Ahn Hyo-seop Returns to Romantic Comedy with 'Onmaejin' After Four Years

Actor Ahn Hyo-seop makes his return to romantic comedy after four years. Known for his successful streak with SBS dramas like 'Dr. Romantic' and 'Lovers of the Red Sky', all eyes are on Ahn to see if he can continue his winning streak with his latest project.

On the 15th, a press conference for SBS's new Wednesday-Thursday drama 'Onmaejin' was held at the SBS Hall in Mok-dong, Seoul. The event was attended by director Ahn Jong-yeon and actors Ahn Hyo-seop, Chae Won-bin, and Kim Bum.

'Onmaejin' is a romantic comedy that follows the story of perfectionist farmer Matthew Lee (played by Ahn Hyo-seop) and top-selling show host Dam Ye-jin (played by Chae Won-bin) as they become entangled day and night.

Director Ahn Jong-yeon described 'Onmaejin' as a "therapeutic drama," emphasizing its "comforting nature" with minimal conflict, making it an easy watch.

Ahn Hyo-seop plays Matthew Lee, a young farmer juggling multiple roles from farming to management in Deokpung Village, earning the nickname 'Quail'. Ahn chose 'Onmaejin' because "after working on emotionally draining projects and contemplating life's direction, reading the script was healing. It was comforting without any villains or grand events."

Following his global hit on Netflix's 'K-Pop Demon Hunters', Ahn returns with 'Onmaejin'. When asked about his preparation for the role, Ahn stated, "I never left 'Saja Boys'. I completed the recordings for 'K-Pop Demon Hunters' before filming 'Onmaejin', allowing me to focus solely on it. I had to experience a farmer's life, including driving a cultivator, which I practiced diligently," he laughed.

Regarding the title 'Romantic Comedy King', Ahn humbly said, "I don't believe in it. I just worked hard according to the script." When asked about advice for co-stars Chae Won-bin and Kim Bum, Ahn mentioned, "Instead of giving advice, we focused on balancing romance and comedy, discussing a lot with the director."

Chae Won-bin plays Dam Ye-jin, a top show host with cumulative sales of 1 trillion won. She described her character as "someone who runs forward like a racehorse, unaware of self-destruction while only focusing on work."

Taking on her first romantic comedy, Chae admitted, "I was unsure of what to prepare. Our work has various colors, making you laugh, relate, and feel comforted. I was eager to portray a strong and determined character who works hard."

She added, "I learned a lot by watching real show hosts on set, which also made me more concerned about portraying a top industry figure credibly."

Kim Bum plays Seo Eric, an executive director of a cosmetics company, adopted as the son of a French cosmetics brand chairman. He explained, "Meeting Dam Ye-jin gives him a life goal when he had none."

Marking his first romantic comedy in 20 years, Kim Bum said, "I inadvertently waited for this project. Romance is a delicate genre, unlike fantasy or other genres with detailed settings. I lacked confidence in it."

He continued, "The 'Onmaejin' script was rich, allowing me to bring out the character's diversity."

For his wealthy character, Kim Bum also made external efforts. He shared, "The blonde hair color, mocha gold, symbolizes wealth. I tested various dye mixes for a long time to achieve a unique color not found in Asians. I also worked on wearing clothes that convey the leisure and gestures of the wealthy."

Regarding the title 'SBS's Son', Ahn Hyo-seop said, "I'm always embarrassed, but good scripts always seem to be from SBS. There's no change by feeling pressured."

'Onmaejin' premieres on the 22nd at 9 PM.

Tae Yuna, Ten Asia Reporter youyou@tenasia.co.kr