Two Suitors, One Heart: Han Ji Min Navigates Modern Love in “Efficient Dating For Singles”

Han Ji Min is stepping back into her signature territory as the “Romance Queen,” leading JTBC’s new weekend drama Efficient Dating For Singles alongside Park Sung Hoon and Lee Ki Taek.

On February 26, the cast and crew gathered in Seoul, for the drama’s production conference. Director Lee Jae-hoon joined the three leads in introducing a series that promises romance grounded in everyday reality.

Based on the Naver webtoon of the same name by Tari, Efficient Dating For Singles follows a woman who decides to take love into her own hands. Through a blind date, she meets two men with contrasting charms, finds herself torn between them, and ultimately begins to uncover what love truly means.

Director Lee described the series as a “romantic melodrama” that elevates the seemingly ordinary concept of blind dates. “While other dramas revolve around saving the world or clearing false accusations, blind dates can be just as dramatic,” he explained. “They may seem like small moments in everyday life, but the emotional aftermath and inner conflicts feel incredibly real. It’s familiar territory—but viewers will discover something refreshingly new.”

A Fate-Like Casting

Lee Jae-hoon shared that casting was guided by instinct and compatibility. “I cast based on how well actors fit their roles and how strong their performances are. In the end, it feels like fate,” he said, adding that Han Ji-min, Park Sung-hoon, and Lee Ki-taek created an enjoyable and natural synergy on set.

Han Ji-min plays Lee Eui-young, a capable purchasing team manager at The Hills Hotel. While she thrives professionally, her love life has hit a standstill. After failing to find lasting romance in her 30s, she boldly declares her intention to pursue “artificial encounters” and dives into the world of blind dates.

“The story begins with her wondering if she can efficiently find ‘her love’ in a short amount of time,” Han explained. “Unlike my previous romances, this one reflects realistic concerns. Eui-young’s narration and situations feel like stories you’d hear from close friends.”

Park Sung Hoon’s Careful Comeback

For Park Sung-hoon, the drama marks a return following controversy that previously led him to step down from Bon Appetit, Your Majesty. Standing before the press, he admitted, “It’s been a while, so I’m nervous. I’m approaching both work and life with more caution and seriousness than before.”

He revealed that Han Ji-min’s involvement was a key reason for joining. “As a fan, I really wanted to work with her. Since the drama closely mirrors daily life, I believe many viewers will relate. She’s shown strong, edgy charms before, but I thought she could reveal something different here.”

Park plays Song Tae-seop, a woodworking studio owner with a gentle presence and firm inner strength. He dreams of building a loving family and stable future. Calling it his first blind date role, Park described Tae-seop as “a steady man who feels like he’ll always be there.” Having long wanted to try romantic comedy, he shared that the director’s calm leadership helped him smoothly adapt to the genre.

Lee Ki Taek’s Free-Spirited Charmer

Lee Ki-taek takes on the role of Shin Ji-soo, a stage actor juggling part-time jobs offstage. A free soul who avoids being tied down, Ji-soo’s unexpected blind date with Eui-young sparks emotional change—especially after a tragic accident alters their path.

“I wanted to express his freedom and romantic lifestyle outwardly,” Lee said. “Through this character, I studied what it means to live freely.” He even obtained a motorcycle license for the role, despite having no prior riding experience.

Expressing gratitude, Lee added, “Working with such respected seniors was an honor. I learned so much.”

Chemistry and Realism Take Center Stage

The heart of the drama lies in the chemistry between Han Ji-min and her two suitors. Han described Park as someone with a protective instinct who cherishes small, precious things, while praising Lee for his maturity and seriousness despite being a rookie.

Calling the show “perfect for a spring day,” Han teased, “It’s exciting to see which love she’ll choose and which character viewers will find more appealing. People in their 30s struggling with love will especially relate.”

Park echoed her confidence: “It’s a realistic drama closely connected to everyday life. You’ll be able to watch comfortably, empathize, and smile.”

JTBC’s Efficient Dating For Singles premieres on the 28th at 10:40 PM, promising a heartfelt, relatable take on modern romance—where even a simple blind date can change everything.