Netflix is set to unveil its latest original Korean series, Dear Hongrang, on May 16, 2025, promising a captivating blend of mystery, romance, and historical intrigue. Starring popular actors Lee Jae-wook and Jo Bo-ah, the series is based on the best-selling novel Tangeum: Swallowing Gold by Jang Da-hye, and is directed by the acclaimed Kim Hong-sun, known for his work on Money Heist: Korea – Joint Economic Area.
The story revolves around Hongrang, played by Lee Jae-wook, who mysteriously vanishes as a child from one of Joseon’s most powerful merchant families. Twelve years later, he returns, but with no memory of his past. His sudden reappearance sends shockwaves through the Min family, as they grapple with the implications of his return. However, the only person who doubts his identity is his half-sister, Jae-yi, portrayed by Jo Bo-ah, who suspects he may be an imposter.
The newly released teaser trailer sets the stage for a hauntingly mysterious narrative, opening with the disappearance of young Hongrang and his half-sister’s desperate search for him. Fast forward to the present day, and the tension escalates as various figures claiming to be Hongrang emerge, each targeting the powerful merchant clan’s wealth. Jae-yi, however, remains resolute in her belief that the man claiming to be her brother is a fraud, igniting a complex emotional battle between the two.
As the series unfolds, viewers will be introduced to a rich cast of characters. Jung Ga-ram plays Mu-jin, the adopted son of the Sim household who assumed Hongrang’s place upon his disappearance. Uhm Ji-won stars as Min Yeon-ui, Hongrang’s mother and the matriarch of the clan, while Park Byung-eun portrays Sim Yeol-guk, the Chief Merchant and father of Hongrang and Jae-yi. Kim Jae-wook takes on the role of Grand Prince Hanpyeong, a nobleman with an artistic flair.
The teaser poster, unveiled alongside the trailer, captures the eerie reunion between Hongrang and Jae-yi, emphasizing the intense emotions and suspicion that define their relationship. The tagline, “Your hidden secrets, your unspoken truth,” hints at the dark truths that may lie beneath the surface of their family dynamics.
Director Kim Hong-sun’s previous works have garnered acclaim for their ability to weave tension and character-driven narratives, and Dear Hongrang is expected to follow suit. The series promises visually stunning cinematography, rich storytelling, and a compelling exploration of themes such as identity, family loyalty, and the quest for truth.
In a notable twist, Hongrang’s return coincides with a series of unsettling events in the village, including child abductions that echo the circumstances of his own disappearance. This adds another layer of mystery and tension to the narrative, as the Min family grapples with the implications of these eerie occurrences.
The anticipation surrounding Dear Hongrang has been palpable, with fans expressing excitement over its unique premise and the star-studded cast. Social media reactions to the teaser have been overwhelmingly positive, with viewers praising the intriguing mix of mystery, melodrama, and historical drama. Comments such as, “Finally something worth watching,” and “The mood is insane,” reflect the high expectations for the series.
Cho Bo-ah’s involvement in Dear Hongrang marks a significant moment in her career, especially following the uncertainty surrounding her previous project, Knock Off, which faced disruptions due to legal controversies involving co-star Kim Soo-hyun. With Dear Hongrang, Cho is poised to make a strong comeback, showcasing her talent alongside Lee Jae-wook.
As the premiere date approaches, excitement continues to build for Dear Hongrang. The series not only promises to deliver a thrilling narrative filled with suspense and romance but also seeks to redefine the historical drama genre with its innovative storytelling and complex character dynamics.
With its premiere set for May 16, viewers can expect to be drawn into a world filled with secrets, familial ties, and the quest for identity. Dear Hongrang is shaping up to be a must-watch series for fans of K-dramas and period pieces alike, and it will be available for streaming exclusively on Netflix.
