Monday, October 7, 2024 – Love Next Door aired its last episode on Netflix this past weekend. As someone who thoroughly enjoys slice-of-life, healing Korean dramas, this was such a delightful watch and it was one of those dramas that was hard to say goodbye to.
Summary:
Love Next Door follows two childhood friends who both found themselves back in their childhood neighborhood in their thirties.
After 10 years of living abroad, Bae Seok Ryu (played by Jung So Min) surprises everyone when she breaks off her engagement, quits her job, and moves back home feeling burnt out, and tired.
Choi Seung Hyo (played by Jung Hae In), a successful architect opens a firm right in his childhood neighborhood and moves back to his old bedroom, right next door to Bae Seok Ryu. We follow as they both resolve things from their past and work to build an ideal future for themselves.
This story is about healing from the past and rediscovering who you are and what brings you joy.
Characters:
We not only get phenomenal main leads in Love Next Door, but we also get to fall in love with the supporting characters who each have their own storylines and are dealing with their triumphs and challenges.
The chemistry is apparent not only between the leading couple but between the entire cast as well. Within the families and friend groups, you will find an authentic and heartfelt connection as the characters interact with one another. It is something that definitely makes this drama special.
OST (Original Soundtrack)
The soundtrack to this series gives very soft, chilled-out vibes.
Comparing it to other iconic soundtracks like Hometown Cha Cha Cha or My Demon, I don’t think the songs were as memorable or catchy but I think that is actually what I liked about it. The storyline was soft and comforting and the soundtrack, especially “What are we” by Ha Sunwoon, matched that theme perfectly.
Who Should Watch Love Next Door?
You should watch Love Next Door if you enjoy healing, slice-of-life dramas like Hometown Cha Cha Cha or Welcome to Samdari.
If you are new to this genre of Kdrama, Love Next Door is a great introduction.
If you are feeling burnt out, exhausted, and need rest, recovery, and healing, I highly recommend diving headfirst into this genre. I always find wisdom, comfort, and validity in each series.
