Nam Joo-hyuk offered lead in tvN’s Bride of the Water God
by javabeans
This would be quite the leap for Nam Joo-hyuk: He has been offered the lead in a high-profile tvN drama project called Bride of the Water God 2017, based on a manhwa of the same name (sans the 2017). He has not been confirmed, as initial reports misstated, but cable station tvN did state that he has been offered the role of the lead, water god Ha-baek.
The original story is set in a fantasy world where a water god is offered young women sacrifices by the inhabitants of a village that has been plagued by many years of drought. One sacrifice becomes his bride, and complications ensue. The drama is calling itself a spinoff version rather than a direct remake; it plans to keep the characters of the original while reworking the setting to a modern one, set in Seoul.
I might normally be wary of altering the story that much, but not with this production team, whose credits read like a list of personal favorites: Writing is Jung Yoon-jung of the acclaimed Misaeng and whimsical fantasy-romance Arang and the Magistrate, while directing is PD Kim Byung-soo, whose style I loved in thoughtful modern relationship drama Bubblegum, swashbuckler Three Musketeers, cerebral time-traveler Nine, and time-traveling romance Queen Inhyun’s Man.
Nam Joo-hyuk is doing wonderfully at the moment in MBC’s campus coming-of-age romance Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok-ju, and I like him more in that show than I’ve ever liked him before—he’s exuberant, funny, and adorably devoted. Still, I’m pretty surprised to hear him as a potential lead for this project, because he’s still very young—both in age (nearly 23) and experience, debuting as a model in 2013 and as an actor with 2014’s Surplus Princess, where he was cute but very green. He was fine as a puppy-doggish sidekick in Cheese in the Trap, but his weakest moment was in last year’s Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo, where I thought he just couldn’t pull off the emotion or seriousness of the role. I find him better playing boyish, sweet characters so I’m not sure what to expect if he ends up headlining this drama. I can imagine fans of the manhwa will have a lot of thoughts about this!
Bride of the Water God will air on tvN, though it has not yet been scheduled.
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- Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo: Episode 1
- Nam Joo-hyuk up for reunion with Weightlifting Fairy Lee Sung-kyung
- Bride of the Water God finds a home at tvN
- Nam Joo-hyuk joins new season of Three Meals a Day
- Cheese in the Trap: Episode 1
- Nam Joo-hyuk offered new MBC drama Dazzling Temptation
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- Misaeng writer returns with new fantasy manhwa adaptation
Tags: adaptations, Bride of the Water God 2017, Nam Joo-hyuk
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1 SuzyPretty
January 2, 2017 at 8:37 PM
Please dont!
Lee Jun Ki better.
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larana
January 2, 2017 at 8:40 PM
Agree
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sweetsour
January 2, 2017 at 10:20 PM
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sweetsour
January 2, 2017 at 10:33 PM
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Blegh
January 3, 2017 at 6:24 AM
Oh god, please not Hong Jong Hyun!!! You might as well cast an idol actor if that's who they decide to go with...
GedSkaiKru
January 3, 2017 at 6:35 AM
I want Lee Won Geun!!! It would work, guy is golden, and he can be seductive (re: his new movie). He's tall, his acting range is daebak. He's in his 20's. Lee Wong Geun please, KDrama Gods, please.
Ek Ladhki Thi is Kim Eun-sooks no 1 fan
January 3, 2017 at 2:32 PM
I loved all the performances in Moon Lovers. It is where I really started to acknowledge Lee Jun-ki's awesomeness and charisma. I do agree that Wang Yo is Hong Jong-hyun's best work yet. It's such a pity whoever was in charge of editing and/or directing butchered what could have been an amazing drama. I still loved the story though and Lee Jun-ki and Lee Ji-eun's chemistry was phenomenal.
FanOfLeeJunKi'sMane
January 3, 2017 at 9:59 AM
As a fan of Lee Jun Ki... I don't think I wanna see him as Ha Baek...
I'd rather see...
Damn it. I still want Lee Jun Ki.
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FanOfLeeJunKi'sMane
January 3, 2017 at 10:08 AM
And lookin at Goblin. Please cast Kim So Hyun as So Ah.
Young, feisty, yet innocent.
