Exciting Pairings of Young Actors in Upcoming Dramas: Yook Sung-jae, Kim Ji-yeon, Kim Yo-han, and Hwang Bo-reum-byeol

'Did You Know?' Reporter Lee So-jung from TenAsia captures intriguing issues in the broadcasting world to stimulate the public's dopamine.
The anticipation is building for the upcoming dramas featuring pairs of actors born in the same year. Notably, the SBS Friday-Saturday drama 'The Palace' stars 1995-born Yook Sung-jae and Kim Ji-yeon, while 'The 4th Love Revolution' features a romantic pairing of 1999-born Kim Yo-han and Hwang Bo-reum-byeol.

Set to premiere next month, 'The Palace' is a fantasy romantic comedy about a shaman named Yeori (played by Kim Ji-yeon) who rejects her fate as a medium, and Kang Cheol, a dragon spirit trapped in the body of her first love, Yoon Gap (played by Yook Sung-jae). They face off against a vengeful spirit haunting the royal family. Directed by Yoon Sung-sik, known for 'Mr. Queen' and 'You're the Best, Lee Soon-shin,' and written by Yoon Soo-jung of 'The King's Face' and 'Sassy Go Go,' this drama promises a unique storyline.

The casting of Yook Sung-jae and Kim Ji-yeon, both born in 1995, is generating buzz. Both started as idols and were the visual centers of their respective groups. Kim Ji-yeon debuted in 2016 as Bona of WJSN, becoming a central figure in the nine-member group. As an actress, she impressed in 'The Best Hit,' 'Twenty-Five Twenty-One,' and 'Pyramid Game.' In this new project, she returns to historical drama for the first time in two years since 'Joseon Attorney,' showcasing a more mature acting transformation.

Yook Sung-jae debuted in 2012 with BTOB as a sub-vocalist and visual. He has been recognized for his acting in 'Who Are You: School 2015,' 'Guardian: The Lonely and Great God,' 'Mystic Pop-up Bar,' and 'The Golden Spoon.' 'The Palace' marks his first historical drama, heightening expectations for his chemistry with Kim Ji-yeon. Their shared background as idols turned actors is expected to offer viewers a fresh experience.

'The 4th Love Revolution' also raises expectations with the pairing of 1999-born Kim Yo-han and Hwang Bo-reum-byeol. This drama explores a youthful romance that unfolds as the computer science and modeling departments merge, promising a bold and daring narrative.

Kim Yo-han, the center of the group WEi, is actively pursuing his acting career. This year, he is set to star alongside Yoon Kye-sang in the SBS drama 'Try: We Become Miracles,' and will share a romantic storyline with Hwang Bo-reum-byeol in 'The 4th Love Revolution.' He is considered an ideal actor for youth dramas due to his stable acting skills and attractive visuals.

Hwang Bo-reum-byeol, a rookie actress under NPIO Entertainment, shares her agency with rising stars like Shin Ye-eun and Kang Hoon. NPIO, founded by a former JYP Entertainment executive, focuses on nurturing its few female talents, including Hwang Bo-reum-byeol, following Shin Ye-eun's rise to stardom.

Recently, drama fans have been valuing not only the on-screen chemistry of actors but also their real-life friendships. The natural rapport among these young actors is expected to positively influence their performances. The synergy between Yook Sung-jae and Kim Ji-yeon, as well as Kim Yo-han and Hwang Bo-reum-byeol, is highly anticipated.

Lee So-jung, TenAsia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr