Watch On Viki: C-Drama “Overdo” Starring Zhang Ling He And Wang Chu Ran Out Now
Much-anticipated C-drama “Overdo” has been released!
“Overdo” is a romance drama set in Republican-era Shanghai. Murong Qing Yi (Zhang Ling He) is the youngest son of a powerful warlord and bears deep emotional scars from a traumatic childhood. His path first crossed with the courageous Ren Su Su (Wang Chu Ran) when she saved him from a harrowing escape. However, tragedy tore them apart, leading Su Su to stage her own death to protect those she held dear and leaving Qing Yi devastated. Three years later, Su Su unexpectedly returns as his prospective sister-in-law Fang Mu Lan, and a looming national crisis forces them to work together as they navigate a web of secrets.
“Overdo” has now premiered with the first four episodes available to watch with subtitles.
First Impressions: “Road To Success” Is A Feel-Good C-Drama About Starting Over And Second Chances
Life often puts us at difficult crossroads, where the options seem to be either to fight or take flight. Sometimes stepping away is simply a method of preparing for the battles ahead. But what if the road you’re trying to escape from is actually the one directing you towards your mission? That question lies at the heart of “Road to Success,” a gentle coming-of-age drama about healing, mentorship, and finding purpose when life forces you to begin again.
Lin Wan Xing (Esther Yu) and Wang Fa (Chen Jing Ke) are two such individuals, both finding an escape route from their past, but landing at the same spot at the same time. Whether it’s mere coincidence or by calculated design, they confront a rocky road ahead only to find they aren’t only better together but could also find the healing they seek as well as justice.
Lin Wan Xing is a young woman pursuing her doctorate in psychology who abruptly leaves everything behind and returns to her hometown. Choosing what she calls the life of a slacker, she takes up a seemingly undemanding job as the assistant in charge of the school’s sports equipment department. What appears to be a carefree decision, however, is rooted in a painful past.
Wan Xing’s decision to leave her life behind is triggered by a scandal, or so it seems. The opening episodes reveal her being publicly blamed by the family of a professor for his death. Seeking refuge in what was once her grandparents’ home, she hopes to leave her old life behind. Convinced she wants nothing to do with psychology anymore, she deliberately chooses a job that requires little responsibility, only to discover that fate has very different plans.
Her quiet existence is interrupted when the school decides to revive its long disbanded football team. The once promising players have become a demoralized group with little faith in themselves or the adults around them. Despite having no sporting background, Wan Xing finds herself tasked with helping rebuild the team and searching for a coach.
Enter Wang Fa, a celebrated football coach returning from England after a personal tragedy involving the death of one of his players. Their first meeting appears coincidental, but it soon becomes clear that Wang Fa has sought Wan Xing out for reasons of his own. Believing she may have played a role in his student’s death, he rents a room in her house while secretly investigating her.
As the story unfolds, Wan Xing persistently tries to convince Wang Fa to coach the students. Initially reluctant, he slowly finds himself drawn to the struggling team, while his assumptions about Wan Xing begin to unravel. He is convinced she is a two-faced personality hiding her dark truth, only to find reality to be far from it. She is honest and amiable. On the other hand, Wan Xing thinks Wang Fa is a bit of an eccentric, but figures he is someone who is hiding a deep pain.
Thrown together, they become unlikely mentors, helping the students rediscover their confidence while keeping their emotional turmoil on the back burner. But as their old wounds resurface, it seems their innings together have also given them perspective on the past.
One of the drama’s strongest messages is that all it takes is one person believing in you to change the course of your life. Whether it is Wan Xing refusing to give up on the students or Wang Fa pushing them to rediscover their forgotten potential, “Road to Success” quietly reminds us of the impact a teacher or a mentor can have. Sometimes all someone needs is one person willing to see what they are capable of before they can believe it themselves.
The series also refuses to paint its characters in black and white. Almost everyone is burdened by guilt, grief, or regret, making them feel more layered than they first appear. Rather than relying on straightforward heroes and villains, the drama explores the many shades of grey that define human nature, leaving room for both misunderstanding and redemption.
Esther Yu brings her trademark warmth and bubbly charm to Wan Xing, but also allows glimpses of the vulnerability beneath her cheerful exterior. Her genuine concern for the students and her unwavering determination make Wan Xing an easy character to root for.
Chen Jing Ke complements her with a restrained, brooding performance as Wang Fa. Haunted by loss and consumed by the need to uncover the truth, he walks the line between compassion and suspicion, creating a character whose motivations slowly become more understandable with each episode.
While the central mystery surrounding Wan Xing and Wang Fa adds intrigue, the pacing in the opening episodes is deliberately unhurried, allowing the emotional journeys of both the leads and the students to take center stage. The football matches provide the momentum, but the real focus lies in the relationships that develop on and off the field. The pranks between the students, as well as the push and pull between the two adults, provide comedic relief just when things get stressful. But it seems that it’s not just the students, but their two teachers as well who stand on the cusp of their biggest challenge, which will eventually force them to confront issues they’d rather not.
“Road to Success” cleverly blends sports, healing, mystery, and coming-of-age themes into a story about second chances and self discovery. It asks whether running away from your past is truly an escape or simply the first step toward confronting it. Though its leisurely pace may not appeal to everyone, the drama offers emotional warmth and intriguing character dynamics to make its journey worth following. It’s an uplifting and feel-good watch which keeps one engaged as the ragtag bunch, along with their teachers, rediscovers themselves all over again.
Start watching “Road to Success”:
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Puja Talwar is a Soompi writer with a strong Yoo Yeon Seok and Lee Junho bias. A long time K-drama fan, she loves devising alternate scenarios to the narratives. She has interviewed Lee Min Ho, Gong Yoo, Cha Eun Woo, and Ji Chang Wook to name a few. You can follow her on @puja_talwar7 on Instagram.
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3 Things We Loved & 2 Things We Didn’t About The Premiere Of “Dream To You”
Everyone has dreams of their own, especially when we are young, but that doesn’t mean all of them necessarily come true. During the most tender years of their lives, Joo Yi Jae (Girl’s Day’s Hyeri) and Woo Soo Bin (Hwang In Youp) have to learn this in a fateful way. ENA’s new romantic comedy, “Dream to You,” tells a story full of optimism, youth, and first love, but it also reveals the harsh realities of adulthood, regret, and heartbreak, ultimately portraying the complexity of life. Here are some things we loved and some things we didn’t about the premiere episodes of this K-drama!
Warning: spoilers from episodes 1-2 ahead.
LOVED: The slice-of-life vibe
In a small town outside Seoul with nothing but quietness and calm besides the blue sea, there is not much to do, except perhaps dreaming big. And no one does that better than Joo Yi Jae, a girl who stands out among other students for her cheerful personality and a strong desire to become a film director. On the other hand, Woo Soo Bin is a diligent and kind boy who has a set path in life, which has limited his own wishes. When they meet, it seems unlikely that they will become friends, but daily life ends up uniting their fates.
The easygoing and simple moments filled with nostalgia are so charming that it makes you smile from ear to ear throughout these first episodes. The bright colors, perky scenery, and slow pace give the perfect feeling for the late days of summer. Watching them walk side by side, simply enjoying their high school days as two normal kids without concerns, is the perfect setting to inspire some of the happiest memories and a truly unforgettable first love.