They'd be perfect. Nam Joo Hyuk X Kim So Hyun, I mean.
Lee Jun Ki is good with anyone (I am so biased, yet I am so right)
sheillaamy87
January 23, 2017 at 10:01 PM
Yes, Lee Joon Gi!! / MUST LJK please!! he the best actor for fairy tale and will not disappoint all.
bloop
January 2, 2017 at 8:44 PM
omg that would be perfect!
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Nesma Kazem
January 2, 2017 at 8:50 PM
i think a lot better than him but of course LJK perfect choice
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crystalla
January 2, 2017 at 9:01 PM
There is no comparison acting wise. I am surprised they offered the role to nam joo hyuk
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panshel
January 2, 2017 at 8:54 PM
If they're casting Nam Joo Hyuk, I bet the leads skew young, so Lee Jun Ki would be too old for this role. Personally, I'm over Lee Jun Ki constantly being paired up with young actresses. I didn't think he had any chemistry with Lee Yubi or IU, while he was sizzling with Shin Mina.
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Bayard
January 3, 2017 at 4:58 AM
Agreed, but then, Shin Mina is THE actress. IU was just bland, and don´t even remember LYB from Scholar.
But LJK looks gorgeous in those Goryeo fantasy costumes, and this drama will be modern, which okay, is not bad, but will be wasted on him :)
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jellybine
January 3, 2017 at 12:02 PM
I just realized that his partners might be the reason why I don't buy the loveline in his dramas (Scholar and Moon Lovers). There must have been zero chemistry between them. I loved him and Mina in Arang though. He should act alongside actresses who can carry the weight of his acting too.
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Sheila
January 2, 2017 at 9:21 PM
UGH. If this guy isn't from YG Actors he wouldn't be getting these lead roles with that "talent" of his, he's not even a ratings attractor. He already has two under his belt (School, Weightlifting) and potentially this one too?! There are tons of better actors than him who are, unfortunately, in smaller agencies that don't have the resources to lobby their actors.
He indeed improved in Weightlifting but I still don't have any confidence in him as an actor. I get that they are trying to cast the next Park Bo-gum but NJH, really? Geez, if they want "young and fresh" then why not Lee Hyun-woo? At least I can hold onto the fact he can act, even though he doesn't look the part.
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Rosa
January 2, 2017 at 9:37 PM
Sorry but the ones who are hiring the casting team are in fault.
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Bim
January 2, 2017 at 9:57 PM
That's obvious though. But the thing about casting is that connections that boutique agencies don't have, work wonders.
I guess other young actors in their early 20s rejected this one. Oh, well.
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bananachocolate
January 2, 2017 at 10:11 PM
Really curious about the casting decisions behind this. At this point we don't know the tone they are going for this drama. Already the news of changing it from sageuk (three kingdoms period) to modern is already getting no sayers.
If they are going for a light-hearted drama then maybe yes NJH might do okay (it depends on his co-star and the script to some degree... and his acting of course).
However, if they are going for melo like they are doing with Goblin with the symbolisms then NJH's experience and current acting skills might not "fit". I find his acting okay and to me he fits the sunny or next door neighbor to the T more so than a lonesome curse male who longs for his lost love (this is part of the manhwa plot).
Kinda wish that since they are hiring such scriptwriter and pd, they should have added more to the budget and opt for a historical setting :\
The storyline is not only a romance one but one filled with mythology context and Korean culture embedded (also one with heavy political machinery going on as well). A sageuk setting definitely fits the storyline than a modern one (we end up having chaebol and rich family stuff all over again if they are still keeping the story intact but with modern setting lololol)
Celina
January 3, 2017 at 12:16 AM
Just how many actors in their 20s rejected this that we have NJH being offered the role?!? SMH.
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CC
January 3, 2017 at 12:24 AM
B1A4 Jinyoung suits the character better. Mysterious and devilishly handsome. He has proven that he is good with characters like that in Moonlight.
