Hey, everyone! How are you all doing? Today, I’m excited to dive into a review of King the Land, a drama that has captivated audiences globally with its delightful mix of workplace romance set against the backdrop of a luxurious hotel. This isn’t just another chaebol drama; it’s a heartfelt narrative about discovering true connections amidst a world of insincere smiles and corporate machinations.
King the Land was broadcast on JTBC from June 17 to August 6, 2023, airing every Saturday and Sunday at 22:30 (KST) over 16 episodes. Each episode lasts approximately 60 to 70 minutes, making it ideal for a weekend binge-watch. The series features Lee Jun-ho and Im Yoon-ah, two beloved figures in K-entertainment, in a tale that honors both professional achievements and personal development.
What distinguishes King the Land from typical workplace romances is its dedication to authentic service excellence within the hospitality sector. The hotel setting isn’t just a backdrop; the show genuinely delves into what it means to provide outstanding service and how this ethos can transform both businesses and personal relationships. The series strikes a perfect balance between light humor and significant character evolution.
The Heir Who Hates Smiles Meets the Woman Who Can’t Stop Smiling
King the Land narrates the tale of Gu Won, the heir to The King Group, a prestigious hotel empire, caught in a battle for inheritance, and Cheon Sa-rang, a hotel staff member who always beams with a smile until she encounters Gu Won. What begins as a classic enemies-to-lovers plot develops into a more nuanced and emotionally rewarding story.
The central theme isn’t solely about romance; it’s about being genuine in a world that demands pretense. Gu Won has become wary of smiles as he’s surrounded by people who feign emotions to win his favor. Sa-rang’s genuine warmth becomes both a mystery he aims to unravel and a solace he never realized he needed.
The show skillfully intertwines various plots involving hotel management, family issues, and workplace dynamics. Each episode builds upon the previous, ensuring a satisfying progression that never feels hurried or contrived. The writers recognize that the best romantic comedies are founded on strong character development rather than just adorable moments.
Gu Won: The Cold Heir Learning to Feel Again
Lee Jun-ho delivers an outstanding performance as Gu Won, portraying a character who is both privileged and isolated, confident yet vulnerable. His depiction captures the complexity of someone possessing every material need but lacking genuine human interaction. Gu Won isn’t your typical cold chaebol; he’s a person who has constructed barriers to shield himself from a world that views him as a trophy rather than an individual.
Born into elegance and charisma, Gu Won struggles to experience love and harbors deep-seated resentment towards smiles. Jun-ho’s performance illustrates why this resentment exists without justifying his character’s sometimes harsh demeanor. We witness him slowly learn to differentiate between false politeness and true compassion, with Sa-rang as his inadvertent guide.
The character growth is gradual and credible. Gu Won doesn’t abruptly become warm and affectionate; instead, he learns to express his innate kindness in healthier ways. His journey from skepticism to trust forms the emotional core of the entire series.
Cheon Sa-rang: More Than Just a Pretty Smile
Im Yoon-ah brings remarkable depth to Cheon Sa-rang, a character who might have easily fallen into the