Cebu, Philippines is in the spotlight in the new K-drama series Boyfriend on Demand, opening the series with a dreamy getaway.

The new romance-comedy series centers on Mi-rae, who grows tired of her routinary life as a webtoon producer. Looking for excitement, she turns to a boyfriend-simulation app that introduces her to a range of virtual partners — each designed around her idea of the perfect date and dream boyfriend.

In the first episode, Seo Mi-rae, played by Korean actress and BLACKPINK member Kim Ji-soo, 31,  or simply Jisoo, daydreams about a summer trip to the Philippines.

The fantasy sequence highlights the island’s scenic coastline and resort atmosphere. The country’s tourism slogan, “Love the Philippines,” appears on screen as Mi-rae imagines herself arriving at a beach resort, where staff greet her warmly and serve  margaritas and fresh coconut drinks.

“Last summer in the Philippines was the best,” she says, enjoying the air and warm sun on her skin. “I wish I could go swimming. When is summer coming?” The show also stars Korean actor and singer Seo In-guk.

According to the Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT), parts of the series were filmed at Shangri-La Mactan, Cebu and along Cebu’s coastline.

The DOT wrote on their official Facebook page, “The breathtaking locations make the drama even more romantic. See if you can spot Cebu’s beautiful scenes throughout the show.”

Jisoo also posted on Instagram some snaps and behind-the-scenes photos yesterday from her stay in Cebu while filming the series.

Some fans had already anticipated the Philippine setting months earlier. In February last year, Jisoo and Seo In-guk were reportedly seen together in Cebu, with several residents sharing photos and videos of the Boyfriend On Demand stars while they were filming in the area.

Several Korean dramas have included the Philippines in their storylines or actually filmed scenes in the country. The Philippines was mentioned in series such as “My ID is Gangnam Beauty,” “Squid Game,” “The Uncanny Counter,” and “Vincenzo”, while shows like “Fugitive: Plan B,” “Forest,” and “A Killer Paradox” featured scenes set and filmed in Philippine locations. 

The crime-action series “Big Bet” also features several Filipino actors in supporting roles, including Nico Antonio, Bembol Roco, Ronnie Lazaro, Epy Quizon, Jeffrey Santos, and Art Acuña.