Cha Joo Young In Talks To Join Jun Ji Hyun And Ji Chang Wook's New Fantasy Rom-Com Drama
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Esom Talks About Her Cold Yet Evolving Character And Chemistry With Yoo Yeon Seok In “Phantom Lawyer”
Esom has shared her thoughts on her upcoming drama “Phantom Lawyer”! “Phantom Lawyer” is a quirky yet heartwarming legal drama that follows the adventures of Shin I Rang (Yoo Yeon Seok), a lawyer who can see ghosts, and elite attorney Han Na Hyun (Esom) as they resolve the lingering grievances of their very unusual clients—ghosts—through the law. Esom plays Han Na Hyun, an elite attorney at Taebaek Law Firm, one of the most prestigious law firms in Seoul, known for her perfect 100 percent win rate. Han Na Hyun makes rational decisions strictly within the bounds of the law and has always pursued victory as her sole goal. But behind this perfection lies a deeply hidden story: becoming a lawyer was originally her older sister’s dream. Na Hyun trained herself ruthlessly to shoulder that dream in her sister’s stead. Esom explained that, to understand Han Na Hyun’s present, she first had to imagine the path Na Hyun had walked. She remarked, “She looks cold and rigid, but I wondered what kind of wounds and pain she might have experienced. I thought she might have closed herself off emotionally to protect herself from being hurt.” She continued, “After meeting Shin I Rang, she experiences failure and anger, but gradually, her gaze shifts, and emotions begin to emerge. Through this, she discovers a side of herself she didn’t know existed.” The actress also explained that Han Na Hyun’s transformation drew her to the role. She stated, “I was curious how a cold, rational person like Han Na Hyun, who only cares about winning, would change when she meets Shin I Rang, who is her complete opposite. It was intriguing to see the process of cracks appearing in the life of result-oriented Han Na Hyun when she encounters Shin I Rang.” Esom went on to explain how she prepared for the character. She revealed that since Han Na Hyun doesn’t show emotions in the early stages of the drama, she had to lower her tone to emphasize the character’s cold image. Her styling—flawless suits paired with a smartwatch—helped highlight Han Na Hyun’s rigid and disciplined personality. She also used subtle changes in color tones and atmosphere to visually capture the cracks that appear in Han Na Hyun’s perfectly guarded life later in the drama. Talking about the relationship between Han Na Hyun and Shin I Rang, she shared, “While Na Hyun is all about the law and winning, Shin I Rang genuinely listens to people’s stories. Although the two are clearly polar opposites, feelings develop between them as they work together over time. I think viewers will find that aspect very interesting.” Regarding working with Yoo Yeon Seok, Esom commented, “This is our first project together, but I had faith he would portray Shin I Rang perfectly. Even while I was focused on my lines, he paid attention to the atmosphere on set. I learned a lot from him.” Finally, Esom emphasized that the stories of the ghosts who visit Shin I Rang are the core of the drama. She also stated that she hopes the series naturally conveys how important it is to genuinely listen to someone’s story. She shared, “The various ghost characters appearing in each episode will be one of the biggest highlights of the drama. Please look forward to how Shin I Rang, Han Na Hyun, and these ghost clients form a team, complementing each other, and solving cases in satisfying ways.” “Phantom Lawyer” is set to premiere on March 13 at 9:50 p.m. KST.
