South Korea · Drama · 2007
Kimchi Cheese Smile
Synopsis
Kimchi Cheese Smile follows two families who become in-laws despite having almost nothing in common. The "kimchi" family, headed by photo-studio owner Shin Goo and his frugal wife Kim Eul-dong, holds onto traditional, modest values, while the "cheese" family, built around the elegant Sunwoo Eun-sook, carries the manners and money of a wealthier, more sophisticated household.
Eldest daughter Shin Hye-young's marriage into the cheese family becomes the hinge the show turns on, with pianist Jung Soo-young, announcer Um Ki-joon and college swimmer Uhm Hyun-jin among the younger generation caught between the two households' clashing habits and expectations. Weddings, holidays and ordinary family gatherings become occasions for the two sides to misread, needle and slowly get used to each other.
The sitcom aired on MBC from July 23, 2007 to January 18, 2008, building its comedy out of the day-to-day friction between a family that counts every won and one that has never had to.
Kimchi Cheese Smile cast
Best scenes
- Family Dinner Mishap: A chaotic dinner where traditional and modern values collide, leading to comedic misunderstandings.
- Wedding Preparation Chaos: Both families' differing customs create humorous conflicts during wedding planning.
- Cultural Festival: The families participate in a local festival, showcasing their contrasting approaches to tradition.
- Business Rivalry: A friendly competition between the families' businesses leads to unexpected hilarity.
- Holiday Gathering: Celebrating a national holiday together highlights their differences in a comedic light.
Filming locations
- Seoul Neighborhoods: Various districts in Seoul were used to depict the families' homes and businesses.
- Traditional Markets: Scenes were shot in local markets to emphasize cultural elements.
- Hanok Villages: Traditional Korean houses provided authentic backdrops for certain episodes.
- Modern Cafés: Contemporary settings highlighted the contrast between old and new.
- Community Centers: Used for scenes involving family gatherings and events.
Visual design and costumes
- Traditional Hanboks: Characters wore traditional attire during cultural events, emphasizing heritage.
- Modern Fashion: Contrasted with traditional clothing to showcase generational differences.
- Set Design: Homes were decorated to reflect each family's unique background and values.
- Props: Everyday items were carefully selected to enhance the storytelling.
- Lighting: Used to differentiate between comedic and serious moments.
Themes and messages
- Family Unity: Despite differences, the importance of family cohesion is central.
- Cultural Identity: Explores maintaining traditions in a modernizing society.
- Generational Gaps: Highlights challenges between older and younger family members.
- Socioeconomic Differences: Addresses class disparities and mutual understanding.
- Adaptation and Growth: Characters learn to adapt and grow through their interactions.
Interesting facts
- Debut of Kim Soo-hyun: The series features the early acting role of now-renowned actor Kim Soo-hyun.
- Cultural Representation: The title metaphorically represents the blend of traditional (kimchi) and modern (cheese) Korean families.
- Real-Life Names: Many actors use their real names for their characters, adding authenticity.
- Extended Episodes: The sitcom ran for 121 episodes, reflecting its popularity.
- Social Commentary: The show subtly critiques societal norms and expectations.
Real-life loves on set
As of now, there are no public records or credible reports indicating that any cast members of the Korean sitcom "Kimchi Cheese Smile" were involved in real-life romantic relationships during or after the production. The cast, including Shin Goo, Kim Eul-dong, Lee Hye-young, and Kim Soo-hyun, maintained professional relationships throughout the filming.
If you liked this drama
Matched on genre, country and era. Closest first.
