TYPE OF REVIEW 
: GOOD OL’ REVIEW
No spoilers.
It’s easy to see why Semantic Error (시맨틱 에러) quickly captured the attention so many fans when it first aired earlier this year. The series, based on a BL novel by Jeosoori, is a charming and breezy romantic series. Stars Park Seo Ham and Park Jae Chan deliver endearing performances that effortlessly draw you into their familiar, though engaging love story.
Chu Sang Woo (Park Jae Chan) is a strict, rule-abiding computer science major who rarely, if ever, strays from his set routine. But a group project that goes awry introduces him to the handsome and popular Jang Jae Young (Park Seo Ham). The design major’s opportunity to study abroad gets derailed by the failed group project. And though the cocky Jae Young initially makes it his goal to annoy straight-laced Sang Woo as much as possible, their relationship expectedly develops into something much more.
Semantic Error has a familiar set-up. Its enemies-to-lovers story will come as no surprise. But the quick eight-episode journey for Sang Woo and Jae Young is one that is fun and enjoyable to hop along for.
Park Seo Ham and Park Jae Chan have already shown their talents as K-pop stars. (Seo Ham as a former member of KNK and Jae Chan as a member of DKZ, formerly DONGKIZ.) But they effortlessly show off a different side of themselves through Semantic Error. Both are equally charming and charismatic romantic leads. Their chemistry is undeniable, especially with the initial back and forth between the characters. Even more so when Sang Woo and Jae Young slowly realize their feelings for each other.
For anyone who has followed Seo Ham in KNK (like myself), he is quite a revelation here. Jae Young is a bit of a contrast from the personality that made him a fun idol to follow in the past. His more charismatic leading man features are a pleasant surprise and a testament to his acting talents.
Park Jae Chan, meanwhile, is as bright here as his performances on stage in DKZ/DONGKIZ. He is able to balance Sang Woo’s initially closed off personality with the slow, but steady peeling back of the character’s layers later on.
And together, the two make for a pairing that is irresistible to root for.
Semantic Error wastes no time in their eight episodes. The brisk pacing is just right. And Sang Woo and Jae Young’s love story is supported by solid development for each character on their own. Overall, Semantic Error is an enjoyable series that will not fail to put a smile on your face all the way through.
I am shocked that this is the same Seoham from KNK who was scared of everything 😂 But also not shocked because, well… 🤭
What do you mean by that? 😅
I liked the kiss scenes,. They were realistic.
I was surprised!