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Joy
January 3, 2017 at 2:36 AM
JinYoung (moonlight) i guess is old for the role (26 or 27 as far as i can remember) just like everyone have mentioned, they want the water god to be in his early 20. But I do hope he will be casted here (2nd lead?) because he sure doesn't look like his age watching him in the Moonlight
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Kickingtenshi
January 3, 2017 at 8:50 AM
I dont think theres a huge age difference in terms of appearance between Jinyoung and Nam Joohyuk though. They're what, 1990 and 1994? That being said, while they're both great image wise, the character Ha Baek was, in my teenage manhwa-crazed mind, fairly nuanced and angsty... and swoony in a mainstream gruff way in comparison to what the two have done before. Even if they're making a modern jump, they'd have to 180 flip the male lead for NJH to work the way he does best.
Even
January 3, 2017 at 10:56 AM
Jinyoung was born late 91 and NJH was born early 94.
Not a terrible difference I would say.
jellybine
January 3, 2017 at 12:16 PM
Oh, I didn't know that the production wants the actor to be in his 20s. Korean actors doesn't even look old if they're in their 30s. Nam Joo-hyuk totally fits the image of Ha-baek for me though but whether he can act the part is still in question.
Are all the young actors busy? Maybe Kim Min-jae can do this one if they want young actors. I like him as the young king in Goblin.
Ek Ladhki Thi is Kim Eun-sooks no 1 fan
January 3, 2017 at 2:41 PM
I loved Jin-young in what I saw of Moonlight, in fact I loved him so much I had to stop watching because I knew I was destined for heartbreak. I was hoping he and Chae Soo-bin's characters would get together but I realized that wouldn't happen, there was no need for me to continue watching the drama. I think he would be a great fit for Habaek acting-wise but I feel like his visual is a little to pretty-boyish.
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Sailor Mars
January 3, 2017 at 4:29 PM
"There are tons of better actors than him..."
*AHEM* Ji Soo
*AHEM* Kwak Dong Yeon (if we are going to look out for younger dudes who can act, and he can pull off some years older too)
ALSO, even though I love NJH (he is gorgeous and his acting is ok), it's crazy how someone with Ji Soo's acting intensity hasn't been a proper lead yet (and he is a year older, debuted way before in theatre and shows a wide range of emotions in his roles), since Page Turner shouldn't count, due to its length.
About Lee Hyun Woo, the problem is the height. Dramas love to cast guys with cute faces, but they have to be tall, hence why so many models become actors.
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Nina
January 3, 2017 at 5:16 PM
Ji Soo is indeed very charismatic and has more years under him as an actor.
KDY is also great! But he isn't that tall at 5'9". Why didn't these former child actors grew taller?! Haha! YSH is also 5'9" and LYW is a mere 5'8". A shame.
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Nana
January 4, 2017 at 2:37 PM
Come on tall, it really doesn`t matter if the guy can`t act to save his life, what is he going to be a pillar, street light post or tree, cause 188cm tall (and handsome) is about all Nam Joo Hyuk is.
Ruy Deok Hwan for example is 165cm and he made one hell of a convincing king in Faith all of the other costars were taller than him including his queen.
Biblicle
January 4, 2017 at 6:28 PM
Nana,
I've to disagree.
NJH did great in Weightlifting Fairy.
He won MBC's Best New Actor and that's because he did and is doing really good in that drama. The drama is at Ep 14 now.
His acting skills have gone a huge notch up.
I am very curious how this one will turn out and excited to see the rest of the cast.
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MCSquire
January 6, 2017 at 4:01 PM
Weightlifting Fairy despite it's whimsical title has one of the most grounded drama I've seen so far.
It's absolutely one of my favorites now.
One of the main reasons is the acting by the leads and the supporting cast.
Nam Joo Hyuk has turned into of one the actors that shows the best promise. Weightlifting Fairy is proof of that. He made 'Joon Hyung' so real and relatable.
I look forward to watching Bride of the Water God !
Nana
January 7, 2017 at 11:31 AM
J watched Weightlifting Fairy what was so outstanding j really cant tell he cried he made a great immature goofy idiotic personality that teenage girls go gaga over cause he is as far from a real man as it can be typical two-dimensional shoujo manga character.
wow he is an actor he supposed to act little deeper than that sorry if j don`t fall head over heels on his terrible 13 prince in Scarlet Heart Reyo or his mediocre immature teenager in Weightlifting Fairy. Where is his presence his charisma his convincing powers of making me think he is the character he is portraying not just a handsome guy saying cheesy script lines with somewhat coresponding facial expresiones.
