by Hazel Jung, June 19, 2023
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Welcome to Samdalri tells the story of Sam Dal, who, unlike Yong Pil, who has cherished the local stream, rises to success outside of the town only to lose everything and return home, seeking solace and healing. The drama revolves around individuals who remain fragile and immature even as adults, providing heartwarming moments and laughter.

Directed by Cha Young Hoon, known for When the Camellia Blooms and Forecasting Love and Weather, and written by Kwon Hye Joo, known for Go Back Couple and Hi Bye, Mama!, Welcome to Samdalri will be their first collaboration. Ji Chang Wook and Shin Hye Sun will take on the lead roles.

Ji Chang Wook was cast as Cho Yong Pil, a weather forecaster at the Jeju Island Meteorological Office. Cho Yong Pil is a notorious troublemaker who defies the headquarters' control. He constantly challenges the weather forecasts issued by the headquarters and engages in verbal disputes with the head of the meteorological office. Having lost his mother, a haenyeo (Jeju female diver), he nurtured the dream of becoming a forecaster. He passionately protects and loves Jeju Island, especially his precious "Samchun" (a term used to refer to adults in the Jeju dialect). He continues to excel as a weather forecaster despite being labeled a troublemaker.

Shin Hye Sun will bring life to the role of Cho Eun Hye or Cho Sam Dal. Growing up, Sam Dal dreamed of leaving the island as soon as possible, leading her to embark on a difficult assistant living in the fashion photography industry under the alias Cho Eun Hye, enduring hardships for eight years until she reached the top. However, her hard-earned success crumbles due to a certain incident. Eventually, she returns to the stream where she dreams of success and is still called "Sam Dal."

Yong Pil and Sam Dal, both born and raised in Samdalri, have always been inseparable, spending more time together than apart. However, they lost contact for several years due to an unknown incident. As Sam Dal returns to the hometown cherished by Yong Pil, the long-separated pair will embark on a heartwarming and exciting journey of rediscovering their deep affection and love.

The production team welcomes Ji Chang Wook and Shin Hye Sun to JTBC, stating that they anticipate the two actors, who exude bright and cheerful energy, will elevate the success of JTBC dramas in 2023 with their exceptional performances.

They further mentioned that Welcome to Samdalri is a drama where director Cha Young Hoon and writer Kwon Hye Joo's unique skills are concentrated. Amid a fast-paced world, the drama will encourage viewers to reflect on the value of their lost dreams, memories, and the countless connections that pass by fleetingly. 

The series is set to air in the second half of 2023.

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