Common Sense Media Review
By Joly Herman
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Intriguing Korean thriller has threat, some language.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
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When the Phone Rings
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 13 parent reviews
Parents say there is a divide in opinions regarding this drama, with many praising its exceptional storytelling, character chemistry, and strong performances, while others express disappointment over perceived political inaccuracies and a specific scene that they feel undermines the show's quality. Viewers appreciate the emotional depth and relationship advice offered in the plot but are frustrated by elements that they believe detract from the overall experience.
- emotional depth
- strong performances
- relationship advice
- misinterpretation concerns
- political inaccuracies
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 2 kid reviews
What's the Story?
In WHEN THE PHONE RINGS, a politician (Yoo Yeon-seok, A Bloody Lucky Day) arrives at an official event after a day of confronting both personal and global dilemmas. His companion is a sign language interpreter (Chae Soo-bin, Sweet and Sour) who happens to be his wife. Their marriage is secret, known only to family members who prize its value to family business. He's fine with the relationship as it is. She's not fine with it, and she has a plan to change things without his knowledge. Will he discover her maneuvering?
Is It Any Good?
Warming up through the course of subversive episodes, this Korean thriller pits a husband and wife against each other. Their circumstances are complicated, and the first episode's political prancing might elude younger teens or viewers who want to get to the meat of the story. For those who hang on, a clever twist drives the plot of When the Phone Rings. Fans of K-dramas will appreciate this one the most.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about integrity in When the Phone Rings. When is standing up for yourself the right thing to do? When is it better to go along with someone else's plan?
A main character has a disability, and people don't always behave respectfully towards her because of it. Can you put yourself in someone's shoes who has their own challenge? How are you challenged?
TV Details
- Premiere date : November 22, 2024
- Cast : Yoo Yeon-seok , Chae Soo-Bin , Heo Nam-jun
- Genre : Drama
- TV rating :
- Last updated : November 28, 2025
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