He has no experience, he is an actor for what 2-3 years he has no screen presence whatsoever how on earth he will be convincing as a GOD of all things.
J dont care how many awards they give him, by the way Koreans give these year end awards to just everyone who was in a drama, and thier standards on quality are very low half the most popular dramas this year were tear-jerking lemonades, no doubt this Bride of the water god will be the same anyhow.
Tai
January 2, 2017 at 9:37 PM
I'm up for LJK so long as the cast is within his age range. it was awk watchign him act in Moon Lovers with a cast 10 yrs his junior. he did well! it's not his fault but it was rly jarring, esp since his chara was /supposed/ to be their age.
in general tho i prefer leads to be a bit older. like late 20's at least. its very rare a youngin can carry a whole drama. actors like Yoo Seung Ho, Kim Go Eun, Yeo Jin Gu and Kim So Hyun are rare indeed.
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Vina
January 3, 2017 at 5:20 PM
Park Bo-gum, Kim Yoo-jung, Jinyoung, Kwak Dong-yeon and Chae Soo-bin are also young and they made Moonlight a success.
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Marie
January 3, 2017 at 5:23 PM
The casting director of Moonlight is A+++
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vkook
January 2, 2017 at 10:15 PM
I really want Ji Chang-wook in this, but it looks like he will choose that melodrama offer one. Sigh. I think he'll do this role justice instead. He already starred in a melodrama before, so why not take a fantasy drama this time... Oh well, maybe tvN doesn't want to cast him again too soon.
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sweetsour
January 2, 2017 at 10:35 PM
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happybunny
January 2, 2017 at 11:44 PM
Ji Chang Wook is up for the lead in Happiest Time of My Life. There isn't an official air date yet, just some time in 2017.
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Rigby
January 3, 2017 at 4:10 AM
+1000000000
I totally agree with you, for me JCW is the most fit for the role of Habaek. I actually envisioned him for the role (while reading the manhwa) with his oozing sexiness which Habaek is!!! And only JCW can show that cleavage of him with overflowing sex appeal!! Even if they make this a modern setting, Wookie can still give justice!
And speaking of BRide of the Water God, I am still rooting also for PMY as the main female lead. She and JCW will just give this an explosive performance!
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Luna
January 3, 2017 at 6:46 AM
I agree 100% JCW and PMY are amazing.
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Michiki
January 3, 2017 at 2:49 PM
JCW is perfect for this role . He is super handsome and attractive! It would be nice to see JCW and Park Shin Hye for this drama.
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Sam
January 2, 2017 at 10:57 PM
Based on the description, the drama is meant for a less established actor. I was thinking Kang Hanuel to do it to be his first lead role.
Anyhow MLSHR 13th Prince, fighting!
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Sera The Ms Temper
January 2, 2017 at 11:14 PM
Kang Ha Neul is a very great choice, but I wonder if he fits the character like the manhwa. Other one that I really want is Lee So Hyuk.
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pinkmicrophone
January 2, 2017 at 11:19 PM
I am wishing for Kang Ha Neul too.
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sorrynotsorry
January 3, 2017 at 5:06 AM
I'm not 100% sure, but I think he's signed up to film a movie.
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yeng
January 3, 2017 at 10:34 AM
He has a film with Park Seo-joon, who funnily enough, is also a good fit for Habaek.
I guess everybody was just busy for this. Haha!
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Sara Rojas
January 3, 2017 at 12:14 AM
As someone who has read the manhwa as much as the acting suits LJK i feel like someone else would be better suited. I can't quite say but LJS, gong yoo, ji chang wook, lee soo hyuk, lee seung gi, seo in guk (whoa seo in guk) recently back kim jae joong(appearance wise but not 100% on him either, yoon shi yoon (if his hair was dyed *i mean the emotion*) but nam joo hyuk might be a bit boyish for this character... he does suit the visual...
fine LJK might not be the appearance i'd want for this manhwa but he could deliver on the acting..
but lee jong suk, seo in guk, yoon shi yoon, lee soo hyuk.. WAIT LEE DONG WOOK. wow he'd be pretty darn perfect. I would love thoughts on these thoughts lol.
