Latest news with #Hongrang
Indian Express
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
Go Min Si's school bullying controversy explained: Is her new Netflix K-drama being axed?
Actor Go Min Si is currently facing backlash after an anonymous post accused her of being a bully back in middle school. The post, titled 'We are the victims of actor A's school violence,' popped up on South Korea's online community, claiming the actor not only extorted money from her classmates but also verbally abused them, and hounded the differently abled. The actor, who is currently starring in Netflix's Tastefully Yours, alongside Kang Ha Neul, responded fiercely to the allegations, slamming them as false and baseless. However, the author of the post claimed that even the teachers and fellow classmates are aware of those incidents. The post further demanded that the actor step away from the spotlight. This comes ahead of Go Min Si's next big project, Perfect Job. Also read: Tastefully Yours first impression: Weirdly addictive duo Go Min Si, Kang Ha Neul cook up quirky kitchen romance in Netflix's new-age Business Proposal This is not the first time a Korean celeb at the peak of their career has faced school bullying accusations. Along with actors such as Seo Ye Ji to Kim Hieora, multiple K-pop stars have been accused of bullying, the most recent being Go Min Si, whose global popularity was soaring with big Netflix hits. The post's author claimed they were a middle school classmate from Daejeon and, without mentioning the actor's stage name, identified her using her old name along with other clues like age and past shows. 'I don't want any apology or compensation,' the author wrote, adding that Go's aggressive behaviour was well known to teachers as well. 'What I want is for this actor to end her public activities permanently so no further victims are created,' the post read, as translated by The Korea Times. The post further added, 'There's no need for a belated, performative apology to avoid contract disputes. If the actor truly feels remorse, she should step away from the spotlight and live the rest of her life sincerely regretting her past actions.' Also read: Dear Hongrang star Lee Jae Wook reveals his 'jealous personality,' says Park Ji Hoon's Weak Hero made him envious: 'It could become poison' Go Min Si's agency, Mystic Story, released a statement claiming there was no truth in the post and dismissed it as a smear campaign against the actor. 'We ask that people refrain from spreading unverified rumours and speculative reports, as they can cause significant harm not only to the actor but also to her family,' the agency said. They further revealed they are seeking legal action on both civil and criminal grounds. 'We express our deep concern and regret that malicious posts based on false information are damaging the reputation of our agency's actor. We appointed a legal representative today and have begun reviewing and taking legal action, both civil and criminal.' Go Min Si debuted in 2017 with the SBS drama My Sassy Girl and has since become a household name with shows like Sweet Home, The Frog, The Witch and Smugglers. This is not the first time the actor has been embroiled in a controversy. Back in March 2021, photos showed her entering an adult entertainment venue and drinking when she was still underage. At the time, she dismissed the rumours as a simple youthful mistake and apologised. In light of the new controversy, Netflix reportedly informed the South Korean media outlet OSEN that Go Min Si is continuing with her upcoming project Perfect Job as planned, with no changes to her filming schedule.
Indian Express
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
Dear Hongrang star Lee Jae Wook reveals his ‘jealous personality,' says Park Ji Hoon's Weak Hero made him envious: ‘It could become poison'
Actor Lee Jae Wook, riding high on a streak of historical fantasies and sword-swinging roles in K-dramas like The Alchemy of Souls and the new Netflix hit Dear Hongrang, opened up about his work ethic and how he picks projects. The actor who debuted in 2018 with Memories of the Alhambra sat down with Dispatch Korea to talk about his latest drama alongside Jo Bo Ah, drawing parallels between the show's title, Tangeum, and his own life. The series's title, based on Jang Da Hye's original novel, translates to an ancient Qing Dynasty punishment, swallowing gold until death. Lee shared what that 'gold' symbolises for him. The 27-year-old has tasted success in very little time and earned the title of Netflix's son from fans, thanks to his multiple hits on the OTT platform. His new K-drama Dear Hongrang, written by Kim Jin Ah and directed by Kim Hong Sun, is a tragic tale of people crushed by status, power, desire, and revenge. Here, gold stands for the ideal everyone chases. When asked what gold means to him, Lee said, 'I think it's a lack or deficiency. I really enjoy meeting people and working. When I'm alone, I just get jealous of hit dramas. Like the series title says, it could become poison.' Also read: Dear Hongrang ending explained: 7 burning questions answered in Lee Jae Wook and Jo Bo Ah story finale Lee explained that when he's alone, he often binges on new shows and pictures himself in their shoes, wondering how he would have performed. 