Kim Min Ju Reflects On Playing A Pure-Hearted Character Who Grows Through Life’s Challenges In “Still Shining”
Kim Min Ju has shared her thoughts on her upcoming drama “Still Shining”! “Still Shining” is a drama about young people who once shared a world of their own and gradually become each other’s source of trust and the light that guides their lives. Kim Min Ju plays Mo Eun Ah, a former hotelier who is now the manager of an old-house stay, and a character brimming with enthusiasm in everything she does. From the sparkling moments of first love to the hidden pain she has quietly carried, Mo Eun Ah faces life with unmatched sincerity and passion. As “Still Shining” marks her first leading role in a drama, Kim Min Ju explained why she chose the project, saying, “I loved the warmth that ‘Still Shining’ conveys. I was drawn to the way Yeon Tae Seo (Park Jinyoung) and Mo Eun Ah love each other for who they are, cherish one another, and grow together.” Recalling her first impression of Mo Eun Ah, she shared, “What stood out to me was how sincere she is about the people and things she loves, and how she always gives her best. I think that kind of purity makes her very charming.” Given her deep affection for both the project and her character, curiosity is growing over how Kim Min Ju will portray Mo Eun Ah’s journey—from her fresh, youthful teenage years to her more mature adulthood. “To express how her personality changes after going through various experiences, I tried to adjust my tone of voice and the way I spoke. I also experimented with different styling choices,” she explained, revealing the thought she put into the role. She added, “At the same time, I thought a lot about what aspects of ‘Mo Eun Ah’ would remain unchanged even as she grows older.” Lastly, Kim Min Ju shared, “From a fresh and refreshing romance to very realistic stories, I think this is a drama that everyone can relate to. Because of that, viewers will be able to see it from their own perspectives and have many conversations about it. Please show lots of anticipation and interest.” “Still Shining” is set to premiere on March 6 at 8:50 p.m. KST. Until then, watch Kim Min Ju in “Undercover High School”:
Park Jinyoung And Kim Min Ju Rate Their Chemistry 100 Points And Reflect On Their Characters’ Bond In “Still Shining”
Park Jinyoung and Kim Min Ju have shared more insights into their upcoming drama “Still Shining”! “Still Shining” is a drama about young people who once shared a world of their own and gradually become each other’s source of trust and the light that guides their lives. Park Jinyoung stars as Yeon Tae Seo, while Kim Min Ju plays Mo Eun Ah. Ahead of the drama’s premiere, the two actors have shared hints about their characters’ relationship and reflected on their on-screen chemistry. First, Park Jinyoung described the relationship between Yeon Tae Seo and Mo Eun Ah—from when they first met during the summer break of their senior year in high school to when they reunite as fully fledged adults—as one defined by “light and distance.” He explained, “Whether they are together or apart, whether they feel close or distant, it’s a relationship where you can sense where the light is and how far apart they are from each other. Those subtle details are woven into their dynamic.” Kim Min Ju added, “I felt that the relationship between Yeon Tae Seo and Mo Eun Ah is like an ‘old tree.’ They met during their most innocent days, and they remain deeply rooted in each other’s hearts, living on through those memories. That image felt very much like a tree to me.” Regarding their acting chemistry, Park Jinyoung shared, “From the beginning, I felt like Kim Min Ju closely resembles Mo Eun Ah. As we acted together, I could also really feel that she saw me as Yeon Tae Seo.” He added playfully, “Our chemistry is, of course, 100 points. Please give lots of love to ‘Still Shining.’” Kim Min Ju likewise said, “I really enjoyed the process of creating new things together while talking things through on set. Because we went through that process, I think we were able to create even more great scenes.” She also rated their chemistry as “100 points,” further building excitement for the romance they will bring to life. “Still Shining” is set to premiere on March 6 at 8:50 p.m. KST. Until then, watch Park Jinyoung in “The Witch”:
Krystal Shares Why She Joined “Mad Concrete Dreams” And Hints At Her Character’s Intense Journey
Krystal has hinted at her character’s major transformation in the upcoming drama “Mad Concrete Dreams.” “Mad Concrete Dreams” is a thriller drama that follows Ki Soo Jong (Ha Jung Woo), a struggling landlord who becomes entangled in crime to protect his family and property. While he achieves the coveted status of a landlord, mounting debts lead him to participate in a staged kidnapping. However, the plan spirals out of control as the fake kidnapping turns dangerously real. Krystal plays Jeon Yi Kyung, the only daughter of a wealthy real estate mogul, who assists her powerful mother in managing their properties. As a series of unexpected incidents erupt around one of their buildings, Yi Kyung finds herself gradually swept into the eye of a fierce storm. Ahead of the drama’s premiere, Krystal has shared why she chose to join the project and how she approached bringing the character to life. “I was intrigued because senior actors Ha Jung Woo and Im Soo Jung chose this project,” she said. “When I read the script, it was so gripping that I couldn’t put it down—I was instantly drawn into the story.” She added, “I felt that Jeon Yi Kyung would be a new challenge for me, which is why I decided to take the role.” Elaborating on what drew her to Jeon Yi Kyung, Krystal shared, “I felt that she was the most human and pure character in the story. There’s an almost childlike innocence to her, and I found that side of her incredibly charming.” Having lived a sheltered life like a flower in a greenhouse, Yi Kyung undergoes one of the most dramatic transformations in the series. Krystal hinted, “Yi Kyung goes through an incredible amount of turmoil—you’ll see when you watch the drama.” She added, “It’s my first time portraying a character who experiences such a wide and dynamic range of events in a single project, so I gave a lot of thought to how I could convincingly express those layered and complex emotions.” Finally, she encouraged viewers to tune in, saying, “Please look forward to seeing what happens to Yi Kyung. Each episode unfolds with unexpected twists, so you’ll be able to watch without a single dull moment.” “Mad Concrete Dreams” is set to premiere on March 14 at 9:10 p.m. KST.
