Han Ji-min Stars in JTBC's The Practical Guide to Love Premiering February 28

Award-winning actress Han Ji-min is set to return to the small screen in JTBC's upcoming romantic drama The Practical Guide to Love, which premieres on February 28, 2026, at 10:40 p.m. KST. Ahead of the first broadcast, the drama's director and writer have shared their creative vision for a story that promises to resonate deeply with viewers navigating the complexities of modern love.

A Story Rooted in Real Life

The drama follows Lee Ui Yeong, played by Han Ji-min, a woman who decides to actively pursue love by entering the world of blind dating. Along the way, she encounters two men with distinctly different personalities, and through these connections, she must confront what true love really means to her. The premise, grounded in the everyday reality of dating in one's thirties, sets the stage for a narrative that prioritizes emotional authenticity over dramatic spectacle.

Director Lee Jae Hoon explained the appeal of the subject matter in a recent interview, noting that blind dating offered rich storytelling potential precisely because of its universality. Because it is such an everyday topic, it can create moments that are strongly relatable, he said. The director also highlighted the drama's ensemble cast, praising the talented actors as family members and colleagues who add layers of depth to the central love story. Viewers can also look forward to multiple cameo appearances by actors portraying various blind date partners, which Lee promises will provide entertaining and memorable moments.

Writer's Personal Touch

Writer Lee Yi Jin brought a thoughtful perspective to the project, acknowledging that the story's tone might initially feel understated compared to more high-concept romance dramas. It might feel a bit dry, but I thought it could tell a love story that people in their 30s could relate to, she shared candidly. Her goal was to craft a narrative that speaks honestly to the experiences of adults who have been shaped by past relationships yet remain open to new possibilities.

Lee Yi Jin also expressed a deeper wish for her audience: I hope viewers won't give up on love too easily and will continue to move toward it — each in their own way. This encouraging message suggests the drama will offer not just entertainment but a gentle affirmation for anyone who has ever questioned whether the right person is still out there.

Han Ji-min's Return and the Hotel Setting

The drama also incorporates a detailed portrayal of hotel workers' professional lives, adding a distinctive workplace dimension to the romantic storyline. For Han Ji-min, who has earned critical acclaim for her roles in The Light in Your Eyes, Behind Your Touch, and Hip Stir, this new project offers yet another opportunity to demonstrate her versatility. Her Daesang-winning talents are well-suited to a character who must balance professional composure with the vulnerability that comes with opening one's heart.

The Practical Guide to Love will air on JTBC and be available for international streaming on Viki, ensuring that Han Ji-min's global fanbase can follow the drama from its very first episode. As the premiere approaches, the creative team's emphasis on relatability and emotional truth suggests this could become one of the standout romance dramas of the spring season.