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ObsessedMuch
January 3, 2017 at 12:46 AM
Lol. I love how stream of consciousness your comment is! I specially loved the "whoa Seo In Guk" and "WAIT LEE DONG WOOK" :)
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rentenmann
January 3, 2017 at 5:33 AM
Bahahahaha, I love the stream of consciousness as well! Awesome. Thanks for a morning pick-me-up!
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seed
January 3, 2017 at 2:46 AM
How about Kim Jae Wook?
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Curly Nadine
January 3, 2017 at 4:13 AM
Yes! I need to see KJW again.
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gingerandbrownsugar
January 3, 2017 at 7:00 AM
Well if what the casting team search is an actor in 20s, I'll be glad to suggest Kwak Dong Yeon The Gat Byung Yeon
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yooahinismybae
January 3, 2017 at 7:25 AM
I vote mr ultimate jawline kwak dong yeon
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Lindy
January 3, 2017 at 8:03 PM
I SECOND THIS MOTION
Mia
January 3, 2017 at 8:37 AM
You know who I think would definitely fit the role? Sung Hoon. He's very tall, handsome, competitive and has a killer body. The only thing I'm sorta' skeptical about is his acting because he sometimes can come off expression less. Otherwise, he's my Habaek vision.
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yrlvv
January 3, 2017 at 6:35 AM
LEE SOO HYUK WOULD BE PERFECT !!!!!!!!
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Biankoy
January 3, 2017 at 9:09 AM
OMONA!!! Commence angel chorus!
I'm all for Nam Joo Hyuk's success, but Lee Soo Hyuk is soooo perfect for the role of a divinity. Ha Baek is a very complicated character and LSH proved to be able to deliver a complex character such as Gwi and in the most beautiful manner. Man, I'm getting pumped imagining him in hanbok but then they decided to set the drama in the modern times,,, T.T bah.
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Sailor Mars
January 3, 2017 at 4:33 PM
He was also really good in the portion I watched of Valid Love (I dropped at episode 14 out of 20, so I have seen a lot of it).
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alasecond
January 3, 2017 at 9:09 AM
THink park hyung shik would do justice to the role..
He is young and can totally pull of regal and angsty hero character
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Sojuboy
January 3, 2017 at 3:40 PM
Just Say No.
Too old.
They should find a big star for this series.
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Min
January 3, 2017 at 11:06 PM
I AGREE A HUNDRED TIMES! Ever since I started reading the bride of the water god I've imagined my oppa Lee Jun ki as the water god. nobody else is a better match in my opinion, and nam joo hyuk is still too green for such a weighty character... i hope he won't take that role!
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sheillaamy87
January 23, 2017 at 10:08 PM
yes. LJK the great!!
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Vale
February 12, 2017 at 12:42 PM
Do you like Suzy?
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bee
March 19, 2017 at 9:54 PM
I'm still not sure about Nam Joo Hyuk because his face was too playful.
But, I disagree with Lee Joon Ki, I love his act at Arang & The Magistrate but dislike it at Scarlet Heart.
But, still I don't have any recommendation for this role ha-ha
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bee
March 19, 2017 at 9:57 PM
a-ha. Kim Soo Hyun would be nice, because he has that charismatic aura and also look younger
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2 Elle
January 2, 2017 at 8:40 PM
Omo I read a report where it said he's confirmed. Glad to know it's not (yet) the case. I love him in Weightlifting Fairy, but Habaek is a much heavier character to portray.
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Elle
January 2, 2017 at 8:41 PM
And I am still very iffy about the setting change despite the writer's credentials. How is this different from Goblin again?
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Tina
January 2, 2017 at 9:28 PM
Gosh. With this casting news it looks like it will be Goblin 2.0 with a younger and less talented cast.
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Sara Rojas
January 3, 2017 at 12:17 AM
I was thinking oddly enough that Lee dong wook would suit the lead really well 1 with visual and 2 with emotion. seeing him in goblin i'd be satisfied.
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gem28
January 3, 2017 at 7:19 AM
I really think its wise for him to branch out and take a few more projects before attempting this. I think he is wonderful but this could be disaster if not done well.
@Elle I too am still mad about changing the timeline. This has one of the best and most elaborate set of heavenly world with gorgeous drawings. It would totally be a visually stunning piece if done right. I am guessing, cost cutting might have something to do with it. The costumes and sets would cost quite a bit money if it followed the original timeline. Still, I am mad.
