The Netflix series Can This Love Be Translated? has been garnering attention since its release on the 16th, with its writers, Hong Jeong-eun and Hong Mi-ran, praising the chemistry between stars Kim Seon-ho and Go Youn-jung.
The unpredictable romantic comedy follows multilingual interpreter Joo Ho-jin, played by Kim Seon-ho, as he becomes the interpreter for global top star Cha Moo-hee, portrayed by Go Youn-jung. The series opens the new year of 2026 with a heartwarming tale of understanding and love, set against the backdrop of diverse locations such as Korea, Japan, Canada, and Italy. The production team has shared a Q&A with writers Hong Jeong-eun and Hong Mi-ran, offering insights into the series.
Q. What is 'Can This Love Be Translated?' about?
The series is a romantic comedy about Joo Ho-jin, an interpreter who connects different languages, and Cha Moo-hee, a beloved star. It captures their journey of understanding the language of love in their own ways, aiming to portray a universal yet special romance that brings joy and excitement.
Q. What inspired 'Can This Love Be Translated?'
The idea came from the unique circumstances of the interpreter profession. When words fail, even a phone translation app becomes a lifeline. In such an environment, the intense dependency on one person is intriguing. The story began from imagining the romantic tension that could arise from this relationship.
Q. What was the intention behind creating and writing 'Can This Love Be Translated?'
Love is ultimately about communication. However, the language of love is as varied as the number of people in the world, making it surprisingly difficult to convey and understand one's true feelings. The series aims to show a romance that anyone who has experienced love can relate to, where misunderstandings and miscommunications are natural, yet the moments when true feelings are conveyed are precious and beautiful.
Q. Why was the title 'Can This Love Be Translated?' chosen?
The title naturally emerged as the story revolves around love and communication through the profession of an interpreter.
Q. Why were Korea, Japan, Canada, and Italy chosen as the settings?
From the planning stage, we wanted to capture the essence of various countries. The setting of a foreign travel destination was expected to add a special touch to the characters' emotions. Japan's Kamakura was chosen as the location for their exciting first meeting. In Canada, the rare experience of witnessing the 'Aurora' serves as a major turning point in their relationship. Italy, with its romantic castles, was selected as the perfect place for the romance to reach its peak. These countries are not just backgrounds but characters that accompany the journey of the protagonists.
Q. How was the relationship between 'Ho-jin' and 'Moo-hee' conceptualized?
The relationship was built around the episodes that arise when the most straightforward communicator and the most indirect communicator talk about love. Each person has a different way of expressing love, making it challenging to convey and understand each other's feelings. Despite misunderstandings, the moments when true feelings are conveyed are precious and beautiful.
Q. Are there other relationships to watch out for besides 'Ho-jin' and 'Moo-hee'?
'Can This Love Be Translated?' features many intriguing relationships. 'Moo-hee' and 'Hiro' have an ironic relationship where they can't communicate verbally but are most honest with each other. The language barrier allows them to show their true selves. In contrast, 'Ho-jin' and 'Ji-sun' have a complex relationship based on past memories, assuming they know each other well but actually misunderstanding each other's true feelings. 'Ji-sun' and 'Yong-woo' have a direct and fast-paced relationship, providing a refreshing dynamic.
Q. How did the idea for the global dating program 'Romantic Trip' come about?
When selecting overseas locations, we looked for places with special first meeting spots, beautiful nature, and exotic charm. Thanks to the production team's efforts, we found beautiful travel destinations that match each purpose, offering viewers a visually stunning experience.
Q. What was it like working with actors Kim Seon-ho and Go Youn-jung?
After casting Kim Seon-ho, writing the script while imagining his performance was a joy. He perfectly portrayed 'Ho-jin's' unique neatness and dynamic moments of being swayed by love, as well as his cool-headedness in unexpected situations. Working with Go Youn-jung for the second time after 'Alchemy of Souls: Light and Shadow,' her bright energy was a perfect fit for 'Moo-hee.' Despite the challenge of playing both 'Moo-hee' and the character 'Do-ra-mi,' she delivered a flawless performance. Her stunning visuals against the backdrop of various countries add to the series' appeal.
Q. What was it like working with director Yoo Young-eun?
We had many discussions beforehand. The director constantly provided ideas on how to best translate the story into a high-quality visual experience. Throughout the process, we shared the goal of making the drama uplifting, inspiring travel desires, and evoking excitement. We hope viewers feel the warm and positive energy.
Q. What is the most memorable scene or line?
All scenes featuring 'Ho-jin' and 'Moo-hee' were enjoyable. The series has many scenes with the two protagonists together, so we hope viewers enjoy them. The most memorable scene is the ending of episode 9, which aligns with a famous opera line in Italy: 'Please love me, Joo Ho-jin, as I love you. Goodbye.' It's a beautiful, cool, exciting, and sad line.
Q. What are the key points to watch in 'Can This Love Be Translated?'
First, the chemistry between the two protagonists, who perfectly balance romance and comedy, is a highlight. Watching 'Ho-jin' and 'Moo-hee's' story will bring joy. Second, the global locations are a visual treat. From Korea to Japan, Canada, and Italy, the staff worked hard to capture the most beautiful landscapes, making viewers feel like traveling.
Q. How do you feel about reaching viewers in over 190 countries?
As this is our first Netflix series, we're both nervous and excited to see how global audiences will receive our work. We hope everyone, regardless of borders, can relate to and enjoy the universal story of love set against beautiful landscapes. As the first series to welcome the new year of 2026, we hope it warmly embraces viewers' hearts.
Tae Yuna, TENASIA Reporter youyou@tenasia.co.kr