This review may contain spoilers
Love Next Door — A Quietly Stirring Drama That Sneaks Up on You
### Plot Summary
**Love Next Door** follows Seok Ryu (Jung So Min), a woman who returns to Seoul after quitting her job, hinting at a complex personal history and emotional burnout. She’s emotionally raw, disorganized, and deeply affected by her past, which starkly contrasts with Seung Hyo (Jung Hae In), who appears distant and emotionally restrained, yet driven by his own quiet intensity. Their reunion brings old memories and new tensions to the surface as they navigate family dynamics, repressed feelings, and unresolved grief. The show leans more into slice-of-life and melodrama than a standard rom-com, weaving moments of sorrow and humor to explore the characters’ inner worlds.
### Character Arcs
Seok Ryu, the eldest daughter from a low-income family, is shaped by pressure to succeed, resulting in perfectionism and emotional suppression. Her burnout leads to a return home, where she seeks solace and begins confronting long-suppressed pain. The drama reveals that beneath her breakup and career shift lies a deeper truth: she has been silently battling cancer, keeping it from those closest to her out of guilt and fear of being a burden. On the other side, Seung Hyo, raised largely by Seok Ryu’s mother due to his absentee parents, struggles with abandonment issues masked by emotional aloofness. His feelings for Seok Ryu are evident but concealed under a façade of coldness, gradually unraveling as their relationship deepens. His seemingly cold demeanor stems from unresolved emotions and past neglect, adding layers to his complicated affection for Seok Ryu.
### Performances & Chemistry
This drama marked Jung Hae In’s refreshing entry into the rom-com genre. While his character may come across as cold or even arrogant, his subdued way of expressing affection feels raw and believable. He demonstrates care through consistent support and quiet acts of service. Jung So Min also delivers a compelling performance as Seok Ryu, capturing her vulnerability and strength. Their chemistry is undeniable, making their slow-burn romance authentic and emotionally resonant. Though the dynamic between them can feel immature at times, especially in their bickering, it’s also part of what makes their connection endearing.
### Secondary Characters & Exes
The portrayal of exes in this drama also stood out for avoiding tired clichés. Seo Ji Hye’s Tae Hui was compelling and relatable—her arc from youthful passion to seeking emotional security as she aged felt honest and grounded. In contrast, Seok Ryu’s ex, Hyeon Jun, was frustrating. His persistent behavior, emotional insensitivity, and inability to support her through her illness revealed a lack of depth in his love for her. He was emotionally unintelligent, and though he stayed during treatment, he failed to meet her emotional needs, ultimately justifying their breakup. Still, their parting was handled maturely, emphasizing growth over blame.
### Thematic Depth
While the cancer plotline provided emotional weight, some might feel it was unnecessary, and that conflict could have emerged through more grounded themes like societal expectations or toxic relationships. Seung Hyo’s confrontation with Seok Ryu for hiding her illness was intense but also valid—his pain and guilt felt real. Her silence, though understandable, left those around her feeling helpless. Her ex’s passive involvement made her isolation worse, showing how surface-level support can’t substitute for genuine emotional connection. The emotional arcs were at times overwhelming but also very human. The drama shined when it showed vulnerability, emotional messiness, and reconciliation.
### Pacing & Writing Flaws
Some aspects didn’t work as well. The early episodes moved slowly, especially the scenes in the architecture firm which felt like filler. Seung Hyo’s erratic mood swings were jarring, and Seok Ryu’s constant apologizing—even when unjustified—was frustrating, especially regarding her illness. Her people-pleasing tendencies were particularly noticeable in her interactions with Seung Hyo’s ex, and her jealousy over his female relationships revealed the deeper emotional connection she felt toward him. Mo Eum’s eagerness to bond with Yeon Du felt rushed, and her jumping into a parental role lacked realism. Additionally, the delay in clarifying Dan Oh’s relationship to Yeon Du was confusing. Dong Jin’s subplot needed more attention, though his emotional breakthrough in episode 13 was a standout. His relationship with Na Yun had potential that wasn’t fully explored.
### Highlights & Direction
On a brighter note, this drama left an emotional imprint. The direction, performances, and cinematography created genuinely touching moments. Episodes 11–15 were especially powerful, delivering everything from heartbreak to catharsis. The pool scene, the bike ride, and the flower field kiss were visually stunning. The evolving romance between the leads was gradual and tender, marked by deepening trust and affection. Small touches, like pet names and callbacks to childhood memories, added depth.