'I always think about how I'd act in those roles. Then I get jealous, thinking, 'Why didn't that script come to me?' That's probably why I keep working without rest,' he laughed. For Lee, he completed Tangeum fueled by that same power of jealousy, determined to show his acting skills so well that no one would think of anyone but Lee Jae-wook as 'Hongrang', and maybe even spark a little envy. Also read: Dear Hongrang star Jo Bo Ah reveals nickname she gave to Lee Jae Wook, shares why she keeps distance from male co-stars In Dear Hongrang, Lee Jae Wook plays the long-lost son of Joseon's wealthiest merchant family. He returns after a decade with no memories. Opposite him is Jo Bo Ah as Jae Yi, his half-sister, who suspects this newly returned family member and is convinced he's not her brother. In a talk with Dispatch, Lee revealed he initially turned down Hongrang's script because he had already done two historical hits, Alchemy of Souls and Alchemy of Souls: Light and Shadow. But what changed his mind was a handwritten note from writer Kim Jin-ah. Lee said the letter was five or six pages long, where the writer carefully described Hongrang's onscreen personality and his character arc. 'She explained Hongrang's character and gave detailed feedback on my acting. I read that letter overseas and cried my heart out,' he said. 'I was grateful there was a writer who saw me so closely. That's when I reopened the script. I joined with the desire to express Hongrang's pain after unimaginable torture.' Lee's character Jang Uk from Alchemy of Souls is one of his most widely praised roles globally. So when news of him signing a new historical drama broke, fans naturally expected him to return in the same avatar. But the actor surprised them with a darker role. Comparing the two characters, he explained, 'Jang Uk was a growing character. Hongrang's story starts after he has already grown. I pushed through without confusion about the character's nature.' On the other hand, for Hongrang, he said, 'I tried to bring out Hongrang's sharpness. I had to convince viewers with minimal lines. I aimed to show restraint. And I added the detail that Jae Yi was always at the end of his gaze.' Lee Jae Wook took his first role at the age of 21. He's 27 now, with six leading roles already under his belt. The actor revealed he watched Weak Hero Class 1, led by Park Ji-hoon, and felt a twinge of jealousy, spending time thinking about what he would have done if he played that character. 'I think the reason I work without rest is also because of jealousy. Since I'm just watching other works and feeling jealous, I think I'm motivated to work quickly.' Lee is currently planning to enlist in the military and wants to belt out as many shows as he can.
Korea Herald
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Korea Herald
'Dear Hongrang' explores mystery, sibling romance, trauma
Series stars Lee Jae-wuk, Cho Bo-ah discuss the historical drama, say series is a layered ensemble of characters driven by sorrow Netflix Korea's latest original series, "Dear Hongrang" explores the provocative concept of romance between siblings, setting the stage for a historical drama woven with mystery and psychological trauma. Set in the Joseon period, "Dear Hongrang" centers on Jae-yi (Cho Bo-ah), who grows suspicious when her younger brother, Hongrang (Lee Jae-wuk), reappears after a 12-year disappearance. As Hongrang struggles with amnesia regarding his childhood, he begins to develop a romantic connection with Jae-yi. The series unfolds as a cascade of revelations peels back layers of long-buried secrets. Lee Jae-wuk, who leads the drama as the enigmatic Hongrang, reflected on the emotional demands of his character during a recent group interview held in Samcheong-dong, Seoul. 'I still tear up when thinking about Hongrang,' said Lee. 'He's such a tragic character who grew up in a harsh environment. I regret that I couldn't portray him perfectly. I often find myself thinking about him -- Hongrang still holds a place in my heart.' 'To be honest, I don't think I was able to express even 10 percent of this character's pain. After we wrapped filming, I kept asking myself every night, 'Did I do a good job?' It was really upsetting at times.' Lee also revealed the intentional focus of his performance: that no matter how cold or conflicted Hongrang appeared, his attention always returned to Jae-yi. 