Hello, K-drama lovers who enjoy binge-watching while snacking on cheese chips! This time, we're going to discuss one of the K-dramas that made 2022 more colorful: "A Business Proposal." This webtoon adaptation drama has been a hit on Netflix with its combination of cliché but juicy rom-com, top-tier acting, and over-the-top scenes that will have you laughing nonstop. If you haven't watched it yet, get ready to panic looking for a streaming link after reading this article. But if you have already watched it… let's discuss why this drama deserves a place in the hearts of drama addicts!
Synopsis of "A Business Proposal": A Hilarious and Heart-Pounding Love Story with Two Faces
Before diving in, let's recap the storyline. "A Business Proposal" tells the story of Shin Ha-ri (Kim Sejeong), an ordinary food researcher who is broke but a great cook. In order to help her best friend, Jin Young-seo (Seol In-ah), Ha-ri recklessly agrees to be a fake blind date to scare off Young-seo's father's choice of husband. The problem? That suitor turns out to be Kang Tae-moo (Ahn Hyo-seop), a cool young CEO who also happens to be Ha-ri's boss at work!
Not only that, Young-seo herself falls in love with Cha Sung-hoon (Kim Min-gu), Tae-moo's cold but funny secretary when he gets emotional. So this foursome is trapped in a cycle of lies, a love triangle (or is it a quadrangle?), and awkward situations that make us facepalm while smiling to ourselves.
The plot may sound like a total cliché—but trust me, the execution is top-notch!
Why is "A Business Proposal" a must-watch Korean drama?
1. Kim Sejeong as Shin Ha-ri: Queen of Relatability
Kim Sejeong totally slays as Ha-ri! Her character is so relatable for those of us who aren't fancy: working hard, in debt, but still enthusiastic about food while daydreaming about becoming rich. The scene where she does a mukbang while crying because her crush rejected her? Been there, done that (minus the Netflix camera).
Acting Highlights:
- When Ha-ri pretends to be "Geum-hui," the tacky gold digger with a mix of English and Korean accent. Cringe-worthy but adorable!
- His expression was obvious to Tae-moo: a mix of fear, embarrassment, and having to keep acting cool.
2. Ahn Hyo-seop: From Stiff CEO to King of Emotions
Ahn Hyo-seop as Kang Tae-moo is the perfect cast. From his serious look like Botox toxin at the beginning, he slowly turns into a simp who is willing to stalk Ha-ri at the cafe even though he should be at a meeting.
Tae-moo's Best Moments:
- When he confessed using a helicopter while shouting, "Shin Ha-ri, I like you!" It was cringe level 100, but why did it make me emotional?
- Jealous expression when seeing Ha-ri close to a coworker. Sir, your eyes are shooting lasers!
3. Seol In-ah & Kim Min-gu: The Second Lead Syndrome That Caused a Stir
Jin Young-seo (Seol In-ah) and Cha Sung-hoon (Kim Min-gu) are the second lead duo who steal the show! Their chemistry is electric: from enemies to lovers, with push-and-pull scenes that make the audience hot under the collar.
Their Legendary Scenes:
- Young-seo chased Sung-hoon in a sports car while shouting, "I like you, oppa!"
- Sung-hoon, who is usually cool, suddenly panicked when Young-seo kissed his chest. Sir, your ears are redder than tomatoes!
4. Comedy That Isn't Forced: From Slapstick to Sarcasm
The comedy in this drama isn't just silly jokes. For example:
- The scene where Ha-ri dances to NewJeans' "Hype Boy" in front of Tae-moo because she really needs to pee. Secondhand embarrassment level: godlike!
- Tae-moo's father is obsessed with his grandson, to the point of putting a fake baby photo in his wallet.
7 Reasons Why You Shouldn't Miss "A Business Proposal"
- A Balanced
Romantic Comedy Unlike other romantic comedies that sometimes overdo the cringe factor, the comedy here is perfectly timed. For example: when Ha-ri farts in the office toilet and Tae-moo smells it. Embarrassing but hilarious!
- The chemistry between
Kim Sejeong and Ahn Hyo-seop is like a match made in heaven. From kissing scenes in the rain to bickering like an old couple, they make our hearts flutter.
- Just the Right Episode
Length Each episode is only 1 hour long, not as long as other Korean dramas. Perfect for those who can't wait to see the ending.
