The highly anticipated drama series The Potato Lab, featuring Lee Sun-bin and Kang Tae-oh, premiered its episodes 3 and 4 on tvN on March 8 and 9, 2025. The narrative revolves around Kim Mi-kyung, an employee at a quirky potato lab, and the principled So Baek-ho, whose arrival brings both challenges and unexpected romance into Mi-kyung’s structured life.
The story begins to evolve dramatically when a strict new director, Baek-ho, disrupts the status quo at the lab. Mi-kyung, feeling the pressure of his authoritative approach, inadvertently ignites a series of romantic complications amid the chaos of their work life.
Episode 3 & 4 Highlights: A Rollercoaster of Emotions
Episode 3, titled The Price of a Kiss, kicks off with a hilariously disheveled Mi-kyung waking up in a bathtub, piecing together the previous night’s events. To her utter shock, she remembers kissing Baek-ho, a moment that has her mortified yet curious about its implications.
As the day unfolds, her friend Ong-ju playfully teases her, emphasizing Mi-kyung’s repressed feelings that may have led to the unexpected kiss after a night of drinking. Meanwhile, Baek-ho grapples with the ramifications of that impulsive moment, occupying himself with mundane tasks while preoccupied with thoughts of Mi-kyung.
Pushing through the awkwardness, Baek-ho attempts to contact Mi-kyung, only to find her dismissive of the incident. Crafting an elaborate ruse, he suggests she owes him for the “designated driver” expenses. Their interactions are imbued with comedic tension as they navigate the complexities of their budding relationship.
Amidst these developments, Mi-kyung participates in an annual cooking competition hosted by Sunneyo Foods, where a mishap involving raw onions results in her brother being momentarily blinded. Baek-ho, showcasing his culinary skills, ultimately leads her village to victory, solidifying his place within the community.
Following their triumphant moment, Mi-kyung confronts the previous night’s kiss, only to be taken aback by Baek-ho’s proposal for a date. In a blend of sincerity and awkwardness, he reveals his calculated approach to relationships, admitting that she is his third kiss not out of romantic feelings but due to logical reasoning. Despite her playful teasing, Mi-kyung is intrigued.
Later, a rather unfortunate eyebrow tattooing experience unfolds as Mi-kyung and her brother try to embrace a trendy look. This mishap leads to comedic reflections among her colleagues, showcasing her ability to laugh at herself even in challenging situations. Meanwhile, an unexpected visit from Chairman Wang and CEO Yoon puts Mi-kyung and her team on high alert, culminating in humorous exchanges about her appearance.
Confrontations and Resolutions in Episode 4
The fourth episode, titled This Message Has Been Deleted, opens dramatically with Mi-kyung facing a harsh reality as Baek-ho informs her of her termination due to budget cuts. His straightforwardness takes her by surprise, and the tension mounts as she pleads for her position. However, Baek-ho offers her a lifeline, allowing her to stay temporarily to ensure a smooth onboarding of a new employee.
Meanwhile, Mi-kyung’s personal life unfolds as she visits her father at Gilmoon Temple, providing a brief respite from her professional turmoil. This moment of familial warmth contrasts starkly with the growing concerns about her job security.
At the lab, a stark divide emerges as colleagues rally behind Baek-ho, praising his leadership while Mi-kyung attempts to charm him into reverse her termination. The mounting tensions with Ki-se, who is struggling with personal issues, add further complexity to the storyline.
In a twist of fate, Mi-kyung crosses paths with Ki-se at a hotel while exploring job opportunities, which leads to a humorous yet awkward confrontation about their past. Ki-se offers to assist in her reinstatement, but she resolutely declines his offer, standing firm in her principles.
As episode 4 concludes, Mi-kyung’s dismissal spreads through the office like wildfire, resulting in a series of comedic misunderstandings involving her colleagues as they inadvertently rally against Baek-ho. When a message intended for Baek-ho goes awry, Mi-kyung frantically attempts to erase any evidence of their scorn.
In a stormy climax, Mi-kyung’s anxiety about the lab’s potatoes prompts a dramatic exit into the rain, followed closely by Baek-ho. Their shared moment of concern marks a poignant turn in their evolving relationship, leaving viewers eagerly anticipating the next episode.
Don’t miss Episode 5 of The Potato Lab, premiering on tvN on March 15, 2025.