Based on a popular online novel, the Korean drama “When the Phone Rings” tells the story of an arranged marriage between Baek Sa Eon (Yoo Yeon Seok) and Hong Hee Joo (Chae Soo Bin). Their romance begins to blossom after a threatening phone call.
Soompi page pointed out 3 reasons why the audience should watch this movie.
Unique blend of romance and thriller
According to Soompi, “When the Phone Rings” cleverly combines romantic elements with thrilling, suspenseful elements. The male lead Baek Sa Eon is suddenly caught up in a series of unpredictable events when he receives a threatening call that his wife Hong Hee Joo has been kidnapped.
Hee Joo decides to use the kidnapping incident to change her life, and Sa Eon sets out to track down the mysterious caller. In the process, they begin to discover new sides of each other. The emotional journey and unexpected changes in their relationship will captivate viewers.
Screenwriter Kim Ji Woon explained, “Although the main genre is romance, the drama flexibly switches between various genres from romantic comedy, mystery, thriller, and even action, reflecting the characters’ evolving emotions.”
Director Park Sang Woo added, “Although it may seem like a love-hate relationship in an arranged marriage at first, it is actually a story about true love that has lasted for over 20 years.”
Acting by Yoo Yeon Seok and Chae Soo Bin
In “When the Phone Rings,” Yoo Yeon Seok takes on the role of Baek Sa Eon, the youngest presidential office spokesman ever. He has almost everything: family background, looks, and talent, everything looks perfect.
With sharp speaking skills, Baek Sa Eon is a rising politician who shapes public opinion and gains strong trust and support.
Chae Soo Bin plays Hong Hee Joo, the wife of Sa Eon, a sign language interpreter struggling with selective mutism.
Even though their professions require constant communication with others, Sa Eon and Hee Joo cannot really communicate with each other.
Yoo Yeon Seok and Chae Soo Bin had a great chemistry and showed off their ability to blend into their characters.
The mobile phone changes relationships
In the drama, Sa Eon and Hee Joo are a completely estranged couple who barely speak to each other at home. However, their seemingly perfect life is turned upside down after a sudden threatening phone call.
The phone is an important prop in the story, playing a role in disrupting the main couple's relationship.
How the phone affects their lives, Sa Eon's relentless pursuit of the caller's identity, and the mysterious phone conversations will surely pique viewers' curiosity.
Currently, "When the phone rings" has aired the first two episodes and received very positive feedback.