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3 Olive
January 2, 2017 at 8:41 PM
I love nam joo hyuk but no. Not yet. For this kind of roles.
I am in love with his jung joon hyung because he is an adorable bouncy puppy boyfriend, relationship goals and whatnot.
But this might require a lot of brooding scene, as par as a goblin ahjussi.
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azzo
January 3, 2017 at 12:40 AM
Brooding like he did in Who Are You: School 2015?! I'm loving him in WLFKB so I'm trying to erase that memory of him!
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4 azzo
January 2, 2017 at 8:47 PM
I love Nam Joo Hyuk as the adorable Joon-hyung, I really do but I'm not sure he's ready to take on heavier roles. If he does confirm this I hope he'll be able to carry the character right!
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moonglow
January 2, 2017 at 11:08 PM
Me too. I hope if he does agree to take the role, he'll proof us wrong. Just like he did with WFKBJ..
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5 genki-escapist
January 2, 2017 at 8:50 PM
I just find it funny that he'll probably be swimming for this role again. ^o^
But I'm not ready to let go of the brightness of Joonhyung for the (as I gleaned from spoilers) broodiness of Habaek. As mentioned, he's better at being sweet than serious.
P.S. Also will not be ready to see him with anyone but Lee Sungkyung til 2027. =P
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Bellanabsxo
January 2, 2017 at 9:52 PM
Omg couldnt agree with u more!!!! I'm not sure about this drama otherwise the lead actress is Lee sung kyung..
Its too soon I camt move on from the Swag couple :(
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Yuki
January 2, 2017 at 11:46 PM
Omo! You are right, not sure I want to see him with a woman, other than Lee Sung Kyung...well they can marry in real life and that would be more or less solved :D
Regarding the offer, don't know what to think. I would be concerned that it could be a step too big too soon, and I feel protective about our Joong Hyun. :) But unlike other people in this thread, I see the a lot of potential in him to perform serious roles. The fact that he does puppy love so well does not keep him to be good at other things: have you seen his scenes with the therapist in WFKBJ? He is flawless there too, the way tears appeared in his eyes when he had the conversation about his trauma, that lost stare, exactly how it would happen in reality. That was the first moment when he impressed me in WF and not in the scenes with Sung Kyung (where, let's be clear, he is being fantastic if not too real for his own good, hehe!). Also in Scarlet Heart I saw a couple of scenes where he impressed me, his last argument with Wang So was so intense. I feel that people are too conditioned by his pretty face and that makes difficult to feel the nuances of his acting other than being cute.
Hope he makes the right choice. I would be delighted to see him as lead again and I trust he is talented enough to do well. :)
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DramaNinja
January 3, 2017 at 7:43 AM
Never read the manhwa. But after reading the comments I'm so very sceptical. I feel protective for NJH too, this role could make or break him as an actor. I sure do hope if he accepts that he surprises all of us. He definitely does have potential but kinda rough as an actor.
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Yuki
January 3, 2017 at 12:25 PM
Well, you might be right, but I can't help but feel happy for him. :) Not everyone gets opportunities and I think he is talented and hardworking, and deserves it.
Anyway, I am optimistic. After all, it's Misaeng's writer and it is an adaptation so we don't know anything about the vibe and the story they are going for, it might be very different from the manhwa. If they have chosen NJH, they will have their reasons. Also, it's a cable drama so I see it as relatively low profile.
Doing secondary roles will only take him so far; if he wants to be a star, he has to take the risk. NJH fighting!! :D
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Mary Joy
January 23, 2017 at 12:59 AM
I sure agree with you , He can show more if it's given a chance so hopefully he'll accept this .
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purpleowl
January 3, 2017 at 8:11 AM
That swimming comment tho!
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Drama Kween
April 13, 2017 at 5:38 PM
SAME! I am not ready to move on from the #SwagCouple :( Their chemistry on and off screen is unbelievable! <3
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6 Purrpal
January 2, 2017 at 8:51 PM
I agree that he's too young for this. I'm not if he can pull off sageuk gravitas. Hopefully an experienced actor in his late 20's or early 30's (Yoon Shi Yoon? Lee Min Ki? Park Ki Woong?) will get the role.