- OSTs that make your heart flutter Theme
songs like "Love, Maybe" (MAYTREE) and "Sweet" (Lee Mu-jin) are perfect for a playlist for when you're feeling emotional or in love.
- Ha-ri and Young-seo's On Point Fashion
From Ha-ri's floral dresses to Young-seo's power suits, their styling gives off character without being over-the-top.
- Characters Developed Without Excessive Drama
There is no amnesia, cancer, or evil mother-in-law here. The conflicts are realistic: lies, insecurity, and fear of rejection.
- A Satisfying Ending Without a Cliffhanger
No spoilers, but all the characters get closure that will make you smile.
Behind the Scenes: Exciting Facts That Will Make You a Superfan
1. Kim Sejeong is really good at cooking!
The scene of Ha-ri cooking in the cafeteria is real. Sejeong really enjoys cooking, and she didn't use a stunt double for the scenes where she chopped onions or flambéed food.
2. Ahn Hyo-seop Must Learn to Fly a Helicopter
The helicopter confession scene was actually filmed on a helicopter! Hyo-seop was scared at first, but the crew pampered him with his favorite snacks.
3. Kim Min-gu Often Corpse Laughs on Set
Actor Cha Sung-hoon couldn't stop laughing every time Seol In-ah did an over-the-top scene. It was recorded, and the blooper went viral!
4. Webtoon vs. Drakor: Which is Better?
Fans of this webtoon marathon agree: the adaptation is even funnier! Some side characters in the webtoon were removed, but the plot remains faithful.
Mild Criticism: Things That Could Be Dealbreakers for Some Viewers
1. Cliché Overload
Kissing scenes in the rain, contract relationships, and rich guy-poor girl are indeed mainstream. But that's precisely what makes this drama so charming—it's like comfort food for the brain.
2. Antagonist Characters Lacking Intensity
The villains here are just annoying exes and evil bosses. There are no major plot twists, but maybe that's intentional so the focus stays on the rom-com.
3. Some Cringe-Worthy Scenes
Example: Ha-ri dancing like on TikTok in front of Tae-moo. But this actually makes the character more human—who hasn't embarrassed themselves before?
The Influence of "A Business Proposal" on Pop Culture
1. Hype Boy Challenge di TikTok
The scene where Ha-ri dances to Hype Boy by NewJeans has become a trend on TikTok. Many people are recreating the dance while wearing Geum-hui-style costumes.
2. This Drakor-inspired food menu is a hit at cafes
Menu items such as Ha-ri's spicy tteokbokki and Young-seo's croffles are hits at Korean cafes. Restaurants are also selling "Business Proposal Date" packages.
3. Iconic Quotes Used in Memes
- "This isn't love, it's a contract!"
- "I'm the CEO, you have to obey me!"
- "Don't mess with my girlfriend!" (while carrying a fire extinguisher).
Frequently Asked Questions About "A Business Proposal"
Q: Does this Korean drama have a second season?
A: Unfortunately, there is no official news yet. However, since the webtoon has ended, it is unlikely that there will be a sequel.
Q: Who is this reviewer's favorite actor?
A: Kim Min-gu as Cha Sung-hoon! His character is cold on the outside but soft on the inside—the greenest flag ever.
Q: Is it suitable to watch with your significant other?
A: Absolutely! Especially if they like to laugh at random moments. But be prepared to fight over the remote during the kissing scenes.
Q: What is the age rating?
A: 15+, because there are kissing scenes and some adult jokes (but still light).
Closing: "A Business Proposal" Proof That Love Can Be Ordered via Contract!
Overall, "A Business Proposal" is a romantic comedy drama that doesn't want to make you think too hard. From the acting and chemistry to the well-balanced comedy, this drama is worth watching for those who want to heal from the drama of real life. Although cliché, the story is presented in a fresh and engaging way—like a cupcake that is sweet but not sickening.
So, if you haven't watched it yet… what are you waiting for? Get your popcorn, blanket, and phone ready to live-tweet your reactions to every scene where Tae-moo gets emotional. And for those who have already watched it… let's rewatch episode 7 again, who knows, you might find an easter egg you haven't thought of before!
P.S. Don't forget to follow the oppas' Instagram accounts in this drama. Your feed is guaranteed to become more aesthetic!
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