Chae Jong Hyeop and ex-IZ*ONE Member Kim Min Ju might be teaming up as the leads in a new romance drama titled Shining (literal title). Both actors are currently in discussions for the project, which is directed by Kim Yoon Jin, best known for his work on Our Beloved Summer.
Actors in Discussions for Lead Roles
On November 11, OSEN reported that ex-IZ*ONE Member Kim Min Ju has accepted the offer to star as the female lead in Shining. This follows a previous report from Sports Chosun on September 23, which revealed that Chae Jong Hyeop had been offered the male lead role.
However, both agencies have yet to finalize the casting. Chae Jong Hyeop’s agency, NS ENM, confirmed that the actor has received the offer but stated:
“It’s true that he has received an offer for ‘Shining,’ but nothing has been finalized yet. He is still reviewing the offer.”
Meanwhile, Kim Min Ju’s agency, Management SOOP, confirmed her involvement in the project, stating:
“She has received the offer and is positively reviewing it.”
Plot Overview of Shining
The drama follows the love story of two individuals, Yeon Tae Oh (potentially played by Chae Jong Hyeop) and Mo Eun Ah (potentially played by Kim Min Ju), whose world revolves around each other. Their bond becomes a guiding light in their lives and serves as a source of belief.
According to reports, Chae Jong Hyeop’s character, Yeon Tae Oh, is a train conductor who, after a tragic accident at the age of 19 that takes the lives of his parents and injures his younger brother, is left to navigate a life of loneliness and sorrow. At 30, his life changes when he reunites with Mo Eun Ah, a woman he first met at 19, but parted ways with at 20.
Kim Min Ju’s character, Mo Eun Ah, is a hotelier who, after reuniting with Yeon Tae Oh, faces significant transformations in her career, relationships, and life path.
Production Team and Release Details
Shining is directed by Kim Yoon Jin, whose previous works include Our Beloved Summer and Tell Me That You Love Me. The script is written by Lee Sook Yeon, known for On the Way to the Airport. The drama is slated for release in 2025.
Stay tuned for updates on the casting and production progress as Shining continues to generate interest ahead of its premiere.
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