Watch: Lee Se Young, Na In Woo, And More Impress At Script Reading For New Drama

Nov 12, 2024

MBC’s upcoming drama “Motel California” (literal title) has shared a sneak peek of its first script reading!

“Motel California” is a romance drama written by Lee Seo Yoon and directed by Jang Joon Ho and Kim Hyung Min. It is based on Shim Yoon Seo’s 2019 novel “Home, Bitter Home” (literal title). The story follows a woman who grows up in a rural motel called Motel California. After escaping her hometown, she returns 12 years later to reconnect with her first love and face new challenges.

At the script reading, the production team was joined by lead cast members Lee Se Young, Na In Woo, Choi Min Soo, Kim Tae Hyeong, Choi Hee Jin, and more. Notably, the tender, heartwarming first-love chemistry between Lee Se Young and Na In Woo added an undeniable sense of romantic excitement to the atmosphere.

Lee Se Young plays Ji Kang Hee, an interior designer with a tough past. Her portrayal captures the character’s bold charm as she receives devoted love from Na In Woo’s character. Lee Se Young brings depth to a woman with a unique background—considering a motel her home and carrying emotional scars from her mixed-ethnicity heritage. Known for her stellar performances in “The Red Sleeve,” “The Story of Park’s Marriage Contract,” and “What Comes After Love,” fans are eager to see Lee Se Young in a new romance drama.

Na In Woo perfectly captures Cheon Yeon Soo, a charming rural veterinarian who reunites with his first love Kang Hee after 12 years. His performance draws viewers in with his warm, endearing charm, portraying a gentle admirer whose pure sense of romance adds to the story’s emotional depth. As a rising star in the world of romantic leads, Na In Woo’s portrayal of this heartfelt first-love story has sparked great anticipation.

Choi Min Soo earned praise for his portrayal of Ji Chun Pil, Kang Hee’s father and the free-spirited, romantic owner of the motel. With his veteran acting skills, Choi Min Soo thoughtfully analyzed each line and added nuanced details, proving why he’s considered an irreplaceable actor.

Kim Tae Hyeong plays Geum Seok Kyung, the sole heir to the elite Young & Rich Hotel, bringing bold charm to his role as he confidently pursues Lee Se Young’s character. Choi Hee Jin portrays Yoon Nan Woo, Yeon Soo’s junior and fellow veterinarian, delivering a bright, cheerful performance that promises an exciting romance. Both lead and supporting actors perfectly fit their roles, creating a synergy that brings the rural village of Hana-eup, the main setting, vividly to life.

After the script reading, the cast shared their thoughts on working together for the first time. Lee Se Young said, “I’m excited to show viewers a new side of myself.” Na In Woo added, “I’m happy, excited, and a little nervous to be part of such a great project.” Choi Min Soo shared, “I hope this drama feels like a happy dream you had after a short nap.”