In 'Potato Research Institute', Lee Sun-bin and Kang Tae-oh unfold a romance that is more exciting because they are different.
On the 14th, the production team of the new tvN weekend drama 'Potato Research Institute' (directed by Kang Il-soo and Shim Jae-hyun, written by Kim Ho-soo, planned by CJ ENM Studios, produced by Green Snake Media) released a comprehensive teaser video showcasing the explosive bickering romance between Kim Mi-kyung (played by Lee Sun-bin) and So Baek-ho (played by Kang Tae-oh). The arrival of So Baek-ho, who rolls into Kim Mi-kyung's life, which revolved solely around potatoes, raises curiosity about what kind of winds of change will blow into the peaceful Potato Research Institute.
'Potato Research Institute' depicts a healing comic romance where the cold principled So Baek-ho appears before Mi-kyung, whose life revolves around potatoes, swirling like a tornado of potatoes. The collaboration between director Kang Il-soo, known for showcasing diverse emotions across genres in works like 'Her Private Life' and 'Solomon's Perjury', and writer Kim Ho-soo adds to the anticipation. Above all, attention is focused on the synergy between Lee Sun-bin and Kang Tae-oh, who will complete a warm romance filled with baking, frying, and boiling against the backdrop of the mountain valley Potato Research Institute.
The teaser video released amid high expectations begins with the Potato Research Institute researchers Kim Mi-kyung, Bae Mu-jung (played by Yoo Seung-mok), Go Jeong-hae (played by Kwak Ja-hyung), Joo Seung-hee (played by Woo Jeong-won), Lee Chung-hyun (played by Yoon Jeong-seob), Kwon Hee-dong (played by Nam Hyun-woo), and Jang Seul-ki (played by Kim Ji-a) shouting “Potato! Potato!” in excitement. The peace of the Potato Research Institute, which had been solely focused on potatoes, is shattered by the shout of Bae Mu-jung, “Is the research institute going to disappear?” The merger of Seonnyeo Foods, to which the Potato Research Institute belongs, and Wonhan Retail, along with the strategic planning director So Baek-ho's entrance, brings a new plan. Despite his outstanding appearance that naturally draws attention, So Baek-ho, who is always looking for gaps in the research institute, is a so-called 'capitalism's grim reaper' who prioritizes principles and efficiency. The phrase “This man rolled into my potato-only life” hints at the unusual 'growl' first meeting between the completely opposite Mi-kyung and Baek-ho.
So Baek-ho's challenging entry into the Potato Research Institute adds to the humor. He hides in a panic behind Kim Mi-kyung to avoid a flying chicken, and he is often startled by the spicy touch of the warm-hearted potato family. The daily life of So Baek-ho, who is 'all show and no substance', is intriguing. In particular, Kim Mi-kyung's fiery warning, “Don’t underestimate our research institute. I’ll show you what hellfire is,” raises expectations for the dynamic incidents he will face at the Potato Research Institute.
However, the sparks flying between Kim Mi-kyung and So Baek-ho in the following video suggest an exciting change. As they bicker, a spark of love seems to ignite, capturing a strange thrill in their eye contact as they grow closer. Kim Mi-kyung's friend Lee Ong-joo (played by Kim Ga-eun), who predicts their romance by saying, “Just wait. You’re definitely going to fall for him,” adds to the intrigue. Additionally, the narration “I found it! My fateful potato” raises curiosity about the relationship that 'Potato Enthusiast' Kim Mi-kyung will explore with So Baek-ho.
A special variety show, 'Potato Three Meals', which allows viewers to enjoy and taste 'Potato Research Institute' in advance, will air on tvN on the 22nd (Saturday) and 23rd (Sunday) at 10:30 PM for two episodes. Lee Sun-bin, Kang Tae-oh, Lee Hak-joo, Kim Ga-eun, Yoo Seung-mok, and Nam Hyun-woo will appear, showcasing the delicious potato research of those who became deeply immersed in potatoes while filming the potato drama.
The new tvN weekend drama 'Potato Research Institute' will premiere on March 1st (Saturday) at 9:20 PM.