LOVED: The youthful romance
What starts as an uncharacteristic friendship between Joo Yi Jae and Woo Soo Bin soon becomes a budding romance. Though there’s not much tension between them from the beginning, there’s a special feeling of endearment as their relationship develops. It has the unique and unmistakable touch of young love. They also slowly bond over common interests and a shared dream.
As time passes and they start to work together on a story for a film that would open doors for their future, they become each other’s confidants and support. Despite there never being a proper declaration of love or even a kiss, whenever they are together, you can see the affection in their eyes. Nobody can deny that Soo Bin is Yi Jae’s number one admirer, while he turns into Yi Jae’s inspiration.
LOVED: The cinematographic set up
Since the story revolves around cinema, it is only natural that every scene in this show gives off that same vibe. From late ’90s romance scenarios to dynamic shots with action and zombies, there are glimpses of that industry here and there, making it entertaining to watch. But those elements not only make it visually interesting, but they also allow the show to open up to some of the subplots for the supporting couples.
While Yi Jae’s dream focuses on the job behind the camera, her good friend Shim Yoo Geon (Baek Sung Chul) struggles to become a successful actor after years of being a rookie actor. During one of his side gigs, he coincidentally meets top star Oh Ha Na (Lee Yul Eum). They also represent the two sides of the industry: whether you are at the very top or at the bottom, everyone has their own problems. Hopefully, this couple will add some more comic relief rather than a new issue to the show.
HATED: The disparity of circumstances
However, the merry-go-lucky vibe changes drastically once you watch the current circumstances both Woo Soo Bin and Joo Yi Jae live in. While Soo Bin has become an internationally acclaimed film director, Yi Jae is an ordinary broadcaster who struggles to make ends meet. Their worlds, which seemed not that distant at first, are now completely apart. That is, until Soo Bin unexpectedly shows up in front of Yi Jae after not seeing or knowing about each other for nearly 10 years.
Though it could be a heartfelt reunion between two old friends, the vibe doesn’t fit quite right. It isn’t only cliché, but also kind of frustrating watching the typical trope of the poor woman who has no choice but to bend to the rich and successful male lead’s whims. After finally achieving whatever he wants, Soo Bin returns as an alleged hero to turn Yi Jae’s life upside-down in hopes of working together again. But pushing his weight around her to get what he wants is hardly the most romantic story of all time.
HATED: The overflowing melodrama
For an allegedly romantic comedy, there aren’t many laughs or romance going on just yet. Of course, Hyeri’s well-known physical comedy and Hwang In Youp’s classic honey-dripping eyes are top-notch, but the story is too tragic to begin with. For starters, both main leads live under abusive and neglectful households. When they find a small sliver of happiness, they get separated, and Soo Bin gets basically exiled from South Korea. Later on, Yi Jae not only loses her chance to study for her dream career after an accident, but also loses her father and even ends up scarred forever.
In those terms, it seems difficult that love will bloom again. But given that they already started from friends to strangers, they can only go forward from here on out. They have the possibility to mend past mistakes, heal old wounds, and clear out all misunderstandings from when they were younger. However, it seems difficult that it will be easy to fix this messy beginning. In the meantime, we can only try to enjoy the surely chaotic journey they have ahead of them!
Watch the premiere episodes of “Dream to You” here:
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Andy zar is an avid drama watcher, from K-dramas to C-dramas, she believes any weekend is a good weekend to enjoy 12 hours of binge-watching dramas. She loves romance, web comics, and K-pop. Find her on Instagram @wuaitboni.
Currently watching: “Dream to You” Plans to watch: “Blossoms of Power” and “Love For You”
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First Impressions: Chinese BL Drama “Deep In” Is About 2 Actors Whose Feelings Go Off Script
China is rolling out some real bangers this year in the world of BL, and it feels like a preamble to the rise of Chinese BLs that’s definitely coming. Following dramas like “Feel What You Feel,” “Sammy’s Children’s Day,” and “Double Helix,” “Deep In” is the newest to join the lot.
In “Deep In,” Zhang Zhun (Shu Yuan) is a struggling newbie actor who finally gets his first real gig in a main character role. To better play his part and prepare for the several intimate scenes the film requires, he has to spend time and get to know his co-star, Zhen Xin (Ollie), a cold and conceited veteran actor who isn’t going to make anything easy.
Here’s what the premiere episodes bring to the table, and truth be told, there’s already a whole lot of NSFW mess and the sort of spice you usually have to wait at least half the show for.
Warning: spoilers from episodes 1 and 2 ahead!
The leads, Zhang Zhun and Zhen Xin, are two actors who are total opposites in their temperament and where they are in their careers.
While Zhen Xin has already achieved success as an actor, Zhang Zhun hasn’t had much luck in the career department. Instead, he’s gained experience as a stunt double while dreaming of getting an on-screen role. In fact, Zhang Zhun served as the stunt double for the female lead in a historical drama that Zhen Xin starred in.
During a flashback to this time, you can really feel the difference between them. While the spotlight and attention are on Zhen Xin as the lead, Zhang Zhun is sitting alone off to the side, presumably enduring long waiting periods until he is needed to film his stunt double scenes.
Zhang Zhun is shown holding an umbrella under the pouring rain when a staff member comes over and asks for his umbrella so he can use it for Zhen Xin instead. Zhang Zhun happily gives it to him, and despite now being exposed to the rain, he still has a hopeful look on his face.
Years later, the two reunite, this time as co-stars, and that’s where their story officially begins.
Zhang Zhun secures an audition for a lead role in the film “Deep In” (wink wink), and he thinks this is finally his chance to make his dreams of acting a reality. However, he shows up for the audition and learns his first scene is an intimate one with the other lead, Zhen Xin. The trumpets were definitely going off at that point.
Zhen Xin walks into the room, and he’s not only startlingly gorgeous, but his aura is off the charts. Zhang Zhun politely introduces himself to Zhen Xin, but Zhen Xin immediately comes off as arrogant and snarky. The way he glares at Zhang Zhun makes it seem like they already have some decade-long feud.
Zhang Zhun tries to break the ice by pointing out they’ve briefly worked together in the past, but it doesn’t help. Zhen Xin seems too cool to remember minor people on set like stunt doubles and brushes it off. But does he really not remember Zhang Zhun?
If that’s the case, then what was the meaning behind his peaking at Zhang Zhun when he acted in the historical drama? That looked suspiciously like a longing stare.
Granted, the timing of Zhang Zhun’s “Deep In” audition isn’t ideal because Zhen Xin had already done multiple takes with other actors trying out for the role before Zhang Zhun arrived. At this point, Zhen Xin is already exhausted and annoyed because according to him, the actors weren’t trying hard enough. But oh boy is he in for a surprise.
It’s a tense and rocky start, but the two eventually get comfortable in their intimate scene and maybe even a little too comfortable. But the director calls cut, and apparently, that was all they needed for the audition because they let Zhang Zhun go home.
The fact that his audition had no lines or real acting beyond the brief intimate scene is a little funny, but with the few minutes he does have, Zhang Zhun really does so well despite starting out so nervous.
But the switch-up from nervous wreck to an actor that looks like he has done this a million times is so unexpected that it begs the question: did Zhang Zhun’s acting skills kick in at the right moment, or was it real attraction that helped give a convincing performance?
