Ha Eun-gyeol is the warmhearted protagonist of Twinkling Watermelon, a gifted teenage musician and a CODA, meaning a hearing child of deaf adults. He has spent his life helping his family communicate with the hearing world, carrying a quiet sense of responsibility well beyond his years while privately pouring his feelings into music.
When Eun-gyeol is transported to 1995, he comes face to face with the teenage version of his own father, Ha Yi-chan, and slowly comes to understand his parents as young people with their own dreams and struggles. By forming a band with Yi-chan and his friends, Eun-gyeol grows from a guarded, dutiful son into someone who can express himself openly and value his family in a new way.
His journey is the emotional core of the series, framing the show's themes of identity, empathy, and the bonds between parents and children. The CODA elements of his story are treated warmly, presenting his family life as a source of love and strength rather than hardship.
Ha Eun-gyeol is one of the central figures in Twinkling Watermelon, a drama/fantasy/music/coming-of-age/korean/romance/family series that aired on tvN from 2023. Within the narrative of Twinkling Watermelon, Ha Eun-gyeol serves as a pivotal character whose decisions and relationships drive key story arcs throughout Season 1 (2023). The character's journey has been central to many of the show's most memorable and discussed moments.
Portrayed by Ryeoun, Ha Eun-gyeol has become one of the most recognizable characters in modern television. Ryeoun's performance brings nuance and depth to the role, creating a character that resonates with audiences on both intellectual and emotional levels. Ryeoun's work has been recognized with 1 major award, reflecting the critical acclaim their portrayal has received.
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? Frequently Asked Questions
CODA stands for Child of Deaf Adults, a hearing person raised by one or more deaf parents. In the series, Eun-gyeol grew up communicating in sign language and helping bridge his family with the hearing world, an experience the show portrays with warmth and respect.
Ha Eun-gyeol is played by South Korean actor Ryeoun, who anchors the drama as its central time-traveling musician.
