by A marriage of convenience gets upended when secrets are unveiled. When the Phone Rings centers on Paik Sa-Eon, a polished yet emotionally distant presidential spokesperson, and his wife, Hong Hee-Joo, a mute sign language interpreter harboring a traumatic past.
The drama explores the cracks in their carefully curated public image when Hee-Joo is abducted by an unknown assailant.
This forced separation leads Sa-Eon to confront buried feelings and uncover dangerous truths about his wife and their relationship.
Directed by Park Sang-Woo (The Silent Courtroom) and based on the web novel Jigeum Geoshin Jeonhwaneun by Geoneomulnyeo, the 12-episode series features Yoo Yeon-Seok (Hospital Playlist) and Chae Soo-Bin (I’m Not a Robot) in complex, heart-wrenching roles.
Quick Stats on When The Phone Rings
- Drama: When the Phone Rings
- Director: Park Sang-Woo
- Writer: Geoneomulnyeo (web novel), Kim Ji-Woon
- Network: MBC
- Episodes: 12
- Release Dates: November 22, 2024 – January 4, 2025
- Genre: Mystery, Romance
- Language: Korean
- Country: South Korea
Who’s Who – cast of When The Phone Rings
- Yoo Yeon-Seok as Paik Sa-Eon, a young, ambitious spokesperson with a stoic demeanor hiding deep insecurities.
- Chae Soo-Bin as Hong Hee-Joo, a resilient interpreter coping with trauma-induced mutism.
- Huh Nam-Jun (Tears of Jeju) as Ji Sang-Woo, Sa-Eon’s confidant with political ambitions of his own.
- Jang Gyu-Ri (Idol: The Coup) as Na You-Ri, Hee-Joo’s childhood friend and unexpected ally.
What Happens in When the Phone Rings? – Synopsis
Sa-Eon (Yoo) appears to have it all — a high-profile career, political connections, and a wife who complements his public image. But their relationship is far from ideal. Three years into their marriage, Sa-Eon and Hee-Joo (Chae) live like strangers, sharing neither meals nor conversations. Their marriage is a façade to maintain their families’ reputations.
When Hee-Joo is suddenly kidnapped, Sa-Eon’s world is thrown into chaos. Desperate to find her, he discovers unsettling details about her past, including the reason behind her silence and her mysterious ties to the kidnapper. As Sa-Eon digs deeper, he’s drawn into a web of political corruption, personal vendettas, and secrets that force him to reevaluate his own values.
The drama balances intense action with emotionally charged moments, portraying Sa-Eon’s journey from a cold, calculated politician to a man willing to risk everything to save the woman he’s grown to care for.
Is When the Phone Rings Based on a Book?
Yes, it’s adapted from the web novel Jigeum Geoshin Jeonhwaneun by Geoneomulnyeo, which gained popularity for its blend of romance and suspense.
Where Does When the Phone Rings Take Place?
The series unfolds in Seoul, with key moments set in the city’s political corridors and hidden underground spaces.
25 Of The Best Korean Dramas To Watch – Based On Ratings (ep 01)
Final Thoughts on When The Phone Rings
When the Phone Rings offers a thought-provoking exploration of love, identity, and trust, set against a backdrop of political intrigue. With its nuanced storytelling and stellar performances, this drama is a must-watch for fans of complex relationships and suspenseful narratives.
Catch it now on MBC
