Lee Se-young and Na In-woo are set to grace our screens with their new romance K-drama Motel California (모텔 캘리포니아), and anticipation is building fast. Featuring the beloved childhood-friends-to-lovers trope, the series promises to deliver a heartwarming and emotional story that has already captured the attention of K-drama fans.
With its compelling synopsis, a stellar cast, and a nostalgic storyline, Motel California is gearing up to be a standout series.
Here’s everything you need to know about the upcoming drama, from its plot to its release date and cast.
Motel California Plot
The story centers on Ji Gang-hui, a young woman whose life takes an emotional turn due to the judgmental whispers of her small-town neighbors. Her father owns a motel in their rural hometown, and her mother’s mixed-race background makes her a target for endless gossip and rumors. These experiences push Gang-hui to leave her hometown behind and start anew in Seoul, where she builds a successful career as an interior designer.
Twelve years later, at the peak of her career, Gang-hui decides to return to her hometown. Her return brings her face-to-face with her first love, Cheon Yeon-su, a local veterinarian who has quietly loved her all these years. Yeon-su, having endured matchmaking attempts and small-town gossip, now finds himself at a crossroads. Rumors about his relationship with a fellow veterinarian swirl, yet his heart still belongs to Gang-hui.
The reunion stirs unresolved emotions for both of them. Will Gang-hui and Yeon-su be able to navigate the mess of their past and present? Can they overcome misunderstandings and rekindle their connection, or will the weight of their histories keep them apart?
Motel California Cast
Directed by Kim Hyung-min, Motel California boasts a talented cast that brings its layered characters to life.
- Lee Se-young as Ji Gang-hui: Known for her standout roles in What Comes After Love and The Red Sleeve, Lee Se-young portrays the ambitious and resilient Ji Gang-hui, a woman torn between her hometown’s painful memories and the love she left behind.
- Na In-woo as Cheon Yeon-su: A familiar face from Marry My Husband, Na In-woo steps into the role of the kind-hearted veterinarian who has only ever loved Gang-hui, despite the complexities of small-town life.
- Choi Min-soo as Ji Chun-pil: Gang-hui’s father, whose strained relationship with her adds another layer of tension to the story.
- Kim Tae-hyeong as Geum Seok-gyeong and Choi Hee-jin as Yun Nan-u: Supporting characters who add depth to the town’s dynamics and the main storyline.
The chemistry between Lee Se-young and Na In-woo is highly anticipated, as their combined talent promises to deliver a romance that is both heartfelt and memorable.
Motel California Release Date and Streaming Details
Motel California will air on MBC’s Friday and Saturday 21:50 PM KST time slot, taking over from When The Phone Rings. The series is set to premiere on January 10, 2025, and will consist of 12 episodes, with two episodes released weekly. For international viewers, the drama will be available for streaming on Viki, making it accessible to a global audience.
Why You Should Watch Motel California
Motel California combines the charm of a small-town romance with the depth of personal growth and reconciliation. It explores themes of identity, family, and love while weaving a narrative that balances emotional intensity with heartfelt moments. With Lee Se-young and Na In-woo at the helm, the show promises not just compelling performances but also a story that resonates with audiences. Whether you’re a fan of the childhood-friends-to-lovers trope or just looking for a touching romance to start the year, Motel California should be on your watchlist.
Mark your calendars, because this K-drama is all set to bring nostalgia, love, and drama straight to your screens. Don’t miss the journey of Ji Gang-hui and Cheon Yeon-su as they rediscover themselves and each other in Motel California.