Episode 16 of "Love Next Door" commences with the harmonious blend of breakfast camaraderie shared between Seok-ryu and Seung-hyo's families, fostering a cozy ambiance. As the dawn of romance unfolds, Dan-ho surprises Mo-eun by visiting her workplace, only to stumble upon a life-altering revelation—her reassignment to the icy expanse of the South Pole. Yet, he bears this weighty news silently, choosing to cherish their moment.
Their inaugural date blossoms amidst the thrills of an amusement park, where laughter intertwines with the thrill of discovery. Meanwhile, at Mo-eun's mother's office, a gathering of friends, including Mi-suk and Hye-suk, unravels the intricate tapestry of Seok-ryu and Seung-hyo's burgeoning romance, igniting a playful spat between the bride-to-be and her best friend over the minutiae of wedding planning.
Seok-ryu's path intersects with Mo-eun's, as the latter confesses her dilemma in broaching the topic of her impending departure to Dan-ho. Seok-ryu, a beacon of wisdom, counsels honesty, before embarking on a rendezvous with Seung-hyo.
Parallel to this, Mi-suk and Hye-suk engage in a culinary duel disguised as a mutually beneficial exchange—Mi-suk teaching cooking in trade for Hye-suk's English lessons. Their skills shimmer, but beneath the surface, a subtle competition simmers, each trying to outshine the other.
Elsewhere, an unlikely bond forms as Seung-hyo's father attempts to impart photography skills to Seok-ryu's father, a lesson that spirals into a hilarious, alcohol-soaked scuffle, filled with laughter and camaraderie.
Later, Mo-eun unveils her thoughtful gift of family T-shirts, while Dan-ho reciprocates with clothing tailored for her polar expedition, his unwavering support shining through. Yeon-du, too, joins the chorus of encouragement, urging Mo-eun to embark on her journey and share glimpses of the majestic emperor penguins.
Seok-ryu's digital culinary haven experiences a surge of positive momentum, her recipes resonating with hearts and minds. As she and Seung-hyo stroll down memory lane, they stumble upon a revitalized landmark—her father's former food shop, now transformed into a sleek restaurant. Seung-hyo's heartfelt confession reveals that he, at the behest of her father, secretly orchestrated this transformation, a gesture so profound it leaves Seok-ryu overwhelmed with emotion, tears of joy shimmering in her eyes.
Meanwhile, Dong-jin diligently prepares for his upcoming exam, fueled by Na-yun's enthusiastic cheers and her playful offer to become his first personal training client upon his triumphant success. The group gathers for a heartfelt farewell bash for Mo-eun, bidding her a bittersweet adieu as she embarks on her journey to the South Pole the very next day.
Seok-ryu, with her father's guidance as her advisor, unveils her culinary dream – "Rainbow Kitchen," and even crafts a bespoke app to enhance the dining experience. Amidst the celebration of their love, Seok-ryu surprises everyone by gently requesting to defer their wedding by a year, citing her relentless dedication to her burgeoning restaurant.
Despite the detour, Hye-suk's wedding blossoms into a joyous occasion, where Seok-ryu and Seung-hyo share a tender kiss amidst the festivities, sealing their unwavering bond. Time passes swiftly, and Seung-hyo ascends to the esteemed position of Seoul's public architect, while Seok-ryu triumphantly claims the prestigious Orange Ribbon Award within mere six months of Rainbow Kitchen's inception.
Yeon-du's intellectual prowess shines as he conquers a kindergarten coding competition, his young heart already soaring towards a dream job at NASA. Dong-jin too achieves his milestone, earning the title of certified personal trainer, with Na-yun proudly by his side as his inaugural client.
As the story unfolds, Seok-ryu and Seung-hyo's fathers forge a deep friendship, bonding over regular badminton matches. Mo-eun, though distant in the frigid South Pole, remains intimately connected to her family, with Dan-ho planning a journey to cover her story amidst the icy expanse. Seung-hyo's firm flourishes, mirroring the vitality of the pomegranate tree that Seok-ryu gifted him, a symbol of their growing success.
The episode draws to a charming close with Seung-hyo and Seok-ryu engaging in a playful spat over their new abode, yet ultimately resolving to navigate its challenges hand in hand. Together, they stride confidently towards their shared future, united in love and purpose.
