Boyfriend on Demand (2026) s01e01 Episode Script
The Futures of You and Me
[upbeat pop music playing]
[vocalizing]
WOULD YOU LIKE
TO MEET YOUR NEXT BOYFRIEND?
[music fades]
EPISODE 1
THE FUTURES OF YOU AND ME
[upbeat pop music playing]
[train horn blares]
[keypad beeping]
[sighs]
2 WEEKS AGO
I'm home.
[entry system beeps]
[sighs] Please turn on.
[bleeps]
[male voice] Initiating home mode.
[lights pinging]
[sighs]
[sighs]
Home sweet home.
-[ethereal music playing]
-[sizzling]
-[woman] We have 24 hours in a day, right?
-[toaster dings]
I spend six hours sleeping.
-Ten hours at my job.
-[phone ringing]
An hour each way commuting
and an hour eating.
An hour and a half
on my bath and beauty routine,
which leaves
a measly three and half hours for me.
Enough time to watch a movie
or two if I multitask.
Hmm.
SELECT YOUR PROFILE
I don't waste
my precious free time on just anyone.
I have very high standards.
[TV chattering]
Ah!
Days like today are the best.
No meetings and no demands on my time.
[sighs]
So relaxing.
[squeaking]
I wish every day could be like today.
I need to sleep.
[male voice] Initiating sleep mode.
[birds singing, brook babbling]
[woman] When it's time
to get back on the clock,
I try to stay in my little bubble
as long as I can.
[train arriving]
[headphones bleep]
A NEW ERA OF LOVE BEGINS
BOYFRIEND ON DEMAND
[jaunty music playing]
["Thinking About You" by TEMMPO playing]
[vocalizing]
I think about you ♪
What can I do? ♪
All I now know is I think I need to ♪
Can I come over to kiss ya? ♪
[vocalizing]
I think about you ♪
What can I do? ♪
All I now know is I think… ♪
-Hi.
-Hi.
[vocalizing]
[exhales]
[sighs]
[woman] I had the best time
in the Philippines last summer.
I wish I could jump in
the ocean right now.
[sighs] When is summer coming?
[child babbling, laughing]
[child's voice becomes muffled]
[muffled laughter]
[muffled] Sorry.
-[unmuffled] Yeah?
-I think he got some on you.
-[gasps]
-[jaunty music playing]
[air brakes hissing]
[woman gasps]
Little chocolate-covered devil.
[sighs]
[female voice] The doors are opening.
[female voice]The doors are opening.
The doors are closing.
-Uh, good Morning.
-[music fades]
Morning.
[woman sighs]
It's not working. [huffs]
I think you're rubbing it in.
I guess.
-[woman sighs] What's his deal?
-[mysterious music playing]
[female voice] The doors are opening.
[female voice] The doors are closing.
[bleeping]
[female voice] Unregistered fingerprint.
[chimes]
[woman 1] Hey, producer!
Oh. Uh, hi.
-Right on time!
-[woman 2] Yes.
Yay, congrats.
-For what?
-[woman 1] You did it!
[cheering, clapping]
-[woman 1] Way to go! Yay!
-[woman 3] Producer Park!
[man 1] Thank you.
Yes!
You have once again succeeded
in arriving not a single minute early.
[man 1] Your streak continues.
She's impressive.
Is it Kyeong-nam's birthday or something?
[man 1] He got good news.
-His new adaptation deal got signed.
-No!
What do you expect?
The director's taking us
all out to celebrate.
-[man 1] Mm-hmm.
-Really?
Oh. I actually have plans already.
Oh, is that so?
-Just say you're fasting instead.
-[woman 4 laughs]
Producer Park will be coming, right?
Since he's the man of the hour.
And he's definitely not fasting.
Are you coming, Mi-rae?
Or do you want to incur the wrath
of Director Hwang for not going?
[sighs] I'm not the only one
who isn't going.
I'm… pretty sure
Kyeong-nam never goes either.
[man 1] You have a point. He's got that
broody leave-me-alone thing going on.
Don't you think he's so charming?
-[quirky musical sting plays]
-Oh?
-Don't bother.
-[man 1] Mm-hmm.
Eun-ju's been fangirling
over him for weeks.
-For real?
-Yes.
After much deliberation,
I've decided to give liking him a go.
-[man 1] Oh.
-[scoffs] Hold on.
-Are you actually gonna pursue this? Why?
-Mm.
Because Producer Kyeong is so handsome.
-[sighs] He also smells nice.
-Ew.
Eun-ju, that is a really bad idea.
-[Eun-ju] About what?
-[sighs]
Dating and then breaking up with
colleagues is super awkward and messy.
-Do not date someone at work.
-[laughs]
Well, um… I never said
I wanted to go on a date. [chuckles]
[laughs softly]
Just keep ogling him.
-[man 1] Can't hurt.
-[Mi-rae] Don't encourage her.
[alert chimes]
PARK KYEONG-NAM
[Park] Here's the feedback on Team Two's
proposal from last week's meeting.
Oh, I forgot.
[Park] Cons. Doesn't highlight what makes
the protagonist charming.
Lack of understanding
of the fantasy genre.
Disappointing characters
and ambiguous message.
No universal story
or potential for improvement.
Pros. None worth mentioning.
[scoffs]
[jaunty music playing]
-[Mi-rae] Nice.
-[menacing music crests]
-[man 2] You can't do that! Hey! Hey!
-[gasps]
Producer Cho! I wasn't done lecturing you!
Come back here!
-[smacks loudly]
-[all gasp]
I quit.
-You can tell Ms. Yun.
-[man 2] No, please, sir.
-[man 2] You can't go.
-No. You walk out, you're through.
-[Cho] Good!
-[man 2] You know how he is.
-Get your hands off.
-[man 2] Take the day off.
What the heck happened?
[Cho] I'm not taking
any more of this crap! I'm outta here!
-[all clamoring]
-[man 2] Sir!
-[woman 1] Why's is he leaving?
-[woman 2] Why is he leaving? The hell?
-[tense music playing]
-[all murmuring]
You see? That's what happens
when you can't take criticism.
[alert pings]
[man 3] Someone check the cafeteria.
See if he really quit.
JI-YEON
[Ji-yeon] I really need to see you
after work. It's urgent.
Sounds serious.
[gentle guitar music playing]
[camera clicking]
[Mi-rae] Ji-yeon!
-Bestie! [giggles]
-My God.
It took me forever to get here.
[festive piano music playing]
[scoffs]
When you said it was urgent,
I thought you were serious.
I was.
I wouldn't have met you here for nothing.
I have a very important issue to resolve,
and only you can help me out with it.
Really?
What is it?
You know you have to dress up
for the wedding?
Huh?
Did you… No!
You weren't planning to cop out
and just send cash again?
[chuckles] I am pretty overloaded at work,
so I really should--
You're going. And you're dressing up.
You're gonna try on everything in here
if you have to. Everyone'll be there.
And my clothes don't cut it?
[scoffs] Maybe for an office party,
but this isn't that.
You need to make an effort,
in case your ex and You-mi are there
doing their cutesy little couple routine.
You need to show everyone
how amazing it is to be single,
and how freaking perfect your life is.
That's what weddings are for.
Hey. Se-june and I ended things ages ago.
Why would he care what I wear?
Oh, this one is gorgeous.
Now get in there and try it on.
-[groans]
-I mean it!
[sighs]
[sighs]
It's not my ex's wedding I'm going to.
Why do I need this?
[sighs deeply]
[pop music playing over speakers]
I forbid you to return that.
I'll know if you do.
Could you say it louder?
Everyone's gonna think you paid for it.
[scoffs] What art teacher
can afford that outfit?
If I could, I would have bought you two.
-[exhales] Hmm.
-[Mi-rae sighs]
-Poor thing, your life is dreary.
-[laughs]
Hey, my life is fine, okay?
My job is good, and I have my oasis.
Aren't you lonely?
Oh no.
[both laugh]
Don't tell me you wouldn't want someone
to snuggle once in a while?
A boyfriend is not gonna get me
that raise I deserve, is he?
Course not. Because if I had a boyfriend,
I would want to spend time with him.
And I'm always so exhausted,
I don't know how I would do that.
But tiredness isn't
even the biggest issue.
You know, it's the mental mumbo jumbo
you have to deal with
from dating an immature idiot.
