“Dear Hongrang” Sparks Massive Buzz Ahead of Release with Shocking Forbidden Romance Premise
According to Consumer Insight’s 2nd-week-of-May “OTT K-Original Content Viewer Report,” Dear Hongrang held the No. 1 spot for upcoming releases with a 19% recognition rate and 11% viewer interest rate—maintaining its lead for two consecutive weeks. Critics and fans alike are captivated by the series’ immersive world-building and emotionally charged narrative, paired with a daring, unconventional romance.
Set in the Joseon era, the drama follows Hongrang (Lee Jae-wook), the long-lost heir of the kingdom’s largest merchant family, who reappears after 12 years with no memory. His return throws his half-sister Jae-i (Jo Bo-ah) into turmoil as she alone begins to question his identity. As secrets unravel, the story delves into a dangerously taboo emotional connection between the two, creating tension and intrigue rarely explored in Korean period dramas.
The lead actors, Lee Jae-wook and Jo Bo-ah, deliver layered portrayals: Hongrang, haunted by past shadows, and Jae-i, torn between familial loyalty and unresolved emotion. Joining them are Jung Ga-ram, Uhm Ji-won, Park Byung-eun, and Kim Jae-wook, enriching the cast with veteran gravitas.
In an interview with Singles magazine, Kim Jae-wook described the drama as a fusion of mystery, suspense, and romance, praising director Kim Hong-sun’s vision. “She [Jae-i] is sharper than any blade to Hongrang,” he said, hinting at the emotional stakes.
Jo Bo-ah added, “To Jae-i, Hongrang is cruel. His return destroys the peace she tried so hard to rebuild.”
Based on the novel Tangeum: Swallowing Gold by Jang Da-hye, the series explores lost identities, twisted promises, and forbidden connections. The author drew inspiration from a real-life French disappearance case and crafted a plot that defies conventional drama tropes.
Director Kim Hong-sun, known for The Guest, Money Heist: Korea, and Project Wolf Hunting, brings his trademark intensity and psychological depth to the production. Now also attached to Gangs of London Season 3, Kim’s storytelling expertise heightens the suspenseful atmosphere.
Fan excitement reached new heights with the release of the official trailer. Comments include:
- “Lee Jae-wook’s visuals are made for historical dramas.”
- “Jo Bo-ah really shines in romance roles.”
- “This kind of story—finally something fresh.”
- “Loved the novel, I’ve been waiting for the drama!”
With its bold depiction of taboo love, memory loss, and intense familial drama, Dear Hongrang is poised to become Netflix’s next global sensation.
