Everyone’s Favorite Couple Is Finally Back in Resident Playbook—But There’s a Twist

In a move that’s thrilling fans of the Hospital Playlist universe, actors Jo Jung-suk and Jeon Mi-do are officially set to appear in episode 10 of tvN’s weekend drama Resident Playbook (언젠가는 슬기로울 전공의생활) airing May 11.

The pair, who played fan-favorite couple Lee Ik-jun and Chae Song-hwa—collectively known as the ‘Ik-Song couple’—will grace the screen again just one week before the series finale, bringing nostalgic energy to Resident Playbook's final stretch.

A Special Finale with Star Power

Their appearance follows earlier cameos from Hospital Playlist cast members including Ahn Eun-jin, Moon Tae-yu, Ha Yoon-kyung, Jung Kyung-ho, Yoo Yeon-seok, and Bae Hyun-sung, who have each reconnected with new characters and residents at Yulje Medical Center.

Adding to the excitement, acclaimed TV producers Na Young-seok and Shin Won-ho also appear as special guests in episodes 9 and 10, signaling a star-studded lead-up to the finale.

Jo and Jeon originally starred in the hit medical drama Hospital Playlist, which premiered in March 2020 and returned for a successful second season in 2021. Their on-screen chemistry as colleagues-turned-lovers resonated deeply with viewers and established their characters as one of the most beloved K-drama couples.

Ratings and Buzz at an All-Time High

Resident Playbook, a 12-episode series, has been on a steady rise in popularity. Episode 8 recorded:

Nationwide average ratings: 6%

Seoul metropolitan area: 6.4% (peaking at 7.4%)

2049 key demographic: #1 across all channels during its time slot (3.2% nationwide)

According to Good Data Corporation, the show has held the #1 most buzzworthy drama on TV and OTT platforms for three consecutive weeks, while stars Go Youn-jung and Jung Joon-won also ranked #1 and #2 respectively in actor-related buzz.

Tensions and Emotions Rise in Resident Playbook Episode 9 Ahead of Finale

As Resident Playbook (언젠가는 슬기로울 전공의생활) enters its final stretch, Episode 9 delivers a mix of romantic sparks, subtle jealousy, and character growth—setting the stage for an emotionally rich conclusion.

One of the standout moments comes when Gu Do-won (Jung Joon-won) finds himself unexpectedly rattled by a rival in love. When a charming anesthesiology resident boldly asks Oh I-young (Go Youn-jung) out on a date, Do-won's usual cool demeanor begins to crack. His burst of jealousy is both awkward and heartwarming, showing viewers just how deeply his feelings for I-young have grown. His attempts to act nonchalant only make his emotional spiral more obvious—and endearing.

Beyond the budding love triangle, the episode deepens the show's core themes: the pressure of medical training, the camaraderie among residents, and the quiet emotional toll of the hospital setting. Each resident is pushed to face personal insecurities, difficult cases, and ethical crossroads, especially as they begin to envision what kind of doctors—and people—they want to become.

Episode 9 also delivers a dose of nostalgia and excitement with special cameo appearances from Hospital Playlist legends—part of a star-studded lead-up to the finale. With Jo Jung-suk and Jeon Mi-do confirmed for Episode 10, fans are eagerly awaiting a full-circle moment at Yulje Medical Center.

What’s Next?

With only a few episodes left, Resident Playbook is carefully weaving emotional payoffs into long-running storylines—balancing laughter, longing, and life-or-death moments. Whether it’s Do-won’s quiet heartbreak, I-young’s professional strength, or the bonds between residents, viewers are bracing for a memorable finale filled with heart.

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