'At the end of Hongrang's gaze, there always had to be Jae-yi. He felt compassion for her, and it seemed like, subconsciously, he needed her to be there. So even when he acted harshly and pushed her away, I tried to make sure his eyes were always on Jae-yi,' said Lee. Cho Bo-ah, who portrays Jae-yi, the emotionally complex anchor of the story, described the series as a layered ensemble of characters driven by sorrow rather than malice. "Each one carries their own sense of sorrow. There's no clear villain -- every character has their own backstory and their motivations are convincing. Through them, the series captures various forms of desire and greed," said Cho. Rather than playing Jae-yi as a conventional period drama heroine, Cho leaned into the emotional vulnerability at the core of her character. 'Rather than portraying Jae-yi as a strong, assertive and independent character, I approached her more through emotion -- through the sorrow she carries. She grew up without receiving love from her parents and lost her younger brother, Hongrang, the only person she considered family. I tried hard to understand the pain she's endured since childhood.' She continued, 'I do think Jae-yi might come across as somewhat passive. Still, I believe she carried each moment of the story in her own way, with sincerity and effort.' Cho also addressed the indefinite postponement of her high-profile Disney+ project "Knock Off," a series reportedly budgeted at 60 billion won ($43 million), which was shelved due to controversy surrounding co-star Kim Soo-hyun. "I'd prefer to hold back on this, as my words might hurt someone," she said carefully. "It's a project we all worked hard on together for a long time, pouring a lot of love into it. I believe that someday, people will recognize our efforts and it will lead to good results." All 11 episodes of "Dear Hongrang" are now streaming on Netflix.
Time of India
19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Will there be Dear Hongrang Season 2? Here's everything we know about the future of Lee Jae Wook and Jo Bo Ah's Netflix K-drama
K-drama fanatics were in for a surprise when Netflix released all 11 episodes of its new original K-drama Dear Hongrang. However, fans who have binge-watched all the episodes are also left craving more. While the show closed its curtains with quiet heartbreak and breathtaking visuals, the emotions it stirred up are still very much alive. Starring Lee Jae Wook and Jo Bo Ah, the 2025 period K-drama, set against the backdrop of a noble household in Joseon Korea, wrapped up with a haunting finale — but was that the final goodbye, or will there be a Dear Hongrang season 2? Dear Hongrang: A story of lost memory, family secrets, and forbidden longing Directed by Kim Hong Seon, the series stars Lee Jae Wook as Hongrang, a nobleman who mysteriously returns after a 12-year disappearance with no memory of who he was. His return shakes the foundation of the Min household, especially for his half-sister Jae Yi, played by Jo Bo Ah, who suspects there's more to his reappearance than meets the eye. As the show unfolds, what begins as a reunion story slowly transforms into a romance between Hongrang, who turned out to be indeed an impostor, and Jae Yi, complete with a tortured hero, family betrayals, hidden secrets, and a supernatural twist in the form of a dying Soul Reaper with a mission. Dear Hongrang ending explained: What happened in the finale? In the final episode, Hongrang — now revealed to be the Soul Reaper—sets out to save his friend In-hoe from Prince Hanpyeong's cruel captivity. But the prince lures him in by abducting Jae Yi. Despite being on the verge of collapse, Hongrang defeats the prince's forces and frees the children caught in his twisted human sacrifice experiments. In their final confrontation, the prince reveals his plan to become a god by painting talismans on human bodies — a horrifying ritual that Hongrang ends by severing his hands and ending his life. Hongrang, too, dies shortly after in Jae Yi's arms. Two years later, Jae Yi is left running the household, caring for her stepmother, who has lost her grip on reality. In the final moments, Jae-yi imagines hearing Hongrang's voice one last time. She smiles gently and whispers, 'There you are,' as the scene fades into a snowy vision. Will there be a Dear Hongrang season 2? As of now, Netflix hasn't confirmed Dear Hongrang season 2. The series was released as a limited series, and the final episode wrapped up most of the central arcs, making it feel like a complete story. The creators haven't hinted at a continuation either. That said, the response has been emotional and widespread. Given how much love the show received for its storytelling, cinematography, and commitment to cultural authenticity, it wouldn't be shocking if fans continued to campaign for more. For all the latest K-drama, K-pop, and Hallyuwood updates, keep following our coverage here.
