When it comes to finding something new to binge-watch on Netflix, K-drama fans are absolutely spoilt for choice. The only real “problem” is finding a balance between getting to watch the classic oldie-but-goodie dramas and keeping up with the trendiest new releases. As for the latest addition to our watch lists? Shin Min-a and Kim Seon-ho’s Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha, which just premiered on 28 Aug 2021.
A remake of South Korean film Mr. Hong (2004), the 16-episode series follows Yoon Hye-jin, a dentist who moves from Seoul to the fictional seaside village of Gongjin. There, she meets Hong Doo-shik, the town’s hero and jack of all trades; unfortunately, because Hye-jin runs into a series of obstacles on her first few days in the city, she doesn’t exactly make a good impression.
Despite that Doo-shik acts like he has no time for her shenanigans, it’s totally clear where things are headed! A classic opposites-attract love story awaits — and we list the reasons why it’s definitely worth streaming.
Also read: Kim Seon-Ho Is Currently in Talks to Star in His First Film
Over an hour’s worth of Kim Seon-ho’s dimples twice a week — need we say more? Kidding aside, those who loved Start-Up’s Good Boy will certainly love getting to see Seon-ho play the male lead in a romcom.
Before Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha, his first and last lead role was for a four-episode 2018 drama called You Drive Me Crazy. This time, we get him for 16 full episodes!
Also read: 10 Things to Know About Chae Jong-Hyeop From ‘Nevertheless’
With her dazzling smile and impeccable style, it’s hard to keep our eyes off Shin Min-a. From the get-go, she perfectly portrays Yoon Hye-jin — a misunderstood big-city girl with a heart of gold. Plus, don’t you think she and Kim Seon-ho make such a great pairing? Everyone is raving about the “Dimple Couple!”
Your hearts will surely be set aflutter the moment you watch the scene where Hye-jin first lays her eyes on Doo-shik. (Don’t worry, we won’t spoil exactly how that takes place.) By the time you reach the end of the first episode of Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha, we guarantee you’ll be feeling kilig and eager for more!
Also read: 10 Kilig K-Dramas We Never Get Sick of Watching
If lighthearted K-dramas are more your cup of tea, then Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha will definitely be to your liking! From how Shin Min-a’s character refuses to overcharge patients with unnecessary dental procedures to the way Kim Seon-ho’s character doesn’t hesitate to give one of the town’s grandmas a piggyback ride, the series is sure to be packed with feel-good moments. And during times like these, doesn’t that sound just like the kind of healing we need?
Despite that the plot clearly states that Kim Seon-ho plays the town’s all-around handyman, it’s hard not to laugh every time he pops up on screen doing a whole other job. Add that to the fact that his character, fondly called Chief Hong, seems to witness just about everyone of Yoon Hye-jin’s embarrassing moments!
The thing about small towns is that everyone knows everyone — which means that we’ll be seeing a whole lot of the same people as the show progresses. From the first episode alone, we meet some of the people who make the charming town what it is: an adorable group of grandmas who dote on Chief Hong; a generous restaurant owner who also happens to be Hye-jin’s landlady; and a former musician who now runs a cafe. We can’t wait to see more of them!
Also read: This K-Drama Journal Lets You Keep Track of Every Series You’ve Watched
Need to focus on work? No problem! New episodes of Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha premiere on Netflix every Saturday and Sunday — the perfect treat after a long work week!
The media often sensationalises life in the big city, making us long for that buzzing, always-on-the-go lifestyle. This is one of the things that makes Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha so charming: It centres on the perks and quirks of living in smaller, quieter towns. If you’ve been considering moving out of the metro, the series just might convince you to make it happen!
Also read: Pinoy Shares His Visit to ‘Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha’ Filming Locations
Off to a promising start, the new Netflix series already topped ratings in South Korea on its premiere weekend. Will you be tuning into Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha this Saturday and Sunday?
Featured image credit: TVN via Netflix
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