Days later, Zhang Zhun gets a message that he got the role, and he certainly earned it. But his trials and tribulations are far from over.
Upon arriving on location for filming, he’s told that he’ll be staying in the same room as Zhen Xin so they can “get to know each other” before their intimate scenes, which is said to be what they’re filming first. But Zhen Xin misses the memo and has no idea about this co-living arrangement.
Contrary to his repulsed reaction to having to share the same suite, it was actually Zhen Xin who chose Zhang Zhun for the role amongst a hefty pile of other actors. The mixed signals coming from this guy are already crazy, and it’s only the premiere.
And they were roommates.
As it so happens, the film has three planned intimate scenes, two of which are fully nude, so getting to know each other seems like a pretty decent idea. Clues are given as to just how creative and detailed these intimate scenes are when Zhang Zhun reads the script and is more than mildly concerned. It’s definitely giving, “What did I sign up for?”
For someone who seemed so annoyed with the whole situation to begin with, Zhen Xin is the one that’s so keen on building chemistry together. The director suggests they watch films in bed together to study intimate scenes, but the “building chemistry” escalates to practicing real intimacy in the seclusion of their shared suite.
As they practice their intimate scenes, it gets increasingly intense, and it becomes too much for Zhang Zhun to handle. As he tries to slow things down, Zhen Xin tries to speed things up. He even tries to get in the shower with Zhang Zhun at one point. The situation leaves Zhen Xin with a bruised face and the need for an icepack.
But that’s not the only trouble in paradise, because right when the two are set to film their first scenes, someone comes in trying to steal Zhang Zhun’s role.
It’s right when Zhang Zhun and Zhen Xin are finally getting the hang of their chemistry that another actor shows up to snatch Zhang Zhun’s role. It really seems like everyone wants a piece of Zhen Xin, because even the actress who shows up the same day to do her scenes wants to get between Zhang Zhun and Zhen Xin.
The two are able to keep their roles, if only until the next challenge arises, by killing it at their first official “Deep In” scenes.
By the way, another important detail the premiere episodes unveil is that both of the leads have girlfriends.
While Zhang Zhun is in what so far seems to be a happy, supportive relationship with his longtime girlfriend, Zhen Xin appears to be secretly dating. Both girlfriends haven’t been fully revealed yet, but by that math, a love square is in the future, and that can’t be good.
The premise of “Deep In” is definitely reminiscent of BLs like “Top Form” and “At 25 In Akasaka.” The setup of a shy aspiring actor paired with a confident actor who likes to flirt and mess around definitely has fanfic energy to it, but even still, it’s shaping up to be a compelling story.
If you’ve been on a fluffy feel‑good BL high and are ready to switch things up, and you want something that feels a bit risqué with mature scenes that don’t fade to black, this may be the next watch for you.
As a BL about actors in a BL, it’s also likely to give an interesting perspective on the genre itself and the actors that work in it. Wherever this story goes, it’s going to be a wild ride.
Start watching “Deep In” now:
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Asya’s a BL-biased Soompi writer with a love of K-pop and all types of Asian dramas. Some of her favorite shows are “Psychopath Diary,” “Mr. Unlucky Has No Choice but to Kiss!,” “Light On Me,” “The Untamed,” “Go Go Squid!,” and “Cherry Magic!“
Currently watching: “Love Class 3,” “Ticket to Heaven,” “Double Helix,” “Deep In,” The Prosecutor’s Proposal,” “Don’t Be Too Emotional,” “Mr. Kill,” and “A Winter Sun Wakes the Wind in Spring Hills’ Dream.” Looking forward to: “Love Scandal,” “Magic Lover,” “Mr. Fanboy,” “The Love Matter,” and “Be My Player Two.’’
First Impressions: Taiwanese BL “Bittersweet Love” Delivers A Complicated Forbidden Romance
Taiwanese BL dramas have increasingly embraced emotionally driven storytelling, and “Bittersweet Love” enters the genre with a premise that is as unconventional as it is compelling. Adapted from Che Ye Liu Xiang’s web novel “Bittersweet Love,” the series swaps the fairy tale of marrying into wealth for a slow-burning tale of forbidden dark romance.
Set in 1990s Beijing, the drama follows Lu Xiao Fan (Guan Yue), a kind-hearted young man whose life changes overnight when he leaves his rural hometown to marry into one of the city’s most influential families. Instead of the comfortable life one might imagine, Xiao Fan finds himself trapped in a marriage that exists only in name. Amid the cold atmosphere of the Bei household, he gradually grows closer to his enigmatic brother-in-law, Bei Lv Qing (Yan Rui Hao). What begins as admiration slowly evolves into desire, forcing both men to confront feelings that threaten to upend the fragile balance within the family.
Can “Bittersweet Love” deliver a compelling forbidden romance while navigating its morally complex premise? Here’s what you can expect in the premiere episodes.
Warning: spoilers for episodes 1-4.
“Bittersweet Love” wastes no time pulling viewers into its emotionally charged world. Rather than opening with romance, the drama begins with intrigue, immediately raising questions about the complex relationship between its two leads.
The first scene unfolds in a quiet living room. Lu Xiao Fan enters and timidly tells the comparatively older man sitting before him that his mother wants to visit him in the city. Xiao Fan speaks as though he is asking for permission. Without lifting his eyes from the newspaper, the older man coolly replies that if his mother misses him so much, perhaps Xiao Fan should visit her instead.
Xiao Fan grows increasingly desperate for acknowledgment, while the older man, who keeps his eyes on the newspaper, continues to withhold it. Finally, in an unexpected move, Xiao Fan quietly unzips his pants and stands silently in the doorway. Only then does the older man briefly glance up before returning his attention to the newspaper, leaving viewers wondering what exactly is the relationship dynamic of these two men.
The younger man is Lu Xiao Fan, whose quiet rural life is turned upside down after he is arranged to marry Bei Lv Xin (Li Jue Xuan), the daughter of one of Beijing’s wealthiest families. The older man is Bei Lv Qing, Lu Xiao Fan’s brother-in-law.
This is when the drama rewinds two years.
The first flashback introduces Xiao Fan on his wedding night. As he enters his bride’s hotel room, Bei Lv Xin immediately kicks him out of bed and orders him to leave. Hoping to find comfort with his own family, Xiao Fan heads to his parents’ room, only to overhear them discussing the truth behind the marriage. His bride is already pregnant by another man. While his father wants to call off the wedding, his mother insists they go through with it.
When Xiao Fan hears people approaching in the hallway, he pretends to be blackout drunk to avoid the confrontation. Bei Lv Qing, however, immediately sees through the act. Without exposing him, he quietly carries Xiao Fan back to his room and helps him clean up.
These early scenes establish both Xiao Fan’s personality and his place within the story. He is gentle, timid, and perceptive enough to understand the unspoken tensions around him, yet too reserved to stand up for himself. His own mother knowingly sacrifices him in a marriage built on deception, while Bei Lv Qing displays an unusual level of interest in him; an interest that immediately feels more complicated than simple kindness.
What makes “Bittersweet Love” particularly compelling is that it embraces its darker themes instead of disguising them as a conventional romance. From the very beginning, the drama hints at Bei Lv Qing’s taboo fascination with his brother-in-law while also painting him as a morally ambiguous character whose true intentions remain difficult to read.
