tvN's 'Space Rice Cake Shop' is drawing attention by recording a viewership rating of 2.9% from its very first broadcast. The program, which premiered on the 31st of last month, is a 'forced employment restaurant labor adventure variety show' that depicts the process of the Jirak characters becoming part-time workers at the Space Rice Cake Shop through Torong's scheme. From rice cakes to full dishes, chef Kwon Sung-joon of 'Napoli Matfia' steps in to assist with the menu planning process, vividly capturing the hardships of running an actual restaurant.

In the second episode, airing on the 7th at 8:35 PM, the opening scene of the Space Rice Cake Shop's first Earth branch will be revealed. The four cast members — Lee Eun-ji, Mimi, Lee Young-ji, and An Yu-jin — learn the technique of pulling rice cakes for rice cake dishes the day before business opens, experiencing firsthand the difficulties of running a rice cake shop. During this process, Lee Young-ji expressed her respect for small business owners, saying, 'Cooking variety shows are difficult on a whole different level.'

During the soft opening, they showcase their cooking to a mysterious family as part of their final check. At this stage, the Jirak characters experience firsthand the various variables and challenges they may encounter in actual business operations.

On opening day, unexpected rain and strong winds sweep in, and the shop quickly falls into chaos. When no customers show up, Lee Young-ji goes outside herself to call for customers on the deserted street, creating a heartbreaking scene. Lee Eun-ji and An Yu-jin also attempt promotion toward passenger cars passing in front of the shop, but their efforts end in failure. In particular, Lee Eun-ji became emotional, saying, 'Why didn't it hit us — the fact that we're running a business,' raising curiosity about whether they will be able to welcome their first customer and overcome the crisis.

Photo = Captured from tvN 'Space Rice Cake Shop' preview video.