The Review Geek
18-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Review Geek
Dear Hongrang – K-drama Episode 9 Recap & Review
Episode 9 Episode 9 of Dear Hongrang begins with Yeol-guk believing that Hong-rang has taken Jae-yi hostage. Mu-jin claims to have proof of Hong-rang's fake identity. But in exchange, he wants to be reinstated as the guildmaster. He also wants Yeol-guk to disown him so he can marry Jae-yi. Yeol-guk agrees and sends him to capture Hong-rang. But Yeon-ui believes that Yeol-guk has framed her son. She orders Yuk-son to take all her guards to rescue Hong-rang and kill Jae-yi and Mu-jin. We even have Kkot-nim who orders Gyu-ha to use the distraction to find Yeol-guk's main patron. She is also colluding with the Deputy Leader and orders him to slow down Yeol-guk and Yeon-ui's men, find Hong-rang and kill Jae-yi. At the last command, In-hoe looks worried. Meanwhile, Hong-rang and Jae-yi camp for the night. He wonders if she regrets running away. She doesn't, as he showed her what love is. She believes she can survive anything with him. Their peace is interrupted as Mu-jin, Yeon-ui and Kkot-nim's men get close. Thankfully, Jae-yi and Hong-rang are able to escape as the three troops try to thwart each other. Mu-jin re-reads Jae-yi's farewell note which says that she has found her purpose with Hong-rang. She hopes Mu-jin can find his purpose apart from the guild. He wishes he could have told her that he doesn't want the guild but her. He secretly orders his aide to misguide Yeon-ui's men and the assassins so that he can get to Jae-yi before them. The couple's luck runs out when Jae-yi is identified when she heads into a town for supplies. She narrowly escapes but she is poisoned. Hong-rang hides her in a cave and nurses her. Once she recovers, he lures the troops away. He then confronts his assassins and promises to return and complete their mission after she is safe. They agree and he heads back. However, she is missing and he panics. She finds him, having gone searching for him. Relieved, they sleep together in the cave. But Hong-rang keeps his back tattoo covered throughout it. Yeol-guk is frustrated by the endless search and asks the Grand Prince for an army. The prince wants to punish Yeol-guk for his impudence but he has leverage. Turns out, Hong-rang's back tattoo is the Grand Prince's yin-yang masterpiece. In the woods, some travellers take mercy and point Hong-rang and Jae-yi to an abandoned house in the mountains. It is peaceful and they settle in. Jae-yi is playful and Hong-rang indulges her. That night, she cries for her brother and Hong-rang promises not to leave her. It cuts to a montage of them being cute and domestic. Hong-rang even finds a peddler and buys a hairpin for her. One day, he coughs and his vision blurs for a second. The scar on his neck is inflamed and he looks worried. Bad news follows as Mu-jin's aide finds the travellers. He forces them to drug Jae-yi and attempts to kidnap her. Hong-rang tries to stop him but he is too busy fighting Mu-jin's men. Yeon-ui's men attack and it is a bloodbath as they try to kill Jae-yi. The Grand Prince's royal guards arrive in full force and take the couple to the Sims. At the end of Dear Hongrang Episode 9, Yeol-guk demands a confession but Hong-rang just smirks. In retaliation, he tears Hong-rang's shirt which reveals his tattooed back. Both Yeon-ui and Jae-yi are horrified. Hong-rang is ashamed and tries to cover himself up. He believes that his torture makes him inhuman. The Episode Review Dear Hongrang Episode 9 is the calm before the storm as it focuses on the chase and allows the couple some happiness. And this chapter proves that Lee Jae-wook and Jo Bo-ah have the chemistry for a sweet romance as much as for the enemies-to-lovers bickering. Poor Mu-jin just didn't have a chance. Unfortunately, with only 2 episodes left, we doubt there will be any more romance as the show needs to pack in the Painter's diabolical schemes and his potential downfall. Let's not forget that the real Hong-rang is still missing and Kkot-nim is yet to enact her revenge on the Min Guild. We also have to talk about this chapter's ending which is most definitely the highlight. We get the big reveal which is not only the confirmation that the Grand Prince is the Evil Painter but also the artist behind Hong-rang's tattoo. It is beautiful and gruesome, in line with the Grand Prince's warped ideals about art. We also get a snippet of Hong-rang's thought process and why he keeps his tattoo a secret. Poor guy just cannot catch a break. And what was the coughing and hazy vision thing? Boy, we sure do hope it isn't anything bad… Previous Episode Next Episode Expect A Full Season Write-Up When This Season Concludes!
