Fans of Virgin River have unearthed a romantic gem on that echoes the beloved series, yet hails from the far-off shores of South Korea.
The show in question? Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha, which spins a tale strikingly similar to that of Virgin River, featuring a young medical professional who finds herself entangled in love within a quaint village setting.
In this charming K-drama, Seoul-based dentist Yoon Hye-jin (played by Shin Min-a) relocates to the scenic coastal hamlet of Gongjin after her life hits a rough patch.
There, she crosses paths with Hong Du-sik (Kim Seon-ho) the town’s jack-of-all-trades and a favourite among locals for his problem-solving prowess.
Despite the geographical and cultural differences, viewers who’ve binged all six seasons of Virgin River are convinced that Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha is not just similar but even surpasses its American counterpart.
Virgin River fans declare ‘similar’ international show is ‘infinitely better’ (Image: NETFLIX)
One fan took to the show’s subreddit to share their discovery: “I think I have discovered the K-drama version of Virgin River. It’s called Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha. It’s very cheesy and very similar.”
This sentiment was echoed by others, with one viewer responding: “My opinion is Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha is infinitely better than Virgin River. How far have you gotten?
“The early episodes definitely have a cheese factor, but the later episodes made me ugly cry in a way Virgin River has never come close to. Great acting, great emotional payoff.”
“K Dramas are so well done!” someone else agreed, providing further insight. “It’s Ok Not To Be OK, Crash Landing On You, Extraordinary Attorney Woo – they don’t rely on cheesy boring sex scenes and really get into character development.
This K-drama also revolves around finding love in a small town (Image: NETFLIX)
“Sure sometimes they’re over the top but the stories are better and less predictable than VR or any of the other weird Hallmarky shows we do.”
“Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha is sooo much better,” chimed in another. “Nonetheless, I enjoy Virgin River for what it is.”
Another joined the conversation, saying: “Awwww I loved Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha, but it’s way more superior to V.R lol. That show made me laugh so much and cry like a baby. The acting also way better!”
Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha is available right now on Netflix (Image: NETFLIX)
“Not the same hahaha. Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha is much much better,” echoed another enthusiast.
And one more viewer couldn’t help but respond: “There’s no way you compared a masterpiece like Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha to VR… lol take that back right now.”
For those who’ve found a guilty pleasure in Virgin River despite its cliched romance and contrived plotlines, the enchanting world of K-dramas like Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha might just be the perfect antidote as you await the seventh season.
Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha and Virgin River are available to stream on .