Actor Choi Hyun Wook is reportedly joining Kim Seon Ho and Suzy in the upcoming mystery series Delusion, a vampire story that spans two eras: 1930s Gyeongseong and 1800s Shanghai. Based on a popular webtoon, the drama promises a gripping tale of art, secrets, and the supernatural. Here’s everything we know about this exciting project.
What Is Delusion About?
Delusion, also known as Hypnosis, is a fantasy mystery drama adapted from a Naver webtoon by Hongjacga, serialized from 2019 to 2020. The story unfolds across two timelines: 1935 Gyeongseong (modern-day Seoul during Japanese colonial rule) and 1800s Shanghai.
The plot centers on a painter named Yoon I Ho, who is hired to create a portrait of a mysterious woman, Song Jeong Hwa. As he works on the painting, strange events unfold, and he uncovers a chilling truth: Song Jeong Hwa is a vampire. The series blends horror, romance, and suspense, exploring themes of obsession, identity, and the supernatural.
The drama’s unique setting requires detailed historical backdrops and advanced CGI, contributing to its massive 450 billion KRW (about $337.5 million) budget. Filming will take place in South Korea and overseas, including China, to capture the distinct atmospheres of both periods.
Who’s in the Cast?
The reported cast has fans buzzing with excitement. Here’s the lineup so far:
Suzy as Song Jeong Hwa, the enigmatic vampire woman whose beauty hides a dark secret.
Kim Seon Ho as Yoon I Ho, a painter drawn into a haunting journey through his art.
Choi Hyun Wook in a key supporting role, with details about his character still under wraps.
Huh Joon Ho, who has received an offer to join the cast, though his role is yet to be confirmed.
Suzy, a former Miss A member, is known for dramas like Start-Up, Vagabond, and Anna. Her role as a vampire is expected to showcase her ability to portray complex, layered characters. Kim Seon Ho, loved for Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha and Start-Up, will bring depth to the tormented artist Yoon I Ho. This marks a reunion for Suzy and Kim Seon Ho after their 2020 hit Start-Up, where their chemistry won hearts, though Kim Seon Ho played the second lead.
Choi Hyun Wook, fresh from his romantic comedy My Dearest Nemesis with Mun Ka Young, is set to add intrigue to the story. While his character details are undisclosed, reports suggest he plays a vital figure whose actions shape the plot significantly. Choi debuted in 2019 with Real:Time:Love and has starred in hits like Twenty-Five Twenty-One, Weak Hero Class 1, Twinkling Watermelon, and D.P. Season 2.
Huh Joon Ho, a veteran actor currently in Buried Hearts, is reviewing an offer to join the project. His potential involvement adds even more star power to the already impressive cast.
Behind the Scenes
The drama is directed by Han Jae Rim, known for films like The Face Reader, The King, and Emergency Declaration. He recently ventured into television with Netflix’s The 8 Show, and Delusion marks his return to the drama format. His vision is expected to bring a cinematic quality to the series, enhancing its eerie and historical tone.
Delusion is produced by Disney+ and was initially planned as a film but reimagined as a series after casting changes. The production team is preparing for filming, set to begin later in 2025, with a release expected in 2026. The large budget supports extensive overseas shoots and high-quality visuals to recreate 1930s Gyeongseong and 1800s Shanghai authentically.
Casting Journey and Fan Reactions
The road to Delusion’s current cast wasn’t smooth. Earlier, Ryu Jun Yeol and Han So Hee were in talks to play Yoon I Ho and Song Jeong Hwa. However, they withdrew in 2024 after public backlash over their brief relationship and breakup, which stirred controversy online. The production team then approached Suzy, who was initially considered but faced scheduling conflicts. After adjustments, Suzy and Kim Seon Ho joined, followed by Choi Hyun Wook and potentially Huh Joon Ho.
Fans have shared their excitement on social media:
“Choi Hyun Wook in Delusion with Suzy and Kim Seon Ho? This is going to be epic!” — @hyunwookfile “Kim Seon Ho and Suzy reuniting after Start-Up, but in a vampire drama? I’m so ready!” — @iconickdramas “The cast of Delusion has me hyped! Choi Hyun Wook is perfect for this vibe.” — @zapzee_net
Despite the buzz, the production company, SHOWBOX, and the actors’ agencies—SALT Entertainment (Kim Seon Ho), Management SOOP (Suzy), and Gold Medalist (Choi Hyun Wook)—have not officially confirmed the full cast. Fans are eagerly awaiting updates on filming schedules and the final lineup.
Why Delusion Stands Out
Delusion is shaping up to be a landmark project in Korean drama. Its blend of historical settings, supernatural elements, and a stellar cast sets it apart. The story’s focus on a painter and a vampire offers a fresh take on the vampire genre, distinct from past Korean vampire dramas like Orange Marmalade or Thirst. The dual timelines add depth, promising a rich narrative that weaves together two vibrant eras.
Choi Hyun Wook’s recent success in My Dearest Nemesis, which ended on March 24, 2025, has fans curious about his next transformation. His versatility across genres—romance, action, and now mystery—makes him a perfect fit for Delusion’s darker tone. Meanwhile, Suzy and Kim Seon Ho’s reunion adds nostalgic appeal for Start-Up fans, who hope for a more intense dynamic this time.
The drama’s massive budget signals high production values, with detailed sets, costumes, and CGI to bring the vampire world to life. Overseas filming in China will enhance the authenticity of the 1800s Shanghai scenes, making Delusion a visual spectacle.
What’s Next for the Drama?
As of April 12, 2025, Delusion is in pre-production, with casting still being finalized. The production team is coordinating schedules for the international shoots, which require careful planning due to the historical settings. No official release date has been announced, but reports point to a 2026 premiere on Disney+ or possibly Netflix, as both platforms have been linked to the project.
Fans are keeping a close eye on updates, especially for Choi Hyun Wook’s role, which remains a mystery. His agency, Gold Medalist, stated:
“Choi Hyun Wook has received an offer for Delusion and is reviewing it positively.”
SALT Entertainment echoed a similar sentiment for Kim Seon Ho:
“We have received the offer and are positively reviewing it.”
Management SOOP has not commented on Suzy’s involvement recently, but earlier reports confirmed her casting. The lack of official statements keeps anticipation high, with fans hoping for a teaser or cast confirmation soon.
