Ever wondered what would happen if a nobleman from the Joseon found himself suddenly working as a restaurant part-timer in today's time? Wonder no more! EXO's Xiumin is serving up both swoon-worthy romance and blistering comedy in the new K-Drama "Heo's Diner"—a time-travel romcom that promises a food feast for the eyes.

Based on the popular web novel by Jeon SeonYeong, "Heo’s Diner," the story is about HeoGyun (Xiumin), a smart and kind-hearted nobleman who is exiled during the Joseon Dynasty. But just when his life is about to be lost, fate chooses to throw him into the future.

From grasping a calligraphy brush to serving tables, HeoGyun must be shocked by modern-day Korea. If that scenario isn't enough to get you to tune in, here are five more reasons why you should watch this drama:

 

1. Xiumin as the Lead in a Rom-Com? Say No More!

EXO Xiumin's Recipe? Find Out In K-Drama "Heo's Diner"

tvn Asia

EXO-Ls are cheering! Xiumin becomes the lead for the male role in a romcom, something long overdue as a move upwards from his most recent supporting spots. While he was seen on screens in "CEO-dol Mart" (2023), this marks his first instance of being in the lead role of a standard romcom.

Director Oh HwaNim has nothing but admiration for Xiumin's charm. In an interview with Chosun Biz, he says, “Xiumin has shining bright eyes. From the beginning of planning the drama, I have never thought of the character HeoGyun as another artist. I saw the charm the actor has through his previous works, and I was deeply impressed by his sincere attitude."

 

2. A K-Pop Idol Couple to Make You Swoon

EXO Xiumin's Recipe? Find Out In K-Drama "Heo's Diner"

The Great Show

Along with Xiumin is a recognizable K-Pop face—WJSN's Exy. She plays Bong EunSil, the owner's daughter who thinks HeoGyun is a shady person. Think of the hilarious interactions between an optimistic time traveler and a realistic modern-day woman—it's a recipe for comedy.

Director Oh praised Exy, saying, "In one word, she was a perfect fit for the EunSil character. She maintained a good balance among the actors and expressed the character's emotional fluctuations with delicate acting." That is, we are promised some hot chemistry!

 

3. A Superb OST Lineup

EXO Xiumin's Recipe? Find Out In K-Drama "Heo's Diner"

tvN Asia

No K-Drama is ever complete without an Original Soundtrack (OST) that is catchy, and "Heo’s Diner" is serving up some musical goodness. The drama has songs from rock band 2Z, Japanese singer Tomioka Ai, YOARI, Rocky, and Gyeongseo.

Be it a ballad cry-fest or a festive tune to go along with HeoGyun's misadventures, the OST will pull you deeper into the drama's spell.