What is the most common trope in K-dramas? Two childhood friends or lovers meet as adults and fall in love again. Although “Serendipity’s Embrace” follows this trope, it stands out for its careful writing and the fluid chemistry between the actors on screen.
Popular as “Potato Boy” in “Nevertheless,” Chae Jong-hyeop returns as Kang Hoo-yeong, the romantic hero of “Serendipity’s Embrace.” A genius mathematician, he is an ambivert who does not hesitate to try his luck to rekindle his first love. On the other side, we find Kim So-hyun in the role of Lee Hong-joo, an animation producer who is having difficulty recovering from a breakup and who is still struggling to make a name for herself.
Adapted from a webtoon by Nam Ji-eun and written by Park Geu-ro, the K-drama is a short 8-episode exploration of love, second chances, dreams and friendships. The storyline alternates between high school and the present, which considerably enriches the experience by offering insight into the developments of the main characters. Given the brevity of the series, the focus on supporting characters can be frustrating at times, but the simplicity and charm of the main couple keeps you captivated. The writing doesn’t linger too much on melodrama, preferring to offer light moments that warm your heart.
Despite the length, there is enough conflict in the love story, particularly with a disgruntled mother, to make you root for the couple. However, the overall development of the protagonists seems rushed and sometimes too ideal to be true. Perhaps a glimpse into their adult lives before they met would have provided a better understanding of their personalities.
However, Jong-hyeop and So-hyun compensate for the limitations of the script with their natural complicity on screen. They have a charismatic presence that immediately captures the audience’s attention. The OST is sweet, even if it’s not particularly memorable. The cinematography is smooth, in keeping with the overall theme of the K-drama. If you’re looking for a light and fun K-drama that’s easy to watch, “Serendipity’s Embrace” is for you. It is available on Viki.