Where to Watch Twinkling Watermelon: Stream the Heartfelt K-Drama Online

Twinkling Watermelon isn't just another coming-of-age tale. This 2023 South Korean drama on tvN takes a unique approach by blending fantasy, music, and complex family dynamics. Directed by Son Jong-hyun, the show stars Ryeoun, Choi Hyun-wook, Seol In-ah, and Shin Eun-soo in roles that explore the push and pull between duty to family and a thirst for self-expression. It aired from September to November 2023 and is available on Viu and Viki for international streaming audiences.

The Story of Twinkling Watermelon

At the heart of Twinkling Watermelon is Ha Eun-gyeol, a high school student with a deep love for music. As the only hearing person in a family of CODA (Child of Deaf Adults), Eun-gyeol lives a dual life—he’s a dutiful son and model student by day but an unrestrained guitarist by night. His love for music, however, clashes with his father’s ideals, and a heated argument pushes Eun-gyeol to flee, guitar in hand, to a mysterious music shop. Upon leaving, he finds himself in 1995, meeting a young version of his father, Ha Yi-chan. The father he knew to be stern and unsupportive in the present is, in the past, an energetic teenager bursting with dreams.

In 1995, Eun-gyeol befriends his younger father and soon joins a band that includes Se-kyung, a cello prodigy who’s as admired for her musical talent as she is for her icy demeanor, and Chung-ah, an enigmatic artist who is deaf but uses her passion for art to communicate her thoughts. Together, they form the band "Watermelon Sugar," and as they play music together, Eun-gyeol discovers more about his family’s past and gains fresh insights into his father’s struggles and desires as a youth.

An Intricate Web of Family and Friendship

The relationships in Twinkling Watermelon give the story depth. Each character's story interweaves to reveal how intertwined destinies can be. Eun-gyeol’s friendship with the young Ha Yi-chan (his father) and Chung-ah (his future mother) allows him to see them in a completely new light, away from the limitations and burdens of adulthood. Yi-chan’s free-spirited nature and determination to enjoy his youth to the fullest serves as a sharp contrast to his present-day, more conservative self. Se-kyung, Eun-gyeol’s mother, is an example of how parental expectations and strict upbringing can sometimes stifle individuality and happiness.

While Eun-gyeol tries to understand his father’s youthful dreams and his mother's artistic passion, Chung-ah—played by Shin Eun-soo—struggles with being deaf in a hearing world. Her love for Frida Kahlo, known for her resilience and boldness in the face of adversity, becomes an inspiration for her and adds a layer of motivation for Eun-gyeol.

Comic Relief and Wholesome Humor

Despite the serious themes, the show’s humorous moments keep it light. From Eun-gyeol’s shock at meeting his young father to the hilarious misunderstandings between the two, the comedy is spot-on. When Eun-gyeol realizes that Yi-chan doesn’t know who Yoon Chung-ah is—Eun-gyeol’s future mother—a chaotic yet heartwarming scene unfolds as Eun-gyeol tries to “correct” his father’s budding affections. These scenes provide a charming balance to the drama’s deeper themes and remind audiences of the funny, unpredictable side of time travel.

Learning Through Time Travel: Lessons of Youth and Family

The drama gives audiences a nostalgic look at the joys and confusions of youth. Through the interactions of past and present, Twinkling Watermelon explores universal themes of pursuing one’s passion and reconciling with family expectations. Eun-gyeol’s journey into his father’s world reminds viewers to savor their youth and encourages parents to nurture their children's dreams rather than impose a path on them.

Sign Language and Representation of the Deaf Community

One of the show’s unique aspects is its honest portrayal of the Deaf community. Eun-gyeol’s mother and brother, both born deaf, face a society that often marginalizes them. By introducing sign language as a key communication method in the show, Twinkling Watermelon makes a strong case for inclusivity and the importance of giving people with disabilities a platform to express their voice.

Stellar Performances and Production Value

The cast’s stellar performances bring emotional authenticity to this time-travel tale. Ryeoun captures the dual nature of Eun-gyeol’s character beautifully, while Choi Hyun-wook’s portrayal of young Yi-chan captures the essence of youthful optimism. Shin Eun-soo’s portrayal of Chung-ah is moving, especially her scenes in sign language that require intense expression and nuance. Her character’s resilience and emotional depth have earned acclaim from audiences.

Behind the scenes, Studio Dragon brings Twinkling Watermelon to life with thoughtful cinematography and immersive 90s aesthetics. The careful production captures each era’s look and feel, making time travel both believable and exciting.

A Must-Watch K-Drama

Twinkling Watermelon is more than just a fantasy drama; it’s a story about love, resilience, and the dreams that define our lives. It highlights the importance of family, understanding, and chasing one’s dreams. The show’s rich storyline, thoughtful themes, and talented cast make it a captivating watch for audiences of all ages.

For fans of heartwarming K-dramas with a touch of fantasy, Twinkling Watermelon is now streaming on Viu and Viki. Dive into this musical journey and discover why sometimes, the brightest paths are the ones you pave for yourself.

1. What is Twinkling Watermelon about? Twinkling Watermelon is a time-travel K-drama about a hearing high school student, Eun-gyeol, who gets transported to 1995, where he meets his young father and forms a band.
2. What does CODA mean in this drama? Eun-gyeol is a Child of Deaf Adults (CODA), meaning he’s the only hearing person in his family, which influences his perspective and connection to music.
3. Where can I stream Twinkling Watermelon? The series is available on tvN in South Korea and can be streamed internationally on Viu and Viki in select regions.
4. How many episodes are in the series? Twinkling Watermelon has 16 episodes, airing every Monday and Tuesday.
5. Who are the main actors in the series? The show stars Ryeoun as Eun-gyeol, Choi Hyun-wook as young Ha Yi-chan, Seol In-ah as Se-kyung, and Shin Eun-soo as Chung-ah.
6. What is Eun-gyeol's secret talent? Eun-gyeol is a talented guitarist, and he leads a double life as a model student by day and a band guitarist by night.
7. Why does Eun-gyeol travel back to 1995? After a fight with his father over his music dreams, Eun-gyeol finds himself in a mysterious music shop, where he suddenly time-slips to 1995.
8. What is the significance of the band name "Watermelon Sugar"? “Watermelon Sugar” reflects the sweet and bittersweet memories of youth that Eun-gyeol and his friends create through music.
9. Is there romance in Twinkling Watermelon? Yes, there are romantic elements, especially in the relationships Eun-gyeol’s father has with characters like Se-kyung and Chung-ah.
10. Why is Frida Kahlo mentioned in the drama? Chung-ah admires Frida Kahlo’s strength and artistry, which inspires her to overcome her challenges as a deaf artist.
11. How does Eun-gyeol communicate with his family? Eun-gyeol uses sign language to communicate with his family, serving as their interpreter in the hearing world.
12. What genre is Twinkling Watermelon? It’s a blend of fantasy, coming-of-age, romance, and time-travel drama, with strong family and friendship themes.
13. Who directed Twinkling Watermelon? The series was directed by Son Jong-hyun, known for his work on popular K-dramas.
14. What themes does the drama explore? Twinkling Watermelon delves into family bonds, following dreams, finding one’s voice, and the power of music as a universal language.