An R-rated Korean drama has exploded in popularity, claiming the No. 1 spot after releasing just two episodes. Packed with twist after twist, the fast-paced series and the powerful performances by Kim Hye Soo, Cho Yeo Jeong, Kim Ji Hoon, and Kim Jae Chul have captivated viewers since its premiere.
The series is Coupang Play’s ‘Infidelity is Not the Problem Right Now’ (written by Jung Eun Kyung and Park Soo Rin, directed by Lee Chang Hee). Despite carrying a restricted 19+ rating, the drama has earned strong reviews and widespread buzz during its debut week, signaling an impressive start.
Explosive Debut: ‘Infidelity is Not the Problem Right Now’ Dominates Coupang Play
No. 1 on Coupang Play’s TOP 20 After Just Two Episodes
After premiering Episodes 1 and 2 on July 31, ‘Infidelity is Not the Problem Right Now’ climbed to No. 1 on Coupang Play’s ‘Top 20 TV Programs This Week’ as of August 4. The achievement is especially notable considering that only two episodes have been released so far.
The series also holds an impressive 4.6 out of 5 user rating on Coupang Play. Rather than relying solely on its star-studded cast, the drama has successfully translated anticipation into strong viewership and positive word of mouth. Despite being a distinctly R-rated black comedy, it has already established itself as one of the most talked-about dramas of the second half of the year.
Beyond Affairs: Unraveling the Twisted Plot
Although its title suggests a straightforward affair drama, the story is far more layered. It follows a successful influencer couple who appear to have the perfect family life and a neighboring doctor couple locked in a bitter divorce battle, as both families become entangled in a massive secret that makes infidelity seem insignificant. The production describes itself as a “chain-collision black comedy.”
Affairs Are Only the Beginning—Bodies, Brawls, and Hit-and-Runs
The first two episodes introduce two couples: influencer couple Kyung Hee (played by Kim Hye Soo) and Jae Hong (played by Kim Ji Hoon), alongside doctor couple Soo Jung (played by Cho Yeo Jeong) and Bo Sung (played by Kim Jae Chul).
Having escaped poverty to move into an upscale home, Kyung Hee and Jae Hong appear to have achieved the perfect life. However, their seemingly flawless marriage begins to crumble after Kyung Hee discovers a tabloid rumor alleging her husband’s affair. Meanwhile, their neighbors Soo Jung and Bo Sung are engaged in a vicious divorce and custody battle over their daughter.
Following a dinner between the two families, the relationships take an unexpected turn. A mysterious body discovered in a redevelopment district sets off a chain of increasingly chaotic events, including a violent fight between the head of a private investigation agency and a divorce lawyer, followed by a hit-and-run accident.
As hidden truths behind the affair rumors come to light, the dangerous relationship between Soo Jung and Jae Hong deepens, while shocking revelations from the children further complicate the story. What initially appears to be an affair-centered drama quickly expands into crime, mystery, and suspense, proving that, as the title suggests, there are far bigger problems than infidelity.
Nonstop Twists & Stylish Direction
Nonstop Twists and Stylish Direction
One of the drama’s greatest strengths is its pacing. Rather than spending excessive time introducing its characters, Episodes 1 and 2 immediately immerse viewers in the protagonists’ secrets and desires through unfolding events.
Just when audiences think they understand what’s happening, another revelation changes everything. Every time viewers become comfortable with the characters’ relationships, another twist reshapes the narrative.
The stylish direction has also received praise. Contrasting the rapidly unfolding story with carefully crafted colors, lighting, and fluid camerawork, the series effortlessly moves between black comedy and suspense. Even amid dark crimes and tragedies, it captures the characters’ desires and ironies with comedic flair, creating the show’s distinctive atmosphere.
The series is directed by Lee Chang Hee, known for ‘Strangers from Hell’ and ‘A Killer Paradox’. Lee said he chose the project because the screenplay strongly reflected Korean sensibilities and told the kind of story he felt most confident bringing to life.
Viewers have also praised the drama’s unpredictable storytelling, standout performances, and stylish production, with many saying the constant twists and unique blend of genres make it difficult to wait for the next episode.
Powerhouse Performances: Kim Hye Soo, Cho Yeo Jeong & More Shine
Kim Hye Soo and Cho Yeo Jeong Bring Desire and Anxiety to Life
As expected from a production featuring such a star-studded cast, the actors’ performances have become one of the drama’s biggest highlights.
Breaking away from her usual elegant and composed image, Kim Hye Soo embraces bold styling and even delivers rough profanity. She explained that she accepted the role because the title immediately made her wonder, “If an affair isn’t the problem, then what is?” She was drawn to the script’s unpredictable direction and surprising conclusion.
Cho Yeo Jeong stars as dermatologist Ahn Soo Jung, who fiercely battles her ex-husband for custody of their daughter. She subtly conveys the anxiety and obsession hidden beneath the calm exterior of a successful professional woman through nuanced changes in her speech, breathing, and expressions.
One particularly memorable scene, in which Soo Jung smokes while wearing a doctor’s gown and latex gloves, powerfully encapsulates her unstable emotional state.
Kim Ji Hoon’s Surprisingly Charming Cheating Husband
Kim Ji Hoon plays Jae Hong, Kyung Hee’s younger husband and an actor. While he appears affectionate and charming in front of his wife, he secretly maintains a dangerous relationship with their neighbor, Soo Jung.
Although the character could have easily become a one-dimensional villain, Kim Ji Hoon infuses him with humor, swagger, and quick wit, making him difficult to completely hate. Even during tense situations, he provides moments of unexpected comedy that prevent the series from becoming overwhelmingly dark. His performance skillfully blends comedy, sex appeal, and anxiety, helping drive the drama’s constant shifts in tone.
Kim Jae Chul also heightens the tension as Bo Sung, who is locked in a bitter divorce battle with Soo Jung. As conflicts that begin with infidelity and divorce spiral into mysterious deaths and criminal investigations, the hidden desires of each character are expected to surface one by one.
After soaring to No. 1 with only two episodes, ‘Infidelity is Not the Problem Right Now’ has announced itself as one of the breakout dramas of the season. New episodes are released every Friday at 8 PM KST on Coupang Play, where they are available to both Coupang WOW members and general users free of charge.
