They say accurate translation is not necessarily word for word, but rests instead on the ability to relay the feeling and intention behind each phrase. Is the language of love any different?
Can This Love Be Translated?, a new K-drama on Netflix now, asks this essential question as it follows an unexpected blossoming relationship between a multilingual translator and a global celebrity. As they travel the world filming a TV show together, their relationship grows. As can happen when two people become more entangled (even if they speak a common language), their feelings toward each other become more difficult to understand. The series is written by the Hong sisters and directed by Yoo Young-eun.
Joo Ho-jin (Kim Seon-ho) is a celebrated polyglot interpreter who prefers to deal with the complexities of language rather than his own emotions. He prioritizes exactitude above all else in his work and personal life. When he accepts a gig as an interpreter for a reality dating show, he unexpectedly reunites with Cha Mu-hee (Go Youn-jung), a woman he once met on a trip to Japan.
Back then, Mu-hee was an unknown actor. But after the chance encounter with Ho-jin, the next movie she starred in became a global hit, and Mu-hee immediately became an overnight sensation. Now at the height of her fame, she’s offered a spot on the reality dating show Romantic Trip, in which she and Japanese actor Hiro (Sôta Fukushi) travel to the world’s most romantic destinations to see if that sparks a love connection. Ho-jin, hired as their interpreter, translates the conversations between Mu-hee and Hiro for the reality show. He becomes the bridge between two hearts — and unexpectedly finds his own hanging in the balance.
Learn more about the cast and characters of Can This Love Be Translated? here.
Hong Jung-eun and Hong Mi-ran — the Hong sisters — are known for making rom-coms in which opposites attract. Previous hits like Alchemy of Souls, Master’s Sun, and Hotel Del Luna have longtime fans who love the way supernatural world-building blends with very real, compelling relationships. With Can This Love Be Translated?, the Hong sisters bring their signature charm to a globe-trotting love story that explores the universal language of connection.
Director Yoo Young-eun (Bloody Heart) helms the series and makes every location — from the pristine vistas of wintery Canada to the romantic warmth of Italy — feel like a character in the love story.
Can This Love Be Translated? premiered on Jan. 16 on Netflix.
Take a look at the multilingual meet cute in the trailer at the top of the page.
The K-drama takes viewers around the world, from Japan to Korea, Canada, and finally Italy. Thankfully, Ho-jin speaks Korean, English, Japanese, and Italian.
Hear from Kim Seon-ho and Go Youn-jung about the dramatic, emotional end of the series here.
Can This Love Be Translated? is a swoon-worthy, romantic, and humorous story of a gifted multilingual interpreter who meets a superstar weighed down by self-doubt. As their worlds intertwine, can they bridge the gap between language and emotion, unlocking each other’s hearts?
