King The Land Episode 1 “Not So Meet-Cute” Review – Spoiler warning!
2 min read
King The Land kicks off with an entertaining and promising start in Episode 1. The episode introduces us to the King Hotel, where the search for trainees is underway. Among the candidates is Cheon Sa-rang, who surprises the panel with her unconventional demeanor and lack of a B.A. degree. Despite her broken shoe and inability to showcase her piano skills without an instrument, Sa-rang’s upbeat attitude catches their attention.
The story then shifts to Sa-rang’s personal life, where she feels downcast while her friends and roommates attempt to cheer her up. In an effort to lift her spirits, they take her clubbing, which eventually leads to Sa-rang receiving a call informing her that she has been selected for the internship.
Meanwhile, the male lead, Gu Won, makes a grand entrance on his first day as an intern at his own hotel by skydiving. However, his manager, Choi Tae-man, immediately criticizes him for his expensive attire and chaebol-like behavior. Gu Won’s co-worker, No Sang-sik, tries to guide him, but Gu Won fails to comprehend the need for acting inferior.
A humorous situation arises when Gu Won is tasked with making copies but ends up causing chaos by breaking the copier and spilling ink. Unapologetic, Gu Won calls Director Choi to resolve the situation, revealing his identity as Chairman Gu’s son. This leads to a mixture of apologies and offers, including a promotion for Sang-sik.
As the episode progresses, it becomes evident that Sa-rang and Gu Won are on different paths within the hotel. Sa-rang faces challenges as a one-month temp, being looked down upon by her colleagues. On the other hand, Gu Won navigates his position as a potential successor to his father’s empire, adding to the rivalry with his half-sister, Gu Hwa-ran.
The episode skillfully balances comedy and drama, especially through Sa-rang’s misadventures and Gu Won’s internal conflicts. YoonA impresses with her portrayal of Sa-rang, bringing charm and authenticity to the character. The chemistry between YoonA and Lee Junho, who plays Gu Won, shows promise and adds an exciting dynamic to the story.
The pacing of the episode is well-executed, allowing viewers to gradually immerse themselves in the characters’ lives without feeling rushed. The comedic moments are interspersed with glimpses of the deeper conflicts that drive the narrative, creating an engaging balance.
Overall, “Not So Meet-Cute” sets a strong foundation for King The Land, showcasing its potential as a light-hearted romantic comedy. YoonA’s improved acting skills, the chemistry between the lead actors, and the well-crafted storytelling make this series worth watching. With its blend of humor and heartfelt moments, King The Land has the potential to captivate audiences and deliver an enjoyable viewing experience.
