Unexpected Twists in 'How to Become a Building Owner in Korea' Captivate Viewers

The drama 'How to Become a Building Owner in Korea' starring Ha Jung-woo has left viewers eagerly anticipating the next episode with its unpredictable plot twists.

Premiering on March 14, the tvN weekend drama 'How to Become a Building Owner in Korea' (hereafter 'Building Owner') surprised audiences with its unexpected storyline and cliffhanger endings during its first week. The protagonist, Ki Soo-jong (played by Ha Jung-woo), faces a series of escalating incidents as a result of his 'all-in' approach to property ownership, capturing viewers' attention.

Following its broadcast, 'Building Owner' received a hot response, topping Wavve's Today's Top 20 and ranking first in total viewing time and new paid subscriptions as of March 16.

In the first episode, Ki Soo-jong, a building owner in name only, struggles to keep his family's livelihood afloat as he faces the threat of losing his beloved Seyoon Building. Despite his efforts to hold on until redevelopment, an enigmatic financial company, Real Capital, buys his debt and demands repayment or the building. The situation worsens when his brother-in-law, Kim Kyun (played by Kim Nam-gil), who was investigating Real Capital, dies in a mysterious car accident, increasing the pressure on Ki Soo-jong.

The first episode ends with Ki Soo-jong getting caught up in a fake kidnapping scheme orchestrated by his friend Min Hwal-seong (played by Kim Jun-han), sparking curiosity. In the second episode, it is revealed that Min Hwal-seong plans to kidnap his wife Jeon Yi-kyung (played by Jung Soo-jung) to extort 3 billion won from his wealthy mother-in-law. The friends' clumsy kidnapping plot adds a comedic touch to the tense situation, creating a unique suspense that defines the drama's tone.

The second episode concludes with another unpredictable ending as the fake kidnapping spirals out of control. The mother-in-law, Jeon Yang-ja (played by Kim Geum-soon), reacts unexpectedly by reporting to the police instead of complying with the ransom demand. Amidst the chaos, Min Hwal-seong falls during a scuffle with Ki Soo-jong, who inadvertently becomes a real kidnapper while pretending to be one.

'Building Owner' has quickly become known for its unexpected developments and cliffhangers, earning the title of 'ending master.' From a regular family man and building owner in the first episode to an unintended kidnapper in the second, Ki Soo-jong's journey, along with the unpredictable and flawed characters like Min Hwal-seong, keeps viewers guessing.

The future of Ki Soo-jong's 'all-in' life remains a key point of interest, promising to heighten the drama's excitement and tension. The preview for episode 3 shows Ki Soo-jong being suspected by the police and his wife Kim Sun (played by Im Soo-jung) after fleeing the kidnapping scene, leaving audiences curious about the unexpected situations he will face next.

'How to Become a Building Owner in Korea' episode 3 airs on March 21 at 9:10 PM.

Lee So-jung, TenAsia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr