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Indian Express
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
Will there be Dear Hongrang season 2 based on the original novel Tangeum's ending? Netflix keeps the possibility open
Lee Jae Wook and Jo Bo Ah's new historical mystery K-drama Dear Hongrang ended its 11-episode run on May 17 after debuting the same day on Netflix. If you've already watched it, you're probably aware of the bittersweet ending and may have even found yourself scrolling through a fan thread, trying to piece it all together. Now, fans are wondering if Dear Hongrang will follow in the footsteps of Lee Jae Wook's previous historical fantasy Alchemy of Souls and return with a Part 2 to continue the story. While there's no official word from the streamer yet, it's worth noting that the series is based on the 2021 novel Tangeum: Swallowing Gold, which also inspired a webtoon under the same name. So, whether the show expands or stops here depends a lot on how the novel wrapped things up. 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 Yes, the story is inspired by Tangeum by the renowned Korean author Jang Da Hye. Just as shown in the Netflix adaptation, the story is set in the late Joseon Dynasty, where a young boy, the only son of a powerful merchant guild, disappears on the very night he promises to pick red camellias for his little stepsister. Ten years later, he returns with the same habits and same scars but claims he remembers nothing about his past life. An ancient blood-mixing technique somehow proves he is the long-lost son of the family, but his sister, Jae Yi, isn't convinced. Jae Yi grows up searching for her brother her whole life while living in a suffocating home, filled with opium smoke and betrayal. Then there's Mu Jin, the adopted son of the Min family. He grew up with Jae Yi. Once, he may have seen her as a sister. Now, his feelings have twisted into love. Also read: Dear Hongrang ending explained: 7 burning questions answered in Lee Jae Wook and Jo Bo Ah story finale Why Tangeum? Tangeum translates to 'swallowing gold.' It's a poetic Korean phrase used to describe suicide, especially among 'noblewomen or courtesans driven by despair.' The story focuses less on uncovering Hong Rang's identity and more on the characters themselves, each broken in a different way, and how one incident fractures every bond — three people, caught in a web of memory, pain, desire, and guilt. The possibility of Dear Hongrang getting a renewal is quite low, or even a complete no, given the current series has wrapped up all the arcs written in the novel, and Hongrang's character met the same fate as Lee Jae Wook's: taking his last breath in the arms of Jae Yi. The series covered everything, including the brutal history of the soul reaper, how he was poisoned in childhood, which slowly led his body and organs to give up.. The villain meets a tragic end after Hongrang chops off the same arms that claimed the lives of so many innocent kids. According to author Jang Da Hye, she painstakingly rewrote her characters' emotional arcs multiple times before publishing. The book is drenched in symbolism and emotion. However, when adapted on screen, writer Kim Jin Ah (The Devil Judge) and director Kim Hong Sun (The Guest, The Witch's Diner) leaned harder into the political intrigue and suspense, though the story and character arcs largely stayed true to the source. What's surprising is that Netflix still hasn't marked the series as Limited, leaving the door slightly open. But if the story expands, it'll likely go beyond the book, into completely original fiction. If you can read Korean, or even if you're semi-fluent and willing to work through it with tools, Tangeum is 100% worth it. There's no official English translation yet, but the demand has skyrocketed. There's also a webtoon version on Ridibooks.
