Love in the Big City, the highly anticipated eight-part BL drama, is set to premiere on TVING on October 21. Based on the best-selling novel by Park Sang-young, this trendy series has also released a few stills. Love in the Big City will be available on TVING, with episodes released twice weekly, starting Monday, October 21, 2024.
The drama will feature a total of eight episodes, each around 50 minutes long, and will air two episodes per week. For viewers located outside South Korea, streaming platforms offering TVING content may provide access. The makers are yet to announce international streaming options.
Disclaimer: This article contains spoilers for Love in the Big City. Readers' discretion is advised.
Love in the Big City - Plot and cast
Adapted from Park Sang-young’s novel Love in the Big City, which sold over 100,000 copies in Korea, the drama delves into themes of youth, love, and city life. The novel was also nominated for prestigious awards, including the Booker Prize and the Dublin Literature Prize. The story offers an in-depth exploration of the complexities of living in a bustling metropolis, where personal and emotional journeys take center stage.
The TVING drama focuses on the character Go Young, played by Nam Yoon-soo, an actor known for his roles in Human Class and Today's Webtoon. Go Young’s journey spans from his 20s to her 30s, navigating romantic encounters, heartbreaks, and self-discovery. His journey is supported by a stellar cast, including Lee Soo-kyung as Mi-ae, Kwon Hyuk as Nam-gyu, and Jin Ho-eun as Gyu-ho.
Love in the Big City also features Na Hyun-woo and Oh Hyun-kyung in key roles, adding emotional weight to Go Young’s story. Notably, the series’ production boasts four prominent directors: Heo Jin-ho, Hong Ji-young, Son Tae-gyeom, and Kim Se-in—each of whom brings their style to their respective episodes.
Storyline and Episodes Breakdown
Episodes 1 & 2 -Mi-ae
Directed by Son Tae-gyeom, these episodes revolve around Mi-ae, Go Young’s carefree roommate, and her first love, Nam-gyu. The character Mi-ae, played by Lee Soo-kyung, adds humor and depth to the narrative. Kwon Hyuk portrays Nam-gyu, making this segment a heartfelt introduction to the series.
Episodes 3 & 4 -A Taste of the Universe of Sea Bass
This segment focuses on Go Young’s complex relationship with her terminally ill mother and Yeong-su, a man she meets in a philosophy class. Directed by melodrama expert Heo Jin-ho, this part of the story beautifully explores themes of life, death, and love. Na Hyun-woo and Oh Hyun-kyung round out the cast, portraying Yeong-su and Go Young’s mother, respectively.
Episodes 5 & 6 -Love in the City
Directed by Hong Ji-young, these two episodes dive into Go Young’s long-term relationship with Gyu-ho, a bartender who brings sweetness and boredom into her life. Jin Ho-eun plays Gyu-ho, offering viewers an honest portrayal of modern romance.
Episodes 7 & 8 -Late Rainy Season Vacation
The finale, directed by Kim Se-in, takes the story to Bangkok, where Go Young faces the pain of loss and longing for the past. Kim Won-joong makes his acting debut as Habibi, adding a layer of mystery and depth to the story’s final act.
The drama features two gay male protagonists, challenging the traditional heterosexual norms in South Korea. With a strong direction team and cast, fans can look forward to the fresh perspective the drama offers.