“Backstreet Rookie” is based on a “mature” Webtoon titled “Convenience Store Saet Byeol.” However, the actual drama is promised to be “family-oriented,” and since we’re only in the series’ first week, we’ll have to wait regarding which the direction the drama will take in the next 14 episodes.
The series starts with the unexpected encounter of Choi Dae Hyun (portrayed by Ji Chang Wook), a convenience store owner who is in his late twenties, and female high school student Jung Saet Byul (portrayed by Kim Yoo Jung). Saet Byul fell in love with Dae Hyun at first sight; four years later, she eventually decided to apply as his convenience store’s part-timer with a seemingly ulterior motive of making him fall in love with her.
Ji Chang Wook, who is mostly known for his action-packed dramas, is mostly taking on comedy genres for his projects since his discharge from his mandatory military service. His first drama since his release, “Melting Me Softly,” displays a similar vibe: co-workers falling in love, a romantic comedy with a classic vibe, over-the-top editing for dramatic effect, and a bit of age gap between the two main leads. On the other hand, Kim Yoo Jung, who started as a child actress, seems to be shedding off her little sister image as she takes on a cheeky and assertive — especially when it comes to romance — character. We also see her taking the charge of the “action” part of the drama, instead of the male lead.
All in all, the first two episodes of “Backstreet Rookie” features a slice of life series filled with comedic scenes, eccentric characters, Saet Byul’s pick-up lines, Dae Hyun’s a bit relatable “always tired” character, and some youthful romance in a somehow cartoon-like set-up.
What do you think of the first two episodes?
Also posted on Facebook:“Backstreet Rookie”