‘Motel California’: Cast & Filming Locations
MBC’s latest Friday-Saturday drama “Motel California” has captured viewers’ hearts with its charming story of first love and self-discovery. Based on the popular novel “Home, Bitter Home” by Shim Yoon-seo, this 12-episode series premiered on January 10, 2025, and airs every Friday and Saturday at 21:50 KST.
Cast and Characters

Main Cast
Lee Se-young takes on the lead role of Ji Kang-hee, a resilient interior designer with a complex past. Known for her versatility and emotional depth, Lee’s portrayal of Kang-hee, a woman who grew up in a rural motel and faced discrimination due to her mixed-race background, is expected to be both nuanced and powerful.
Na In-woo stars opposite Lee as Cheon Yeon-soo, a kind-hearted veterinarian and Kang-hee’s first love. Na’s transformation for this role is particularly noteworthy, as he underwent special makeup and prosthetics to portray Yeon-soo in his younger, heavier days, weighing 120kg. This dedication to the character showcases Na’s commitment to his craft.
Supporting Cast
The drama features several veteran actors in key supporting roles:
- Choi Min-soo plays Ji Chun-pil, Kang-hee’s father and the owner of Motel California. Choi’s presence adds gravitas to the series, with his character described as a romanticist with a free spirit.
- Kim Tae-hyung takes on the role of Geum Seok-kyung, a wealthy entrepreneur involved in a motel remodeling project. Kim’s portrayal of this newly created character not in the original novel adds an intriguing dynamic to the story.
- Choi Hee-jin plays Yoon Nan-woo, a veterinarian junior to Yeon-soo, who becomes entangled in a marriage scandal. Choi’s character promises to add complexity to the main love story.
Notable Additions
The cast is further enriched by actors who bring life to the rural setting and workplace dynamics:
- Woo Mi-hwa as Hwang Jeong-gu, CEO of the interior design company where Kang-hee works.
- Seo Ye-hwa as Park Esther, a colleague and friend to Kang-hee.
- Jung Hyun-ji as Noh In-sook, making her TV debut as the owner of a dessert café in the rural town.
Chemistry and Expectations
The chemistry between Lee Se-young and Na In-woo has been particularly praised, with their performances drawing emotional responses from viewers even in the early episodes. Their portrayal of a reunited first love couple after 12 years apart is central to the drama’s appeal.
The casting choices for “Motel California” reflect a careful balance of experienced actors and fresh faces, each selected to bring authenticity and depth to their roles. As the series progresses, viewers can expect powerful performances that will bring the story of love, healing, and second chances to life.
Production Details
“Motel California” is directed by Kim Hyung-min, known for his work on “Love Scene Number.” The series was originally set to be directed by Jang Joon-ho, who stepped down due to health reasons.
The drama’s screenplay is written by Lee Seo-yoon, whose previous works include “365: Repeat the Year” and “Goddess of Fire”.
Filming Locations
Sejong Jang Motel
Located in the heart of Yeongwol, Sejong Jang Motel served as a central filming location for “Motel California.” This quaint motel perfectly captures the rustic charm of rural Korea, providing an authentic backdrop for the drama’s storyline. Its vintage exterior and cozy interiors transport viewers back in time, adding to the nostalgic atmosphere of the show.
Baekbong Elementary School
Baekbong Elementary School in Yeongwol played a significant role in “Motel California,” serving as a filming location for several pivotal scenes. This charming rural school, with its simple yet endearing architecture, beautifully represents the close-knit community spirit that is central to the drama’s narrative. The school’s playground and classrooms were likely featured in scenes involving the younger characters or flashbacks.
Travel Lounge (Hana Animal Hospital)
One of the most intriguing locations in “Motel California” is the Travel Lounge, which doubles as the “Hana Animal Hospital” run by the character Yeonsu. This versatile space showcases the production team’s creativity in transforming a travel-themed venue into a veterinary clinic. The location’s unique blend of modern and rustic elements perfectly aligns with Yeonsu’s character, a city veterinarian adapting to rural life.
Situated in Yeongwol, this location likely offers picturesque views of the surrounding countryside, adding to the drama’s visual appeal. The interior probably features a mix of travel memorabilia and veterinary equipment, creating an interesting juxtaposition that reflects the show’s themes of journey and healing.
Yeongwol, known for its beautiful landscapes and traditional charm, provides the perfect setting for “Motel California.” These carefully chosen locations not only serve as backdrops but also become characters in their own right, enhancing the storytelling and immersing viewers in the world of the drama.
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