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Purrpal
January 2, 2017 at 8:52 PM
*I'm not sure
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azzo
January 2, 2017 at 9:10 PM
I would love to see Yoon Shi Yoon in this. Oooh, now I want this to happen so bad
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Dramaqueen
January 2, 2017 at 10:48 PM
Omo, it hadn't occurred to me until I read your comment, but YES, Yoon Shi Yoon would be so perfect in this role. He still has that baby face, but he can carry so much emotion when he needs to. Drama gods, make it happen!!!
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azzo
January 2, 2017 at 11:13 PM
And let's not forget his sparkly eyes!
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songsong
January 3, 2017 at 2:00 AM
I agree I think Yoon Shi Yoon is a good choice too.
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Honey
January 2, 2017 at 9:35 PM
Well, it's not a sageuk. But I agree. He's handsome but he's not interesting on screen at all.
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Ava
January 2, 2017 at 10:36 PM
Oh yes. Please cast Lee Minki, instead.
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boomboompow
January 2, 2017 at 10:49 PM
Yes to Yoon Shi Yoon - with his baby face, he looks 20ish anyway!
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Sara Rojas
January 3, 2017 at 12:21 AM
yay another person thinking yoon shi yoon. hes one of my picks as well as lee dong wook. then theres lee jong suk, seo in guk, lee soo hyuk.
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7 lostmysanity
January 2, 2017 at 8:52 PM
I feel like a slightly older actor would probably fit the image of the role better, currently Lee Jun-Ki would be the best fit in my opinion, and I think it would probably be better if they stuck to the original setting in the manhwa considering the large fanbase
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8 blo
January 2, 2017 at 8:53 PM
Noooo...please no. It would be bad for him too. I don't think people would be happy.
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9 royal
January 2, 2017 at 8:53 PM
My sister loves this manhwa. Also, it feels like this manhwa being a drama has been in talks for years? Or months that felt like years? I remember reading about it before.
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panshel
January 2, 2017 at 9:00 PM
Since March 2015 at least. At that time, our dream Habaek was Yoo Seung Ho, which is still a perfect choice, except he's busy with Ruler–Master of the Mask.
http://www.dramabeans.com/2015/03/misaeng-writer-returns-with-new-fantasy-manhwa-adaptation/
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rochmar
January 2, 2017 at 9:30 PM
Agree. YSH is the ideal Habaek.
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byeol
January 3, 2017 at 2:46 AM
Thr production should have offered it to Yoo Seung Ho abit earlier (before Ruler eye him) I'm sure heshould have accepted it. But why oh why :(
Since when did they look for casts anyway? Why does producing it took so many years?
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gauui
January 4, 2017 at 4:35 AM
Actually, I thought I heard from somewhere that Yoo Seung Ho doesn't like doing romantic dramas? Or he just simply doesn't do them... Shrug. Don't quote me on that, though.
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pogo
January 2, 2017 at 10:31 PM
No, I remember reading about a potential/planned adaptation as far back as 2009 (as in, they wanted to air it that year) so this has been a LONG time in the making.
I like Nam Joo-hyuk, but like jb said - he's too young, and not yet up to headlining projects that aren't heroine-centric. Let alone the role of Habaek, which is light years away from the kind of sweet-natured, affable roles he's actually good at.
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10 Sera The Ms Temper
January 2, 2017 at 8:54 PM
I am curious to know more about this manhwa and i will like to see the views from the manhwa readers, if NJH suit with this role.
NJH is cute in WFKBJ, and I dont mind if he continues to be a lead, but honestly he needs to enhance his acting chop before taking up heavier role.
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Elle
January 2, 2017 at 8:57 PM
Physically, he does. Habaek is very tall and very handsome. But acting-wise... no.
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Sera The Ms Temper
January 2, 2017 at 10:19 PM
Thanks!
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Berubo
January 3, 2017 at 12:59 AM
Yes he's tall and handsome but I don't think he will suit Habaek of manhwa. He doesn't have that heavy and elegant aura imo. NJH seems like that popular and good natured classmate. But a mysterious God? I don't think so.
But since they are setting this in modern time and might change the story to fit it, who knows.