### Supporting Cast & Community
The supporting characters were also a major strength. Their arcs, particularly the parents, added warmth and complexity. The friendship between Mi Suk and Hye Suk and the brotherly bond between the dads were particularly heartwarming. The drama explored themes like friendship, loss, identity, and reconciliation with nuance. The portrayal of a tightly-knit community brought humor and realism, balancing privacy with belonging.
### Symbolism & Music
The symbolism throughout was thoughtful, from Seung Hyo finding Seok Ryu at the same beach she once found him, to the shared time capsules and mirrored moments that underscored their emotional growth. These full-circle moments highlighted the richness of their history and the evolution of their bond. The OST added emotional resonance, with standout tracks like “Wall” by Kwon Jin Ah, “What Are We” by Ha Sung Woon, and “The Truth” by Jung Hae In himself. These songs amplified the emotional highs and lows of each episode, elevating the viewing experience.
### Final Thoughts
In the end, **Love Next Door** was more than just a drama—it felt like an experience. The blend of heartfelt storytelling, complex characters, and emotional realism made it unforgettable. While it had flaws—slow pacing in parts, underdeveloped subplots, and some frustrating character decisions—it delivered emotional depth and relatable truths. The ending, while open-ended, felt honest and hopeful, suggesting new beginnings rather than final conclusions. I would absolutely rewatch it. It’s a drama I see becoming a comfort watch, one that lingers long after it ends. Though a traditional wedding scene was missing, the slice-of-life closure felt more sincere. I’d love to see a spin-off with Mo Eum and Dan Oh or even a follow-up on Lavender’s retirement travels. The idea that understanding matters more than love was a central takeaway. Loving someone without understanding them can only go so far—but to be loved and understood is what truly sustains a relationship. This theme was embodied in the contrast between the leads and their exes.
Despite its imperfections, I’d give **Love Next Door** a solid **8.0/10** for the emotional impact, rich character work, and meaningful storytelling. It’s a show that made me feel deeply, think reflectively, and appreciate the messiness of love and family. A heartfelt recommendation for anyone seeking a drama with sincerity, soul, and something a little different.
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IRRITATING FEMALE LEAD
IRRITATING FEMALE LEAD, BUT THE DRAMA IN GENERAL IS A ONE TIME WATCH.- BEST FRIENDS CONCEPT
- GOOD SECOND AND THIRD LEAD COUPLES
- EVEN A GOOD VILLIAN BUT JUST THE HEROINE SPOILS THE ENTIRE DRAMA, BUT THE HEROINE CHARACTER MATURES A BIT AFTER 15TH EPISODE BUT UNTIL THEN YOU WILL DEFINITELY HAVE A DILEMMA IF WE SHOULD DROP THIS DRAMA. I STUCK AROUND AS I LIKED THE OTHER CHARACTERS IN THE DRAMA.
- NOT A DRAMA THAT WILL MAKE YOU JAW DROP WITH THE ROMANTIC SCENES AS IT WILL BE DEFINITELY SPOILED BY THE FEMALE LEAD.
- THIS DRAMA IS A MERE 7 ONLY BECAUSE OF HER .
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WORST MAX ACTRESS
- This drama is a wholesome drama if we take out the character Xu Qin (or) Meng Qin. She is overacting, no acting sense, pulling down Song Yan's performance and the entire team's performance.- All the support actors and Yang Yang(Song Yan) did an awesome job and the entire team are a group of stunning professionals.
- This drama is not worth(Just because of Xu Qin or Meng Qin) of a rating of 8.2 because it becomes boring and lagging after some time.
- Love : Doesn't feel like it at all (or) the girl makes it worse.
- Firefighters: Salute to the actors and also real firefighters in the entire world
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WORST CASTING
I'm honestly confused about how this drama has an 8.1 rating. I get that everyone has different tastes, but in my opinion, the heroine just doesn't suit the character at all. She doesn't come across as bubbly, and her innocence is completely missing. As for the romance, I don’t feel any chemistry between the leads—they just don’t seem compatible. In fact, the second leads are much more appealing than the main ones.While the actors did an okay job, I think the casting choices really let the drama down. Honestly, it feels like a waste of time, and I wouldn’t recommend it to anyone. If you’re looking for something to watch, you’re better off rewatching your favorite drama. The actors look too young to pull off these attitude-heavy roles, and it just doesn’t suit their personalities.
