Can This Love Be Translated was one of my most anticipated shows of 2026. Honestly, we waited so long for this drama and, of course, for the return of Kim Seon Ho.
I really wanted to love Can This Love Be Translated. However, I ended up with mixed feelings.
Written by the Hong sisters (Alchemy of Souls, Hotel del Luna) and directed by Yoo Young Eun (Queen of Mystery), this 16 episode Netflix kdrama follows Cha Mu Hui (Go Youn Jung), an actor who receives overnight viral success, and Ju Ho Jin (Kim Seon Ho), a translator.
The show looks great with fun cinematic flourishes and gorgeous shots of Canada and Italy. Seriously, book me a ticket for both stunning locations.
Meanwhile, the cast all do a great job with the material they are given. I really loved many of the scenes between Cha Mu Hui and Ju Ho Jin. Kim Seon Ho gives serious yearning in this show. Sigh. Meanwhile, Go Youn Jung is impressive and endearing.
Neither actor is particularly challenged. Both are capable of so much more. In addition, several members of the supporting cast have potential but are wasted in their roles. I would have loved more from Fukushi Sota, for example.
I also have issues with the show’s story. Many of its plot points did not work for me.
That the teaser for Can This Love Be Translated sold us a different show is perfectly fine. I love to be surprised. However, I found aspects of the drama’s narrative problematic – particularly with regards to one character’s mental health challenges. I appreciate this is all supposed to be fun, but should we really be having fun with such a storyline?
The shame, for me, is that it was unnecessary to push this storyline so far. The drama had already done a good job in depicting negative intrusive thoughts and in exploring the difficulties inherent in communication – particularly if you have experienced trauma.
The third act “translator plot” just jarred with me.
As a result, I liked and enjoyed many parts of but didn’t love Can This Love Be Translated.
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