So just go out
with a mature idiot instead.
Or find someone
who's exactly like you are.
-Boom. I pick him off a tree. Is that it?
-[quirky music playing]
Duh!
-You're gonna have to look in the shadows.
-Why?
Because if he's like you,
he's gonna do his mysterious aloof thing.
The quiet kinda sexy
that sneaks up on you.
-[Cho]You can tell Ms. Yun.
-[man 1] No.
[man 1] Producer Cho, you can't go.
-You know how he is.
-[Cho] Get your hands off me.
-[man 1] Take the rest of the day off.
-[Cho] I said I quit!
-Oh gross! I do not live in the shadows!
-[electronic music playing]
I want someone with a boatload of friends
who's really social.
[laughing] You want a guy
who's your opposite, then?
-Hush.
-[keypad beeping]
[grunting]
-[security system beeps]
-Hey, I'm home.
[panting]
I said I'm home!
[male voice] Initiating home mode.
[grunting]
[groans]
[quirky music playing]
I can't afford this.
Why the hell did I buy it?
[groaning]
[grunts]
[groans]
[woman 4] It's not funny.
Jerk.
How are we supposed to get ahead
if this is what it does to people?
It was Yun Song, right?
[sighs] Such a drama queen!
Who do you think'll take over?
The Romance crew's pretty good.
I heard Park Kyeong-nam's in the running
and Mi-rae for some crazy reason.
Huh? That means things
are worse than ever.
You know I love her,
but the girl can't stand the genre.
The Romance crew all threatened to quit
if they got stuck with Yun.
And Mi-rae does have room
for another author.
-[woman 4] Oh!
-Hi, guys. What's up?
What? Who died?
[Kyeong-nam sighs]
[Mi-rae] What? What?! Me? Why?
[man 1 laughing]
Hey, everyone. How's it going?
[woman 4] Morning! Happy day! [chuckles]
[jaunty music playing]
[sighs] You're good.
Kyeong-nam has been kicking butt lately.
[man 1] You're safe.
Hwang'll want him to take over for sure.
-Hmm?
-[woman 4 clears throat]
Better be prepared. The man can throw
a mean curveball now and then.
[sighs in anguish]
-Ugh!
-[man 1] It might not even happen.
[Mi-rae groans]
[sighs] Not again.
[huffs]
Ms. Yun! [panting]
I need it!
Open the door and give me the file!
-Please!
-[doorbell rings]
Ah! The deadline!
If we miss the deadline, I'll get fired!
[echoing] I need it!
[sobbing]
[doorbell ringing]
[Mi-rae] Ms. Yun!
YUN SONG
[mouse clicks]
WEBTOON THE MAN TO KNOW
EPISODE 21
UPLOAD COMPLETE
[sighs]
[Mi-rae] Working with Yun Song
was utterly exhausting.
She was like a vampire flu virus
that sucked the marrow out of my bones.
[phone ringing, buzzing]
YUN SONG
-Yes, Ms. Yun?
-[Yun] It's too much.
[Yun crying]
Are you… crying?
[Yun] Have you seen the comments?
The mean things
they write about me online?
[sighs] It's 3:00 in the morning.
-Maybe you should get some rest?
-They want me to fail, don't they?
And they won't stop until I do.
But why should I?
I won't give them the satisfaction!
Evil sons of bitches!
[gasps]
[Mi-rae] I won't go back!
I gotta get out the big guns.
[dramatic music playing]
Director? May I have a word?
[Hwang] Sure. Come in.
I thought of you when I went by
the cookie store after lunch.
[singsongy] So I got your favorites.
[sad slide whistle]
[curious slide whistle]
Macaroons.
Pretty funny you stopped by there too.
Yes. We both happened
to have lunch near there, I guess.
[muffled] Why don't you have a seat,
so I can, uh, chat with my mouth full?
Oh! Mm!
Sweet Jesus!
What is that? Is that vanilla?
-[Hwang] Mm!
-Try it with this.
-[Hwang] Thanks.
-[mysterious music playing]
[gasps]
I got citrus. Is this the, um…
-Yirgacheffe.
-Oh, you splurged, huh? Ah, I like it!
[Hwang] Ah, this is a real treat.
I never realized you two were so outgoing.
[Mi-rae chuckles]
I did come concerning Ms. Yun's--
Stop!
I want you both to have an equal shot
at this opportunity, huh? Hmm?
So let me hear which one of you
should be the lucky one
to oversee our highest-ranking
and highest-grossing author
as her producer?
-I think I should go first--
-[Hwang] I'm not finished!
Neither of you ever attend
the company dinners or functions I host.
But I'll make an exception
and not hold grudges.
I'll decide this thing strictly on merit.
So, no pressure on either of you.
And you're first up.
I have had the privilege
of being part of Ms. Yun's success story,
so I think it's only fair
I let Kyeong-nam have…
-It worked for them.
-Hmm?
I think it would be a real shame
not to have them back together
after the success they had.
And although I've been here longer,
Ms. Seo's a natural with the writers.
I appreciate what you're doing,
but she's yours.
-Well.
-[Mi-rae chuckles]
He's too modest.
Sir. You just signed an adaptation deal.
I don't know if I'm good enough yet.
To take things to that level.
You're being modest now.
He has managed to get his newest projects
to the top in record time,
so he's used to working
with the best of the best.
And his review of my team's
recent proposals, they were harsh,
but it shows
his heart really wants our success.
That critique was for someone
who has no business being a writer.
I don't think it applies in this case.
I'm sure. Just step up.
Your team could use the experience.
[Hwang] All right.
Enough.
Stop. Because you'd rather have
a root canal than take this job.
[music fades]
I hear you. She's a handful.
How are you going to survive?
You know how this business is.
If you don't give your all,
you're never gonna make it!
You need to forget about
your work-life balance.
You two were my best options.
So, I'm sticking with Seo Mi-rae.
-[intense music playing]
-What?
Well, you only have six authors
on your schedule anyway.
-I'll get some more.
-And the romance!
It's all thanks to you Yun Song dedicated
herself to that genre in the first place.
And I handed it over
to Producer Cho as fast as I could too.
-I can't stand that saccharin stuff.
-Readers love it.
[Park] So that's settled.
If you don't mind, I'll get going.
My meeting got pushed a little early, sir.
All right. Bye.
Thank you. This was quite pleasant.
Huh. [groans]
Do you mind?
[groans] Oh.
[Hwang] I wasn't aware he had a meeting.
So, where were we?
[music ends]
Ugh. Lying little weasel.
[man 1] How'd it go?
It's you?
[groaning] Oh wow.
Kyeong-nam had an entire box
of macaroons and a coffee.
-[Mi-rae] Someone must've tipped him off.
-What?
Who? It wasn't us.
Did he, um, mention how long
you would be working with Ms. Yun at all?
[sighs]
-I wish.
-[woman 4] We already know the answer.
Until she collapses from exhaustion again.
[man 1] Mi-rae, it's been three years.
You've come a long way.
You've gotta show her who's the boss here.
Come on.
She's up against Yun Song, remember?
[Mi-rae] Is it possible for someone
to haunt your past and your future
at the same time?
[Yun] I mentioned this, didn't I?
3 YEARS AGO
My sister's friend works
at a big fancy law firm?
Did you just get home?
-I wake up tomorrow.
-Sh!
-I'm gonna get them…
-Who is that?
-Make those nasty trolls stop leaving…
-The author.
-The one I told you about.
-I don't care how much it costs.
When does she ever have time to draw?
You're always on the phone with her.
-Calling my sister now.
-[call bleeps]
[gasps] Oh? She's gone. Thank God.
I swear. She'll be the death of me!
Are you sure you wanna go out?
Uh… She is not gonna ruin your birthday.
[Yun] That ad thing we talked about
last time, is it still on?
I don't see why it wouldn't still be on.
[Yun] Make sure it is.
I might need the money for my lawsuit.
All right, I'll look into it first thing.
[Yun] I've been so busy
writing and drawing,
I barely have time to eat or sleep.
Do you know how tiring that is?
-I know how hard you're working, Ms. Yun.
-I wanna take a break this month.
What? This month is a bit soon.
You just took one about three weeks ago.
[Yun] With the way these trolls wear
me down, I feel like it was a year ago.
-Don't they have anything better to do?
-Listen.
Try not to read too many of those.
