Song Joong Ki is set to return to television with the upcoming JTBC drama My Youth, a romantic story about first love, second chances, and personal growth. The drama, which premieres on September 5, 2025, follows the life of a former child actor who finds peace as a novelist and florist—until his past comes knocking. With a star-studded cast and an emotional storyline, My Youth is already generating buzz among K-drama fans worldwide.
What Is ‘My Youth’ About?
My Youth tells the story of Sunwoo Hae (Song Joong Ki), a once-famous child actor whose career was derailed by the greed of adults around him. Now living a quiet life as a florist and novelist, he is content with his simple routine—until his first love, Sung Je Yeon (Chun Woo Hee), reappears after ten years. Je Yeon, now a driven team leader at an entertainment company, seeks him out for her own ambitions, disrupting his peaceful existence.
The drama explores how their reunion forces both characters to confront their pasts. Sunwoo Hae must face the trauma of his lost youth, while Je Yeon, who grew up wealthy but lost everything, is forced to reconcile her ruthless ambition with the innocence of her first love. Alongside their story, the drama also follows a second couple—Mo Tae Rin (Lee Joo Myung), a former child actress, and Kim Seok Ju (Seo Ji Hoon), a tax accountant—adding another layer of romance and nostalgia.
Why Song Joong Ki Chose This Role
Song Joong Ki, known for hits like Reborn Rich and Vincenzo, shared why he was drawn to My Youth.
“The moment I read the script for My Youth, I felt a sense of warmth. I liked that it was a warm melodrama and a story with a human touch, which I hadn’t come across in a while. Unlike my previous characters, which often had strong fantasy elements, Sunwoo Hae, who is deeply grounded in reality, touched me deeply.”
This marks a shift from his recent action-packed roles, bringing him back to a more emotional and character-driven narrative. Fans are eager to see him in a softer, more introspective role after his intense performances in recent years.
Chun Woo Hee’s Return to Romance
Chun Woo Hee, acclaimed for her role in The 8 Show, takes on the role of Sung Je Yeon, a woman who has hardened herself after her family’s downfall. Once carefree and in love, she now prioritizes success over everything—even if it means using her first love to get ahead.
Her character’s journey is one of the drama’s key emotional arcs, as she rediscovers vulnerability through her reconnection with Sunwoo Hae. Chun Woo Hee’s ability to portray complex emotions makes her a perfect fit for this layered role.
Supporting Cast and Additional Storylines
Aside from the main couple, My Youth features a strong supporting cast:
- Lee Joo Myung as Mo Tae Rin, a former child star now navigating adulthood and love.
- Seo Ji Hoon as Kim Seok Ju, a tax accountant who forms an unexpected bond with Tae Rin.
- Jin Kyung as Kim Pil Do, Seok Ju’s mother.
- Jo Han Chul as Sunwoo Chan, Sunwoo Hae’s father.
The second couple’s storyline adds a lighter, sweeter contrast to the main pair’s emotional turmoil, balancing the drama’s tone.
Release Details and Where to Watch
My Youth premieres on September 5, 2025, on JTBC, airing two episodes every Friday. International fans can stream it on Viki and Viu, depending on their region. The drama is directed by Lee Sang Yeop (Yumi’s Cells, Familiar Wife) and written by Park Si Hyun (Run On), ensuring a high-quality production.
Fan Reactions and Expectations
Early teasers and posters have sparked excitement, with many fans praising the chemistry between Song Joong Ki and Chun Woo Hee. Some viewers, however, are cautious—given K-dramas’ tendency for bittersweet endings.
“K-Dramas have given me so many scars lately, I’m almost scared,” reads one comment.
Despite this, the promise of a heartfelt reunion story and strong performances has set high expectations.
Source (1)
