BLACKPINK’s Jisoo “Will Protect” Park Jung-min, A Chemistry that Stirs Dating Rumors
On Januar 24, BLACKPINK’s Jisoo published a photo on her Instagram story along with the caption, “Newtopia. February 7th at 8PM. Jae-yoon, I will protect you.”
The photo published by Jisoo is a poster for her upcoming K-drama “Newtopia”. In the photo, Jisoo and actor Park Jung-min can be seen with meaningful expressions, raising curiosity. In particular, Park Jung-min took the seat behind Jisoo, creating an atmosphere where it seemed as if Jisoo was protecting him.
Previously on January 13, newly released stills of the upcoming zombie-romance K-drama “Newtopia” were revealed, showcasing the heartfelt connection between Jae-yoon (Park Jung-min), a soldier, and Young-joo (Jisoo), his girlfriend waiting for him at home.
Set to premiere on February 7th via Coupang Play, “Newtopia” is gaining attention as a “zom-com” that offers a fresh and unique twist on traditional zombie stories.
The stills reveal Jae-yoon, whose thoughts remain solely on Young-joo despite being surrounded by zombies, and Young-joo, who fearlessly runs toward her boyfriend even as the world collapses around her. Their fresh and heartwarming romance unfolds as Young-joo, the adored “engineering goddess” on campus, finds herself ignored by the reserved and distant Jae-yoon. He even rejects her offer to collaborate on a group project. Despite her frustration, fate brings them together when Jae-yoon starts working at Young-joo’s ice cream shop, where mutual feelings begin to blossom.
The stills highlight moments of budding romance, from the nervous excitement before they confess their feelings to the playful and loving chemistry of a newly minted couple. Park Jung-min and Jisoo’s natural connection makes them feel like a real campus couple, and their dynamic enhances the story of two people who refuse to let anything—even hordes of zombies—stand in the way of their love.
Previously at the production press conference held on January 7, Park Jung-min praised Jisoo, saying, “What I admired about Jisoo is that she always had a smile on her face on set. Watching her taught me a lot.”
Meanwhile, Jisoo reciprocated with kind words, sharing, “There was a phone call scene with Jae-yoon, and despite not having any scenes to film that day, he came to the set. I was so surprised, and thanks to that, I could fully immerse myself in the moment.”
The two actors’ mutual admiration promises an impeccable on-screen chemistry that will bring their love story to life.
At the same time, “Newtopia” is the anticipated work of director Yoon Sung-hyun, who was celebrated for his finely tuned emotional storytelling in “Bleak Night”—a film that earned him accolades like the Best New Director award at the Blue Dragon Film Awards—and for the thrilling genre masterpiece “Time to Hunt”.
By combining a zombie apocalypse setting with the romance of a late bloomer soldier and his bold girlfriend, “Newtopia” injects fresh energy into the genre, blending romance and humor.
Director Yoon introduced the series as a work with “a different approach and tone compared to traditional zombie stories”. He explained, “It’s a fusion of elements that seem unlikely to mix—romance and zombies, humor and daring visuals. Each component stands out on its own, but when combined, they create a unique energy.”
He further explained, “Although it’s a dystopian setting, from the protagonists’ perspectives, it also presents a new, unexplored world. ‘Newtopia’ carries a message of hope amidst adversity, which is reflected in its title.”
Regarding the series, Park Jeong-min shared, “I’ve always had faith in the director, and there were so many moments on set when I was in awe of what I saw on screen. It was a meaningful and refreshing project.”
Jisoo added, “The director had a clear vision, which gave us confidence during filming. Working with him was a joy.”