3 Elements We’re Waiting To See Play Out After Episodes 7-8 Of “Our Universe”
The bumpy journey of accidental co-parents figuring out adulthood (and maybe love) continues for Tae Hyung (Bae In Hyuk) and Hyun Jin (Roh Jeong Eui) in “Our Universe,” and the drama of this K-drama has definitely been turned up a notch. A long-awaited confession, another health scare with baby Woo Joo (Park Yu Ho), and a surprise guest with suspicious intentions aren’t making it any easier for them, but they’ve gotten this far. Here are the three biggest questions on our minds after episodes 7 and 8: Warning: episodes 7-8 spoilers ahead! 1. Who will Hyun Jin choose? The stage for a love triangle between Hyun Jin, Tae Hyung, and her manager, Yoon Seong (Park Seo Ham), has already been set. While Tae Hyung has made his feelings clear with a simple and sweet confession, Yoon Seong has been more openly pursuing Hyun Jin ever since he stumbled upon the secret of her living with another guy. In last week’s episodes, Yoon Seong finally makes a confession after years of liking Hyun Jin in secret. Since college, there’s always been something more than friends between them, but they never got the timing right. Now, as a superior and subordinate at work, the timing isn’t exactly better, but Yoon Seong takes a leap anyway. Tae Hyung certainly beat Yoon Seong to it though, and he and Hyun Jin have been steadily growing closer and sharing more moments together since. However, they haven’t talked about being something more than platonic co-parents yet, so their moments are stuck in that awkward, undefined middle ground. Everyone’s feelings have been put out in the open; it’s only Hyun Jin who hasn’t responded to her two confessions. It’s only a matter of time before she’ll have to make things clear and choose. 2. Is Hyun Jin going to keep her job? Another big thing on the line outside of Hyun Jin’s love life is her job. This is arguably more important at the moment, given she has to provide for a child now. Nonetheless, Hyun Jin has both a win and a setback at work, either of which could determine whether she is kept on as a full-time employee. The setback comes when someone leaks company information about an upcoming project. It’s suspected to be someone on her team, so the blame falls on her since she is the newest hire and a temporary employee. Rumors quickly circulate around the office, and she’s getting side eyes and glares from coworkers who believe it was her. It’s also being said that she’s getting special treatment from her manager because they’re from the same school. At the same time this is all going on, Hyun Jin is asked by Yoon Seong to prepare the pitch presentation for a project that their team has been working on, which has now become the company’s main project. This too comes with a snag though, because the higher-ups say they want someone with more seniority and experience to present, so they come up with a solution: have Hyun Jin and a senior employee compete with their presentations. The higher-ups will choose which is better, fair and square. As hardworking and good at her job as she is (and with a little help from Tae Hyung), Hyun Jin easily succeeds. And the good news comes: her best friend (Choi Gyu Ri), who also works at the company, hears from an HR connection that Hyun Jin is in the running for a full-time position, and her name is at the top of the list. As it is now, it looks like it could go either way for Hyun Jin, but to take care of Woo Joo in the long run, she really needs this full-time job. 3. What is Tae Hyung’s father up to? In episodes 7 and 8, Tae Hyung’s father appears, and there’s a lot to unpack. When Hyun Jin returns to the apartment and finds the door ajar and all the lights off, she fears it might be the perpetrator who has been targeting women in the neighborhood, but it ends up being Tae Hyung’s estranged father. His father claims that after seeing someone lurking outside their door for some time, he just went in because the door was already unlocked. He says all he was doing was looking for his son. Initially, Tae Hyung wants nothing to do with him. After all, he was abandoned as a child while his father got into trouble chasing money. But his father says he is done with all that and wants nothing but to be able to see his son. Tae Hyung tells him to leave them alone, but his father doesn’t give up. He