One of the highly awaited new Korean dramas this May is the live adaptation of the best-selling novel “Tangeum: Swallowing Gold” by Jang Da Hye. This historical mystery romance drama boasts a stunning and talented cast lineup, including Lee Jae Wook and Jo Bo Ah. Let’s explore the plot, cast, characters, and premiere date for the upcoming Netflix Korean drama “Dear Hongrang” below!
New Netflix Korean Drama “Dear Hongrang”: Plot, Cast, Characters, & Premiere
Inspired by the best-selling novel “Tangeum: Swallowing Gold“ by Jang Da Hye, the upcoming historical Korean drama “Dear Hongrang” also known as “Tangeum“ is the new work of director Kim Hong Seon, known for the hit historical action series “Warrior Baek Dong Soo” and the mystery thriller “Voice.” This drama also marks author Kim Jin Ah’s second project as a screenwriter after her debut with “Dr. Brain,” a series that earned actor Lee Sun Gyun a nomination at the 22nd International Emmy Awards.
Let’s explore the details of the drama below.
“Dear Hongrang” Plot
Set in the Joseon era, “Dear Hongrang” is a captivating historical Korean drama that blends mystery, romance, and political intrigue.
The story follows Hongrang, the sole heir to a powerful merchant guild family. When he was a child, he mysteriously disappeared without a trace. Hongrang’s sudden return after over a decade raises suspicion, wakens old wounds, evokes emotions, and reveals forbidden love. Is he the real Hongrang or a stranger who impersonated him?
“Dear Hongrang” Cast and Characters
Lee Jae Wook as Hong Rang.
Lee Jae Wook, known for his role in the hit series “Alchemy of Souls,” portrays Hongrang, the only son of a wealthy merchant guild in the Joseon era. After being missing for over a decade, he returns to his home with no memory. Yet behind his cold gaze and calm composure lie hidden truths and pain.
Jo Bo Ah as Jae Yi
“Dear Hongrang” marks Jo Bo Ah’s return to the historical genre after “Tale of the Nine-Tailed.” She plays Jae Yi, Hongrang’s step-sister. Jae Yi desperately searched for him during his disappearance. When he returns, she begins questioning his true identity.
Jung Ga Ram as Mu Jin
Jung Ga Ram makes his historical genre debut in this upcoming drama as Mu Jin, the adopted son of Hongrang’s parents. He replaced Hongrang’s position during his disappearance. Hong Rang’s reappearance threatens Mu Jin’s position. His situation also leads to a love triangle involving Jae Yi and Hong Rang.
Park Byung Eun as Sim Yeol Guk
Park Byung Eun, who recently starred in “Hyper Knife,” returned to the historical genre after his appearance in “Alchemy of Souls.” In this series, he plays Sim Yeol Guk, Hongrang’s ambitious father who took over his father-in-law’s business.
Uhm Ji Won as Min Yeon Eui
Uhm Ji Won, known for “The Trunk,” makes her historical debut in this show with the role of Min Yeon Eui, Hong Rang’s mother. Yeon Eui inherited her father’s merchant guild and became a family matriarch. She is an obsessive woman and would justify all means to find her lost son.
Kim Jae Wook as Grand Price Han Pyeong
Kim Jae Wook, known for his iconic role in “Coffee Prince,” returns to the historical drama after seventeen years, following his appearance in “The Kingdom of the Winds” in 2008. The upcoming drama marks his grand comeback and first historical lead role as Grand Prince Han Pyeon.
He is a passionate yet mysterious artist. Behind his elegant robes, he is a prince who paints secrets and gets completely lost when working on his painting.
Premiere Date of “Dear Hongrang” Korean Drama
Save the date! The 11-episode Korean drama “Dear Hongrang” will premiere exclusively on Netflix on May 16, 2025.
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