Kim Seon-ho and Go Youn-jung Star in Rom-com K-Drama ‘Can This Love Be Translated?’

They say accurate translation is not necessarily word for word, but rests instead on the ability to relay the feeling and intention behind each phrase. Is the language of love any different?

Can This Love Be Translated?, a new K-drama Starring Kim Seon-ho (When Life Gives You Tangerines,Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha) and Go Youn-Jung (Resident Playbook, Sweet Home) on Netflix now, asks this essential question as it follows an unexpected blossoming relationship between a multilingual translator and a global celebrity. As they travel the world filming a TV show together, their relationship grows. As can happen when two people become more entangled (even if they speak a common language), their feelings toward each other become more difficult to understand. The series is written by the Hong sisters and directed by Yoo Young-eun.

Joo Ho-jin (Kim Seon-ho) is a celebrated polyglot interpreter who prefers to deal with the complexities of language rather than his own emotions. He prioritizes exactitude above all else in his work and personal life. When he accepts a gig as an interpreter for a reality dating show, he unexpectedly reunites with Cha Mu-hee (Go Youn-jung), a woman he once met on a trip to Japan.

Back then, Mu-hee was an unknown actor. But after the chance encounter with Ho-jin, the next movie she starred in became a global hit, and Mu-hee immediately became an overnight sensation. Now at the height of her fame, she’s offered a spot on the reality dating show Romantic Trip, in which she and Japanese actor Hiro (Sôta Fukushi) travel to the world’s most romantic destinations to see if that sparks a love connection. Ho-jin, hired as their interpreter, translates the conversations between Mu-hee and Hiro for the reality show. He becomes the bridge between two hearts — and unexpectedly finds his own hanging in the balance. 

“Can This Love Be Translated?” is slated to premiere worldwide this January 16 on Netflix.