[beeping]
[music fades]
[phone buzzing]
SE-JUNE
[phone ringing]
[female voice] The person
you are trying to reach is unavailable.
Please leave a message.
[car drives by]
[gasps]
SE-JUNE
12 MISSED CALLS
Shit. [gasps]
[poignant music playing]
[sighs]
-[phone ringing]
-Come on.
-[phone pings]
-Really?
[Mi-rae] That was the beginning of the end
of my love story with Se-june.
[Eun-ju] It's not just
leaving work on time.
[Eun-ju] You'll be lucky
to catch the train.
Not to remind you,
but the last time you worked with her,
you got a bald spot around here,
didn't you?
Let's make sure we know
what we're working with.
-Seriously?
-So far, so good.
-[quirky music playing]
-Now, over here.
Oh, it's gonna fall out again
anyway for sure.
[man 1] You guys, give her some space.
[man 1] We have that thing
to discuss, right?
[woman 4] Oh yeah.
[woman 4] That thing about the meeting
with what's-his-face.
[grunts]
[Mi-rae and riders screaming]
-Oh! Oh! Oh my goodness.
-My hair!
[woman] I'm so sorry.
I didn't mean to do that.
Are you okay, miss?
[tearfully] Dang it.
-Is that lilac or lavender?
-[string music fades in]
-[Ji-yeon] They all do.
-Your socials always look so much fun.
-Hey. Girl?
-[woman 5] Did she just shush us?
No. You returned that amazing suit?
-No, I put in the closet.
-Why the heck is it in there?
I tried it. I just wasn't feeling it.
-I just went with the old standby.
-But…
Oh no, Mi-rae!
-Ji-yeon really got you to come in person?
-[women laughing]
It's been way too long.
Are you dating anyone?
-I lost track. What's new?
-It'll take a few drinks to catch up.
Let's go out after this.
-[Ji-yeon] All right.
-[man 3] The lucky groom!
["Pomp & Circumstance" playing]
[Mi-rae] Lucky for me, the awkward run-in
with an ex-boyfriend at
a mutual friend's wedding didn't happen.
But I kept expecting it to.
[man 3] And now, please turn your gazes to
welcome the star of the show, our bride.
-[guests cheering, whooping]
-So live in the moment ♪
Trying to find the words to say… ♪
-[woman 6] Amazing!
-[man 4] Beautiful!
I wanna let go of tomorrow ♪
Let my worries fade away ♪
Don't wanna find out
What my life might bring… ♪
[woman 7] You're perfect!
And making all the same mistakes… ♪
-He's so lucky!
-Live in the moment ♪
[song fades]
Wasn't her dress to die for?
-They looked happy.
-That dress was perfect.
We're gonna catch up over drinks.
-You're coming, right?
-Of course she is.
Wanna hear about your project.
-Oh, it's good.
-Okay, great. I'll be back.
-No skipping out for work.
-I won't.
-[woman 5] It's been way too long.
-[chuckles]
[woman 8] You-mi!
-[woman 5] Hey!
-[woman 8] Congrats!
I didn't know she was here.
Where did she come from?
[woman 5 gasps] You-mi! She's here.
[woman 8 squeals] She's engaged.
They're getting hitched! Se-june proposed!
-Thanks, girls.
-[woman 8] Se-june's back from the States?
No, but pretty soon.
[woman 5] We'll all be getting together
again for your wedding, right?
[Mi-rae] A girlfriend who would be
the envy of all,
with a sparkling new engagement ring
on her perfect hand.
[poignant music playing]
That jerk managed to steal the spotlight
without even showing up.
This feels even more awkward.
[woman 5] Was it totally romantic?
Tell us everything.
How did he propose?
[woman 9] He did manage to surprise me,
but I had doubts about the ring.
[poignant music continues]
[girl giggling]
I can't wait to do that.
After I get married someday.
So is that something you want?
-Yeah, of course.
-Who's the girl?
Hmm?
I'm sure you'll have
a fabulous wedding one day.
I know that voice. What's going on?
Nothing.
Come on. What did I say?
It hurts my feelings when you mention
big life goals, and they don't include us.
You only use "I"
when you talk about the future.
[somber music playing]
[phone pings]
[Sun] I look forward to catching up
after so long. See you tomorrow.
Ugh, my God.
[Mi-rae] It's starting already.
Ugh! I don't deserve this! [huffs]
THE MAN TO KNOW
EP107
HOW DARE YOU…
MAKE A MOVE ON MY FAMILY?!
SQUEEZE
WHAT ARE YOU DOING?
YOU DISAPPOINT ME, AUN
It's been a while.
But it's gotten cheesier.
[bold music playing]
[Mi-rae] Naemo's most popular webtoon
for three years running,
Yun Song's The Man to Know.
A chaebol romance featuring Choi Si-woo,
the third-generation heir of SY Group.
Of course,
he's just as arrogant as he is handsome
with the classic and clichéd selling point
of being helpless against feminine charm.
It's a hodgepodge of melodramatic action
and political intrigue
that comes with a chaebol family.
As for the fairy-tale romance,
the plot is so typical
it's surprising Hans Christian Andersen
hasn't risen from the grave to sue
for plagiarism.
While staying in Cebu
for the construction of a resort,
Si-woo goes surfing at dawn
and gets swept away by a monster wave.
But he's miraculously rescued
by Eun Na-ra,
who happened to be on vacation there too,
and he falls madly in love with her.
[alert pings]
THE MAN TO KNOW
[woman 1] Yun Song the has-been
is ranting on Instagram again.
[man 1] Yo, TMK.
Want some crackers with that cheese?
[woman 2] How is TMK number one?
[man 2] Naemo's gone downhill.
Time to give YS the axe!
[man 2] Send an editor!
It's outta control.
[woman 1] Recommended
for low blood pressure low.
[woman 2] Yun should stay off socials.
I feel sorry for her fans.
[woman 3] Webtoon author Yun Song engages
her readers in another heated debate.
[woman 3] Yun, who posted a targeted
message on social media, faces backlash.
[man 3] Fans angered by popular author
Yun Song's irresponsible hiatuses.
[sighs]
[groans]
[breathes deeply]
Did you lose something?
[Park] No, I just…
[playful music playing]
[Mi-rae] Annoying jerk.
Selfish jerk.
Self-centered jerk.
-Ms. Seo?
-Yeah?
Do you have much longer on that?
Oh.
Another… five minutes.
Great.
Ah! Lovely weather today.
[woman 10] Would you like the files
for Ms. Yun? They're ready.
Yes, I was going to ask you about those.
[woman 10] Kyeong-nam has them.
What?
-[breathing deeply]
-[Mi-rae] Hi, Kyeong-nam?
[quirky music playing]
I found this in the chair.
I guess you didn't feel it?
Oh. No.
Are you ready for the handover?
I need the files.
Right. You're ready now?
[Park] Conference room.
Five minutes.
Or so.
-Or so?
-Yes.
Right.
[Park] So the ratings could be better,
but sales are steady.
There's a dedicated fan base.
We have three outstanding ad deals.
One will run
as a branded webtoon until next month.
The CTR is pretty good,
so we can highlight that
when we want to on-board new clients.
[Mi-rae] Bet you're feeling great about
leaving me with a ticking time bomb, huh?
[Mi-rae huffs] Not a single cuticle
or chew mark in sight.
Of course his nails are perfect.
-[Park] Did you get them?
-What?
Can you accept the files?
Oh.
Sorry.
That's everything we gave Producer Cho
regarding The Man to Know.
-It's pretty thorough.
-Thanks.
And also…
[alert pings]
PARK KYEONG-NAM SENT A MESSAGE
SAUNA COUPON
What is this?
Ah. He said it'll probably become
your second home soon.
[scoffs] 'Cause I'm gonna be so stressed?
Do people think
I'm gonna cave like he did?
Yes. For sure.
[Park] Anyway, you're all up to speed now.
I'm done. Unless you have any questions?
-No.
-Excellent.
[alert pings]
[alerts pinging rapidly]
Excellent. For you.
[groans]
[man 1 sighs]
Time for lunch.
[gasps] Ugh.
Are you sure that clock is right?
Uh… you're seeing her this afternoon?
-I got you. Grilled eel special.
-[gasps] Ah!
[sighs] You are my guardian angel.
[moans]
-Grilled eel rice bowls!
-Let's go. Ah!
I'm not letting you put ginger on mine.
It makes me nauseous.
[man 1] How is that possible?
Ginger's the thing you take
to not throw up.
[woman 5] Oh, that's right!
I hope it's not crowded.
-I forgot to have breakfast.
-[female voice] Doors are opening.
-[gasps]
-[ominous music playing]
Seo Mi-rae!
You're early!
[chuckles] What a pleasure, Ms. Yun.
I got my favorites,
so we can catch up before our meeting.
-[chuckles]
-Only enough for two. [chuckles]
[Yun] Let's go. I'm starving.
-Ah.
-Enjoy your lunch date.
Stay away from the ginger.
[ominous music continues]
[music fades]
Delicious. Mm.
-Are you worried about our collab?
-Our what? No, course not!
If my old producer hadn't gotten sick,
he'd be here now.
I had no idea he was such a frail man.
[Mi-rae] Still as self-centered
and clueless as ever.
It's kind of impressive.
I remember you well.
We really clicked, yeah?
Yes. I really hope we're still a good fit.
The reason I'm so successful
is 'cause you're a great producer.
[chuckles] I think your success is due
to your genius storylines.
Mostly them. [chuckles]
[deflating music plays]
So the female lead
being constantly tormented
by the sister-in-law or grandma-in-law,
and having her daringly rescued
by Cho Si-woo looking cool in his tuxedo
is not trending as well
because readers are used to it.
And the newest aunt-in-law
kidnapping her on vacation…
[Yun chuckles] Goodness.
So you're basically telling me
you don't want
my lead character to play the hero?
Ah. [laughs nervously]
I was only referring to the tendency
for the in-laws
to always be conspiring against her--
Why else would the trolls hang in there?
They complain online
because then everyone knows they exist.
You don't get it.
This is why I was hesitant.
Huh?
About what?
You're a bright girl with good ideas,
only you don't get…
anything about my style.
Hmm.
Well, I'm sure Director Hwang
can get you someone who does.
My style's unique. [laughs]
There's nobody who completely gets me,
so we'll struggle along.
[echoing] Just try to keep up.
[laughing]
Just try to keep up.
If we miss the deadline, I'll get fired!
[Yun, echoing] Just try to keep up.
-[echoing] Just try to keep up.
-[echoing] I need it!
-[groans] Ah!
-[knocking at door]
Sorry to interrupt,
but you have a visitor.
Someone to discuss
a new project with Ms. Yun.
Send them in.
Yeah, yeah. Great. Come in.
-Hello, everyone.
-[Yun] Oh, Mr. Min.
-Nice to see you, Ms. Yun.
-Good to see you.
Min Jun-young, this is Seo Mi-rae,
Ms. Yun's newly-appointed producer.
-[chuckles]
-Ah, okay.
-Nice to meet you.
-Mr. Min. [chuckles]
-Sorry for just dropping in.
-It's all right.
-I'm glad to have you.
-[Min] You're gracious.
Like Director Hwang said.
[Hwang] So, Mister Min
and his people at DU launched
a new dating simulation platform
using one of our characters.
Choi Si-woo as a matter of fact.
DU and Ms. Yun have agreed
to certain uses.
Simulated dating, is that a new kind
of video game you're trying out?
Actually, it's an app
more than a game using virtual reality.
-Did your people give it a name yet?
-"Boyfriend on Demand."
-[coughs]
-[quirky musical sting plays]
[Yun gasps]
I told you she was like this.
She's allergic to the genre.
I swear she gets a rash
at the slightest sign of romance.
[chuckles]
-You caught me off guard. I'm--
-I'm used to it.
-It took me a while not to laugh at it.
-[laughing]
[Min] The reason I wanted to meet today
is that the team that's working on
the final touches loves your character,
and they were wondering if we could use
some of your other ones as candidates.
-[Hwang] Oh, love it.
-So you want more of my cute leads?
Yes.
Choi Si-woo could work
because his popularity is off the charts.
He's kind of a fluke,
but don't use the other ones.
Unless you wanna call it
Boredom on Demand instead.
[laughing]
-[chuckles] That's funny!
-They were duds!
If she didn't write,
she could do stand-up!
But what you meant to say was…
I think Ms. Yun has an excellent grasp
of how her characters compare
to Choi Si-woo.
I actually wanted to see
if you had any objections.
My sense is,
we need to go to the drawing board.
-Make a suggestion.
-[Min] If they're duds…
Ah! Have you considered
using the supporting characters at all?
-Using the, um…
-So the secondary male characters?
Exactly. Ms. Yun's always had
a particular knack at creating
contrast between her male lead
and secondary heroes
to the point the female love interest
has a hard time choosing.
Oh!
[Mi-rae] Take Hong-ju
from Bloodsucking Boyfriend.
You had to kill him off in the jungle
when he got too popular, didn't you?
A fever.
The courier from Did the Team Leader
Say That? got review-bombed.
Diehard fans were afraid
the lead was gonna get killed.
-[quirky music playing]
-True.
I suggest you use other
great characters Ms. Yun has created
on your platform and give them new life.
They already have a backstory,
and we know they're appealing.
It could be
a good way to get users hooked.
[Hwang] Oh, I love it! [chuckles]
Oh, that is clever! It's good.
-[Hwang] Get people hooked!
-You are good.
-[Min] That's good.
-[Hwang] I love it.
[music fades]
[female voice] The doors are opening.
[inhales] Do you think it's possible
for you to answer when I call?
I'll try.
-It's important close to deadlines.
-Uh-huh.
[sighs]
-You're leaving?
-Ms. Seo.
Did you work something
out with Director Hwang?
[Min] I did. I'm glad I caught you.
Do you think we could sit and talk
a little while longer?
Now?
[Mi-rae] Review your dating platform?
It wouldn't be anything too demanding.
We would send you the equipment,
give you a one-month trial,
and you would review it when you're done.
All right. So am I reviewing
the technology or the content?
It'd center on the experience.
The dates that you'd be going on.
-Oh.
-You'd review the candidates.
Say what you liked or didn’t like,
their strengths and weaknesses.
It's more of a role-playing situation
than an actual date, isn't it?
Yes, but we want it
to feel like a real one.
If I understood correctly,
you're not the cheesy romance type?
Uh. Uh-huh.
That's good, because we want
to appeal to a wide audience.
And you strike me as very honest.
We're just testing our beta service.
I could really use a thorough assessment
to see where we're at.
My budget's decent, and your time
is valuable, so I insist on paying you.
-I get paid to test it?
-[intriguing music playing]
So, will you?
You had such good ideas earlier.
I’d love your input.
[music fades]
BOYFRIEND ON DEMAND
-[upbeat pop music playing]
-[sighs]
"Boyfriend on Demand."
[Mi-rae] "Step one, sync your mobile phone
with the base unit."
[bleeps]
[female voice] Now transmitting
user information into the system.
[whirring]
"Place the ring on your head,
and assume a comfortable position."
The ring will automatically adjust
to fit the user's head?
"You are now ready for the wonders
of Boyfriend on Demand."
[female voice] User optimization complete.
Please place the ring on your head,
and assume a comfortable position.
When you press the button,
the ring will light up
and begin the connection process.
[bleeping]
Please press the red button
on the base unit.
Press the button on the right side of
the ring to begin the connection process.
[gasping] What's happening?!
[whirring, buzzing]
[placid music playing]
[Mi-rae] Huh?
[waves softly crashing]
[gasps]
[uplifting music playing]
[chuckles] Wow.
[gasps] Oh!
[laughs]
[music fades]
[whimpering] Oh… Oh… Oh!
[gasping]
[screams]
[placid music playing]
[whale song echoes]
Huh?
[gasps]
[gasps]
[Mi-rae] I can
breathe.
[dolphins squeaking]
[music intensifies]
[music fades]
-[Mi-rae grunts]
-[man groans]
-[tender music playing]
-What do I do?
-[music fades]
-[man exhales]
You look familiar.
[pencils scratching]
THE MAN TO KNOW
Hold on. Are you who I think you are?
-[upbeat K-pop song playing]
-[gasps]
[female voice] Ms. Seo Mi-rae,
congratulations.
You've met your first date.
-[lyrics in Korean]
-[Mi-rae] Oh my God. It’s Choi Si-woo.
Are you… are you okay? Can you talk?
[upbeat K-pop song continues]
[song fades]
[jazzy K-pop song playing]
[song fades]
[vocalizing]
WOULD YOU LIKE
TO MEET YOUR NEXT BOYFRIEND?
[music fades]
EPISODE 1
THE FUTURES OF YOU AND ME
[upbeat pop music playing]
[train horn blares]
[keypad beeping]
[sighs]
2 WEEKS AGO
I'm home.
[entry system beeps]
[sighs] Please turn on.
[bleeps]
[male voice] Initiating home mode.
[lights pinging]
[sighs]
[sighs]
Home sweet home.
-[ethereal music playing]
-[sizzling]
-[woman] We have 24 hours in a day, right?
-[toaster dings]
I spend six hours sleeping.
-Ten hours at my job.
-[phone ringing]
An hour each way commuting
and an hour eating.
An hour and a half
on my bath and beauty routine,
which leaves
a measly three and half hours for me.
Enough time to watch a movie
or two if I multitask.
Hmm.
SELECT YOUR PROFILE
I don't waste
my precious free time on just anyone.
I have very high standards.
[TV chattering]
Ah!
Days like today are the best.
No meetings and no demands on my time.
[sighs]
So relaxing.
[squeaking]
I wish every day could be like today.
I need to sleep.
[male voice] Initiating sleep mode.
[birds singing, brook babbling]
[woman] When it's time
to get back on the clock,
I try to stay in my little bubble
as long as I can.
[train arriving]
[headphones bleep]
A NEW ERA OF LOVE BEGINS
BOYFRIEND ON DEMAND
[jaunty music playing]
["Thinking About You" by TEMMPO playing]
[vocalizing]
I think about you ♪
What can I do? ♪
All I now know is I think I need to ♪
Can I come over to kiss ya? ♪
[vocalizing]
I think about you ♪
What can I do? ♪
All I now know is I think… ♪
-Hi.
-Hi.
[vocalizing]
[exhales]
[sighs]
[woman] I had the best time
in the Philippines last summer.
I wish I could jump in
the ocean right now.
[sighs] When is summer coming?
[child babbling, laughing]
[child's voice becomes muffled]
[muffled laughter]
[muffled] Sorry.
-[unmuffled] Yeah?
-I think he got some on you.
-[gasps]
-[jaunty music playing]
[air brakes hissing]
[woman gasps]
Little chocolate-covered devil.
[sighs]
[female voice] The doors are opening.
[female voice]The doors are opening.
The doors are closing.
-Uh, good Morning.
-[music fades]
Morning.
[woman sighs]
It's not working. [huffs]
I think you're rubbing it in.
I guess.
-[woman sighs] What's his deal?
-[mysterious music playing]
[female voice] The doors are opening.
[female voice] The doors are closing.
[bleeping]
[female voice] Unregistered fingerprint.
[chimes]
[woman 1] Hey, producer!
Oh. Uh, hi.
-Right on time!
-[woman 2] Yes.
Yay, congrats.
-For what?
-[woman 1] You did it!
[cheering, clapping]
-[woman 1] Way to go! Yay!
-[woman 3] Producer Park!
[man 1] Thank you.
Yes!
You have once again succeeded
in arriving not a single minute early.
[man 1] Your streak continues.
She's impressive.
Is it Kyeong-nam's birthday or something?
[man 1] He got good news.
-His new adaptation deal got signed.
-No!
What do you expect?
The director's taking us
all out to celebrate.
-[man 1] Mm-hmm.
-Really?
Oh. I actually have plans already.
Oh, is that so?
-Just say you're fasting instead.
-[woman 4 laughs]
Producer Park will be coming, right?
Since he's the man of the hour.
And he's definitely not fasting.
Are you coming, Mi-rae?
Or do you want to incur the wrath
of Director Hwang for not going?
[sighs] I'm not the only one
who isn't going.
I'm… pretty sure
Kyeong-nam never goes either.
[man 1] You have a point. He's got that
broody leave-me-alone thing going on.
Don't you think he's so charming?
-[quirky musical sting plays]
-Oh?
-Don't bother.
-[man 1] Mm-hmm.
Eun-ju's been fangirling
over him for weeks.
-For real?
-Yes.
After much deliberation,
I've decided to give liking him a go.
-[man 1] Oh.
-[scoffs] Hold on.
-Are you actually gonna pursue this? Why?
-Mm.
Because Producer Kyeong is so handsome.
-[sighs] He also smells nice.
-Ew.
Eun-ju, that is a really bad idea.
-[Eun-ju] About what?
-[sighs]
Dating and then breaking up with
colleagues is super awkward and messy.
-Do not date someone at work.
-[laughs]
Well, um… I never said
I wanted to go on a date. [chuckles]
[laughs softly]
Just keep ogling him.
-[man 1] Can't hurt.
-[Mi-rae] Don't encourage her.
[alert chimes]
PARK KYEONG-NAM
[Park] Here's the feedback on Team Two's
proposal from last week's meeting.
Oh, I forgot.
[Park] Cons. Doesn't highlight what makes
the protagonist charming.
Lack of understanding
of the fantasy genre.
Disappointing characters
and ambiguous message.
No universal story
or potential for improvement.
Pros. None worth mentioning.
[scoffs]
[jaunty music playing]
-[Mi-rae] Nice.
-[menacing music crests]
-[man 2] You can't do that! Hey! Hey!
-[gasps]
Producer Cho! I wasn't done lecturing you!
Come back here!
-[smacks loudly]
-[all gasp]
I quit.
-You can tell Ms. Yun.
-[man 2] No, please, sir.
-[man 2] You can't go.
-No. You walk out, you're through.
-[Cho] Good!
-[man 2] You know how he is.
-Get your hands off.
-[man 2] Take the day off.
What the heck happened?
[Cho] I'm not taking
any more of this crap! I'm outta here!
-[all clamoring]
-[man 2] Sir!
-[woman 1] Why's is he leaving?
-[woman 2] Why is he leaving? The hell?
-[tense music playing]
-[all murmuring]
You see? That's what happens
when you can't take criticism.
[alert pings]
[man 3] Someone check the cafeteria.
See if he really quit.
JI-YEON
[Ji-yeon] I really need to see you
after work. It's urgent.
Sounds serious.
[gentle guitar music playing]
[camera clicking]
[Mi-rae] Ji-yeon!
-Bestie! [giggles]
-My God.
It took me forever to get here.
[festive piano music playing]
[scoffs]
When you said it was urgent,
I thought you were serious.
I was.
I wouldn't have met you here for nothing.
I have a very important issue to resolve,
and only you can help me out with it.
Really?
What is it?
You know you have to dress up
for the wedding?
Huh?
Did you… No!
You weren't planning to cop out
and just send cash again?
[chuckles] I am pretty overloaded at work,
so I really should--
You're going. And you're dressing up.
You're gonna try on everything in here
if you have to. Everyone'll be there.
And my clothes don't cut it?
[scoffs] Maybe for an office party,
but this isn't that.
You need to make an effort,
in case your ex and You-mi are there
doing their cutesy little couple routine.
You need to show everyone
how amazing it is to be single,
and how freaking perfect your life is.
That's what weddings are for.
Hey. Se-june and I ended things ages ago.
Why would he care what I wear?
Oh, this one is gorgeous.
Now get in there and try it on.
-[groans]
-I mean it!
[sighs]
[sighs]
It's not my ex's wedding I'm going to.
Why do I need this?
[sighs deeply]
[pop music playing over speakers]
I forbid you to return that.
I'll know if you do.
Could you say it louder?
Everyone's gonna think you paid for it.
[scoffs] What art teacher
can afford that outfit?
If I could, I would have bought you two.
-[exhales] Hmm.
-[Mi-rae sighs]
-Poor thing, your life is dreary.
-[laughs]
Hey, my life is fine, okay?
My job is good, and I have my oasis.
Aren't you lonely?
Oh no.
[both laugh]
Don't tell me you wouldn't want someone
to snuggle once in a while?
A boyfriend is not gonna get me
that raise I deserve, is he?
Course not. Because if I had a boyfriend,
I would want to spend time with him.
And I'm always so exhausted,
I don't know how I would do that.
But tiredness isn't
even the biggest issue.
You know, it's the mental mumbo jumbo
you have to deal with
from dating an immature idiot.
So just go out
with a mature idiot instead.
Or find someone
who's exactly like you are.
