MBC’s upcoming Friday-Saturday drama, When The Phone Rings is one of the most anticipated shows of 2024, and the recent script reading has only heightened excitement, offering a sneak peek at the dynamic chemistry between the cast.
Slated to premiere in November, this secret romance thriller is based on a popular Kakao Page web novel. It follows the story of a couple in the third year of their arranged marriage, whose lives spiral into chaos after receiving a mysterious and threatening phone call.
Directed by Park Sang-woo and co-directed by Wi Deuk-gyu, with the script penned by Kim Ji-woon, the drama features an impressive lineup of actors. Leading the cast are Yoo Yeon Seok as Baek Sa-eon, a young and ambitious presidential spokesperson, and Chae Soo Bin as his wife, Hong Hee-joo, a sign language interpreter who has been mute since a traumatic accident in her youth.
As a “show window couple,” their marriage appears perfect from the outside. Still, the dark and twisted elements of their relationship begin to unravel following a terrifying phone call that sets the stage for a thrilling narrative.
At the script reading, which took place in an atmosphere filled with both excitement and tension, the actors quickly immersed themselves in their respective roles, showcasing their deep understanding of the complex characters they would be portraying.
Yoo Yeon Seok, in the role of Baek Sa-eon, immediately captivated everyone with his portrayal of a man who is both icy and mysterious, delivering lines with a sharp and decisive gaze that perfectly embodied the character’s cold, calculating nature. Despite his character’s emotional distance, Yoo brought a natural charm to the room, lightening the atmosphere with his cheerful personality between takes. The duality of Baek Sa-eon, who swings between cold-hearted professionalism and emotional turmoil, is a major point of intrigue, and Yoo’s performance already hints at the depth and complexity he will bring to the character.
Chae Soo Bin completely transformed into Hong Hee-joo, a woman whose trauma has rendered her mute, leading her to communicate through sign language. Her portrayal was deeply moving, and she impressed everyone at the reading with her flawless sign language skills, the result of meticulous preparation for the role. As Hee-joo, Chae’s character is not only grappling with her past but is also caught in a deeply complicated marriage with Baek Sa-eon. When she is kidnapped by a mysterious figure, Hee-joo decides to reclaim her life, a turning point that is sure to be a pivotal moment in the drama. Chae’s ability to convey her character’s emotions through subtle gestures and expressions captivated the entire room, raising anticipation for her performance.
Heo Nam Joon took on the role of Ji Sang-woo, a compassionate psychiatrist who is always by Hee-joo’s side, offering emotional support. His calm, gentle presence contrasted with the tension between Baek Sa-eon and Hong Hee-joo, making his character one to watch as he may become a key figure in the couple’s tumultuous relationship. Jang Gyu Ri also shone brightly as Na Yu-ri, a self-proclaimed popular announcer. With her lively, confident performance, Jang perfectly captured the charm and boldness of her character, adding a layer of lightheartedness to the otherwise intense narrative.
The supporting cast, including Han Jae-yi, Yoo Seong-ju, Chu Sang-mi, Choi Kwang-il, Oh Hyun-kyung, and Im Cheol-soo, delivered standout performances during the reading, adding depth and complexity to the drama. Their seasoned acting brought a sense of reliability and gravitas to the project, further solidifying the drama’s potential to be a gripping, character-driven thriller.
Following the script reading, Yoo Yeon Seok expressed his excitement about working with such a talented cast for the first time, stating, “I was really excited to be reading with everyone today. It’s an honor to be part of this project.” Meanwhile, Chae Soo-bin admitted to feeling nervous but determined, saying, “This has been the most nerve-wracking part of the entire process so far, but I am eager to give it my all and do my best.”
When The Phone Rings is being produced by Bon Factory and Baram Pictures and is expected to bring a fresh and thrilling story to MBC’s lineup. With its blend of romance, suspense, and mystery, the drama will keep viewers on the edge of their seats as the story unfolds. Director Park Sang-woo, who is known for his striking visual storytelling in works like The Forbidden Marriage, is sure to bring an artistic flair to the project, while writer Kim Ji-woon brings solid credentials from past works like Melancholia and Doctor John.
Scheduled to air in November 2024, When The Phone Rings will be a part of MBC’s prestigious Friday-Saturday drama slot, closing out the network’s weekend lineup with what promises to be a gripping and emotionally charged thriller.
As production moves forward, fans are already eagerly awaiting the premiere, anticipating not only the story’s dark twists and turns but also the incredible performances from its talented cast.
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