Indian Express
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
Dear Hongrang ending explained: 7 burning questions answered in Lee Jae Wook and Jo Bo Ah story finale
Lee Jae Wook and Jo Bo Ah's Dear Hongrang, despite its lukewarm ratings, has stirred up enough noise on Netflix to pull viewers into its historical-fantasy story of Hong Rang and Jae Yi, while leaving a trail of chaos and questions behind. Was it a happy ending? Who died? Are they siblings or lovers? And what about Mu Jin? Sure, the makers didn't keep us hanging by dropping all 11 episodes in one go, but there are still loose ends that need to be answered, especially since the series wrapped on a bittersweet note (or downright tragic). The story kicks off with the disappearance of the only son from Joseon's wealthiest merchant family, and what follows is his half-sister risking it all to bring him back, only to clash with a stranger claiming to be Hong Rang. She's not buying it, but somehow, the family is. The series throws in a time jump, a romantic arc, and long, beautifully chaotic battle scenes. So here we are, breaking it down for you. Spoilers ahead—this is your last chance to look away if you're not caught up. Jae Yi is on a mission to find her long-lost half-brother, who disappeared at the age of 12. By episode three, it's clear that Lee Jae Wook, who bears the same scars and habits as Hong Rang, isn't her brother, but a soul reaper planted in the wealthy merchant family to take the Min family down. But Jae Wook isn't just a pawn. His backstory is brutal. Once a lowly slave to a powerful family, he was captured by Prince Han Pyeong and turned into a living 'talisman.' After escaping, he was caught by Kkot Nim, leader of Geomgyedan, who gave him a new identity and trained him to replace Hong Rang. She wanted to avenge the death of her unborn child, killed by the Min family. Also read: Dear Hongrang Review: K-trauma hits again as Jo Bo Ah–Lee Jae Wook follow Netflix's heartbreak streak post Twenty Five Twenty One After capturing In Hoe, Han Pyeong also kidnaps Jae Yi to lure Soul Reaper, aka Hong Rang, into his trap. On the other hand, Hong Rang, who promised Jae Yi to free Hoe In and not let the prince succeed in his evil intention, gets startled and filled with rage. He attacks the palace even in his unhealthy state, but fails to save his close friend. However, Jae Yi gets saved, along with the other kids captured by the prince. Now, coming to the next question, who is Snow Man? He was often sighted on crime spots, whether a kidnapping or taking the body back. The identity of white-bearded, pale-looking man of towering height remained a mystery till the end in episode 10 when Hong Rang kills him, but it is clear that he was mortal. On the other hand, Painter is none other than the evil prince himself, whom Jae Yi's father kept supporting with money. Based on the 2021 novel Tangeum: Swallowing Gold by Jang Da Hye, the story introduces this character as someone who used toxic substances to hurt kids, and Hong Rang was one of the victims. No, Hong Rang is dead. In the initial episode, it was made clear that a maid witnessed Hong Rang's disappearance, and the Soul Reaper who falls for Jae Yi couldn't lie to her anymore, so he reveals the place where Hong Rang's body was buried, and Jae Yi gets closure. However, the maid later describes what she saw years ago — during Jae Yi's mother's funeral, her stepmother tried black magic on her and contacted a shaman. However, Hong Rang, who saw it all, later slipped from the roof while trying to stop the ritual. The shaman, in turn, asked the servant to throw the boy's still-breathing body. Later, it was discovered that the shaman Gwigokja was also seeking revenge from Hong Rang's mother, who, years before, had got her mother killed. 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 There are battle scenes with Hong Rang and Jae Yi against the world, the duo has clearly fallen for each other. The last scene is open for interpretation, but on the surface, we cannot say they end up together. When Hong Rang was captured by the prince in his childhood, Jae Yi's father, Sim Yeol Guk, applied toxic chemicals on his body, alum and arsenic. Years later, after succeeding in his mission, there is no happy ending for the Soul Reaper, whose organs begin to shut down because of the reaction from those chemicals. His health worsens, and though he promised to return to Jae Yi after killing the prince, he only returns to die in her arms. The show takes a 2-year time jump, showing Jae Yi as the Min family head. She still takes care of her stepmother and is clearly lonely and suffering from the loss of her loved ones. In the final moment, she hears a whisper, Soul Reaper's voice, and says, 'There you are,' while smiling, giving us the impression that they may have met in the afterlife or imagination. Many were rooting for Mu Jin, played by Jung Ga Ram, to end up with the female lead if Soul Reaper succumbed to injury, given that he always yearned for her despite Jae Yi clearly drawing a sibling boundary. But in the end, Mu Jin, the adopted son of the Min family, trained to replace Hong Rang, sacrifices himself for his love, trying to shield her from the final blow of the crown prince's men. Hong Rang kills Crown Prince Han Pyeong, starting with chopping off his arms, the same arms that caused so much pain to his victims. The prince tries to trap Hong Rang again after realising he is his 7th living talisman who escaped from his trap, and that sacrificing him in his adult form would make him holy. 'My search for greatness is not driven by selfish aspirations or avarice,' he said in the penultimate episode. 'Rather, it is my fervent zeal for all people. I must become a deity. Only then will this country and the entire world achieve serenity.' But in the finale, Hong Rang kills him, calling him an 'idiot.' 'You were simply a grotesque madman. A mere nobody, bound by a vain delusion in hopes of becoming someone.'
Pink Villa
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Pink Villa
Is Lee Jae Wook and Jo Bo Ah's Dear Hongrang about incest? Fans say romantic triangle between siblings feels ‘awkward and wrong'
Netflix's new period mystery, Dear Hongrang, was expected to be a major success thanks to its high-profile cast and compelling historical premise. However, since its premiere on May 16, the series has become the subject of widespread online debate. It's largely due to what many viewers are calling a controversial romantic subplot involving characters positioned as siblings. Set against the backdrop of the Joseon Dynasty, Dear Hongrang follows the story of Jae Yi (Jo Bo Ah), a noblewoman burdened by the past. Her life is overshadowed by the unresolved disappearance of her younger half-brother, Hong Rang, who went missing years ago. The incident fractured her family, particularly her stepmother, Min Yeon Ui, who has never forgiven Jae Yi for the loss of her only son. As time passed, the family adopted a boy named Mu Jin (Jung Ga Ram), hoping he would fill the emotional void left behind. Things take a strange turn when a mysterious man (Lee Jae Wook) appears years later, claiming to be the long-lost Hong Rang. Although he lacks any memories of his early life, Min Yeon Ui quickly embraces him as her missing son. Jae Yi, on the other hand, remains skeptical and begins her own investigation to uncover the truth about his identity. As Jae Yi searches for answers, she finds herself emotionally drawn to the man posing as her brother. Despite her initial hesitation, her feelings grow deeper. This was an unsettling development for viewers, given the context of their supposed sibling relationship. Meanwhile, her adopted brother Mu Jin struggles silently with romantic feelings for Jae Yi as well. It adds yet another layer of discomfort to the love triangle. This emotional entanglement between characters who were raised or referred to as 'siblings' has left a significant portion of the audience disturbed. The situation has sparked heated discussions across social media, with many viewers criticizing the show's writers for blurring familial boundaries for dramatic effect. Some viewers have defended the drama, pointing out that there's no actual incest depicted in the plot. The man claiming to be Hong Rang is later revealed to be an assassin. He is not related to the family by blood, and Jae Yi had always harbored suspicions about his true identity. Mu Jin, too, is an adopted child with no blood ties to Jae Yi. However, these technicalities haven't stopped viewers from feeling uneasy. Critics argue that, while the characters are not biologically related, the show's choice to frame their relationships within a familial setting makes the romance problematic.
Indian Express
19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
Dear Hongrang Review: K-trauma hits again as Jo Bo Ah–Lee Jae Wook follow Netflix's heartbreak streak post Twenty Five Twenty One
Dear Hongrang premiered on May 17 on Netflix. But if you're still not over Na Hee Do and Baek Yi Jin (Twenty Five Twenty One), proceed with caution. Lee Jae Wook and Jo Bo Ah's historical rom-com sold itself on a genre-blending mix of mystery, fantasy, and period drama but, after ploughing through 11 episodes in one night—because never expected the mystery to crawl under my skin like that—I guess, they missed branding it as an emotional demolition job disguised as a rom-com. The show bet big on costume design, set pieces, and cinematography, and it paid off. The story of Hong Rang, Jae Yi, and Mu Jin has a solid mystery plotline, a money-hungry father, a powerful merchant guild, betrayals, and whiplash flashbacks between past and present instantly pique interest. Though there's still a whiff of awkwardness that's already rubbing some viewers the wrong way. Also Read | Weak Hero class 2 review: A manhwa misfire, but Park Ji Hoon and Ryeo Un outweigh the flaws of Netflix's rushed adaptation Fans of Alchemy of Soul are going to watch it anyway, because who is going to miss watching Lee Jae Wook in another Hanbok look, wielding swords, as Joseon's Soul Reaper? Dear Hongrang kicks off with the son of Joseon's most powerful guild vanishing. It's a lot to unpack at first, but once you settle in, the slow burn magically plays out with an intense, gripping ride through obsession, grief, a web of deceit and violent yearning. All of it wrapped in the soft glow of candlelight, a stunning setting, heavy jewellery, and visuals that set it apart from other historical K-dramas. 12 years have passed, but Hong Rang is still missing. Women on the street still whisper while staring at his poster, the successor to Joseon's biggest merchant association, who disappeared at age 8, leaving his mother, Min Yeon-ui (Uhm Ji-won) spiralling into addiction, still hoping for his return. The rumour is that Hong Rang's stepsister, Jae Yi (Jo Bo Ah), is cursed, accused of taking her little brother's life after allegedly killing her mother. But that doesn't stop Jae Yi from desperately searching for him, even if it means risking her life. Meanwhile, the Sim family adopts Mu Jin (Jung Ga Ram), raised and trained to inherit the business. The only person he bonds with emotionally is Jae Yi, who returns the respect, just not the feelings he quietly harbours for her. Things shift when a stranger shows up at Min's doorstep claiming to be the long-lost Hong Rang. Everyone buys it, except Jae Yi, who's skeptical from the jump. One standout scene I can't skip: the way identity was verified using an ancient DNA-matching method, dropping blood into a liquid-filled vessel and observing the reaction. The way it's executed on screen, pure cinematic gold. Also read: Dear Hongrang: 3 key points to look out for before watching Netflix's new historical romance, starring Lee Jae Wook and Jo Bo Ah Jae Yi clearly can't stand this new Hong Rang, or the imposter she's convinced he is, but can't help second-guessing herself when she notices familiar scars and old habits. Their bond starts with mutual irritation, turns into an inexplicable pull, and eventually drags them both into emotional storm. Meanwhile, Mu Jin mastered the art of giving a second lead syndrome. The tension between Hong Rang and Jae Yi constantly blurs lines, so much so, it'll have you questioning your own moral compass. Jo Bo Ah shoulders the weight of responsibility and lost love while juggling her feelings for the man claiming to be her brother. Lee Jae Wook walks around like someone who doesn't believe he deserves to be loved or remembered. Director Kim Hong Sun (Money Heist: Korea – Joint Economic Area) wasn't kidding when he said they went all in on visuals and production design. You can't overlook the intricacies, and the costumes do half the storytelling. Hong Rang wears white in almost every episode. The colour usually tied to death. It's like he's walking around in a shroud. Jae Yi sticks to pale tones, too, like someone who's lost all colour and purpose after losing her brother. Now let's talk about that BGM, 4BOUT orchestra. It hits like a shot of adrenaline when needed, then melts into Kwon Jin Ah's vocals to set the romantic arc. On a scene-stealing note: Kim Jae Wook as the villain outdid himself, no notes. But here's the problem, and it's been there from the very start. Something about the show left a sour taste. The trio was introduced as siblings, and by the end, we're knee-deep in a love triangle. I had to keep pausing just to process. The angst between Hong Rang and Jae Yi is intense, sometimes almost too much. The drama never really tries to clear the air—something it desperately needed if it wanted us to root for Hong Rang as he held Jae Yi's hand while battling enemies in that peak romantic fantasy moment. That lack of clarity leaves viewers stuck in a moral fog. (The penultimate episode has the answers, but let's not be that person dropping spoilers.)
Pink Villa
19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Pink Villa
Jo Bo Ah reveals how her husband reacted to romantic scenes in Dear Hongrang; shares couple's plans for kids
Actress Jo Bo Ah is stepping into a new era, both professionally and personally. In a recent interview held at a quaint café in Samcheong-dong, Seoul, the star sat down to reflect on her newly released Netflix drama Dear Hongrang. She also shared rare insights into her life as a newlywed. Dear Hongrang marks her first project since her marriage to a non-celebrity businessman in October 2024. She had kept the union private for nearly two years before announcing it to the public. Now, months into married life, Jo Bo Ah is opening up about how love, partnership, and new responsibilities have reshaped her mindset. She also revealed how they quietly influenced the way she views her work. Jo Bo Ah revealed that filming for Dear Hongrang wrapped up in May 2024, before her relationship went public. Watching the completed episodes now, with her husband by her side, brings a unique emotional perspective. As quoted by Kbizoom, 'Filming as single Jo Bo Ah but releasing now as a married woman feels very different,' she shared. 'Marriage opens a new chapter. Watching Dear Hongrang feels like seeing a younger version of myself onscreen.' Though the drama includes emotionally intense and romantic scenes, Jo Bo Ah said her husband is nothing but supportive. 'I watched the series with my husband. There are romantic scenes, but he understands my work. I was too focused to catch his reactions, but I think he enjoyed it,' she said, chuckling. When the conversation turned to future family plans, Jo Bo Ah smiled thoughtfully. 'In this era of low birth rates..' she joked. However, she stated, 'My parents raised me in a warm, loving home, and I want to live the same way.' She didn't confirm any immediate plans for children but emphasized her deep appreciation for family. Meanwhile, Jo Bo Ah's wedding in October 2024 came as a surprise to fans, as there had been no prior hints of a relationship. Despite being in the public eye, she has always valued privacy when it comes to her personal affairs. However, she did speak warmly of her husband during the interview, giving fans a rare peek into their relationship. In Dear Hongrang, Jo Bo Ah portrays Jae Yi, the intelligent and observant half-sister of the titular character Hong Rang, played by Lee Jae Wook. The drama is set in the late Joseon period and delves into mystery, betrayal, and forbidden emotions. When Hong Rang returns home after vanishing for 12 years, he's a completely changed man with no memory of who he once was. As others rejoice at his return, Jae Yi alone suspects something is not right.
