Once Upon a Small Town — Characters & Cast

Starts with the singular goal of surviving his grandfather's clinic stint and returning to Seoul; evolves into wanting a genuine emotional home in Huidong.

Begins as an emotionally guarded, boundary-obsessed Seoul veterinarian resentful of country living. Gradually opens up through veterinary field emergencies and Ja-young’s presence, ultimately choosing rural life and reciprocal love over metropolitan comfort.

Driven by the subconscious desire to remain indispensable so she will never be discarded; evolves to pursue genuine romance and self-advocacy.

Outwardly vibrant, hyper-capable, and universally adored, Ja-young conceals childhood abandonment trauma by overextending herself for everyone in town. Through Ji-yul's validation, she learns to prioritize her own needs and embrace reciprocal affection.

Desires to modernize the village economy and win Ja-young's heart; evolves to support Ja-young’s happiness while remaining the village's agricultural anchor.

The charming, progressive young head of the village youth association and peach farm owner. He risks his comfortable dynamic with Ja-young by confessing his romantic feelings, but matures through rejection, maintaining his dignity and deep friendship with both leads.

Maintaining harmony and supporting the younger generation in Huidong.

Acts as a stable, fatherly figure to Ja-young and a gentle guide to Ji-yul, providing comic relief and emotional grounding for the village police precinct.