When The Phone Rings (2024)
IMDB Ratings: 8.5/10
Episodes: 12
Aired: Nov 22, 2024 – Jan 4, 2025
Aired On: Friday, Saturday
Original Network: MBC
Watch it on : Netflix
When The Phone Rings (Korean: 지금 거신 전화는) is a captivating South Korean television series blending elements of suspense, drama, and romance. Written by Kim Ji-woon and co-directed by Park Sang-woo and Wi Deuk-gyu, the show stars Yoo Yeon-seok, Chae Soo-bin, Heo Nam-jun, and Jang Gyu-ri in pivotal roles. Premiering on MBC TV on November 22, 2024, it airs every Friday and Saturday at 21:50 (KST) and is also available for streaming on Netflix. The series unravels a story of personal transformation, mystery, and the redefinition of relationships, making When The Phone Rings a must-watch drama.
Cast:
Yoo Yeon-seok as Baek Sa Eon
A prodigy from a prestigious political family, he is Korea’s youngest presidential spokesman, with experience as a war correspondent and hostage negotiator.
Chae Soo-bin as Hong Hui Ju
A resilient woman working as a sign language interpreter, she is mute due to a childhood accident and married to Sa Eon in a relationship born of convenience.
Heo Nam-jun as Detective Choi Jung Min
A skilled investigator who becomes involved in Hui Ju’s kidnapping case.
Jang Gyu-ri as Lee Seo Ah
A journalist with ties to Sa Eon’s political career, harboring her own secrets.
Story Line:
Baek Sa Eon, a man of distinction and success, hails from a prestigious political family. As Korea’s youngest presidential spokesman, he has carved an impressive career, having also worked as a war correspondent, hostage negotiator, and main announcer. Despite his accolades, his personal life is a stark contrast. Three years ago, Sa Eon entered a marriage of convenience with Hong Hui Ju, the second daughter of a newspaper magnate. Hui Ju, a resilient and kind woman, has lived with mutism since a childhood accident. She channels her strength into her work as a sign language interpreter in courtrooms and on television.
Although they share a home, Sa Eon and Hui Ju’s marriage is devoid of intimacy or emotional connection. They live like strangers, their relationship defined by formality rather than affection. However, their detached existence takes a dramatic turn when Hui Ju is kidnapped by an unidentified individual.
The disappearance sends shockwaves through Sa Eon’s life. Forced to confront his indifference, he begins a relentless search to bring Hui Ju home. As he delves into the investigation, he unravels a labyrinth of secrets, including hidden motives within their families and threats from his political career. Meanwhile, Hui Ju faces her own challenges, her resilience and intelligence becoming key to her survival.
When the Phone Rings explores how a moment of crisis can redefine relationships. As Sa Eon races against time, his perspective shifts, uncovering a deep care for Hui Ju he had long suppressed. Through danger and revelation, their bond is tested and transformed, evolving into something far deeper than convenience.
When the Phone Rings weaves a thrilling narrative of love, redemption, and the lengths one will go to for those they cherish.
Also read: Gangnam B-Side (2024)
Personal Review :
When The Phone Rings is a riveting exploration of human resilience, redemption, and the power of rediscovered love. Blending intense suspense with profound character development, the series delves into the intricate dynamics of relationships tested by extraordinary circumstances. Through its gripping narrative and emotional depth, it poses a thought-provoking question: how far would you go to protect someone you once took for granted? With stellar performances and a richly layered story, When The Phone Rings captivates viewers, leaving a lasting impression. This standout K-drama of 2024 masterfully balances heart-pounding tension with heartfelt moments, making it an unforgettable watch.