Netflix is set to release its latest Korean original series, “Dear Hongrang,” a production poised to weave a captivating spell with its blend of historical drama, intricate mystery, and profound romance. Set against the rich and often somber backdrop of Korea’s Joseon era, the series promises a journey into a world of secrets, both ancient and newly formed: the son of a powerful merchant family, Hongrang, reappears after a bewildering 12-year absence but retains no memory of his past. His return, however, is met not with unbridled joy but with mounting suspicion, especially from his stepsister, Jae-yi, who finds herself questioning the very identity of the man before her.
“Dear Hongrang” boasts meticulous attention to period detail, a “melancholy” atmosphere, and culturally specific elements like the traditional hanbok. This approach underscores a commitment to diversifying content offerings and exporting culturally rich narratives that resonate with a global audience, further cementing Korean storytelling’s place on the international stage. “Dear Hongrang” is thus poised to be a significant cultural event, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in what director Kim Hong-sun describes as a showcase of “true Korean beauty.”
Weaving a Web of Mystery in Joseon
The central narrative of “Dear Hongrang” plunges viewers into an immediate enigma. Hongrang, played by Lee Jae-wook, is the son of one of Joseon’s most influential merchant groups (or a powerful merchant), who disappears as a child only to reappear twelve years later, a grown man with no recollection of his life before his return. This profound amnesia is the very linchpin of the unfolding mystery, rendering Hongrang a vulnerable figure in his own life story and a source of deep unease for those around him.
Chief among the skeptics is his stepsister, Jae-yi, portrayed by Cho Bo-ah. Having desperately searched for him during his long absence, she now confronts a man who may or may not be her lost brother. Her doubts about his true identity form the main thread of conflict and investigation, compelling her to unravel the truth behind his disappearance and sudden reappearance. The dynamic between them is described as an enigmatic relationship, where powerful emotions begin to surface. Beyond its central story, the series explores the unwavering relationships between characters, each with their own secrets and desires, charting a complex web of interconnected lives.
The stepsister’s suspicion creates fertile ground for both suspense and intense emotional drama. The fact that Jae-yi is a stepsister, rather than a full sibling, introduces nuances to their past bond and the nature of her current skepticism. Fundamental questions arise immediately: Is Hongrang an imposter, and if so, what are his motives? If he is genuine, what traumatic events led to his memory loss? The pursuit of these answers will drive the narrative forward, engaging viewers in a compelling quest for truth.
This framework allows “Dear Hongrang” to tackle universal themes of identity, the fragile nature of trust, and the profound impact of memory, all framed within the unique cultural and historical setting of the Joseon Dynasty. This juxtaposition of the universal and the specific often proves highly successful in cross-cultural entertainment, offering familiarity in its thematic concerns while providing novelty through its distinctive setting.
Introducing the Stars
Leading the cast is Lee Jae-wook as the titular Hongrang, a man whose return is as perplexing as his past is blank. Lee Jae-wook, often praised by fans for his ability to portray characters marked by “quiet sorrow and unspoken loyalty,” seems a fitting choice for a role demanding nuanced expressions of confusion, hidden depths, and potential sadness. Opposite him, Cho Bo-ah embodies Jae-yi, the perceptive and resolute stepsister determined to uncover the truth, however unsettling it may be. Cho Bo-ah’s established ability to portray resilient and emotionally expressive characters suggests she will bring a compelling blend of strength and vulnerability to Jae-yi.
The series also features a strong supporting ensemble. Actors Jung Ga-ram, Uhm Ji-won, and Park Byung-eun were present at the recent press conference, indicating their significant roles in the unfolding drama. Adding another layer of intrigue is Kim Jae-wook (distinct from Lee Jae-wook), who takes on the role of Hanpyeong Daegun. His character is described as “a renowned artist and painter with the highest aesthetic sensibility in Joseon, as well as the king’s brother.”
Lee Jae-wook’s track record with complex, often melancholic roles aligns perfectly with the amnesiac Hongrang, while Cho Bo-ah’s versatility is well-suited for Jae-yi’s emotionally charged journey. Their on-screen dynamic is crucial to the series’ blend of mystery and romance.
Behind the Camera
At the helm of “Dear Hongrang” is director Kim Hong-sun, a name associated with high-stakes, visually engaging narratives. His past successes include the Korean adaptation of Netflix’s “Money Heist: Korea – Joint Economic Area” and the acclaimed occult thriller “The Guest,” demonstrating a strong track record in managing complex narratives and generating suspense. Alongside him is screenwriter Kim Jin-ah, whose work on Apple TV+’s inaugural Korean-language thriller, “Dr. Brain,” highlights an aptitude for crafting psychologically intricate and suspenseful plots.
Cultural Threads: The Beauty, Sorrow, and Meaning Woven into ‘Dear Hongrang’
“Dear Hongrang” is not just a story but also a visual and cultural immersion. This commitment is particularly evident in the series’ approach to costume design, especially the traditional hanbok. The director emphasized a focus on historical accuracy. This deliberate choice signifies a deep respect for cultural heritage, aiming to provide viewers with an authentic visual experience of the Joseon era, which can enhance the setting’s credibility and offer a global audience a deeper appreciation for traditional Korean aesthetics.
The original Korean title, “탄금 (Tangeum),” offers a richer, more complex tapestry of connotations. “Tangeum” is linked to music, specifically “playing the zither,” an instrument often used to express deep emotions. Beyond its musical ties, “Tangeum” also carries nuances of “historical sorrow,” “loss,” and “grief.” Other interpretations connect it to themes of “exile or sacrifice,” which resonate powerfully with the description of Lee Jae-wook’s character as an “exiled nobleman.”
The Korean title “Tangeum” thus acts as a thematic key, foreshadowing a narrative potentially steeped in melancholy, artistic expression, and the tragic dimensions of its protagonist’s journey. It adds layers of meaning that the more direct English title doesn’t fully convey, aligning with the director’s core theme of “longing” that can transform into “resentment and even hatred.”
Cho Bo-ah On Screen Amidst Anticipation
For actress Cho Bo-ah, the premiere of “Dear Hongrang” holds particular significance. Though filmed before her recent nuptials, it marks her first project to be released since. More notably, this series serves as her return to the small screen following the indefinite postponement of her highly anticipated Disney+ mega-project, “Knock-Off,” which was delayed due to a scandal involving a co-star. The unforeseen circumstances surrounding “Knock-Off,” a series reportedly budgeted at a substantial 60 billion won (approximately 42 million USD), inadvertently place a brighter spotlight on “Dear Hongrang,” potentially making its reception more critical for her current career trajectory.
A Premiere Not to Be Missed
The series intricately weaves together the threads of a compelling mystery surrounding a lost identity, a poignant romance born from suspicion and longing, and the visual splendor of the Joseon era. Guided by the expert hands of director Kim Hong-sun and screenwriter Kim Jin-ah, and brought to life by a talented cast led by Lee Jae-wook and Cho Bo-ah, “Dear Hongrang” is set to explore profound themes of memory, trust, destiny, and the enduring power of human connection.
The commitment to cultural authenticity, particularly in its depiction of Korean heritage and the nuanced meanings embedded in its dual titles, adds a significant layer of depth. For fans of historical dramas, intricate mysteries, and emotionally resonant romances, “Dear Hongrang” appears destined to be a deeply engaging and memorable viewing experience.
As the secrets of Hongrang’s past begin to unravel, audiences worldwide are invited to immerse themselves in a story that promises both intellectual intrigue and heartfelt emotion, solidifying its place as a noteworthy premiere in this year’s television landscape.
Where to Watch “Dear Hongrang”
