After weeks of speculation, it is now official: Hwang In Youp and Hyeri will be the lead stars of the upcoming romantic comedy drama “To You.” The confirmation, announced on September 24, 2025, sets the stage for a highly anticipated on-screen partnership. The drama is written by a celebrated screenwriter and tells a story of rekindled dreams and unresolved love.
The production brings together two popular actors for the first time as a lead couple. Hwang In Youp, known for his roles in “True Beauty” and “Family by Choice,” will play a genius film director. Hyeri, beloved for her performance in “Reply 1988,” will take on the role of a reporter reflecting on her past. The drama is scheduled to premiere in 2026.
The Official Confirmation and Story Details
On September 24, 2025, entertainment outlets confirmed that both actors have officially accepted their roles in the drama. This announcement came after initial reports in July 2025 revealed that they were in talks for the project. With the casting finalized, production for the series is moving forward.
The drama will be written by Jung Eun Bi, who previously worked on popular series like “Goblin,” “Doom at Your Service,” and “The Beauty Inside.” Her involvement signals a story with a strong romantic core and emotional depth.
“To You” will follow the story of two characters who reconnect after years apart. Woo Soo Bin, played by Hwang In Youp, is a brilliant film director who left South Korea to pursue his dreams. After achieving international success, he returns to his home country. He reunites with Joo Yi Jae, played by Hyeri, a reporter who once shared his dreams but has since forgotten her own. The plot centers on them revisiting an unfinished film from their past, which forces them to confront feelings that were never fully resolved.
Meet the Characters: Woo Soo Bin and Joo Yi Jae
Hwang In Youp will portray Woo Soo Bin, a character with a compelling life journey. His teenage years were strictly controlled by his parents, leaving him little freedom. In his twenties, he broke free from this planned life and pursued his passion for filmmaking. By his thirties, he has become a successful director whose first feature film wins awards at international festivals. His return to South Korea is driven by more than just professional success; it is a journey back to the person who represents his true dream, Joo Yi Jae.
Hyeri’s character, Joo Yi Jae, experiences a different arc. As a teenager, she was fearless and full of big dreams. However, her twenties brought the harsh realities of life, leading to setbacks and disillusionment. Now in her thirties, she works as a reporter and has built a successful career with a popular segment, but she feels she has settled into a mediocre life, carrying a hidden emptiness. The sudden return of Woo Soo Bin, who she knew when they were both 19, forces her to remember the ambitious dreams she tried to leave behind.
The Actors’ Comments on Their Roles
Following the official confirmation, both Hwang In Youp and Hyeri shared their thoughts on joining the project. Their statements show enthusiasm for their new characters and the story.
Hwang In Youp expressed his excitement about the role. He said, “I am happy and excited to show a new side of myself through the role of Woo Soo Bin. I am working hard with director Yoo Seon Dong, writer Jung Eun Bi, and many fellow actors to bring audiences a great production, so I ask for your great interest.” He also added, “I also hope you will look forward to the new synergy and chemistry between Hyeri and me.”
Hyeri also commented on her upcoming role as Joo Yi Jae. She stated, “I believe I will be able to show many different sides of myself through the role of Joo Yi Jae. I am preparing with excitement, so please look forward to it.”
Behind the Scenes: The Road to Confirmation
The path to this confirmed casting began earlier in the year. In January 2025, initial reports surfaced that Hwang In Youp was in discussions for the male lead role. At that time, the drama was referred to by various working titles, including “Dream to You” and “Dreaming of You.”
In July 2025, reports emerged that Hyeri was reviewing the offer to play the female lead. Her agency, SUBLIME, officially confirmed that she had received the offer and was positively considering it. This news sparked significant interest among fans, who were eager to see the two actors paired together. This will be the first major on-screen collaboration for the duo, though they have met before; Hwang In Youp previously appeared as a guest on Hyeri’s YouTube show “Hyeri’s Hyell Club” in 2024.
The drama is set to be directed by Yoo Seon Dong. The production is slated to premiere sometime in 2026.
Also Read: Hyeri May Star in New Romance Drama Dreaming of You Alongside Hwang In Yeop
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