Kang Tae-oh is currently captivating audiences with his deep emotional performance as Crown Prince Lee Kang in the ongoing MBC drama 'The Moon Over the River'.
In particular, his straightforward expressions of affection towards Park Dal-i (played by Kim Se-jeong), who resembles his lost love, have painted a heart-fluttering romance. Sometimes sweet, sometimes poignant, here are some of Lee Kang's memorable lines.
# The 'Knight in Shining Armor' Lee Kang's 'Gukbap Flirting' - “Let's go, have some gukbap” (Episode 2)
Lee Kang showcases his protective side by rescuing Dal-i from a false accusation of theft. Appearing like a miracle in front of the endangered Dal-i, his gentle invitation, “Let's go, have some gukbap,” delivered a powerful impact, bringing relief and excitement. His decisive action to save Dal-i, contrasted with the sweet gukbap flirting, highlighted the romance even more.
# Unconcealable 'Lee Kang's True Feelings' - “You're prettier, aren't you?” (Episode 3) “The moon is beautiful” (Episode 4)
As Lee Kang's feelings for Dal-i grow, his seemingly casual yet sincere words have raised viewers' heart rates. When Dal-i admires Kim Woo-hee (played by Hong Soo-joo) for her beauty, Lee Kang's blunt remark, “You're prettier, aren't you?” left Dal-i flustered yet charmed. Additionally, as he gazes at the night sky, saying, “The moon is beautiful,” his warm gaze towards Dal-i reveals his undeniable affection.
# Unforgettable Longing for a Lost Love - “I missed you, my Yeon-wol” (Episode 3)
Even on the brink of death, Lee Kang's heart remains with his lost love. Seeing the resemblance of his past love in Dal-i, he gently embraces her, confessing, “I don't care if I'm dead and this is hell. I wanted to see you like this, my Yeon-wol.” Lee Kang's deep longing, even at death's door, intertwined with Kang Tae-oh's poignant performance, enhances the drama's immersion.
# Heart-Pounding 'Command Ending' - “Do your best to protect me. It's an order” (Episode 3)
Witnessing Dal-i's genuine concern for him, Lee Kang finally unleashes his long-suppressed emotions. His words, “You came running to me. So save me. Do your best to protect me. It's an order,” followed by collapsing into Dal-i's arms, created a powerful heart-pounding ending. Lee Kang's reliance on Dal-i elevated the drama's intensity to its peak.
Meanwhile, 'The Moon Over the River', showcasing Kang Tae-oh's charming historical romance performance, airs every Friday and Saturday.
Reporter Ryu Ye-ji, TenAsia ryuperstar@tenasia.co.kr