[NEWS] A Friend you would want, Lee Soi's chemistry with Lee Seyoung, as a childhood friend, shines in 'Motel California'

Actress #LeeSoi showcased her strong friendship with Lee Seyoung in Motel California.

In the 1st and 2nd episodes of MBC's Friday-Saturday drama Motel California (produced by HB Entertainment, directed by Kim Hyungmin and Lee Jaejin, written by Lee Seoyoon), Lee Soi played the role of Han Areum, a librarian and childhood friend of Kanghee (played by Lee Seyoung).

In this episode, Areum waits for Kanghee to show up at the funeral of Yeonsu’s (played by Na Inwoo) grandfather, saying, "She should come, she's like a granddaughter to him. You know how much Grandpa liked Kanghee, right?" When Kanghee finally arrives, Areum is visibly surprised. For not seeing Kanghee for 10 years, Areum pretends not to recognize her, saying, "Who are you?" showing her hurt over their lack of contact. However, after a few words from Kanghee, her mood softens, and she greets her with a bright smile. The warm atmosphere is briefly interrupted when Kanghee and their high school classmate, Heonyeol (played by Yoon Seungwoo), get into a small dispute, causing a minor commotion.

Afterward, concerned about Kanghee, Areum calls her and asks if she can stay at her place, saying she needs to go to Seoul. Kanghee, however, lies and says she has to go on a business trip, as she cannot let her stay at her goshiwon (a small room in a shared living space). Areum, already aware that Kanghee doesn’t have a job, feels hurt. However, her concern for Kanghee’s struggles outweighs her feelings of disappointment and genuinely worries her, showing what a true friend is.

Meanwhile, while discussing Kanghee with Yeonsu, Areum unexpectedly runs into Nanwoo (played by Choi Heejin), who had secretly helped experiment animals escape. This encounter sparks a connection, and Nanwoo later visits the library where Areum works and asks if she is Yeonsu’s girlfriend, which she denies, calling him just a friend. Areum then informs Kanghee about Yeonsu and Nanwoo's Christmas dating, further intensifying the dynamic between the three characters.

Lee Soi gained recognition through her appearances in Netflix's original series The Glory Part 1 & 2, the drama The First Responders, and more. In Motel California, she perfectly portrays the bright and lovable character of Han Areum. Her friendship chemistry with Lee Seyoung, with whom she shares a mutual understanding with just a glance, has sparked a "friendship goals" reaction from viewers. Attention is now focused on Lee Soi's dynamic role as she navigates between Lee Seyoung, Na Inwoo, and Choi Heejin.

Meanwhile, the MBC Friday-Saturday drama Motel California, starring Lee Soi, airs every Friday and Saturday at 9:50 PM.

[Photo = Captured from the Broadcast]