her engagement? What has happened in her life that brought her back home with a heart full of unresolved emotions? The first episode leaves us with these burning questions, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of the complexities of Seok-Ryu's life and her reunion with Seung-Hyo. The intrigue is just beginning, and I can't wait to see how their story unfolds.
The show begins at a measured pace, taking its time to introduce the key characters and establish the world they inhabit. Rather than diving straight into the action, the narrative opts for a more thoughtful approach, allowing the audience to gradually get acquainted with the individuals who will shape the unfolding story. Each character is carefully crafted, and their introductions serve to reveal the intricate layers of their personalities, backgrounds, and relationships.
However, once the characters are fully introduced and their initial backstories are laid out, the episode shifts gears and the pacing picks up significantly. What begins as a slow build quickly transitions into a dynamic and engaging storyline. The relationships that were hinted at earlier start to take shape, and the various plot threads begin to intertwine, creating a sense of momentum that propels the story forward.
Jung Hae-in delivers an exceptional performance as Choi Seung-Hyo, bringing depth and nuance to the character. His portrayal is nothing short of captivating, as he effortlessly embodies the role of a young, successful architect who is both charming and deeply rooted in tradition. With his natural acting style, Jung Hae-in brings Seung-Hyo to life in a way that feels authentic and relatable. Jung So-min as Bae Seok-ryu also does a good job of being a quirky girl.
Final Score- [8/10]
Reviewed by - Neerja Choudhuri
Follow @NeerjaCH on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times