Dear Hongrang is a 2025 South Korean television series that blends melodrama and mystery within a historical setting. Set during the Joseon dynasty, the story revolves around the reappearance of a man claiming to be Hong-rang, the long-lost son of a wealthy merchant family. As his return stirs emotional and political turmoil, particularly for his half-sister Jae-yi, the series delves into themes of identity, family secrets, and forbidden love. Available on Netflix, Dear Hongrang offers a narrative that intertwines personal drama with broader societal issues.
About the Show:
Dear Hongrang is a South Korean mystery melodrama (sageuk) television series written by Kim Jin-ah and directed by Kim Hong-sun. Based on the novel Tangeum: Swallowing Gold by Jang Da-hye, the series stars Lee Jae-wook and Jo Bo-ah. It premiered on Netflix on May 16, 2025, and consists of 11 episodes. The narrative follows Jae-yi as she investigates the truth behind her half-brother Hong-rang’s disappearance and the identity of the man claiming to be him.
What Happens in Dear Hongrang?
The series concludes with the revelation that the man claiming to be Hong-rang is an imposter trained by a vengeful figure named Kkot-nim to infiltrate and dismantle the Min guild. The real Hong-rang died during childhood under mysterious circumstances. Despite the deception, Jae-yi and the imposter develop a romantic relationship. Ultimately, the imposter dies from long-term poisoning, but justice is served against the corrupt, and Jae-yi gains closure by founding an orphanage. The ending offers emotional resolution through themes of love, truth, and redemption.
Cast of the Show:
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Lee Jae-wook as Hong-rang: Known for his role in Alchemy of Souls, he portrays the mysterious man claiming to be the long-lost son.
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Jo Bo-ah as Jae-yi: Recognized from Tale of the Nine Tailed, she plays the devoted half-sister seeking the truth.
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Jung Ga-ram as Mu-jin: Featured in Love Alarm, he portrays the adopted son entangled in the family’s affairs.
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Uhm Ji-won as Min Yeon-ui: Known for The Cursed, she plays the emotionally tormented matriarch.
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Park Byung-eun as Shim Yeol-guk: Recognized from Kingdom, he adds depth to the political intrigue.
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Kim Jae-wook as Prince Han Pyeong: Featured in Her Private Life, he plays a significant role in the unfolding mystery.
Episodes Details (Release Schedule):
All 11 episodes of Dear Hongrang were released simultaneously on Netflix on May 16, 2025.
Where is the Show Shot?:
The series was filmed at various locations in South Korea, including the Korean Scholar Culture Training Center in Yeongju, Gyeongju, Jeonju Hanok Village, and Myeongjae Gotaek in Nonsan.