-Boom. I pick him off a tree. Is that it?
-[quirky music playing]
Duh!
-You're gonna have to look in the shadows.
-Why?
Because if he's like you,
he's gonna do his mysterious aloof thing.
The quiet kinda sexy
that sneaks up on you.
-[Cho]You can tell Ms. Yun.
-[man 1] No.
[man 1] Producer Cho, you can't go.
-You know how he is.
-[Cho] Get your hands off me.
-[man 1] Take the rest of the day off.
-[Cho] I said I quit!
-Oh gross! I do not live in the shadows!
-[electronic music playing]
I want someone with a boatload of friends
who's really social.
[laughing] You want a guy
who's your opposite, then?
-Hush.
-[keypad beeping]
[grunting]
-[security system beeps]
-Hey, I'm home.
[panting]
I said I'm home!
[male voice] Initiating home mode.
[grunting]
[groans]
[quirky music playing]
I can't afford this.
Why the hell did I buy it?
[groaning]
[grunts]
[groans]
[woman 4] It's not funny.
Jerk.
How are we supposed to get ahead
if this is what it does to people?
It was Yun Song, right?
[sighs] Such a drama queen!
Who do you think'll take over?
The Romance crew's pretty good.
I heard Park Kyeong-nam's in the running
and Mi-rae for some crazy reason.
Huh? That means things
are worse than ever.
You know I love her,
but the girl can't stand the genre.
The Romance crew all threatened to quit
if they got stuck with Yun.
And Mi-rae does have room
for another author.
-[woman 4] Oh!
-Hi, guys. What's up?
What? Who died?
[Kyeong-nam sighs]
[Mi-rae] What? What?! Me? Why?
[man 1 laughing]
Hey, everyone. How's it going?
[woman 4] Morning! Happy day! [chuckles]
[jaunty music playing]
[sighs] You're good.
Kyeong-nam has been kicking butt lately.
[man 1] You're safe.
Hwang'll want him to take over for sure.
-Hmm?
-[woman 4 clears throat]
Better be prepared. The man can throw
a mean curveball now and then.
[sighs in anguish]
-Ugh!
-[man 1] It might not even happen.
[Mi-rae groans]
[sighs] Not again.
[huffs]
Ms. Yun! [panting]
I need it!
Open the door and give me the file!
-Please!
-[doorbell rings]
Ah! The deadline!
If we miss the deadline, I'll get fired!
[echoing] I need it!
[sobbing]
[doorbell ringing]
[Mi-rae] Ms. Yun!
YUN SONG
[mouse clicks]
WEBTOON THE MAN TO KNOW
EPISODE 21
UPLOAD COMPLETE
[sighs]
[Mi-rae] Working with Yun Song
was utterly exhausting.
She was like a vampire flu virus
that sucked the marrow out of my bones.
[phone ringing, buzzing]
YUN SONG
-Yes, Ms. Yun?
-[Yun] It's too much.
[Yun crying]
Are you… crying?
[Yun] Have you seen the comments?
The mean things
they write about me online?
[sighs] It's 3:00 in the morning.
-Maybe you should get some rest?
-They want me to fail, don't they?
And they won't stop until I do.
But why should I?
I won't give them the satisfaction!
Evil sons of bitches!
[gasps]
[Mi-rae] I won't go back!
I gotta get out the big guns.
[dramatic music playing]
Director? May I have a word?
[Hwang] Sure. Come in.
I thought of you when I went by
the cookie store after lunch.
[singsongy] So I got your favorites.
[sad slide whistle]
[curious slide whistle]
Macaroons.
Pretty funny you stopped by there too.
Yes. We both happened
to have lunch near there, I guess.
[muffled] Why don't you have a seat,
so I can, uh, chat with my mouth full?
Oh! Mm!
Sweet Jesus!
What is that? Is that vanilla?
-[Hwang] Mm!
-Try it with this.
-[Hwang] Thanks.
-[mysterious music playing]
[gasps]
I got citrus. Is this the, um…
-Yirgacheffe.
-Oh, you splurged, huh? Ah, I like it!
[Hwang] Ah, this is a real treat.
I never realized you two were so outgoing.
[Mi-rae chuckles]
I did come concerning Ms. Yun's--
Stop!
I want you both to have an equal shot
at this opportunity, huh? Hmm?
So let me hear which one of you
should be the lucky one
to oversee our highest-ranking
and highest-grossing author
as her producer?
-I think I should go first--
-[Hwang] I'm not finished!
Neither of you ever attend
the company dinners or functions I host.
But I'll make an exception
and not hold grudges.
I'll decide this thing strictly on merit.
So, no pressure on either of you.
And you're first up.
I have had the privilege
of being part of Ms. Yun's success story,
so I think it's only fair
I let Kyeong-nam have…
-It worked for them.
-Hmm?
I think it would be a real shame
not to have them back together
after the success they had.
And although I've been here longer,
Ms. Seo's a natural with the writers.
I appreciate what you're doing,
but she's yours.
-Well.
-[Mi-rae chuckles]
He's too modest.
Sir. You just signed an adaptation deal.
I don't know if I'm good enough yet.
To take things to that level.
You're being modest now.
He has managed to get his newest projects
to the top in record time,
so he's used to working
with the best of the best.
And his review of my team's
recent proposals, they were harsh,
but it shows
his heart really wants our success.
That critique was for someone
who has no business being a writer.
I don't think it applies in this case.
I'm sure. Just step up.
Your team could use the experience.
[Hwang] All right.
Enough.
Stop. Because you'd rather have
a root canal than take this job.
[music fades]
I hear you. She's a handful.
How are you going to survive?
You know how this business is.
If you don't give your all,
you're never gonna make it!
You need to forget about
your work-life balance.
You two were my best options.
So, I'm sticking with Seo Mi-rae.
-[intense music playing]
-What?
Well, you only have six authors
on your schedule anyway.
-I'll get some more.
-And the romance!
It's all thanks to you Yun Song dedicated
herself to that genre in the first place.
And I handed it over
to Producer Cho as fast as I could too.
-I can't stand that saccharin stuff.
-Readers love it.
[Park] So that's settled.
If you don't mind, I'll get going.
My meeting got pushed a little early, sir.
All right. Bye.
Thank you. This was quite pleasant.
Huh. [groans]
Do you mind?
[groans] Oh.
[Hwang] I wasn't aware he had a meeting.
So, where were we?
[music ends]
Ugh. Lying little weasel.
[man 1] How'd it go?
It's you?
[groaning] Oh wow.
Kyeong-nam had an entire box
of macaroons and a coffee.
-[Mi-rae] Someone must've tipped him off.
-What?
Who? It wasn't us.
Did he, um, mention how long
you would be working with Ms. Yun at all?
[sighs]
-I wish.
-[woman 4] We already know the answer.
Until she collapses from exhaustion again.
[man 1] Mi-rae, it's been three years.
You've come a long way.
You've gotta show her who's the boss here.
Come on.
She's up against Yun Song, remember?
[Mi-rae] Is it possible for someone
to haunt your past and your future
at the same time?
[Yun] I mentioned this, didn't I?
3 YEARS AGO
My sister's friend works
at a big fancy law firm?
Did you just get home?
-I wake up tomorrow.
-Sh!
-I'm gonna get them…
-Who is that?
-Make those nasty trolls stop leaving…
-The author.
-The one I told you about.
-I don't care how much it costs.
When does she ever have time to draw?
You're always on the phone with her.
-Calling my sister now.
-[call bleeps]
[gasps] Oh? She's gone. Thank God.
I swear. She'll be the death of me!
Are you sure you wanna go out?
Uh… She is not gonna ruin your birthday.
[Yun] That ad thing we talked about
last time, is it still on?
I don't see why it wouldn't still be on.
[Yun] Make sure it is.
I might need the money for my lawsuit.
All right, I'll look into it first thing.
[Yun] I've been so busy
writing and drawing,
I barely have time to eat or sleep.
Do you know how tiring that is?
-I know how hard you're working, Ms. Yun.
-I wanna take a break this month.
What? This month is a bit soon.
You just took one about three weeks ago.
[Yun] With the way these trolls wear
me down, I feel like it was a year ago.
-Don't they have anything better to do?
-Listen.
Try not to read too many of those.
[beeping]
[music fades]
[phone buzzing]
SE-JUNE
[phone ringing]
[female voice] The person
you are trying to reach is unavailable.