The guy, as "DEMO, in GO GO SQUID" was great—he’s definitely more suited for a bubbly, innocent hero rather than one with an arrogant attitude. As for the girl, I loved her in "Gank Your Heart," but here, every time I see her, I can’t help but feel frustrated with her performance.
And don’t even get me started on her wardrobe—it’s honestly so bad, I can't even put it into words. It’s hard to look past, and she doesn’t seem cute at all in those outfits.
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Pretty Faces, Empty Plot: A Mockery of Real Sacrifice
Rating: 3/10Genres: Military, Romance, Drama
Let me start with a question: While protecting a country, do soldiers or volunteers truly have the time to go sightseeing, take photos, and romance their partner in the middle of missions? Even if it’s a drama, it should carry a basic sense of realism. A good story connects with its audience through emotion and believability—not fantasy masquerading as reality.
In today’s tech-heavy, image-driven world, we’re heavily influenced by what we watch. That’s why directors and writers have a responsibility. You don’t always have to show a perfect or politically correct message—but don’t push the wrong one either. And actors should also be mindful of the stories they choose to represent.
If you want to create a light romantic drama, then do it honestly—with a normal storyline. Don’t hide behind military or soldier-based themes just to insert romantic fluff. It’s cheap storytelling, and it does a huge disservice to the people whose real lives involve sacrifice, danger, and duty.
Story / Plot (2/10)
This drama started off okay, but quickly derailed into chaos. I had to force myself to finish it—not for entertainment, but just to confirm how bad it got. It feels like a complete insult to the idea of service, sacrifice, and national responsibility.
The female lead is supposed to be a journalist—but she spends most of the drama chasing her boyfriend, disturbing his work, and acting like the entire world revolves around her emotional needs. She’s praised as “kind” and “talented,” but in reality, she shows little value in the actual story. Her character adds no depth, and frankly, she becomes so annoying that I found myself wishing her role would just disappear or end entirely—not fall in love and have more screentime.
Characters & Cast (4/10)
The cast, overall, has done a good job with what they were given. But the lead characters are written so poorly that it’s hard to sympathize with them. Especially the female lead—every time she appeared on screen, I felt frustration rather than empathy. And the male lead, instead of acting like a committed volunteer in service of his country, is constantly babysitting his girlfriend and sharing kisses in dangerous zones. If this is “romance,” it’s tone-deaf and misplaced.
Tone & Message (1/10)
To understand Eastern countries—especially their military and humanitarian struggles—just read the news. Anyone with a heart will cry. This drama completely ignores that pain. It turns what should be a serious, respectful theme into a shallow romance.
This is not just unrealistic. It’s disrespectful.
Overall Thoughts
This is a STUPID drama. It disrespects real-life volunteers, soldiers, and the people who sacrifice everything. It could have been a beautiful, respectful story—but it’s been turned into a cringe-filled romantic mess.
Would I Recommend It?
❌ Absolutely not. Avoid this drama unless you’re okay with disrespecting serious themes for the sake of shallow romance.
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The best
NOTHING TO SAY OTHER THAN THE BEST AND THE ACTORS TOOK THE WHOLE SHOW TO THE NEXT LEVEL. MUST WATCH AND A MUST REWATCH SHOW AS WELL. LOVE THE ACTORS AND PARTICULARLY ML (BEAUTIFUL SMILE AND A CALM FACE WITH CHARMING CHARACTER) - LOOKING FORWARD FOR HIS AND OTHER ACTORS SHOWS MORE AND MORE.THE BEST SHOW RUNS TOO FAST AND COULDN'T LET IT GO SO PLEASE PLEASE MAKE A SEASON 2.
- CUTE ROMANCE
- NO BAD BOY OR GIRL
- REAL LIFE LIKE STORIES
- ONLY ONE NEGATIVE AND THAT IS THE SHOW IS OVER QUICK AND UNABLE TO MOVE FORWAD.
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BEST BEST BEST
This is my second time watching this drama, and it’s just as satisfying as the first. The entire cast has done an outstanding job, and there are certain scenes I find myself rewatching because they truly make my heart flutter.
Don’t get me wrong—this isn’t a groundbreaking or uniquely plotted drama. It follows the typical style and themes you'd expect from a Chinese drama. But what makes it stand out is how well everything is executed. The cast, the story, the direction—everything comes together beautifully, making it a joy to watch.
I’ve grown to admire the actors so much that seeing them in other dramas now fills me with pride—they genuinely deserve the recognition.
