The Practical Guide to Love: Han Ji‑min Navigates Awkward First Steps in JTBC’s New Romance Drama
A Relatable Story About Love Coming Late in Life
JTBC’s upcoming weekend drama The Practical Guide to Love (original Korean title: Efficient Meeting of Singles) is set to premiere on February 28 at 10:40 PM KST. Based on the popular Naver webtoon of the same name, the series explores what happens when a woman finally decides to take love seriously—only to discover that romance is far more complicated than work.
At the heart of the story is Han Ji‑min, who plays Lee Eui‑young, a senior manager in the purchasing team at The Hills Hotel. Eui‑young is the definition of a professional: meticulous, reliable, and admired by her colleagues as a role model. In the office, she’s flawless. But when it comes to love, she’s clumsy, hesitant, and inexperienced.
Han Ji‑min as Lee Eui‑young: Perfect at Work, Awkward in Love
Eui‑young has spent her thirties waiting for “natural encounters” to spark romance, but nothing ever happened. Eventually, she gives up on the idea of fate (자만추, meaning “let love happen naturally”) and decides to take matters into her own hands (인만추, meaning “actively pursue love”).
- Professional perfection: At work, she’s known for her sharp judgment and dependable leadership.
- Romantic hesitation: In love, she’s never had a proper relationship, making her vulnerable and endearing.
- First steps into dating: The drama shows her awkward but relatable journey as she tries blind dates for the first time.
A Glimpse Through the Released Stills
Recently released stills highlight Eui‑young’s first blind date setup. In the scene, friends exchange messages about her age, job, and photo, trying to find her a match. The moment captures the nervous, slightly embarrassing reality of adults who are new to dating.
Her photo shows a gentle smile and neat, approachable charm—exactly the kind of image that makes people say, “She’s pretty and has a great personality.” It’s a small but telling detail that sets the tone for her journey: love may be unfamiliar, but she’s ready to try.
A Different Kind of Romance Drama
Unlike traditional K‑dramas that lean into fantasy or melodrama, The Practical Guide to Love promises a grounded, realistic take on adult romance. Han Ji‑min’s nuanced acting brings out the vulnerability of someone who excels in every area of life except love.
The drama will explore:
- The meaning of real love: What happens when efficiency and logic meet the unpredictability of emotions.
- Two very different men: Eui‑young’s blind dates introduce contrasting personalities, forcing her to confront what she truly wants.
- Empathy and comfort: A story for anyone who has postponed love, offering reassurance that it’s never too late.
Why It’s Worth Watching
The Practical Guide to Love isn’t just about romance—it’s about the courage to step into unfamiliar territory, even when you feel clumsy. It’s a drama that blends humor, tenderness, and realism, making it easy for viewers to see themselves in Eui‑young’s journey.
With Han Ji‑min’s heartfelt performance and a story that resonates with anyone who’s ever hesitated in love, this series is already generating buzz as one of JTBC’s most relatable romance dramas of the year.
Read: Love Scout (2025 K-Drama) Review: A Heartwarming Workplace Romance That Warms the Soul
