tvN STORY and E Channel's 'My Child's Romance 2' Returns with a Romantic Holiday Twist

tvN STORY and E Channel's 'My Child's Romance 2' has made its much-anticipated return, kicking off with a 'Romantic Holiday' that began on Christmas, stirring excitement and tension among viewers.

The show, a joint production by tvN STORY and T-Cast's E Channel, is a unique dating program that immerses parents in their children's romantic lives. The first episode, which aired on December 25th, set the stage with unexpected twists and turns, including a surprise bathroom break by participant Yoon Hoo, unpredictable first impression votes, and a dramatic entrance by a new participant, all of which kept viewers on the edge of their seats.

The episode featured hosts Kim Sung-joo and Lee Jong-hyuk, along with singer Yoon Min-soo, actor Lee Moon-sik, soccer coach Shin Tae-yong, actor Choi Jae-won, comedian Lee Sung-mi, and singer Park Nam-jung, who gathered to watch their children's romantic escapades. As the VCR revealed the start of the cohabitation on Christmas Day 2025, the parents' curiosity and tension heightened with each new participant's reveal.

Yoon Hoo was the first to arrive, confidently declaring himself a 'tough guy' and expressing his readiness to flirt if someone caught his eye. Despite his confident demeanor, he appeared nervous and quickly excused himself to the bathroom, adding a humorous twist to the episode.

Next, Park Si-woo, the 'alpha girl' daughter of Park Jung-nam, made her entrance, leading to an awkward yet exciting first meeting with Yoon Hoo. Her unexpected arrival and Yoon Hoo's TMI about his bathroom break brought laughter to the studio, especially from Yoon Min-soo.

Lee Sung-mi's daughter, Jo Eun-byul, captivated with her elegant presence and calm demeanor, while Choi Jae-won's daughter, Choi Yoo-bin, brought energy and straightforward charm, declaring her willingness to make the first move if interested. Lee Moon-sik's son, Lee Jae-seung, and Shin Tae-yong's son, Shin Jae-hyuk, each showcased their unique personalities, setting the stage for a dynamic romantic journey.

As the first impression selection loomed, tension rose. Parents speculated on their children's preferences, but the results defied expectations. Shin Jae-hyuk and Lee Jae-seung both chose Park Si-woo, who in turn picked Yoon Hoo, creating a complex love triangle. Meanwhile, Yoon Hoo and Choi Yoo-bin's mutual selection hinted at a potential couple, while Jo Eun-byul chose Lee Jae-seung, surprising the parents.

The 'Christmas Gift' mission further heated the atmosphere, with participants divided into cooking and tree-decorating teams. Yoon Hoo, Park Si-woo, and Choi Yoo-bin formed the cooking team, while Jo Eun-byul, Shin Jae-hyuk, and Lee Jae-seung took on the tree. Yoon Hoo's unexpected decision to serve the tree team first added a lighthearted moment, while the tree team's silent focus kept parents on edge.

Towards the end of the episode, a new male participant, dubbed the 'catfish,' entered, instantly changing the dynamic. Female participants couldn't hide their excitement, with Jo Eun-byul and Choi Yoo-bin expressing admiration for his looks and style. Yoon Min-soo humorously reacted with jealousy on behalf of his son. The new participant was tasked with giving a bouquet to the person who made the best first impression, adding to the suspense.

The episode concluded with viewers eagerly anticipating the next installment, as online reactions ranged from amusement at the unexpected twists to curiosity about the new participant's choice. 'My Child's Romance 2' airs every Wednesday at 8 PM.

Reporter: Kim Ji-won, TenAsia bella@tenasia.co.kr