- Ratings: IMDB: ?/10 MyDramaList: ?/10
- Release Date: January 10, 2025
- Genre: Romance
- Country of Origin: South Korea
- Director: Kim Hyung-min, Lee Jae-jin
- Language: Korean
Where to watch
MBC
Special teaser
On December 25, “Motel California” released a special teaser in celebration of Christmas, drawing attention. The teaser begins with the people of “Hana-eup” holding a party in the lobby of Motel California, bringing a festive vibe. Interestingly, instead of singing Christmas carols, they sing the “Happy Birthday” song. It is then revealed that both Chun-pil and Kang-hee share a birthday on December 25, adding a fun twist. The contrast between Chun-pil’s excitement over the Christmas birthday celebration and Kang-hee’s unenthused reaction brings laughter.
The teaser also highlights the sweet moments of Kang-hee and Yeon-soo as a couple celebrating Christmas. Yeon-soo transforms into an oversized Santa just for Kang-hee, delivering an adorable, heartfelt confession, “Because I like you! I’ve always liked you!” Their romantic moments continue, building anticipation and excitement. The teaser features the couple sitting close together on the same bed, sharing playful affection, which is humorously interrupted by Chun-pil’s over-the-top advice “Daughter, make sure to use contraception~“, adding a comedic element.
Summary
“Motel California” is a first love remodeling romance drama set in a rural area about a woman who was born and raised in a motel and reunites with her first love in her hometown she ran away from 12 years ago. Based on the popular 2019 novel “Home, Bitter Home” by Shim Yoon-seo, the drama stars “trustworthy romance expert” Lee Se-young (as Ji Kang-hee), Na In-woo (as Cheon Yeon-soo), known for capturing hearts in “River Where the Moon Rises” and “Marry My Husband”, seasoned veteran actor Choi Min-soo (as Ji Chun-pil) among others, promising a stellar cast.
Cast
- Lee Se-young – Ji Kang-hee
- Na In-woo – Cheon Yeon-soo
- Kim Tae-hyung – Geum Seok-kyung
- Choi Min-soo – Ji Chun-pil
- Choi Hee-jin – Yoon Nan-woo
Other information
His agency Hanada Company stated, “After receiving a Level 4 supplementary service classification in his physical examination, he awaited enlistment but did not receive a summons from the Military Manpower Administration within three years, making him eligible for exemption.” However, the agency refrained from commenting on the specific reasons behind his Level 4 classification.
Besides, the character posters featuring Lee Se-young, Na In-woo, Choi Min-soo, Kim Tae-hyung and Choi Hee-jin were unveiled.
The five character posters showcase the distinctive faces and charms of the cast, raising expectations among viewers.
Kang-hee stands out with her bright chestnut hair, mysterious eyes and freckled cheeks, exuding exotic appeal. The line “I wish you could be my first. Firsts are the purest“, paired with her endearing visuals and eyes brimming with emotion, perfectly captures the essence of an “unforgettable first love”. Meanwhile, Yeon-soo embodies a pure and steadfast romantic, gazing solely at Kang-hee. Standing alone on a snowy rooftop with a wistful expression, his line “You’re my first. That’s why I said I’ll wait” stirs viewers’ hearts with a warm sense of healing.
Chun-pil draws attention as he sits in the Motel California lobby with an extraordinary presence. Defying the stereotype of a shabby, dim countryside motel, the vibrant Christmas tree and romantic ambiance enhance the intrigue. Chun-pil’s philosophical line “People go to motels when they’re tired because they need to rest comfortably” teases warm stories unfolding in this setting.
Seok-kyung exudes the charm of a dashing city man, sharply contrasting the rural Hana-eup landscape, with his stylish suit and hip sunglasses. His witty line “I almost said ‘You’re the first woman to treat me like this’” reflects his confidence and humor. Meanwhile, Nan-woo captivates with her innocent and radiant beauty, further amplified by her line “Yeon-soo, what are you doing for Christmas?“—sure to stir Yeon-soo’s long-held feelings for Kang-hee. Their involvement in a love rectangle alongside Kang-hee and Yeon-soo promises exciting developments in Hana-eup.