Episodes 11 and 12 of The Potato Lab debuted on tvN and Netflix on April 5 and 6, 2025, featuring prominent performances by Lee Sun-bin and Kang Tae-oh, alongside a talented supporting cast that includes Lee Hak-ju, Kim Ga-eun, Shin Hyeon-seung, Yoo Seung-mok, Kwak Ja-hyung, Woo Jeong-won, Yoon Jeong-seop, and Nam Hyeon-woo.
The culmination of the series presents Mi-kyung and So Baek-ho as they navigate their complicated feelings, ultimately realizing that their love for each other supersedes past misunderstandings. Additionally, Ki-se starts anew, reconciling with both Hee-jin and Mi-kyung, while Mi-kyung embarks on her journey of running her own lab.
As the narrative unfolds, Baek-ho and Mi-kyung thrive as esteemed members of their village, celebrated for their advancements in potato cultivation. The series concludes on a positive note, suggesting that the possibility of a sequel appears slim.
Episode 11 Summary: Tensions Rise in the Lab
Entitled Disaster, Episode 11 kicks off with Mi-kyung fleeing after Baek-ho discloses that he was the reason behind her departure from Wonhan Retail. In an attempt to regain normalcy, Mi-kyung returns to the lab but is met with kind gestures from her colleagues, who strive to uplift her spirits during her remaining days.
Bu Jae-joong suggests a job opportunity in Vietnam, which Mi-kyung declines, firmly stating her commitment to harvest season. Her frustration comes to a head when she confronts Baek-ho, demanding he keep his distance. Concurrently, Ong-ju and Hwang-kyung discover items Mi-kyung associated with Baek-ho discarded in the garbage, leading Ong-ju to blame herself for Mi-kyung’s turmoil.
Feeling overwhelmed, Mi-kyung becomes ill, prompting Ki-se to reach out for her well-being, a gesture that ultimately leads to Baek-ho bringing abalone porridge to her. In a pivotal moment, Ong-ju discloses her knowledge of Ki-se’s infidelity but, surprisingly, Mi-kyung chooses to overlook this revelation as part of her healing process.
As the harvest begins, the team encounters a major setback when the Chungnam factory’s storage facility malfunctions, resulting in the loss of 500 tonnes of potatoes. This crisis compels teams to source supplementary potatoes directly from farms, with Baek-ho volunteering to assist Mi-kyung in the effort. During their tasks, an accident occurs, leading to Baek-ho rescuing Mi-kyung, which allows for a confrontation of unresolved feelings.
As Episode 11 concludes, Mi-kyung expresses her frustrations, prompting Baek-ho to confess his love for her, setting the stage for the conclusion.
Episode 12 Recap: New Beginnings and Recognition
In the following episode, titled MK 107, Mi-kyung openly discusses her feelings with Baek-ho, who reflects on the error of his previous data-driven decisions. As he seeks her forgiveness, Mi-kyung requests some time to process their relationship, causing a humorous interruption when the lab’s women tease them upon entering the storage facility.
After a mishap at the USB guesthouse regarding Baek-ho’s stay, Mi-kyung demands respect for him, ultimately leading both to meet a businessman named Kang Dong-won in their quest for potatoes. Overcoming his arrogance, they achieve a significant deal, securing 98 tons of needed potatoes.
Mi-kyung and Baek-ho share a tender moment, culminating in a kiss and an intimate night. However, Baek-ho’s corporate challenges arise when he receives news regarding downsizing at the beverage company, which complicates their plans.
Meanwhile, Hee-jin comes to terms with her relationship with Ki-se, deciding on a peaceful divorce as she prepares to leave for New York to continue her studies. Despite the challenges, both characters find closure and part ways amicably.
In a twist, Mi-kyung learns of rumors regarding Ki-se’s marital status and chooses to check on him, discovering he too is seeking a fresh start. Their conversation leads to mutual resolution, while Baek-ho grapples with feelings of isolation in Wonhan, eventually reaching out to Ki-se as his sole friend.
As they discuss Baek-ho’s job resignation, Mi-kyung passionately emphasizes the importance of stability, but Baek-ho remains unwavering in his choice.
At the same time, Hee-dong, the President’s son of the Korean Farmers’ Association, aids in resolving the potato crisis. Mi-kyung receives exciting news from the Rural Development Administration about collaborating on her variety of potatoes, MK 107.
Fast forward three years, the series resumes with Mi-kyung and Baek-ho thriving together, with Baek-ho now balancing multiple roles in the community while Mi-kyung garners recognition as a leading potato expert. They hold their place in their village as celebrity figures, embodying growth and persistence.
Future of The Potato Lab: Is a Second Season Coming?
Ultimately, Baek-ho embraces a fulfilling life away from high-stress jobs, while Ki-se embarks on a new chapter independently. Even Mr. Bu gets a rewarding conclusion with a promotion as the chief of The Potato Lab.
As of now, tvN has yet to announce any developments regarding a second season of The Potato Lab.
This engaging series featuring Lee Sun-bin and Kang Tae-oh can be streamed on Netflix, providing viewers with a delightful exploration of love, ambition, and the nuances of life.