Please, please, please give this drama a watch. I wholeheartedly recommend it and would rate it a solid 9.5 out of 10.
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Zhou Yiran Shines, But a Draggy Plot and Overstuffed Storylines Dim the Drama’s Potential
It is really unfortunate that I have to leave a negative review for the drama Zhou Yiran starred in, especially since he is one of my favorite actors. His acting has improved so much since his first drama, and it is clear he is putting in a lot of effort. Sadly, this drama’s downfall isn’t due to his performance, but rather the story itself. I have seen numerous comments about the plot after episode 15, but I couldn’t even make it past episode 10. I really tried, but the pacing was just too slow. If it were a 21-24 episode series, maybe it would have had a better chance, but honestly, I just don’t get why there were so many secondary characters and their romantic subplots. There is a saying that when a drama has too many side stories, it loses focus on the main one and this drama is a perfect example of that.I love Yiran, but I can't really recommend this show to anyone. I feel like the 7.8 rating is generous; it’s a mixed bag—some people might enjoy it, but I am willing to bet the majority will find it frustrating. After watching over 150 dramas, I can say with confidence that around 80% of the audience will get irritated, and it might even turn them off from similar stories in the future.
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This review may contain spoilers
You might like it - give it a try
I understand that everyone has different tastes, and I know many people might enjoy this drama but personally, I found it quite boring. I usually love school-themed slice-of-life dramas, but for some reason, this one just didn’t click with me. Each episode felt unnecessarily slow, and I struggled to stay engaged or emotionally connected to the story.For context, I have really enjoyed dramas like When I Fly Towards You, Exclusive Fairytale, and Our Secret so I went into this with similar expectations. Unfortunately, this just wasn’t my cup of tea.
The actors did a decent job overall, though I didn’t see anything particularly outstanding in the performances. The storyline itself felt too drawn out, and I can't help but wonder if a shorter 24-episode format might have made it more watchable.
I honestly feel a bit disappointed after investing my time in this. I usually rely on ratings and genres when picking dramas, and I rarely drop shows with an 8.0+ rating but this one I simply couldn’t finish despite trying my best.
Again, I know this show might resonate with many viewers and that’s perfectly fine but it just wasn’t for me.
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The performances from the entire cast are remarkable, and every actor brings their character to life in a way that feels natural and authentic—there's no overacting here, just a truly enjoyable watch. While I’m hesitant to make comparisons, I do believe if Esther Yu had been cast in this series, it might not have had the same impact. The lead actress, though not my personal favorite, truly shines in her own way. The little things she does are adorable and much more endearing than you might expect, especially when compared to Esther Yu's usual performances.
I highly recommend watching The Best Thing. It’s a delightful and heartwarming series that deserves your support. Without hesitation, I can put my hands up and recommend it to anyone looking for a great drama to enjoy!
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CAN SOMEONE HELP ME TO FINISH THIS DRAMA
WHY? WHY? WHY?**Deeply Disappointed – Hard to Sit Through**
As someone who has been eagerly waiting for Chen's next modern drama since *Lighter and Princess*, this show has been a massive letdown. I had high hopes, but just a few episodes in, I found myself struggling to continue even writing this while forcing myself to get through another minute.
I honestly can't grasp the storyline, nor can I understand what convinced Chen to take on this project. Many reviews mention great chemistry between the leads, but to me, it's far from convincing. In fact, I found the chemistry in *Binary Love* significantly more genuine and engaging.
The dialogue delivery feels unnaturally rushed like it's being played at 1.5x speed but somehow, the plot still drags painfully slow. It’s a frustrating mix that makes it difficult to stay engaged.
If you're considering watching this, I’d strongly recommend skipping it. Unfortunately, it feels like a complete waste of time.
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COOL MALE LEAD BUT IRRITATING FEMALE LEAD WITH OKAYISH STORYLINE
I have seen many chinese dramas but I have never seen a drama with such an irritating female lead. The storyline was okay and this drama could have been a hit if there was another heroine because the male lead was good with his looks and acting with an overall score of 8/10 but heroine was 0.0000000/10. She might have acted better in other series but this drama is an utter flop just because of her. As a warning PLEASE PLEASE DON'T WATCH THIS DRAMA. Also, in the recommendations I can see Intense love it is not even 0.01% close to intense love and its actors. STRICTLY UNBEARABLE AND UNWATCHABLE.Was this review helpful to you?