Please leave a message.
[car drives by]
[gasps]
SE-JUNE
12 MISSED CALLS
Shit. [gasps]
[poignant music playing]
[sighs]
-[phone ringing]
-Come on.
-[phone pings]
-Really?
[Mi-rae] That was the beginning of the end
of my love story with Se-june.
[Eun-ju] It's not just
leaving work on time.
[Eun-ju] You'll be lucky
to catch the train.
Not to remind you,
but the last time you worked with her,
you got a bald spot around here,
didn't you?
Let's make sure we know
what we're working with.
-Seriously?
-So far, so good.
-[quirky music playing]
-Now, over here.
Oh, it's gonna fall out again
anyway for sure.
[man 1] You guys, give her some space.
[man 1] We have that thing
to discuss, right?
[woman 4] Oh yeah.
[woman 4] That thing about the meeting
with what's-his-face.
[grunts]
[Mi-rae and riders screaming]
-Oh! Oh! Oh my goodness.
-My hair!
[woman] I'm so sorry.
I didn't mean to do that.
Are you okay, miss?
[tearfully] Dang it.
-Is that lilac or lavender?
-[string music fades in]
-[Ji-yeon] They all do.
-Your socials always look so much fun.
-Hey. Girl?
-[woman 5] Did she just shush us?
No. You returned that amazing suit?
-No, I put in the closet.
-Why the heck is it in there?
I tried it. I just wasn't feeling it.
-I just went with the old standby.
-But…
Oh no, Mi-rae!
-Ji-yeon really got you to come in person?
-[women laughing]
It's been way too long.
Are you dating anyone?
-I lost track. What's new?
-It'll take a few drinks to catch up.
Let's go out after this.
-[Ji-yeon] All right.
-[man 3] The lucky groom!
["Pomp & Circumstance" playing]
[Mi-rae] Lucky for me, the awkward run-in
with an ex-boyfriend at
a mutual friend's wedding didn't happen.
But I kept expecting it to.
[man 3] And now, please turn your gazes to
welcome the star of the show, our bride.
-[guests cheering, whooping]
-So live in the moment ♪
Trying to find the words to say… ♪
-[woman 6] Amazing!
-[man 4] Beautiful!
I wanna let go of tomorrow ♪
Let my worries fade away ♪
Don't wanna find out
What my life might bring… ♪
[woman 7] You're perfect!
And making all the same mistakes… ♪
-He's so lucky!
-Live in the moment ♪
[song fades]
Wasn't her dress to die for?
-They looked happy.
-That dress was perfect.
We're gonna catch up over drinks.
-You're coming, right?
-Of course she is.
Wanna hear about your project.
-Oh, it's good.
-Okay, great. I'll be back.
-No skipping out for work.
-I won't.
-[woman 5] It's been way too long.
-[chuckles]
[woman 8] You-mi!
-[woman 5] Hey!
-[woman 8] Congrats!
I didn't know she was here.
Where did she come from?
[woman 5 gasps] You-mi! She's here.
[woman 8 squeals] She's engaged.
They're getting hitched! Se-june proposed!
-Thanks, girls.
-[woman 8] Se-june's back from the States?
No, but pretty soon.
[woman 5] We'll all be getting together
again for your wedding, right?
[Mi-rae] A girlfriend who would be
the envy of all,
with a sparkling new engagement ring
on her perfect hand.
[poignant music playing]
That jerk managed to steal the spotlight
without even showing up.
This feels even more awkward.
[woman 5] Was it totally romantic?
Tell us everything.
How did he propose?
[woman 9] He did manage to surprise me,
but I had doubts about the ring.
[poignant music continues]
[girl giggling]
I can't wait to do that.
After I get married someday.
So is that something you want?
-Yeah, of course.
-Who's the girl?
Hmm?
I'm sure you'll have
a fabulous wedding one day.
I know that voice. What's going on?
Nothing.
Come on. What did I say?
It hurts my feelings when you mention
big life goals, and they don't include us.
You only use "I"
when you talk about the future.
[somber music playing]
[phone pings]
[Sun] I look forward to catching up
after so long. See you tomorrow.
Ugh, my God.
[Mi-rae] It's starting already.
Ugh! I don't deserve this! [huffs]
THE MAN TO KNOW
EP107
HOW DARE YOU…
MAKE A MOVE ON MY FAMILY?!
SQUEEZE
WHAT ARE YOU DOING?
YOU DISAPPOINT ME, AUN
It's been a while.
But it's gotten cheesier.
[bold music playing]
[Mi-rae] Naemo's most popular webtoon
for three years running,
Yun Song's The Man to Know.
A chaebol romance featuring Choi Si-woo,
the third-generation heir of SY Group.
Of course,
he's just as arrogant as he is handsome
with the classic and clichéd selling point
of being helpless against feminine charm.
It's a hodgepodge of melodramatic action
and political intrigue
that comes with a chaebol family.
As for the fairy-tale romance,
the plot is so typical
it's surprising Hans Christian Andersen
hasn't risen from the grave to sue
for plagiarism.
While staying in Cebu
for the construction of a resort,
Si-woo goes surfing at dawn
and gets swept away by a monster wave.
But he's miraculously rescued
by Eun Na-ra,
who happened to be on vacation there too,
and he falls madly in love with her.
[alert pings]
THE MAN TO KNOW
[woman 1] Yun Song the has-been
is ranting on Instagram again.
[man 1] Yo, TMK.
Want some crackers with that cheese?
[woman 2] How is TMK number one?
[man 2] Naemo's gone downhill.
Time to give YS the axe!
[man 2] Send an editor!
It's outta control.
[woman 1] Recommended
for low blood pressure low.
[woman 2] Yun should stay off socials.
I feel sorry for her fans.
[woman 3] Webtoon author Yun Song engages
her readers in another heated debate.
[woman 3] Yun, who posted a targeted
message on social media, faces backlash.
[man 3] Fans angered by popular author
Yun Song's irresponsible hiatuses.
[sighs]
[groans]
[breathes deeply]
Did you lose something?
[Park] No, I just…
[playful music playing]
[Mi-rae] Annoying jerk.
Selfish jerk.
Self-centered jerk.
-Ms. Seo?
-Yeah?
Do you have much longer on that?
Oh.
Another… five minutes.
Great.
Ah! Lovely weather today.
[woman 10] Would you like the files
for Ms. Yun? They're ready.
Yes, I was going to ask you about those.
[woman 10] Kyeong-nam has them.
What?
-[breathing deeply]
-[Mi-rae] Hi, Kyeong-nam?
[quirky music playing]
I found this in the chair.
I guess you didn't feel it?
Oh. No.
Are you ready for the handover?
I need the files.
Right. You're ready now?
[Park] Conference room.
Five minutes.
Or so.
-Or so?
-Yes.
Right.
[Park] So the ratings could be better,
but sales are steady.
There's a dedicated fan base.
We have three outstanding ad deals.
One will run
as a branded webtoon until next month.
The CTR is pretty good,
so we can highlight that
when we want to on-board new clients.
[Mi-rae] Bet you're feeling great about
leaving me with a ticking time bomb, huh?
[Mi-rae huffs] Not a single cuticle
or chew mark in sight.
Of course his nails are perfect.
-[Park] Did you get them?
-What?
Can you accept the files?
Oh.
Sorry.
That's everything we gave Producer Cho
regarding The Man to Know.
-It's pretty thorough.
-Thanks.
And also…
[alert pings]
PARK KYEONG-NAM SENT A MESSAGE
SAUNA COUPON
What is this?
Ah. He said it'll probably become
your second home soon.
[scoffs] 'Cause I'm gonna be so stressed?
Do people think
I'm gonna cave like he did?
Yes. For sure.
[Park] Anyway, you're all up to speed now.
I'm done. Unless you have any questions?
-No.
-Excellent.
[alert pings]
[alerts pinging rapidly]
Excellent. For you.
[groans]
[man 1 sighs]
Time for lunch.
[gasps] Ugh.
Are you sure that clock is right?
Uh… you're seeing her this afternoon?
-I got you. Grilled eel special.
-[gasps] Ah!
[sighs] You are my guardian angel.
[moans]
-Grilled eel rice bowls!
-Let's go. Ah!
I'm not letting you put ginger on mine.
It makes me nauseous.
