Kim Chiu, Paulo Avelino find love in the workplace in ‘What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim?’

With What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim? sparking interest in office romance, lead actors Kim Chiu and Paulo Avelino shared their thoughts on finding love in the workplace.

While the drama features Kim as a secretary and Paulo as her boss falling for each other, both actors acknowledge the potential for workplace romance to blossom, but they also discuss the importance of keeping professionalism at the forefront.

“It’s always better to be professional. I always want to be professional on the set or when I’m working, but I understand that this happens, especially if you work with the same person every day, eight hours a day. I guess, one just has to choose the appropriate setting,” Paulo emphasized during a recent press conference.

Kim chimed in, acknowledging the potential for feelings to develop when colleagues spend a lot of time together.

“I know that in some cases this can’t be helped, especially if you work together for long hours every day. For me, a good work output is more important, because that’s what I signed up for. Ending up with a love life is just a bonus. You don’t want to be accused of failing to concentrate while in the office if you prioritize your heart over your head,” she said.

In What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim?, Kim plays a secretary, while Paulo portrays Brandon Manansala Castillo or BMC, her narcissistic boss who falls for her. One day, BMC’s perfect world turns chaotic when Secretary Kim resigns from her position. What follows is a romantic push and pull between the two as they discover hidden feelings for each other.

The cast in an iconic scene from ‘What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim?’

The series, which premieres today on Viu, is a local adaptation of the hit Korean series of the same title.

Asked what viewers can expect from the Philippine adaptation, Kim shared that the series will be relatable thanks to its unique Filipino touches.

“As a proud Pinoy, our writers and everyone involved in making the Philippine version of Secretary Kim put a lot into it,” Kim said. “There are many Filipino touches, like the focus on family and a stronger emphasis on comedy. Even if you watch it side-by-side with the Korean version, there are similarities, but our story is more Filipino and easier for most viewers to connect with.”

The pressure of adaptation is always there, added Paulo, “But we stuck to the script and stayed true to our culture to show how well we can do it as Filipinos.”

Fans can also expect sizzling chemistry between Kim and Paulo as they showcase their comedic and lighthearted sides in their first-ever romantic comedy series together.

“This is going to be something different,” Paulo said. “If you’re looking for something to make you happy, laugh, and feel all the kilig vibes, then this is the show for you. Coming from very heavy and serious characters, I’m happy to play a role like this. It’s exciting.”

Kim echoed the sentiment, describing the series as “a combination of kilig, romance, family, friendship, ambition, and dreams. After you watch the show, you’ll just feel good. It’s something to smile about. We promise you won’t be disappointed.”

Directed by Chad V. Vidanes, the series also stars Jake Cuenca, Janice De Belen, Romnick Sarmenta, Angeline Quinto, Pepe Herrera, Franco Laurel, JC Alcantara, Kaori Oinuma, Gillian Vicencio, Yves Flores, Cai Cortez, Phi Palmos, Kat Galang, and Brian Sy, with the special participation of Kim Won Shik.