Even seemingly lighthearted moments carry an undercurrent of discomfort. In one scene, Xiao Fan mistakes “taking a shower” for simply washing his feet. Bei Lv Qing brings him into the bathroom and turns the shower on while Xiao Fan is still fully clothed. Rather than playing the moment purely for romance, the direction leaves viewers questioning whether Xiao Fan is truly safe in Bei Lv Qing’s company.
The chemistry between the two leads is intriguing and so is the mystery surrounding Bei Lv Qing’s motives. The opening scene lingers in the viewer’s mind, raising questions about how the pair arrived at such an emotionally distant dynamic. Is Bei Lv Qing genuinely falling in love with Xiao Fan, or is he simply captivated by someone vulnerable and different from the people around him?
As the story progresses, the two spend more time together, with Bei Lv Qing even tutoring Xiao Fan so he can take the university entrance exam. Yet the growing closeness never entirely dispels the sense of unease. Instead, the drama carefully balances tenderness with uncertainty, making viewers question whether Bei Lv Qing’s feelings are sincere or whether Xiao Fan is simply becoming the object of his obsession. Whether this moral ambiguity ultimately pays off will depend on the ending. The series will need to convincingly demonstrate Bei Lv Qing’s emotional growth if it hopes to transform him into a truly satisfying romantic lead.
Equally impressive are the show’s supporting characters, who feel remarkably grounded. Rather than relying on one-dimensional villains, “Bittersweet Love” presents people whose actions are often contradictory in ways that feel painfully realistic.
Lu Xiao Fan’s parents are a perfect example. Although they effectively sell their son into the marriage for financial security and social advancement, his mother also gives him money before he leaves and tells him to call immediately if he is mistreated. Later, however, she emotionally manipulates him into asking the Bei family to secure a recommendation letter for his younger brother. Their relationship reflects a familiar form of emotional manipulation, where moments of genuine care coexist with self-interest, making the dynamic all the more believable.
Bei Lv Xin is similarly layered. At first, she appears to be nothing more than a spoiled heiress who refuses to acknowledge Xiao Fan as her husband. As the story unfolds, however, it becomes clear that her behavior stems from years of emotional neglect within her own family. Her rebellion is less an act of entitlement than a desperate response to feeling unseen, adding another layer of complexity to a drama that consistently refuses to paint its characters in simple shades of black and white.
After Xiao Fan’s wife suffers a miscarriage, effectively making their already fragile marriage arrangement meaningless, his father-in-law gives him a choice: he can take money and leave, or remain with the Bei family until he completes his education. Unsurprisingly, Xiao Fan chooses to stay. However, does the decision to make the marriage only exist in name make Xiao Fan and Lv Qing’s forbidden relationship less taboo or controversial as a same-sex relationship in 1990s China?
On a surprising note, even when Lu Qing’s friends discover his feelings for Xiao Fan, their criticism focuses less on the fact that Xiao Fan is a man and more on the difference in their social status, which is unexpected given the drama’s historical setting and raising questions if the drama will explore the societal pressures surrounding their relationship further along the plot.
“Bittersweet Love” is an intriguing addition to the Taiwanese BL landscape. The drama’s greatest strength lies in its layered characters, particularly Lu Xiao Fan and Bei Lv Qing, whose relationship constantly challenges viewers to question love, power, and vulnerability. For viewers seeking a slow-burn dark romance with complicated characters, “Bittersweet Love” succeeds in creating a compelling atmosphere filled with tension and uncertainty and is worth the watch.
Start watching “Bittersweet Love”:
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Javeria is a binge-watching specialist who loves devouring entire K-dramas in one sitting. Good screenwriting, beautiful cinematography, and a lack of clichés are the way to her heart. As a music fanatic, she listens to multiple artists across different genres and stans the self-producing idol group SEVENTEEN. You can talk to her on Instagram @javeriayousufs.
Currently watching: “See You at Work Tomorrow,” “Dream to You,” “Ticket to Heaven,” and “Spooky in Love.” Looking forward to: “Four Hands, Two Sonatas” and “Wednesday, Thursday, Friday”
First Impressions: Song Wei Long And Zhang Jing Yi Shine In Bittersweet Romance “Love For You”
We often don’t meet people by accident. Fate can orchestrate moments and situations, forcing us to make decisions. These choices can determine the course of our lives. We either ride the waves or sink into the abyss.
Chen Yi (Song Wei Long) and Miao Jing (Zhang Jing Yi) share a similar fate. Both have learned to survive and fend for themselves since they were children. Their only fault? Being born to selfish and manipulative parents who have used them as pawns and emotional crutches. When the very people who are meant to nurture them fail in every sense of the word, the two find solace in each other. Though their bond is weathered by storms and weighed down by their own emotional baggage, it remains unbreakably strong, drawing you in with its intensity and depth.
“Love for You” hooks you in within the first 10 minutes. Here’s what you can expect in the premiere episodes!
The year is 2011. Chen Yi (Song Wei Long) is asked by his therapist to revisit the painful moment when he felt most alone and lost. As he navigates the recesses of his mind, a lone teardrop falls from his eyes. What he sees is a montage of fights, bruises, heartbreak, and a man constantly on the run.
Miao Jing (Zhang Jing Yi) returns to Teng City after years away, retracing her steps back to the one place that once felt like home and to the one person she left behind.
Chen Yi, now managing a billiards club, has buried himself in work, but it is evident that the past continues to haunt him. When fate brings the two face to face once again, it becomes immediately clear that their separation was anything but amicable and that the wounds they carry have yet to heal.
Through a series of flashbacks, the drama transports us back to 1997, when the two first met as children after their single parents decided to build a life together. It is hardly the loving family either child dreams of. Chen Yi grows up under the shadow of an abusive father, while Miao Jing’s manipulative mother views relationships as a means to an end. Neglected by the very people meant to protect them, the two children slowly begin to find comfort in each other’s company.
But it isn’t long before the cracks in this makeshift family begin to show. Chen Yi is resentful and unwelcoming, while Miao Jing quietly endures yet another unfamiliar home. Beneath Chen Yi’s rebellious exterior lies a young boy carrying unimaginable trauma. His father’s physical abuse, relentless accusations against his late mother, and his mysterious fear of electricity hint at wounds that run far deeper than the drama initially reveals.
Miao Jing, despite enduring her own emotional neglect, becomes the only person who truly sees him. A simple act of kindness—bringing him food after one particularly brutal beating—marks the beginning of a friendship that will ultimately shape both their lives.
What makes these opening episodes so affecting is that the drama never sensationalizes their pain. Instead, it allows the emotional scars of two neglected children to quietly shape every interaction between them. Their bond doesn’t develop overnight but is forged through years of shared loneliness and unspoken understanding, making every small gesture of kindness feel profoundly meaningful.
As the years pass, life offers neither Chen Yi nor Miao Jing much respite. While Miao Jing grows into a bright student with dreams of a better future, Chen Yi sets his sights on the police academy, hoping to leave his troubled childhood behind. But fate, once again, has other plans.
The fragile stability they cling to slowly unravels. Miao Jing’s mother, Wei Ming Zhen, continues to manipulate those around her in pursuit of an easier life, while Chen Yi silently watches his life fall apart.