[man 1] How is that possible?
Ginger's the thing you take
to not throw up.
[woman 5] Oh, that's right!
I hope it's not crowded.
-I forgot to have breakfast.
-[female voice] Doors are opening.
-[gasps]
-[ominous music playing]
Seo Mi-rae!
You're early!
[chuckles] What a pleasure, Ms. Yun.
I got my favorites,
so we can catch up before our meeting.
-[chuckles]
-Only enough for two. [chuckles]
[Yun] Let's go. I'm starving.
-Ah.
-Enjoy your lunch date.
Stay away from the ginger.
[ominous music continues]
[music fades]
Delicious. Mm.
-Are you worried about our collab?
-Our what? No, course not!
If my old producer hadn't gotten sick,
he'd be here now.
I had no idea he was such a frail man.
[Mi-rae] Still as self-centered
and clueless as ever.
It's kind of impressive.
I remember you well.
We really clicked, yeah?
Yes. I really hope we're still a good fit.
The reason I'm so successful
is 'cause you're a great producer.
[chuckles] I think your success is due
to your genius storylines.
Mostly them. [chuckles]
[deflating music plays]
So the female lead
being constantly tormented
by the sister-in-law or grandma-in-law,
and having her daringly rescued
by Cho Si-woo looking cool in his tuxedo
is not trending as well
because readers are used to it.
And the newest aunt-in-law
kidnapping her on vacation…
[Yun chuckles] Goodness.
So you're basically telling me
you don't want
my lead character to play the hero?
Ah. [laughs nervously]
I was only referring to the tendency
for the in-laws
to always be conspiring against her--
Why else would the trolls hang in there?
They complain online
because then everyone knows they exist.
You don't get it.
This is why I was hesitant.
Huh?
About what?
You're a bright girl with good ideas,
only you don't get…
anything about my style.
Hmm.
Well, I'm sure Director Hwang
can get you someone who does.
My style's unique. [laughs]
There's nobody who completely gets me,
so we'll struggle along.
[echoing] Just try to keep up.
[laughing]
Just try to keep up.
If we miss the deadline, I'll get fired!
[Yun, echoing] Just try to keep up.
-[echoing] Just try to keep up.
-[echoing] I need it!
-[groans] Ah!
-[knocking at door]
Sorry to interrupt,
but you have a visitor.
Someone to discuss
a new project with Ms. Yun.
Send them in.
Yeah, yeah. Great. Come in.
-Hello, everyone.
-[Yun] Oh, Mr. Min.
-Nice to see you, Ms. Yun.
-Good to see you.
Min Jun-young, this is Seo Mi-rae,
Ms. Yun's newly-appointed producer.
-[chuckles]
-Ah, okay.
-Nice to meet you.
-Mr. Min. [chuckles]
-Sorry for just dropping in.
-It's all right.
-I'm glad to have you.
-[Min] You're gracious.
Like Director Hwang said.
[Hwang] So, Mister Min
and his people at DU launched
a new dating simulation platform
using one of our characters.
Choi Si-woo as a matter of fact.
DU and Ms. Yun have agreed
to certain uses.
Simulated dating, is that a new kind
of video game you're trying out?
Actually, it's an app
more than a game using virtual reality.
-Did your people give it a name yet?
-"Boyfriend on Demand."
-[coughs]
-[quirky musical sting plays]
[Yun gasps]
I told you she was like this.
She's allergic to the genre.
I swear she gets a rash
at the slightest sign of romance.
[chuckles]
-You caught me off guard. I'm--
-I'm used to it.
-It took me a while not to laugh at it.
-[laughing]
[Min] The reason I wanted to meet today
is that the team that's working on
the final touches loves your character,
and they were wondering if we could use
some of your other ones as candidates.
-[Hwang] Oh, love it.
-So you want more of my cute leads?
Yes.
Choi Si-woo could work
because his popularity is off the charts.
He's kind of a fluke,
but don't use the other ones.
Unless you wanna call it
Boredom on Demand instead.
[laughing]
-[chuckles] That's funny!
-They were duds!
If she didn't write,
she could do stand-up!
But what you meant to say was…
I think Ms. Yun has an excellent grasp
of how her characters compare
to Choi Si-woo.
I actually wanted to see
if you had any objections.
My sense is,
we need to go to the drawing board.
-Make a suggestion.
-[Min] If they're duds…
Ah! Have you considered
using the supporting characters at all?
-Using the, um…
-So the secondary male characters?
Exactly. Ms. Yun's always had
a particular knack at creating
contrast between her male lead
and secondary heroes
to the point the female love interest
has a hard time choosing.
Oh!
[Mi-rae] Take Hong-ju
from Bloodsucking Boyfriend.
You had to kill him off in the jungle
when he got too popular, didn't you?
A fever.
The courier from Did the Team Leader
Say That? got review-bombed.
Diehard fans were afraid
the lead was gonna get killed.
-[quirky music playing]
-True.
I suggest you use other
great characters Ms. Yun has created
on your platform and give them new life.
They already have a backstory,
and we know they're appealing.
It could be
a good way to get users hooked.
[Hwang] Oh, I love it! [chuckles]
Oh, that is clever! It's good.
-[Hwang] Get people hooked!
-You are good.
-[Min] That's good.
-[Hwang] I love it.
[music fades]
[female voice] The doors are opening.
[inhales] Do you think it's possible
for you to answer when I call?
I'll try.
-It's important close to deadlines.
-Uh-huh.
[sighs]
-You're leaving?
-Ms. Seo.
Did you work something
out with Director Hwang?
[Min] I did. I'm glad I caught you.
Do you think we could sit and talk
a little while longer?
Now?
[Mi-rae] Review your dating platform?
It wouldn't be anything too demanding.
We would send you the equipment,
give you a one-month trial,
and you would review it when you're done.
All right. So am I reviewing
the technology or the content?
It'd center on the experience.
The dates that you'd be going on.
-Oh.
-You'd review the candidates.
Say what you liked or didn’t like,
their strengths and weaknesses.
It's more of a role-playing situation
than an actual date, isn't it?
Yes, but we want it
to feel like a real one.
If I understood correctly,
you're not the cheesy romance type?
Uh. Uh-huh.
That's good, because we want
to appeal to a wide audience.
And you strike me as very honest.
We're just testing our beta service.
I could really use a thorough assessment
to see where we're at.
My budget's decent, and your time
is valuable, so I insist on paying you.
-I get paid to test it?
-[intriguing music playing]
So, will you?
You had such good ideas earlier.
I’d love your input.
[music fades]
BOYFRIEND ON DEMAND
-[upbeat pop music playing]
-[sighs]
"Boyfriend on Demand."
[Mi-rae] "Step one, sync your mobile phone
with the base unit."
[bleeps]
[female voice] Now transmitting
user information into the system.
[whirring]
"Place the ring on your head,
and assume a comfortable position."
The ring will automatically adjust
to fit the user's head?
"You are now ready for the wonders
of Boyfriend on Demand."
[female voice] User optimization complete.
Please place the ring on your head,
and assume a comfortable position.
When you press the button,
the ring will light up
and begin the connection process.
[bleeping]
Please press the red button
on the base unit.
Press the button on the right side of
the ring to begin the connection process.
[gasping] What's happening?!
[whirring, buzzing]
[placid music playing]
[Mi-rae] Huh?
[waves softly crashing]
[gasps]
[uplifting music playing]
[chuckles] Wow.
[gasps] Oh!
[laughs]
[music fades]
[whimpering] Oh… Oh… Oh!
[gasping]
[screams]
[placid music playing]
[whale song echoes]
Huh?
[gasps]
[gasps]
[Mi-rae] I can
breathe.
[dolphins squeaking]
[music intensifies]
[music fades]
-[Mi-rae grunts]
-[man groans]
-[tender music playing]
-What do I do?
-[music fades]
-[man exhales]
You look familiar.
[pencils scratching]
THE MAN TO KNOW
Hold on. Are you who I think you are?
-[upbeat K-pop song playing]
-[gasps]
[female voice] Ms. Seo Mi-rae,
congratulations.
You've met your first date.
-[lyrics in Korean]
-[Mi-rae] Oh my God. It’s Choi Si-woo.
Are you… are you okay? Can you talk?
[upbeat K-pop song continues]
[song fades]
[jazzy K-pop song playing]
[song fades]