First Episode of 'Love is a One-Lane Bridge': Ju Ji-hoon and Jung Yu-mi Deliver a Heartfelt Romance After 18 Years of Rivalry

'Love is a One-Lane Bridge' (사랑은 외나무다리에서) premiered on November 23, 2024, on tvN, featuring actors Ju Ji-hoon (주지훈) and Jung Yu-mi (정유미) in a charming romantic comedy that captivates viewers with its delightful tension.

The first episode depicted the reunion of Seok Ji-won (주지훈) and Yoon Ji-won (정유미), who were childhood sweethearts born on the same day in their hometown. However, their families have been feuding for generations, leading to their separation 18 years ago and a continued rivalry between their households.

Despite their tumultuous past, both characters have grown significantly in their respective lives. Seok Ji-won has become the heir to Seokban Construction, where he confronts the unethical practices of Executive Director Park Dong-jin (조재윤), stating, "Even if it's illegal, just because others do it, and it's a tradition, we agreed not to engage in such shameful acts, didn't we?" This bold stance showcases his commitment to integrity in the construction industry.

Meanwhile, Yoon Ji-won works as a physical education teacher at Dokmok High School, where her grandfather, Yoon Jae-ho (김갑수), serves as chairman. When the school foundation faces a takeover by Seokban Construction, which her grandfather despises, Yoon Ji-won grapples with her loyalty to her family and her role as an educator.

Although they have not seen each other for 18 years, the chemistry between Seok Ji-won and Yoon Ji-won remains palpable. Seok Ji-won acknowledges the lingering feelings, saying, "I heard you’ve been away for a long time, but if you still dislike me, that’s quite something."

The tension escalates when a high school classmate informs Seok Ji-won that Yoon Ji-won doesn’t remember him, prompting him to confront her at the school. Yoon Ji-won, meanwhile, is determined to stand her ground at work, declaring, "Why should I resign? I’ll endure and show them. If they come, what’s there to fear?"

However, their first encounter does not go as expected. After a run in the rain, Yoon Ji-won wakes from a dream about waiting for someone during a snowy childhood day, only to have a mishap during a gym class that leaves her disoriented. Without her glasses, she fails to recognize Seok Ji-won, who is shocked to think she has forgotten him.

Flashbacks reveal that during their high school years, Seok Ji-won had a crush on Yoon Ji-won and had made a bet with her about being the top student, promising to ask her out if he won. However, Yoon Ji-won ended up being the top student, leaving Seok Ji-won unable to fulfill his wish. The unresolved feelings from their past are hinted at as Yoon Ji-won dreams of him, suggesting a deep connection that remains unbroken.

Seok Ji-won, feeling slighted by Yoon Ji-won’s lack of recognition, decides to playfully retaliate by introducing himself formally, saying, "Nice to meet you, Teacher Yoon Ji-won." This moment leads to a nostalgic yet humorous interaction, as Yoon Ji-won, still groggy, confuses him with her childhood memories, resulting in a comical yet poignant reunion that sets the stage for their complicated romance.

The first episode successfully establishes a mix of humor and heartfelt moments, leaving viewers eager for more as the story unfolds.