The Netflix-streaming K-drama When the Phone Rings has drawn devout rom-com enthusiasts, climbing to the top spot on the Philippines’ trending charts. For fans of these shows, the devil’s in the details, and eagle-eyed viewers are always quick to catch intriguing nuances. One such discovery has sparked a viral fan theory about a character’s fashion choices, leaving audiences thoroughly convinced.
Why Fans Believe Chae Soo Bin Wears Heels at Home in “When the Phone Rings”
For seasoned K-drama viewers, it’s no surprise to see a chaebol (a.k.a. a wealthy character) dressed impeccably even within the confines of their home. In When the Phone Rings, Hong Hee-joo, played by Chae Soo Bin, is the selectively mute daughter of a newspaper magnate and wife to the presidential spokesperson. Throughout the series, Hee-joo’s wardrobe consistently features designer ensembles, even in casual settings.
This penchant for high fashion is most striking in a scene from episode two. Freshly awake, Hee-joo stumbles out of bed and into the living room—not in cozy slippers, but a pair of closed kitten heels.
While some viewers dismiss this as typical K-drama home styling for the elite, others have delved deeper, proposing a poignant theory behind her unconventional footwear choice. A post on X (formerly Twitter) made waves online, stating: “[Wdym] (What do you mean) since heejoo is mute, baek sa-eon made her wear kitty heels instead of house slippers because it makes sounds and he will notice her presence if she's at home [crying emoji].”
In the show, Hee-joo’s marriage to Yoo Yeon Seok’s character, Paik Sa-eon, is an arranged setup. Sa-eon believes that his wife is unable to speak, adding an intricate layer to their dynamic. Though this theory about Hee-joo wearing heeled footwear to signal her presence remains unconfirmed within the series canon, it has gained traction across platforms like TikTok, where fans are marveling at the supposed subtlety of this detail.
Whether intentional or not, the theory introduces a compelling layer to her character and her relationship with Sa-eon, sparking discussions among fans searching for hidden details.
SHOP: The Exact Heels Chae Soo Bin Wears in “When the Phone Rings”
Both inside and outside her home, Hee-joo often sports glamorous heels, adding another layer of sophistication to her character. Below, take a look at some of the standout designer pairs featured in the show:
1. Roger Vivier’s Mary Jane Pumps
Entering the series with a flourish, Hee-joo and her husband’s first appearance in the K-drama has her decked out in a sophisticated black ensemble for an ambassador’s party. Along with a sleek black dress, the character wears Roger Vivier’s Mary Jane pumps, detailed with crystal flowers that adorn its straps.
Efflorescence Mary Jane Pumps in Satin, $2125 (approx. P125,436), ROGER VIVIER, rogervivier.com
2. Roger Vivier’s Trompette Pumps
Roger Vivier remains a staple in Hee-joo’s wardrobe, as seen in episode four. During a scene in a luxurious hotel suite, she wears the Trompette pumps—a minimalist off-white pair featuring the iconic Belle Vivier buckle.
Trompette Pumps in Leather, $890 (approx. P52,533), ROGER VIVIER, rogervivier.com
3. Gianvito Rossi’s Gianvito 105
Hee-joo complements the dark hues of the evening atop a rooftop, wearing a dainty blush pink dress paired with Gianvito Rossi’s Gianvito 105. The shoe comes with a sleek stiletto heel and an exterior crafted from white leather, a classic for many wardrobes.
Gianvito 105, £650 (approx. (P48,728), GIANVITO ROSSI, gianvitorossi.com
When the Phone Rings is streaming on Netflix.
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