In a time when Korean television is dominated by alcohol-themed content, tvN’s new Monday-Tuesday drama 'Second Shot at Love' is making headlines for taking a completely different route by focusing on sobriety.

Premiering on May 12, 'Second Shot at Love' tells the story of Han Geum Joo, a 10-year veteran mechanic who proudly considers herself a drinking enthusiast. Her life takes a dramatic turn when she reunites with Seo Eui Joon, her first love who despises alcohol. What follows is her unexpected journey into sobriety. The drama is directed by Jang Yoo Jung, known for the Honest Candidate film series, and written by Myung Soo Hyun and Jeon Ji-hyun, who previously worked on 'Drinking Solo' and 'Rude Miss Young Ae.'

At the online press conference held on May 7, Choi Sooyoung and Gong Myungreflected on the drama’s unique message. Choi explained that 'Second Shot at Love' offers more than a storyline about alcohol. She said the drama gives viewers a chance to reflect on unconscious addictions and the meaning of true happiness.

Choi portrays Han Geum Joo, a character who comes from a family of heavy drinkers and has always loved alcohol. Her challenge begins when she reconnects with her former flame, who cannot tolerate drinking. “People who love drinking often deny being alcoholics,” Choi said. “This show expresses those emotions with surprising accuracy. That’s what makes it fun and interesting.”

Although she doesn’t drink much in real life, Choi said she drew inspiration from observing her group members over the years. “Among my members, there are seven who enjoy drinking, from tequila lovers to soju and beer fans. I’ve studied their habits closely. For instance, in one scene, my character instinctively reaches for a bottle instead of water during a hangover. That’s something true drinkers will recognize.”

Gong Myung plays Seo Eui Joon, Han Geum Joo’s first love who now detests alcohol. Known for his recent appearance in 'Way Back Love,' Gong humorously noted that he might as well become the official icon of first love characters. He also revealed that he doesn’t enjoy drinking in real life and that many of his close friends from the 'Extreme Job' film team share that view. He expressed hope that his former castmates would tune in and help spread the word about the new show.

Talking about his character’s personality, Gong shared that it was challenging to play someone who holds back emotionally. “In real life, I tend to approach someone directly when I like them. If I were Seo Eui Joon, I would have gone straight to Geum Joo. But the character hesitates, and that was difficult for me.”

The drama also captures the romantic journey of a first love couple who meet again in their thirties. Choi shared her excitement about playing a wide age range, from high school to adulthood. “This might be the last time I wear a school uniform,” she said with a laugh. “I’m really thankful to portray all those stages with Gong Myung. He made it all feel natural and comfortable.”

The series also features Kim Sung Ryung, Kim Sang Ho, and Jo Yoon Hee as members of Geum Joo’s family, adding humor and warmth to the story. Kim Sung Ryung plays a strong-willed mother who bans alcohol at home. “I usually play the mother of sons, so it was refreshing and fun to be the mom of two daughters in this drama,” she said.

Kim Sang Ho, who is known for enjoying a drink in real life, joked that he hoped his colleagues wouldn’t watch the show. “If they watch and decide to stop drinking, it will be a problem. I want us to continue enjoying drinks together for the rest of our lives,” he said, making everyone laugh.

Jo Yoon Hee plays Han Hyun Joo, a single mother raising her daughter alone. She found the role deeply relatable. “It felt like I was playing myself. The similarities were so striking that I didn’t find it hard to act. I think anyone raising children will relate. That one drink after parenting duties feels like a gift from heaven.”

Director Jang Yoo Jung addressed the decision to spotlight sobriety in a country currently swept up in alcohol-themed shows. “I don’t believe alcohol is inherently bad, but the more you drink, the harder it is to control. Over time, it can become a serious dependency. This drama will explore that risk in a lighthearted yet sincere way.”

As for her first time directing a TV drama, Jang admitted feeling nervous. “The idea that ratings come out the very next day is a bit scary to me. But the entire cast and crew worked incredibly hard. I truly hope it will be well received.”

'Second Shot at Love' premieres May 12 on tvN, offering a fresh perspective on love, life, and letting go of harmful habits.

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