His dream of joining the police academy is crushed, and a series of devastating events, including his father’s death, a DNA report confirming that a man named Shan Bai is his biological father, and the betrayal that follows, changes the trajectory of his life forever.
Meanwhile, Miao Jing becomes collateral damage in her mother’s choices, left to fend for herself while paying the price for decisions she never made.
These developments are so compelling because they never feel like melodrama for melodrama’s sake. Every setback peels back another layer of Chen Yi and Miao Jing, revealing two people who refuse to let hardship define them. Chen Yi instinctively shoulders every burden placed upon him, while Miao Jing quietly endures life’s cruelties without losing her compassion. Their individual journeys mirror one another, making it impossible not to empathize with both characters.
When Chen Yi eventually offers Miao Jing a place to stay, it is evident that he cares and is concerned for her. Though rarely expressive, his actions speak of his fierce need to protect her. Miao Jing, in turn, finds in him the only person who has ever made her feel safe. Their relationship is built not merely on love or friendship but on emotional survival—two broken souls brought together by a cruel twist of fate.
Chen Yi and Miao Jing’s relationship stands out because the drama never rushes to define it. It isn’t built on grand romantic gestures or sweeping declarations of love. Instead, it blossoms through years of shared loneliness, silent understanding, and an instinctive need to protect one another. It is this emotional foundation that lends every interaction between them a quiet poignancy, making their bond feel authentic and deeply moving.
In the present day, it is clear they have gone their separate ways, but the bond between them remains undeniable, deeper and more intense than ever.
Song Wei Long once again proves why he excels at playing emotionally complex characters. He brings a brooding intensity to Chen Yi, effortlessly slipping into the skin of a man who has spent a lifetime suppressing his emotions. As the cold yet fiercely protective Chen Yi, he strikes the perfect balance between vulnerability and restraint. He is the quintessential bad boy with a heart of gold—morally upright, fiercely loyal, and willing to shoulder every burden alone. Even in the quietest moments, Song Wei Long says more with his eyes than with words, making Chen Yi impossible not to root for.
Zhang Jing Yi is equally impressive as Miao Jing. The actress conveys volumes with the slightest change in expression, bringing quiet strength and emotional depth to a young woman who has spent her life carrying burdens far beyond her years. Though soft-spoken and reserved, Miao Jing is never portrayed as weak. As the story progresses, Zhang Jing Yi subtly reveals the resilience beneath her gentle exterior, making her character every bit as compelling as Chen Yi.
One of the drama’s biggest strengths lies in the chemistry between the two leads. Whether they are sharing moments of silence or confronting years of unresolved pain, the two actors create a bond that feels authentic and deeply lived in. Their relationship is built on trust, companionship, and two lonely souls finding comfort in each other. It is this emotional honesty that makes their story so compelling.
The story and screenplay remain taut, never once missing a beat. Every revelation feels earned, while the writing lends both the characters and the narrative an evocative emotional depth. The storytelling keeps you invested, slowly peeling back the layers of Chen Yi’s and Miao Jing’s pasts without losing sight of their present. If the opening episodes are anything to go by, “Love for You” promises a poignant and emotionally rich romance that lingers long after the credits roll.
Start watching “Love for You”:
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Puja Talwar is a Soompi writer with a strong Yoo Yeon Seok and Lee Junho bias. A long time K-drama fan, she loves devising alternate scenarios to the narratives. She has interviewed Lee Min Ho, Gong Yoo, Cha Eun Woo, and Ji Chang Wook to name a few. You can follow her on @puja_talwar7 on Instagram.
CORTIS’s “REDRED” remains at No. 1 this week, making it the song’s fifth week overall at No. 1. Congratulations to CORTIS!
The top three songs remain unchanged with aespa’s “LEMONADE” and ILLIT’s “It’s Me” at No. 2 and No. 3, respectively.
There is only one new song in the top 10 this week. Moving up six spots to No. 7 is ATEEZ’s “BAD,” the title track of their 14th mini album “GOLDEN HOUR : Part.5.” “BAD” is a Brazilian Funk track built upon highly addictive electronic percussion sounds and an aggressive bass line.
Singles Music Chart – July 2026, Week 2
1
(–)
REDRED
Chart Info
1 Previous rank
11 Number of week on chart
1 Peak on chart
2
(–)
LEMONADE
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2 Previous rank
5 Number of week on chart
1 Peak on chart
3
(–)
It’s Me
Chart Info
3 Previous rank
10 Number of week on chart
1 Peak on chart
4
(–)
Suddenly
Chart Info
4 Previous rank
7 Number of week on chart
4 Peak on chart
5
(+1)
LOVE ATTACK
Chart Info
6 Previous rank
15 Number of week on chart
5 Peak on chart
6
(-1)
RUDE!
Chart Info
5 Previous rank
18 Number of week on chart
2 Peak on chart
7
(+6)
BAD
Chart Info
13 Previous rank
2 Number of week on chart
7 Peak on chart
8
(-1)
BOOMPALA
Chart Info
7 Previous rank
6 Number of week on chart
4 Peak on chart
9
(+2)
Catch Catch
Chart Info
11 Previous rank
16 Number of week on chart
3 Peak on chart
10
(-2)
Heavy Serenade
Chart Info
8 Previous rank
8 Number of week on chart
3 Peak on chart
11
(+1)
404 (New Era)
Chart Info
12 Previous rank
22 Number of week on chart
1 Peak on chart
12
(-2)
VIRAL
Chart Info
10 Previous rank
4 Number of week on chart
5 Peak on chart
13
(new)
BANSANKA
Chart Info
0 Previous rank
1 Number of week on chart
13 Peak on chart
14
(+1)
BANG BANG
Chart Info
15 Previous rank
20 Number of week on chart
1 Peak on chart
15
(new)
singasong
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0 Previous rank
1 Number of week on chart
15 Peak on chart
16
(-2)
Joy, Sorrow, A Beautiful Heart
Chart Info
14 Previous rank
12 Number of week on chart
1 Peak on chart
17
(–)
Landing in Love
Chart Info
17 Previous rank
35 Number of week on chart
4 Peak on chart
18
(-9)
Do your dance
Chart Info
9 Previous rank
3 Number of week on chart
6 Peak on chart
19
(-3)
SWIM
Chart Info
16 Previous rank
15 Number of week on chart
1 Peak on chart
20
(-1)
Good Goodbye
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19 Previous rank
36 Number of week on chart
1 Peak on chart
21
(-3)
DDI RO RI
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18 Previous rank
5 Number of week on chart
12 Peak on chart
22
(-2)
When I stop thinking
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20 Previous rank
2 Number of week on chart
20 Peak on chart
23
(+2)
Popcorn
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25 Previous rank
12 Number of week on chart
11 Peak on chart
24
(+3)
TIME CAPSULE
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27 Previous rank
36 Number of week on chart
9 Peak on chart
25
(new)
GENE
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0 Previous rank
1 Number of week on chart
25 Peak on chart
26
(-4)
CHOOM
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22 Previous rank
9 Number of week on chart
7 Peak on chart
27
(-6)
JUMP
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21 Previous rank
38 Number of week on chart
1 Peak on chart
28
(-4)
ICONIC BY MISTAKE
Chart Info
24 Previous rank
3 Number of week on chart
21 Peak on chart
29
(+3)
Drowning
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32 Previous rank
87 Number of week on chart
6 Peak on chart
30
(new)
OXY
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0 Previous rank
1 Number of week on chart
30 Peak on chart
31
(-5)
What Do I Steal?