continues to show up outside his apartment, he becomes friends with the neighbors, and he even offers to babysit Woo Joo. It’s during another Woo Joo health scare that he saves the day, quickly recognizing and treating Woo Joo’s allergic reaction because his oldest son had the same allergy. He’s checking off all the right boxes for a rehabilitated dad who wants to do good. Tae Hyung slowly starts warming up to him after he helps during Woo Joo’s allergic reaction, despite being the only one in the beginning who is suspicious of his father’s intentions. Hyun Jin and their neighbors even end up encouraging him to forgive and reconnect. But things start getting weird. It’s actually the co-parent’s goofy neighbor Bae Du Sik (Kim In Kwon) from the heater fiasco in a previous episode that picks up on it first. He has a chat with some police officer friends and finds out that though the neighborhood perpetrator has been caught, he denied ever having touched Hyun Jin and Tae Hyung’s apartment to the very end. Du Sik puts together that something is off about the father and his story about the night he showed up. At about the same time Tae Hyung’s father shows up, Hyun Jin happens to be dealing with her sister’s and brother-in-law’s life insurance policy. It’s clearly hard revisiting their passing, but it’s time to handle the death benefit payout. When Hyun Jin is doing the insurance paperwork, she learns that another “guardian” has been inquiring about the policy, but the insurance worker describes him as a middle-aged man. While the father’s return seemed innocent enough at first, the tone shifts to something sinister by the end of episode 8. All signs point to his father being up to something, but what? Only this week will tell! Catch up on “Our Universe” now: 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: “Our Universe,” “Undercover Miss Hong,” “Positively Yours,” “Dare You to Death,” “Peach Lover,” and “Duang with You.”Looking forward to: “Don’t Be Too Emotional,” “Magic Lover,” “Mr. Fanboy,” “The Love Matter,” and “Be My Player Two.”
Lee Soo Hyuk, Yoo In Na, Gong Min Jung, And More Spark Life Into Jisoo’s Virtual and Real Worlds In New Drama “Boyfriend On Demand”
Netflix’s upcoming drama “Boyfriend on Demand” has unveiled new stills! Helmed by director Kim Jung Sik of “Work Later, Drink Now” and “Not Others,” “Boyfriend on Demand” is a romantic comedy that follows Seo Mi Rae (BLACKPINK’s Jisoo), an overworked webtoon producer who subscribes to a virtual dating simulation service to experience the dates of her dreams. The stills offer a preview of Mi Rae’s future virtual dates, which are sure to raise dopamine levels. When Mi Rae enters the virtual world for the first time, she is greeted by the “Boyfriend on Demand” themes laid out before her. Once the date begins, heart-throbbing moments follow one after another. Being close to her dream first love, and the dazzling, romantic scenes reminiscent of a fantasy webtoon, make her heart race. It remains to be seen what kinds of dates will unfold and how Mi Rae’s reality might change after trying the virtual romance subscription service. The excitement is further boosted by a special guest lineup of actors transformed into virtual lovers, including Seo Kang Jun, Lee Soo Hyuk, Ong Seong Wu, Lee Jae Wook, Lee Hyun Wook, Kim Young Dae, Jay Park, and Lee Sang Yi. The stills also feature characters who exist in the drama’s virtual world and in reality. Gong Min Jung, Ha Young, Jo Han Chul, Lee Hak Joo, Kim Ah Young, Ko Kyu Phil, and Yoo In Na are expected to bring depth to the drama’s universe with their nuanced performances. Gong Min Jung plays Yoon Song, a famous webtoon artist who has been making headlines for years, while Jo Han Chul takes on Byung Hak, a powerful figure in the webtoon studio who shakes up office worker Mi Rae’s daily life. Ha Young plays Ji Yeon, Mi Rae’s best friend who constantly longs for romance, and Lee Hak Joo portrays Team Leader Min, who introduces Mi Rae to the virtual romance subscription service, making an impact at just the right moments. Meanwhile, Kim Ah Young, Ko Kyu Phil, and Yoo In Na bring Mi Rae’s virtual world to life. Yoo In Na plays a date matching manager in the virtual world, while Kim Ah Young and Ko Kyu Phil take on a variety of roles that promise plenty of laughs. “Boyfriend on Demand” will air on March 6 via Netflix.