“When The Stars Gossip,” the latest South Korean romantic comedy series, premiered its first episode on January 4, 2025, on tvN and Netflix. The show uniquely blends traditional K-drama romance with a space setting, featuring prominent actors Lee Min-ho and Gong Hyo-jin in lead roles. The premiere has garnered a spectrum of reactions from both critics and viewers, particularly on social media platforms like Twitter.
Plot Overview
The narrative centers on mission commander Eve Kim (Gong Hyo-jin) and OB-GYN space tourist Gong Ryong (Lee Min-ho) as they embark on a mission to the International Space Station (ISS). Gong Ryong’s objective is to conduct experiments involving embryos in zero gravity, a venture funded by MZ Electronics, whose CEO, Choi Go-eun (Han Ji-eun), is also his fiancée. As the journey unfolds, unforeseen challenges and interpersonal dynamics emerge, setting the stage for a blend of romance and drama in the confines of space.
Critical Reception
Critics have noted the show’s innovative premise, combining romantic elements with a sci-fi backdrop. The visual effects, particularly the depiction of zero-gravity environments, have been highlighted as impressive. However, some reviews point out that while the setting is novel, the core storyline follows familiar romantic tropes. Joel Keller of Decider mentions that despite the unique environment, the series remains “a story about an unlikely couple falling for each other in spite of all the circumstances that would indicate that they shouldn’t.”
Audience Ratings
The premiere episode recorded a nationwide viewership rating of 3.324%, with the second episode experiencing a slight increase to 3.883%. Given the show’s substantial production budget of 50 billion KRW, these ratings are considered modest. Discussions on platforms like Pannative reflect mixed sentiments, with some viewers expressing disappointment in the pacing and chemistry between the leads, while others appreciate the show’s unique concept and high production values.
When The Stars Gossip Premiere Episode 1 Twitter Review
On Twitter, fans have been actively discussing the premiere, with many celebrating Lee Min-ho’s return to the small screen. Positive comments highlight his portrayal of Gong Ryong, with users describing his performance as “fantastic” and expressing excitement about his on-screen chemistry with Gong Hyo-jin.
However, not all feedback has been favorable. Some viewers have critiqued the show’s pacing and the perceived lack of chemistry between the lead actors. A user commented, “It’s boring and Lee Minho’s acting is terrible,” reflecting a segment of the audience’s dissatisfaction.
Visual and Production Quality
The series has been praised for its high production quality, especially in depicting the space environment. The visual effects are noted to be well-executed, providing a realistic portrayal of life aboard the ISS. The attention to detail in creating a believable space setting adds depth to the narrative, enhancing the viewing experience.
Chemistry Between Leads
The on-screen chemistry between Lee Min-ho and Gong Hyo-jin has been a focal point of discussion. While some viewers appreciate the dynamic between the two, others feel that their interactions lack the spark typical of successful romantic dramas. A review from Pannative mentions, “I can’t feel any chemistry between the actors,” indicating that the romantic element may need further development in subsequent episodes.
Narrative and Pacing
The show’s narrative structure, interweaving flashbacks with present events, has received mixed reactions. Some viewers find the storytelling engaging, while others believe it disrupts the pacing. The inclusion of surreal and slapstick humor has also been a point of contention, with opinions divided on its effectiveness in enhancing the storyline.
Conclusion
“When The Stars Gossip” offers a fresh take on the romantic comedy genre by situating its narrative in space. The premiere episode has elicited a range of reactions, with praise for its visual effects and unique setting, alongside critiques concerning pacing and character chemistry. As the series progresses, it will be interesting to see how these elements evolve and whether the show can captivate a broader audience.
