South Korea · Drama · 2016
Choco Bank
Synopsis
Choco Bank (초코뱅크) is a 2016 South Korean web drama in six episodes of about 14 minutes each, which aired on Naver TV Cast from February 15 to 19, 2016. It stars EXO's Kai as Kim Eun Haeng, a job-seeking university graduate, opposite Park Eun-bin as Ha Cho Ko, who is trying to start a chocolate business.
The show was produced with support from South Korea's Financial Services Commission as part of a campaign aimed at teaching basic financial literacy to young viewers, using Eun Haeng's job search and Cho Ko's startup as its running examples. Its short, mobile-length episodes, two of which (the fifth and sixth) both aired on February 19, were built around that format rather than a standard prime-time broadcast slot.
The supporting cast includes Yeon Jun-seok as Bae Dal Soo and Lee Chae Won as Hong Cherry, both of whom complicate the two leads' plans, and Lee Il-hwa as Eun Haeng's mother, whose disapproval of his job prospects adds further pressure to his story.
Choco Bank also marked Kai's first lead role in a drama. It is also known by its romanized title, Chokobaengkeu, and ran for a single season of six episodes rather than being renewed further.
Choco Bank cast
Best scenes
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Eun Haeng’s job interview chaos: A hilarious start that sets the tone for his financial woes and unexpected meeting with Cho Co.
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Cho Co’s chocolate shop pitch: A touching moment showcasing her determination and entrepreneurial spirit.
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The accidental hug: A classic K-drama moment where an awkward situation leads to subtle romantic chemistry.
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Eun Haeng giving business advice: Blending romance and career development, this scene empowers aspiring entrepreneurs.
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The bittersweet goodbye: A short but emotional closing, leaving viewers hopeful for the couple’s future.
Filming locations
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Garosu-gil, Sinsa-dong: A trendy Seoul district featured in many romantic scenes.
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Small café sets: Representing Cho Co’s chocolate business, visually warm and cozy.
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Outdoor job fair locations: Adds realism to Eun Haeng’s struggle as a young job-seeker.
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Naver TV studios: Professional indoor scenes were shot here for quality consistency.
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Urban Seoul backdrops: Lively street views bring authenticity to the financial startup theme.
Visual design and costumes
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Warm pastel tones: The color palette enhances the romantic and sweet ambiance.
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Kai’s business-casual looks: Reflects his character’s financial background with a K-pop star touch.
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Cho Co’s chocolate-themed apron: A memorable costume highlighting her unique brand identity.
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Minimalist café interiors: Stylish yet inviting spaces that support the startup narrative.
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Branding visuals: Custom logos, chocolate designs, and packaging build a believable startup world.
Themes and messages
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Youth unemployment: Highlights the real struggles of finding a job post-graduation in South Korea.
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Entrepreneurship: Encourages starting a business as a viable path for young adults.
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Financial literacy: Teaches basic money management and startup planning in an entertaining format.
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Romantic growth: Shows how love can blossom through collaboration and shared goals.
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Dreams vs. Reality: Balances ambition with practical challenges in the modern economy.
Interesting facts
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EXO’s Kai’s first acting role: Marked his official debut as a lead actor in a drama.
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Short format web drama: Each episode runs around 14 minutes, ideal for mobile viewing.
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Government-supported project: Sponsored by South Korea’s Financial Services Commission to promote economic education.
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Highly streamed on Naver TV: Surpassed 2 million views within days of release.
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Real chocolate branding: Some of the chocolate packaging featured were inspired by actual local chocolatiers.
Episodes
| Ep | Title | Air date | Status | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Invisible Danger (보이지 않는 위험) | 2016-02-15 | Aired | |
| 2 | I'm Kill You | 2016-02-16 | Aired | |
| 3 | Dal Su's Attack (달수의 습격) | 2016-02-17 | Aired | |
| 4 | Cherry's Counterattack (채리의 역습) | 2016-02-18 | Aired | |
| 5 | Sad Valentine's Day (슬픈 발렌타인데이) | 2016-02-19 | Aired | |
| 6 | Eun Haeng's Return (은행의 귀환) | 2016-02-19 | Aired |
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