"Potato Romance" hints at a clean romance between Lee Sun-bin and Kang Tae-oh.

On the afternoon of the 27th, the production presentation for tvN's new weekend drama "Potato Research Institute" took place at the Ramada Hotel in Sindorim, Guro-gu, Seoul. The event was attended by Director Kang Il-soo, actors Lee Sun-bin, Kang Tae-oh, Lee Hak-joo, Kim Ga-eun, and Shin Hyun-seung.

"Potato Research Institute" is a healing romantic comedy that swirls like a spinning potato, featuring Mi-kyung (played by Lee Sun-bin), whose life revolves around potatoes, and the cold realist Baek Ho (played by Kang Tae-oh) who appears in her life. Director Kang Il-soo described "Potato Research Institute" as "a B-grade romantic comedy set in a potato research institute in a remote valley of Gangwon Province. Unlike the flashy potatoes we commonly see, it tells the delightful story of ordinary people that sometimes cannot help but feel a bit lost in their hearts."

He noted the reason for directing "Potato Research Institute," saying, "Unlike my previous works, this project was proposed to me by writer Kim Ho-soo, with whom I had previously collaborated. When I first heard about a potato research institute, I was puzzled, thinking, 'Is there really such a thing?' But upon reflection, I realized that the bizarre combination of the term 'potato research institute' could offer dramatic interest. While I was nervous about taking on a romantic comedy genre that I hadn't done in a while, the fun derived from the material and concept drew me in, so I proposed to work together with the writer to start the project."

He continued, "I understand that the initiative for the project started because the head of the potato research institute appeared on 'You Quiz.' I believe the writer found it interesting while watching it and decided to start from there," adding, "During actual interviews, I realized that the researchers are not at all like the stiff atmosphere typically associated with research institutes; they are actually fun individuals like ordinary people. Many of them hold doctoral degrees, yet they resemble the kind of uncles you'd see in the countryside. I found it amusing during the interviews. I was curious about what kind of characters and stories would emerge when a common plant like a potato meets a research institute, and writer Kim Ho-soo created an interesting script for us."

Lee Sun-bin plays the role of Kim Mi-kyung, an assistant in the potato research team at Sun-nyeo Foods. Lee Sun-bin said, "This character allows me to show a variety of traits among the characters I have portrayed in previous works. She seems just and could live without stress, yet she is also very emotional with a high level of empathy. When facing events within the drama, Mi-kyung will be seen resolving many incidents in various colorful ways."

Regarding his choice of work, he stated, "I thought this was the kind of work where I could display the type of life performance I had been looking for. The script was read very quickly. The most appealing part was the narrative and love story between Mi-kyung and Baek Ho. While it would be nice to reminisce about scenes depicting quirky life performances, all the characters thrive without any wasted ones. It had been a while since I had seen a script without any disliked characters. Because of this, I felt immense charm, and it felt like it had been a long time since I could enjoy and have fun with a project rather than just studying and getting accustomed to my role on set. Additionally, I had heard many good things about the actor Kang Tae-oh, so I really wanted to work with him," conveying his affection for the work.

Kang Tae-oh plays the role of Baek Ho, the director of organization innovation at Wonhan Retail and the temporary head of the potato research institute. He described his character as "a cold realist with a distinct set of standards. He is sensitive about any deviation from his principles. When he meets the unpredictable Kim Mi-kyung, situations arise that challenge his established principles, leading to inevitable conflicts as he finds himself unconsciously drawn to her." He added, "When I read the script, I found Baek Ho to be a sexy character, but I'm not sure if I portrayed him well," showing some embarrassment, to which Lee Sun-bin praised, "You did a great job!"

Particularly, Kang Tae-oh returns to the screen through "Potato Research Institute" after being discharged from the military last March. When asked why he chose this project as his comeback work, he replied, "I read numerous scripts while on duty during the night. To stay awake, I engaged with various scenarios. "Potato Research Institute" was the project that most woke me up. It stands in contrast to the previous works and features a character with a different charm, which captivated me, leading me to participate when the opportunity arose. Since this is my first project returning after a long absence, I feel it embodies the exciting and joyful emotions of returning, making me feel glad I participated and that it was not a regrettable choice."