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26 Previous rank
2 Number of week on chart
26 Peak on chart
32
(new)
Spring After Spring
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0 Previous rank
1 Number of week on chart
32 Peak on chart
33
(–)
My whole world
Chart Info
33 Previous rank
25 Number of week on chart
1 Peak on chart
34
(+6)
IF I
Chart Info
40 Previous rank
5 Number of week on chart
15 Peak on chart
35
(-4)
Love Love Love
Chart Info
31 Previous rank
23 Number of week on chart
10 Peak on chart
36
(new)
Perfect Target
Chart Info
0 Previous rank
1 Number of week on chart
36 Peak on chart
37
(-8)
Endangered Love
Chart Info
29 Previous rank
46 Number of week on chart
7 Peak on chart
38
(new)
Our Summer
Chart Info
0 Previous rank
1 Number of week on chart
38 Peak on chart
39
(–)
toxic till the end
Chart Info
39 Previous rank
79 Number of week on chart
1 Peak on chart
40
(+2)
To Reach You
Chart Info
42 Previous rank
68 Number of week on chart
3 Peak on chart
41
(+4)
You, You
Chart Info
45 Previous rank
10 Number of week on chart
9 Peak on chart
42
(new)
LISTEN
Chart Info
0 Previous rank
1 Number of week on chart
42 Peak on chart
43
(new)
Shiny Star (2026 ver.)
Chart Info
0 Previous rank
1 Number of week on chart
43 Peak on chart
44
(-8)
FLYING HIGH WITH U
Chart Info
36 Previous rank
19 Number of week on chart
25 Peak on chart
45
(+5)
Sadder Than Yesterday
Chart Info
50 Previous rank
63 Number of week on chart
12 Peak on chart
46
(new)
Paradise ~ I need you ~
Chart Info
0 Previous rank
1 Number of week on chart
46 Peak on chart
47
(+1)
Flashback
Chart Info
48 Previous rank
12 Number of week on chart
15 Peak on chart
48
(-25)
Runaway
Chart Info
23 Previous rank
2 Number of week on chart
23 Peak on chart
49
(new)
RUN IT
Chart Info
0 Previous rank
1 Number of week on chart
49 Peak on chart
50
(-7)
Akrapovic
Chart Info
43 Previous rank
13 Number of week on chart
10 Peak on chart
About the Soompi Music Chart
Soompi Music Chart takes into account rankings by various major music charts in Korea as well as the hottest trending artists on Soompi, making it a unique chart that reflects what’s going on in K-pop not only in Korea but around the world. Our chart is composed of the following sources:
Circle Singles + Albums – 30% Hanteo Singles + Albums – 20% Apple Music Korea – 15% Soompi Airplay – 15% YouTube K-Pop Songs + Music Videos – 20%
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7 K-Dramas To Watch If You Can’t Get Enough Of Seo In Guk’s Charm
There are some actors who defy labels like Seo In Guk. Having seamlessly shifted between genres throughout his career, he has consistently showcased remarkable ease and depth in every role.
From playing an endearing high schooler in the ’90s, to a warm-hearted chaebol heir, he switches gears and is also able to portray a brilliant profiler as well as a grim reaper. His versatility and performances have earned him both critical and commercial acclaim.
Seo In Guk has returned with a new rom-com, the office drama “See You At Work Tomorrow,” where he plays a prickly boss named Kang Si Woo. When Kang Si Woo gets entangled with his colleague, Ji Yoon (Park Ji Hyun), an unexpected romance unfolds. If you’re loving his new drama, here are seven more dramas which showcase his enduring charm.
“Reply 1997”
Seo In Guk shot to stardom with his breakout role as Yoon Yoon Jae, a reserved but fiercely loyal high school student secretly in love with his childhood best friend, Sung Shi Won (Jeong Eun Ji). However, Shi Won is hopelessly devoted to H.O.T and Tony An, and she only regards Yoon Jae as nothing more than a buddy.
Set in 1990s Busan, the nostalgic coming-of-age drama follows a close-knit group of friends as they navigate first love, identity, family, and their obsession with first-generation K-pop idols. And a present-day reunion gradually reveals who ends up with whom. Anchored by Seo In Guk and Jeong Eun Ji’s effortless chemistry, “Reply 1997” remains one of K-drama’s defining youth romances and the series that launched Seo In Guk into leading-man status.
Start watching “Reply 1997”:
Watch Now
“High School King”
In “High School King,” Seo In Guk showcases his impeccable comedic timing as Lee Min Seok, a carefree high school hockey player who is forced to impersonate his older brother as a corporate executive.
What follows is Min Seok attempting to secretly run a corporate retail division during the day, play hockey and attend class at night, and not get caught by literally anyone, including Jung Soo Young (Lee Ha Na), the quirky, sharp-tongued secretary who is assigned to assist the “new director.” As Soo Young slowly starts to figure out that something is very wrong, Lee Soo Hyuk adds to the romantic tension as the suave executive Yoo Jin Woo.
Seo In Guk is essentially playing three characters at once: the hot-headed teenager, the composed executive he’s impersonating, and the version of himself that’s slowly falling for a woman nearly a decade older than him. And he makes all three completely convincing. It’s a pure comfort watch with some of the best comedic timing he’s shown on screen.
“Shopping King Louie”
Kang Ji Sung (Seo In Guk), nicknamed Louie, is the sole heir to Gold Group and the beloved grandson of its chairman. He has spent his entire life in a palace in France, pampered by the staff, and holds a bank balance large enough to buy anything that takes his fancy — and the habit of doing exactly that.
A trip back home to Korea ends in a car crash that strips him of his memory entirely, leaving him homeless in Seoul with no idea who he is. Go Bok Shil (Nam Ji Hyun), a warm-hearted young woman from the countryside who has come to Seoul to find her missing brother, finds Louie on the street and takes him in. He slowly becomes completely dependent on her while continuing to instinctively blow her modest earnings on things he doesn’t need. She alternates between exasperation and a helpless fondness for his puppy-like sincerity. However, unfolding behind the scenes at the Gold Group is a power play.
Watch it on a day when you need a drama that will make you smile for 16 episodes straight. Seo In Guk’s Louie is completely and irresistibly charming. This is the comfort drama that turned a lot of people into permanent Seo In Guk fans.
Start watching “Shopping King Louie”:
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“I Remember You”
This drama features Seo In Guk as a genius criminal profiler with a sharp tongue and a traumatic past. Lee Hyun (Seo In Guk) left Korea years ago to work as a profiler in the U.S., but a cryptic anonymous email about a murder case pulls him back home and unlocks a buried memory: as a child, he witnessed something involving a notorious criminal, and his younger brother Min disappeared shortly after.
Now, back in Korea and reluctantly helping the police’s Special Crime Investigation Team, Hyun crosses paths with Ji An (Jang Nara), a stubborn, emotionally tenacious detective who has been quietly investigating him for years and knows far more about his past than he does.
However, the enigma in the case is Jung Sun Ho (Park Bo Gum), a seemingly gentle young man whose connection to Lee Hyun runs deeper and darker than anything Hyun is prepared for.
