Introduction to the Characters:
The series opens with a grand introduction to Gu Won, the handsome and aloof heir to the King Group, a prestigious conglomerate that owns the luxurious King Hotel. Gu Won has recently returned to South Korea after spending years abroad. Despite his charm and wealth, Gu Won is known for his cold demeanor and distaste for anything superficial, especially when it comes to people who are insincere or fawning over his wealth.
Meanwhile, we are introduced to Cheon Sa-rang, a bright and cheerful woman who has a deep passion for hospitality. She works as a service employee at the King Hotel, where she is known for her warm personality and dedication to her job. Sa-rang dreams of moving up the ranks in the hotel industry, and her ultimate goal is to work in the prestigious "King the Land" lounge, an exclusive VIP section of the hotel.
2. Gu Won’s Return:
Gu Won’s return to South Korea is met with great anticipation by the employees of King Hotel. There’s a palpable buzz in the air, as everyone is eager to impress the heir. However, Gu Won is unimpressed by the sycophantic behavior of the hotel staff, reinforcing his reputation as someone who detests fake smiles and flattery.
Gu Won’s relationship with his family is tense, particularly with his older sister, Gu Hwa-ran, who is ambitious and aims to consolidate her power within the company. Their sibling rivalry is hinted at in this episode, setting the stage for future conflicts over the control of King Group.
3. Sa-rang’s Challenges:
Sa-rang is shown dealing with the everyday challenges of her job, from handling difficult guests to navigating office politics. Despite the pressures, she remains optimistic and dedicated, earning the admiration of her colleagues. However, Sa-rang’s work is not without its frustrations, especially when dealing with entitled and demanding guests.
We also get a glimpse of Sa-rang’s personal life, where she is close with her two best friends, Oh Pyung-hwa and Kang Ji-eun. They provide emotional support to each other as they navigate their careers and personal challenges. Sa-rang’s life outside of work is a contrast to her polished and professional demeanor at the hotel, showing her more relatable and down-to-earth side.
4. The First Meeting – A Misunderstanding:
The central event of the episode is the first encounter between Gu Won and Sa-rang. Their meeting is far from ideal, as it begins with a misunderstanding. Sa-rang, not recognizing Gu Won as the heir to the King Group, treats him like a regular guest when they cross paths. Her straightforward and unfiltered behavior catches Gu Won off guard, as he’s used to people treating him with excessive deference.
The situation escalates when Sa-rang, thinking she’s helping a lost guest, inadvertently offends Gu Won with her candid remarks. Gu Won, unused to being spoken to in such a manner, is both irritated and intrigued by Sa-rang’s lack of pretense. This initial misunderstanding sets the tone