"Motel California" kicked off its first episode on January 10, and it did not hold back! Viewers were instantly captivated by Lee Se Young and Na In Woo’s bold performances and deep emotional connection, setting the stage for a whirlwind romance full of longing and heartbreak.
The first episode takes us to the year 2013 in the rural town of Hana-eup, where we meet Ji Kang Hee (played by Lee Se Young) and Cheon Yeon Soo (played by Na In Woo)—two childhood sweethearts who’ve been inseparable since they were nine. But after an emotional breakup, they carry the heavy memory of their love for more than a decade.
The episode started with a powerful scene where Kang Hee decides to leave her painful past behind and move to Seoul. She is met with support and silence from her father and Yeon Soo, who, although against her decision, doesn’t stop her. Before leaving, Kang Hee makes a shocking declaration, telling Yeon Soo, "I will never return." And in a twist that left fans gasping, she asks him, "Do you want to sleep with me?" Their goodbye turns into a first-love moment neither will ever forget, as they share their first intimate experience together, setting the stage for their painful parting.
Fast forward to 2023, and things have drastically changed. Yeon Soo is now a successful veterinarian, still living in Hana-eup, while Kang Hee, who left Seoul and severed all contact, is struggling. She faces hardships as an interior designer, trying to find her place in a world that’s rejected her.
Kang Hee gets a break when she gets an interview at the prestigious Moment interior company. However, she faces discrimination and is turned away by a secretary. But remembering her first love, Yeon Soo, Kang Hee decides to go back and confront the secretary, eventually landing a three-month internship. From there, Kang Hee’s journey begins to evolve, and she impresses clients like the eccentric Seok Kyung.
But just when it seemed like things were looking up for Kang Hee, fate steps in. Yeon Soo, still hung up on his lost love, comes to Seoul hoping to find her. He spots her with Seok Kyung at a café, but before he can approach her, the years of separation hit hard. Yeon Soo is left broken-hearted, not knowing where to go from here.
Meanwhile, Kang Hee can’t escape the memories of her first love, with snowfall triggering her nostalgic memories of Yeon Soo. Fans were treated to a heartwarming and bittersweet moment when the two long for each other while watching the snow fall—just as they did when they were children.
As the episode ends, Kang Hee unexpectedly returns to Hana-eup, where Yeon Soo is mourning the death of his grandfather. The town buzzes with gossip about her arrival, and when they finally reunite, the emotional intensity is off the charts. Yeon Soo breaks down in tears, showing just how much he’s been holding in for years, leaving Kang Hee stunned by how much he’s changed. Their reunion sparks excitement for what’s to come in this emotional rollercoaster of a romance.
The first episode of Motel California is a beautiful start to what promises to be a captivating drama full of complex emotions and stunning performances. Lee Se Young and Na In Woo completely nail their roles, balancing youthful dreams, painful loneliness, and the bittersweet pull of first love. Fans are already hooked, eager to see how their relationship will unfold as the drama continues. Stay tuned for more heart-wrenching moments and sizzling chemistry between Kang Hee and Yeon Soo.
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