Title: Lee Se-Young and Na In-Woo's Tension in 'Motel California'
Title: Lee Se-Young and Na In-Woo's Tension in 'Motel California'
The title "Motel California" might sound like a fascinating getaway, but for Kang-hee, one of the leading characters in the Korean drama by the same name, it's far from ideal. Kang-hee, played by Lee Se-young, spent her childhood in this very motel where her father often overlooked the bills and the guests hardly behaved themselves. As a result, her neighbors viewed her as a troublemaker, a label she carried with a chip on her shoulder.
Growing up, Kang-hee always felt different from her friends, not just because of the motel's chaotic environment. Her hazel eyes and freckles were a testament to her mixed race heritage, which unfortunately led to discrimination.
Her best friend since childhood was the lovable, overweight Yeon-soo, portrayed by Na In-woo. In elementary school, Yeon-soo declared they'd marry one day, a notion Kang-hee brushed aside as fanciful. However, his feelings for her remained unchanged throughout the years. By high school, Kang-hee was eager to venture out of her small town for college in Seoul. Before leaving, she made him vow to never change – to never lose weight, remove his glasses, or smile for anyone the way he smiled at her. She loved him just as he was, yet didn't want to remain in his orbit.
The ensuing decade in Seoul was more challenging than Kang-hee anticipated. Succeeding in academia and securing a good job was no easy feat, especially with discrimination against her mixed heritage background. Despite her struggles, Kang-hee felt a lingering pull towards Yeon-soo.
Time took its toll on Yeon-soo too. Now a veterinarian in their hometown, he had shed some weight and started wearing contacts. His feelings for Kang-hee remained constant, but she was conspicuously absent from his life. Yeon-soo couldn't help but hope that they'd finally cross paths one day in Seoul.
As a love story, "Motel California" offers a refreshingly uplifting narrative. At its core, it's a deeply emotional tale that encourages viewers to embrace their own identities and not be swayed by the negative opinions of others.
Lee Se-young and Na In-woo share an undeniable on-screen chemistry, building upon their individual successes in previous projects. Lee Se-young's acting prowess is evident in her role in "What Comes After Love," while Na In-woo shines in "Marry My Husband." The drama also features an impressive supporting cast, including Seo Ye-hwa and Kim Tae-hyeong, showcasing the diverse and captivating world of South Korean drama.
Directed by Jang Joon-ho, the series boasts a compelling narrative that promises to touch the hearts of viewers through its raw emotional depth and complex characters. Set against the backdrop of a secluded motel and the emotional turmoil of its residents, "Motel California" is a captivating tale of love, tolerance, and the power of self-acceptance.
Lee Se-young, the actress who portrays Kang-hee, gained recognition for her role in the K-drama "Motel California" and previously in "What Comes After Love."Woo Mi-hwa, a renowned director, is known for her ability to capture the raw emotions and complex characters in K-dramas like "Motel California."The K-drama "Motel California" is available for streaming on the popular platform viki.com, offering viewers the opportunity to explore this captivating series.Na In-woo, who plays Yeon-soo in "Motel California," showcases his talent in this K-drama, following his successful role in "Marry My Husband.""Motel California" is set in Korea and highlights the emotional journey of its characters, delivering a powerful message about self-acceptance and tolerance.