Welcome to Samdal-ri

A photographer whose career has collapsed heads back to her childhood town to regroup, only to run into an old friend who once meant a lot to her. As they reconnect, past misunderstandings and unspoken feelings resurface, and everyday life in the village forces both of them to reevaluate what matters. The series keeps the focus on quiet moments and interpersonal shifts rather than big plot twists, following the slow rebuilding of trust, the practical tasks of returning home, and the emotional cost of starting over without revealing final outcomes.

Created by Kwon Hye-ju, Welcome to Samdal-ri premiered in 2023 and stars Ji Chang-wook as Jo Yong-pil and Shin Hye-sun as Jo Sam-dal, with Yu Oh-seong, Kim Mi-kyeong, and Lee Jae-won in key supporting roles. The show leans on its ensemble casting and intimate production scale to give a lived-in feel to the rural setting.

Awards coverage was modest, with most notices focusing on the actors rather than big trophy sweeps. Lead performances attracted critical attention, but there were no widely publicized international award wins tied to the series.

On social media and among K-drama fans, the series became known for its warm small-town atmosphere and the chemistry between the leads. Viewers often shared favorite scenes and screenshots, and the show fed interest in character-driven, everyday romances that prioritize realism over melodrama.

Critics generally responded well, reflected in a vote average of 8.2 out of 10 from 120 votes, noting the show's focus on second chances, family relationships, and personal dignity after professional failure. Reviews highlighted steady pacing, naturalistic dialogue, and a theme of rebuilding life with humility, even when outcomes stay uncertain.