Since this is a long-awaited return, he admitted, "I was so nervous. I felt a lot of pressure standing in front of the camera after such a long time. I know there are many people looking forward to this, so I felt burdened. When asked about his thoughts on facing off against his surprise member, Seo Kang-jun, in the same time slot, he replied, "Recently, Kang-jun is also working on a project, so unexpectedly we find ourselves competing. Ideally, I hope both projects succeed, leading to joyful times for the viewers and everyone involved in the filming. I'm rooting for him from my heart, and I'm excited about friendly competition." When questioned if he feels confident about being a scene-stealer, he confidently replied, "I'm confident!"

Lee Hak-joo plays the role of Park Gi-se, Kim Mi-kyung's ex-boyfriend and executive director at Wonhan Retail's planning department. He expressed, "The script was really fun and my character has a lot to do, which made it tempting. I wondered if I could pull off this kind of comedy, though it felt challenging. While the script is fun, I also questioned if I could make it fun myself." Park Gi-se is a character who rises to the top of a major corporation not through ability but through his skillful words and social tactics. He commented, "Though he may seem superficial or heavy, he possesses a charm that combines lightness and depth. I think the appeal lies in how he navigates through situations while being stuck with his ex-girlfriend Kim Mi-kyung and friend Lee Yong-joo."

Kim Ga-eun, who plays Lee Yong-joo, Kim Mi-kyung's best friend and a successful web novel writer, described her reasons for choosing the work as "unique and fresh. While reading the script, I liked how it was straightforward and felt healing, so it read quickly. Yong-joo’s character is lovable and distinctive, making me think there was no reason not to take on this role." She added, "Yong-joo is a romance enthusiast and web novel writer. If you were to scan her brain structure, it would be filled with love and hearts, indicating her genuine passion for romance. Mi-kyung and Yong-joo are inseparable friends who share a twin-like bond. I will actively support Mi-kyung in her romantic endeavors with my creativity as a writer."

Meanwhile, Shin Hyun-seung plays the role of Kim Hwan-gyeong, the brother of Kim Mi-kyung and the owner of USB Guesthouse. He revealed that the depiction of a cute and healing environment led him to decide to join "Potato Research Institute." He explained, "Hwan-gyeong is an optimistic and peaceful individual who possesses the courage to speak up when his beloved family is in danger."

Lee Sun-bin shared her chemistry with Shin Hyun-seung, saying, "Hyun-seung has a calm and quiet style. In reality, he is like that too. But while filming with the actor Hyun-seung, I felt a desire for a real younger brother, which turned out to be very fun to tease him. Playing pranks and teasing him felt equally enjoyable whether we were shooting or not."

Regarding her romantic chemistry with Kang Tae-oh, she stated, "Honestly, I wonder if I ever formed such a deep friendship through this drama. It was really fun to work with Tae-oh. We joked around and playfully bickered, but every moment spent in 'Potato Research' with him was truly happy and enjoyable." Kang Tae-oh also expressed gratitude, stating, "I relied on her emotionally. The atmosphere on set felt different depending on whether Lee Sun-bin was present. She was a dear colleague who led and shaped the mood on set."

When asked about viewership pledges for "Potato Research Institute," Kim Ga-eun responded, "I will wear a potato hat and share spiral potatoes with the director." Kang Il-soo also shared his hopes for viewership, saying, "I hope we reach double digits."

When asked about key viewing points, Shin Hyun-seung identified, "Charming characters and the healing experience that comes from warm relationships." Kim Ga-eun added, "The characters are lovable and have cute aspects, similar to characters from 'Animal Crossing.' The relationships with such characters are also a key viewing point." Lee Hak-joo indicated, "It's hard to predict where the script is headed. The unpredictability of the characters also adds to the enjoyment of reading the script." Kang Tae-oh humorously commented, "It’s a harmless drama that doesn’t need preservatives. I believe the charm of Kim Mi-kyung's face, which never loses its beautiful complexion, is a highlight." Lee Sun-bin echoed, "I think this drama showcases the charm of Kang Tae-oh, who is MBTI SEXY, and his wonderful proportions, allowing us to appreciate the appeal of a truly impressive man."

Finally, Director Kang Il-soo remarked, "Just as potatoes, while common, are an essential ingredient in delicious dishes, I hope this provides viewers with fun moments in their ordinary lives. Please enjoy it." Lee Sun-bin also added, "As we’ve transitioned from the cold of winter to warm spring, just as there are scents and feelings of spring, I hope this becomes a work where you can feel excited, happy, and freely laugh in your spring."

Meanwhile, "Potato Research Institute" will premiere on March 1 at 9:20 p.m.

[Photo] OSEN reporter Kim Sung-rak

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