Seo In Guk gives a performance that is completely controlled and quietly devastating, and you also get a gut punch from Park Bo Gum, who steals every scene he’s in. The central mystery of “is evil born or made?” drives the whole drama, and it asks that question with a lot more intelligence than most crime dramas bother to.
Start watching “I Remember You”:
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“Doom at Your Service”
On the worst day of her life, the anniversary of her parents’ death, the day she discovers she has three months to live from a brain tumor, and the same day she finds out her boyfriend has a pregnant wife, Tak Dong Kyung (Park Bo Young) drunkenly wishes for the world to be doomed.
Her wish is heard by Myul Mang (Seo In Guk), a supernatural messenger between gods and humans whose very presence causes destruction: countries disappear when he breathes, seasons collapse when he walks, and lives are extinguished when he smiles.
Exhausted by his immortal existence and genuinely considering ending the world himself, Myul Mang shows up at Dong Kyung’s door and makes her a deal: he will let her live out her remaining 100 days however she wants without pain in exchange for her eventual wish for total doom. But neither of them is prepared for what happens next.
Seo In Guk delivers a restrained performance as a being who has never once been allowed to love anything, and he effortlessly shows what happens to him when he isn’t able to stop himself from loving anyway. His chemistry with Park Bo Young is incredible, quiet, and achingly bittersweet.
Start watching “Doom at Your Service”:
Watch Now
“Café Minamdang”
Nam Han Joon (Seo In Guk) used to be one of Korea’s best criminal profilers. Now, he runs Minamdang, a high-end fake shaman café in Seoul where he reads fortunes, charges Seoul’s elite obscene amounts of money for “guidance,” and uses his profiling skills to make his readings so eerily accurate that no one ever suspects they’re being conned.
Running the operation with him is his childhood friend and muscle, Gong Soo Chul (Kwak Si Yang). Into this comfortable scam walks Han Jae Hee (Oh Yeon Seo), a passionate, relentless homicide detective in the major crimes unit who has been chasing the same criminal network for years. She immediately clocks that Nam Han Joon is not what he appears to be.
Working the same dangerous case from opposite sides of the law, their reluctant alliance — her badge and his instincts — brings them face to face with a web of corruption that reaches all the way up to assemblymen, police chiefs, and corporate power players.
Watch it for Seo In Guk who is genuinely funny, charismatic, quick, and completely in command of every scene. He does the conman-with-a-conscience thing he was clearly born to play so well.
“The Smile Has Left Your Eyes”
Kim Moo Young (Seo In Guk) is a mysterious figure who is unable to recall his traumatic past. It’s not just his memories that have disappeared, but also his conscience. He’s a master manipulator who charms and wreaks havoc with a smile that never quite reaches his eyes.
Yoo Jin Kang (Jung So Min) is warm, stubborn, and deeply kind — everything Moo Young isn’t — and from the moment they meet, she gets under his skin in a way no one ever has. Her older brother, Yoo Jin Kook (Park Sung Woong), is a detective who has been investigating a murder case that keeps circling back to Moo Young. And Yoo Jin Kook will do anything to keep his sister away from a man he is certain is dangerous.
The pressing question is: can a person who has never been allowed to love anyone actually learn how? The answer, when it comes in the final episode, will leave you sitting in complete silence.
Seo In Guk conveys Moo Young’s ambiguity entirely through his eyes. Is he a sociopath, or a broken man desperately trying to find his way back to himself? He delivers one of the finest performances of his career. The love story will break your heart, so keep the tissues handy, just in case.
Start watching “The Smile Has Left Your Eyes”:
Watch Now
Puja Talwar is a Soompi writer with a strong Yoo Yeon Seok and Lee Junho bias. A long time K-drama fan, she loves devising alternate scenarios to the narratives. She has interviewed Lee Min Ho, Gong Yoo, Cha Eun Woo, and Ji Chang Wook to name a few. You can follow her on @puja_talwar7 on Instagram.
Drama,Features,TV/Film,Café Minamdang,Doom at Your Service,drama,High School King,I Remember You,Reply 1997,Seo In Guk,Shopping King Louie,Soompi Spotlight,The Smile Has Left Your EyesCafé Minamdang,Doom at Your Service,drama,High School King,I Remember You,Reply 1997,Seo In Guk,Shopping King Louie,Soompi Spotlight,The Smile Has Left Your Eyes#KDramas #Watch #Seo #Guks #Charm1783876710
4 Reasons To Watch Heartfelt Romance Film “Once We Were Us”
“Once We Were Us” tells the story of Eun Ho (Koo Kyo Hwan) and Jeong Won (Mun Ka Young), two young people who meet by chance on a bus and slowly become each other’s first love. As they go through various joys and challenges that come with growing up, their relationship deepens. They come to find comfort and support in each other, but eventually, the realities of life lead them down separate paths. When fate reunites them a decade later, old feelings resurface, and they are able to get the closure needed to move on. With its heartfelt romance and emotional look at love and second chances, here are a few reasons why “Once We Were Us” is worth watching.
1. The unbelievable acting from Koo Kyo Hwan and Mun Ka Young
2025 was a huge year for Koo Kyo Hwan. Already regarded as one of Korea’s most versatile actors, with even Lee Je Hoon famously expressing his desire to work with him, he landed his first romance lead role in “Once We Were Us.” And he proves exactly why he deserved it.
Koo Kyo Hwan shows a heartfelt performance that feels completely natural, portraying every stage of the character’s life with so much ease. From the excitement of first love to the weight of years of regret 10 years later, he is able to capture every emotion in a way that feels so real to the viewers. Opposite of him, Mun Ka Young is just as impressive in the role of Jeong Won. She brings warmth, quiet strength, and emotional depth to the role. Together, they have effortless chemistry that makes you believe every moment of their relationship.
2. A heartfelt reminder that timing really is everything
At its core, “Once We Were Us” asks one of the most heartbreaking questions: what if you met the right person at the wrong time?
The film shows so clearly how life circumstances can pull two people apart. Dreams, responsibilities, and the choices they make shape Eun Ho and Jeong Won’s relationship in ways that feel painfully realistic. Their story is a reminder that sometimes love isn’t always enough. If Eun Oh and Jeong Won had met later in life when their dreams were fulfilled, they might have been able to live out the love they had for each other. Their story is the kind of romance that stays with you because it feels so true to life.
3. You’ll laugh just as much as you’ll cry
While “Once We Were Us” is emotional, it never feels overwhelmingly heavy. The film balances its heartbreaking moments with lots of warmth, humor, nostalgia, and youthful charm. Watching Eun Ho and Jeong Won slowly fall for each other is filled with romantic encounters and playful teasing that reminds us of first love.
That contrast makes the emotional scenes hit even harder. Just when you’re smiling at their sweet interactions, the story reminds you how fragile those moments can be. By the end, don’t be surprised if you’re reaching for the tissues.
4. The beautiful cinematography
The film’s visuals are just as moving as its performances. One of its most striking creative choices is its use of black-and-white and color cinematography to distinguish different points in Eun Ho and Jeong Won’s journey. Rather than simply looking beautiful, the shifting visuals become part of the storytelling itself, reflecting the emotions and memories that shape their relationship.
Every frame feels thoughtful and intimate, making the emotional moments hit even harder. The movie leaves viewers with a lasting impression long after the credits roll.
