Ep 2. Employee of the Year

In the second episode of Mr. Sunshine season 1, titled "Employee of the Year," the delightful Korean drama series continues to follow the remarkable journey of the endearing characters at the famous luxury hotel, the Glory Hotel, in Seoul. Set in the early 1900s during the Joseon Dynasty and the early years of the Japanese occupation, this episode offers a captivating blend of romance, historical drama, and comedy.

As the title suggests, the plot revolves around the highly anticipated "Employee of the Year" award ceremony. The coveted accolade is a symbol of recognition for outstanding service and hard work, a chance for Glory Hotel employees to stand out amongst their peers. The episode focuses on how each character navigates the various challenges they face leading up to the event.

Our protagonist, Eugene Choi (played by the charismatic Lee Byung-hun), is a Korean-born American marine officer turned hotel general manager. He finds himself in a perplexing situation when his best friend, Goo Dong-mae (portrayed by the talented Yoo Yeon-seok), is nominated for the award. Eugene's conflicting loyalties between his duties as a hotel manager and his personal connection to Dong-mae create a fascinating source of tension and drama.

Meanwhile, the delightful Ko Ae-shin (played brilliantly by Kim Tae-ri) faces obstacles of her own. Ae-shin is a noblewoman and secret member of the Righteous Army, a group fighting for Korean independence from Japanese rule. Despite her involvement with the secret organization, Ae-shin is also an employee at the hotel and has a chance at winning the Employee of the Year award. Her intriguing double life leads to unexpected encounters and decisions that could have consequences for her and those she cares about.

Another captivating character is Gu Seung-joon (portrayed by the charming Byun Yo-han), a Korean-born Japanese businessman with a mysterious past. Seung-joon's presence adds an air of unpredictability to the episode, as his intentions and loyalties remain uncertain. Alongside these main characters, the episode also explores the personal lives and secrets of the supporting cast, including Dong-mae's unrequited love for a courtesan and the complex relationships within the hotel staff.

Amidst all the drama, "Employee of the Year" also incorporates moments of lightheartedness and humor. From Eugene's awkward attempts at Korean hospitality to Ae-shin's spirited bravery, the episode offers a delightful balance that keeps viewers engaged and entertained. The show's stunning cinematography, well-crafted dialogue, and meticulous attention to historical detail further enhance the overall viewing experience.

Season 1, episode 2 of Mr. Sunshine continues to establish the show's unique blend of romance, historical context, and intriguing character development. As the Employee of the Year award ceremony draws near, tensions rise, secrets unravel, and loyalties are tested. Viewers will find themselves engrossed in the intricate web of relationships and conflicts that form the heart of this enthralling story.

As the episode concludes, viewers are left eagerly anticipating what lies ahead for Eugene, Ae-shin, Dong-mae, and the rest of the captivating characters. With its compelling narrative, strong performances, and beautiful production design, Mr. Sunshine continues to demonstrate its status as a must-watch drama series that seamlessly weaves together history and entertainment.