The 2022 SBS romantic comedy Business Proposal became an instant global favorite. Its success is built on a classic mix-up plot brought to life by a perfectly matched ensemble cast. The story follows researcher Shin Ha-ri, who agrees to a disastrous blind date to help her friend, only to discover her date is her cold CEO, Kang Tae-moo. The charm of the series comes from the four main actors, whose chemistry turned a familiar premise into a beloved show.
The Four Main Stars and Their Iconic Roles
The heart of the series lies with its two couples, whose parallel love stories provide both laughs and heartfelt moments.
Kang Tae-moo, played by Ahn Hyo-seop: Ahn Hyo-seop took on the role of the young, Harvard-educated CEO of Go Food. His character begins as a rigid and demanding boss, forced into blind dates by his grandfather. The fun of his performance is watching his icy exterior melt away because of Ha-ri. Ahn Hyo-seop balanced the character’s initial arrogance with a growing, often awkward, tenderness that fans loved.
Shin Ha-ri, played by Kim Se-jeong: Kim Se-jeong portrays the energetic food researcher who finds herself in an impossible situation. To help her best friend, she pretends to be a wild and ill-mannered date to scare away her friend’s suitor. When the plan backfires, she must continue the charade. Kim Se-jeong’s performance was widely praised for its physical comedy and genuine warmth, making Ha-ri a relatable and root-for-worthy lead.
Cha Sung-hoon, played by Kim Min-kyu: Kim Min-kyu plays Kang Tae-moo’s loyal secretary and close friend. Growing up in an orphanage supported by Tae-moo’s family, Sung-hoon is dedicated and impeccably professional. His character arc involves his evolving relationship with Jin Young-seo, which starts with annoyance and blooms into a sweet romance. Kim Min-kyu’s stoic yet secretly soft portrayal made his character a major fan favorite.
Jin Young-seo, played by Seol In-ah: Seol In-ah brings to life Ha-ri’s best friend, the charismatic heiress to Marine Group. To escape her father’s marriage plans, she sends Ha-ri on the blind date in her place. Young-seo is confident, bold, and openly pursues her feelings for Sung-hoon. Seol In-ah’s vibrant and charming performance created the perfect energetic counterpart to Sung-hoon’s calm demeanor.
The Supportive Family and Friends
A strong network of supporting characters adds depth to the main story, providing comedy and emotional grounding.
Ha-ri’s Family: Ha-ri’s home life is warm and chaotic. Her parents, Shin Joong-hae (Kim Kwang-kyu) and Han Mi-mo (Jung Young-joo), run a chicken restaurant and are constantly in need of financial help, which is why Ha-ri initially needs money. Her younger brother, Shin Ha-min (Choi Byung-chan), adds to the family’s playful dynamic.
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The Go Food Office: The Food Development Team 1 where Ha-ri works includes her manager, Yeo Eui-ju (Kim Hyun-sook), deputy manager Gye-bin (Im Ki-hong), and co-worker Kim Hye-ji (Yoon Sang-jeong). They provide office gossip and comic reactions to the unfolding romance between Ha-ri and their CEO.
Other Key Figures:
- Chairman Kang Da-goo (Lee Deok-hwa): Tae-moo’s grandfather, whose insistence on marriage sets the entire plot in motion.
- Lee Min-woo (Song Won-seok): Ha-ri’s long-time university crush, whose presence adds a twist to her love life.
- Chairman Jin (Lee Ki-young): Jin Young-seo’s father, who pressures her into arranged marriages.
Behind the Scenes: From Web Novel to Screen
Business Proposal is based on a popular web novel of the same name by writer HaeHwa, which was later adapted into a webtoon. The television adaptation was directed by Park Seon-ho and written by Han Seol-hee and Hong Bo-hee. The series originally aired on SBS TV in South Korea from February 28 to April 5, 2022, with new episodes every Monday and Tuesday. Its international reach was powered by its availability on Netflix, which introduced the hilarious rom-com to a worldwide audience.
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