
Love Next Door (엄마친구아들) is a captivating 2024 South Korean television series that blends romance and nostalgia, showcasing the complexities of returning to one’s roots. Written by Shin Ha-eun and directed by Yoo Je-won, it features a stellar cast, including Jung Hae-in and Jung So-min. The series aired on tvN from August 17 to October 6, 2024, with episodes released every Saturday and Sunday at 21:20 (KST). It is also available for streaming on Netflix in select regions.
Synopsis
The story follows Bae Seok-ryu (Jung So-min), a product manager thriving in a high-powered job abroad and engaged to an international lawyer. However, her seemingly perfect life takes a turn when she suddenly returns to Korea to reassess her life choices. Back home, she reconnects with her childhood best friend, Choi Seung-hyo (Jung Hae-in), a charismatic and successful architect who is also the son of her mother’s friend. Their reunion stirs up old memories and unresolved feelings, leading to a journey of self-discovery and emotional growth.
Cast and Characters

Main Cast:
- Jung Hae-in as Choi Seung-hyo: A talented and admired architect, he grapples with the shadows of a complicated past, especially his ties to Seok-ryu.
- Jung So-min as Bae Seok-ryu: A determined professional seeking to reset her life after personal and professional turmoil.
- Kim Ji-eun as Jeong Mo-eum: The third member of their childhood trio, a passionate paramedic who understands the deep connections and struggles between Seung-hyo and Seok-ryu.
- Yoon Ji-on as Kang Dan-ho: An investigative reporter whose life takes unexpected turns when he moves next door to Mo-eum.
Supporting Cast:
- Park Ji-young as Na Mi-sook: Seok-ryu's straightforward and resilient mother.
- Jo Han-chul as Bae Geun-sik: Seok-ryu's father, running a local snack restaurant.
- Jang Young-nam as Seo Hye-sook: Seung-hyo's dedicated mother, who works in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
- Lee Seung-joon as Choi Kyung-jong: Seung-hyo’s father, a professor navigating his own family dynamics.
- Jeon Seok-ho as Yoon Myung-woo: Co-CEO at Seung-hyo's firm, serving as a mentor figure.
Special Appearances
- Roh Yoon-seo appears as herself, adding a modern touch to the narrative.
Production Insights
Initially developed under the working title Mom's Friend's Son, the series marks a reunion for the creative team of Yoo Je-won and Shin Ha-eun, known for their previous success with Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha (2021). The casting of Jung Hae-in and Jung So-min was confirmed in late 2023, generating excitement for the series.

Release Information
Love Next Door premiered on August 17, 2024, and quickly garnered attention for its heartfelt storytelling and engaging character dynamics. With a mix of drama, romance, and comedy, it captures the essence of reconnecting with the past while navigating present challenges, resonating with viewers across generations.
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