If you haven’t already, make sure you check out “Once We Were Us” here:
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binahearts is a Korean-Canadian published author, content creator, and influencer whose ultimate biases are Song Joong Ki and BIGBANG, but has lately been seen obsessing over Hwang In Yeop. Make sure you follow binahearts on IG as she journeys through her latest Korean crazes!
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6 K-Dramas To Watch If You Love Hwang In Youp
If you’ve fallen for Hwang In Youp’s charm over the years, you’re definitely not alone. Since his breakout role in “True Beauty,” he has quickly become a fan-favorite actor thanks to his swoon-worthy characters, emotional performances, and undeniable screen presence. From rebellious bad boys to sweet and devoted love interests, Hwang In Youp has shown that he can bring something special to every role he takes on. Here are some of his best K-dramas to watch if you can’t get enough of him!
1. “The Tale of Nokdu”
Jeon Nok Du (Jang Dong Yoon) is a swordsman living on an island until his family is attacked by female assassins. He meets Dong Dong Ju (Kim So Hyun), a gisaeng (a courtesan trained in music and the arts) on a mission involving the king, and their paths keep crossing. Hwang In Youp plays Cha Yool Mu, a complex man connected to the political power around Dong Dong Ju, adding tension to the growing web of secrets and emotions.
This was one of Hwang In Youp’s first breakout roles and the drama that really put him on people’s radar. Even though he wasn’t the main lead, his mysterious aura, striking visuals, and quietly intense performance made him impossible to ignore. Every time he appeared on screen, he left a lasting impression, and it was easy to see he was destined for bigger roles. Looking back now, “The Tale of Nokdu” feels like the beginning of the incredible career that’s followed.
Watch the first episode now:
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2. “18 Again”
Yoon Sang Hyun stars as Hong Dae Young, a man whose girlfriend got pregnant when they were in high school, resulting in the two getting married. Hong Dae Young had to give up his future as a basketball player, and his wife, played by Kim Ha Neul, had to give up her dreams of being an announcer. After a freak incident, he wakes up to realize that he has returned back to his 18-year-old self. He has been given a second chance to live his life the way he wanted.
Hwang In Youp plays the school bully Goo Ja Sung, a rebellious student who frequently clashes with Go Woo Young (Lee Do Hyun), Hong Da Young’s 18-year-old self. While his character isn’t exactly easy to root for at first, this role gave viewers an early look at the brooding, misunderstood charm that would later make him such a fan favorite in “True Beauty.”
Watch “18 Again” now:
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3. “True Beauty”
Lim Ju Gyeong (Moon Ka Young) is a high school student who has been bullied for not being the most attractive and popular girl in school. She decides to take it upon herself to learn how to do makeup by watching videos online. She gets the opportunity to transfer to another school and gets caught in the middle of a heart-wrenching love triangle between Lee Su Ho (Cha Eun Woo) and Han Seo Jun (Hwang In Youp).
It’s no surprise that “True Beauty” became one of the most-watched K-dramas on Viki and an even bigger reason why Hwang In Youp became a global fan favorite. As Han Seo Jun, he perfectly balanced the confident bad boy image with a surprisingly soft and selfless heart. Watching him fall for Lim Ju Gyeong and quietly put her happiness before his own made second lead syndrome hit harder than ever. Even years later, Han Seo Jun remains one of the most beloved characters of Hwang In Youp’s career.
Start watching “True Beauty” here:
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4. “The Sound of Magic”
Yoon Ah Yi (Choi Sung Eun) is a high school student struggling to support herself and her younger sister after being abandoned by her parents, all while competing for the top spot in her class against Na Il Deung (Hwang In Youp). When she meets magician Lee Eul (Ji Chang Wook) at an abandoned amusement park, he introduces her to a world of magic that offers hope during the hardest time in her life. The three leads bring warmth to the story, making it easy to become invested in their journeys from the very first episode.
Hwang In Youp shines as Na Il Deung, the top student who initially keeps his distance but can’t help but being drawn to Yoon Ah Yi. Beneath his quiet and reserved personality is someone who genuinely cares for her, even if he isn’t sure how to express it. Watching his character slowly open up is one of the drama’s highlights, and fans will also love getting to hear him sing. It’s another role that showcases Hwang In Youp’s ability to bring warmth and sincerity to every character he plays, making Na Il Deung impossible not to root for.
5. “Why Her?”
Oh Soo Jae (Seo Hyun Jin) is a successful lawyer who is suddenly demoted from her prestigious law firm and forced to teach at a law school after one of her cases goes wrong. There, she meets law student Gong Chan (Hwang In Youp), whose kind heart and unwavering support help her as she fights to rebuild her career and uncover the truth behind her downfall. Blending romance, mystery, and courtroom drama, the series follows their growing bond as they take on powerful people determined to keep Soo Jae from rising again.
“Why Her?” marked Hwang In Youp’s first main male lead role, and he more than proved he was ready for it. Starring opposite Seo Hyun Jin was no small task, but he held his own with a heartfelt performance that made Gong Chan impossible not to fall for. His unwavering devotion to Soo Jae led to plenty of swoon-worthy moments, while the role also showed a more mature side of Hwang In Youp that fans hadn’t seen before. Seeing him trade his school uniform for sharp suits was the perfect next step after “True Beauty,” proving he could pull off both youthful charm and a more grown-up leading man image.
Start the first episode:
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6. “Family by Choice”
Kim San Ha (Hwang In Youp), Yoon Ju Won (Jung Chaeyeon), and Kang Hae Jun (Bae Hyeon Seong) grow up together in an unconventional household where they share love, support, and everyday struggles despite not being related by blood. As they get older, their close bond is tested by hidden pasts, personal growth, and unexpected romantic feelings that complicate their relationships. Each of them is forced to face their own identity and the uncertainty of their future while holding onto the idea of the family they built together. It’s a heartfelt story about belonging, love, and what it truly means to be family.
One of the most memorable parts of “Family by Choice” is watching San Ha’s quiet but deeply emotional love for Ju Won unfold. His feelings are rooted in years of shared memories, unspoken emotions, and the complicated bond they built while growing up together. Hwang In Youp perfectly captures San Ha’s longing, especially in the moments where his eyes say more than words ever could. When he finally confesses his feelings after years of holding them in, the sincerity and emotion behind the scene make it one of the drama’s most unforgettable moments. That 10-year confession scene? Totally worth the wait.
Watch “Family by Choice” now:
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Bonus: “Young Actors’ Retreat”
“Young Actors’ Retreat” is the star-studded variety show featuring the main cast of hit K-dramas “Itaewon Class,” “Love in the Moonlight,” and “The Sound of Magic.”
For Hwang In Youp fans, one of the sweetest parts of the show is seeing his budding friendship with Kim You Jung. The two had shared their hopes of one day working together in this show, and that wish was finally fulfilled through the drama “Dear X.” Watching them connect on “Young Actors’ Retreat” and seeing their natural chemistry together was such a fun treat for fans!
Watch “Dear X” here:
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binahearts is a Korean-Canadian published author, content creator, and influencer whose ultimate biases are Song Joong Ki and BIGBANG, but has lately been seen obsessing over Hwang In Youp. Make sure you follow binahearts on IG as she journeys through her latest Korean crazes!
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