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Peppa
January 2, 2017 at 9:28 PM
Habaek is handsome and full of charisma (coz the art was awesome) especially when he's with Soah. I'd never seen Nam joo hyuk acting but he definitely has a cute face though I'd prefer if the lead actor portraying Habaek looks more mature.
(Potential Spoiler)
I just can't see Nam joo hyuk having a baby. Habaek and Soah had a baby which I'm not sure if they're gonna include this in the storyline since it is set in present. Anyhow, if he accepts I just hope he justifies Habaek's sageuk handsomeness in the present time.
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Sera The Ms Temper
January 2, 2017 at 10:24 PM
Thanks Peppa! Nam Joo Hyuk probably fit the character physically but acting wise...maybe no (just like what Elle said.
Lee So Hyuk crossed my mind for this role because he has the charisma and tall (and his voice, and his handsome face) .
now i am curious about Soah's character. :)
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silentkecik
January 2, 2017 at 11:01 PM
Lee soohyuk's voice.. *melting*
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Sera The Ms Temper
January 2, 2017 at 11:19 PM
His voice and hia face -perfect.
I may not huge fan of him but I want to see moree of him, and he needs to graduate from second lead roles soon.
pogo
January 2, 2017 at 10:35 PM
Elle is right - physically, he's a good fit because he's tall and handsome, but his vibe is NOTHING like Habaek in the manhwa (tortured, angsty, a little sexy - basically a lot like a classic kdrama hero, and that's precisely the kind of role NJH has failed at in the past).
It's more imperative than ever that they get a good actress to star opposite him now.
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Sera The Ms Temper
January 2, 2017 at 11:17 PM
Now I really want Lee So Hyuk to be Habaek.
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Sera The Ms Temper
January 2, 2017 at 11:22 PM
Or maybe Seo Ha Jun. I just watched some of his parts in Flower In Prison but it desires me to watch him more in other drama. Physically, he seems fit too.
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GedSkaiKru
January 3, 2017 at 12:42 AM
I haven't read the Manhwa, but if your description is tall, handsome, brooding, Park HaeJin comes to my mind..or is he too old for the role?
I hope (if ever Nam Joo Hyuk accepts this) that he will prove us wrong once more. A lot were pessimistic with his partnership with Sung Kyung but they managed to surprise us. If he accepts, I'll be watching, but whether I'll be a critic or a fan, let's see. Surprise me Nam Joo Hyuk. ?
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Berubo
January 3, 2017 at 1:02 AM
I think Park Hae Jin will be a good choice for the role. He has that visual and the vibe.
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pogo
January 3, 2017 at 1:31 AM
oh he'd def. be believable as a god, PHJ, but let's just say I doubt he'll ever willingly work with tvN again.
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Sera The Ms Temper
January 3, 2017 at 1:53 AM
I dont think he will want to work with TvN any longer after CITT mess (which is sad because TvN does produce many good drama).
I initially wanted to mention him i but i think better dont wish for something which is unlikely to happen.
Berubo
January 3, 2017 at 2:38 AM
Ugh! Too late. I'm already imagining him as Habaek and in my imagination he's PERFECT. Maybe, just maybe, it'll happen (I know I'm being delusional)
11 yrlvv
January 2, 2017 at 8:54 PM
When taking about mahnwa, people think about super handsome and beautiful. Like Jo in sung is handsome, NJH is decent looking. And hes pretty new. The production tvn team has always been great but this casting is quite worry.
NJH is tall (1m88). So who is another girl that is super pretty, tall and young?
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pizza
January 2, 2017 at 9:01 PM
Lee Sung Kyung is pretty, tall and young :-)))))))))
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neslinin
January 2, 2017 at 9:27 PM
:))
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GedSkaiKru
January 3, 2017 at 12:45 AM
Yes, that would be veeeeeery awesome... Heheh...
My weightlifting-fangirling heart can go to heaven if that happens.
Except that this is Korea! If it's in the Philippines they will recycle the loveteam over and over and over until you start to hate seeing them on anything. Yep, but Korea rarely ever pair two persons together after a project. ?
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mims
January 2, 2017 at 9:06 PM
Completely understand concerns surrounding his acting chops but come on, Nam Joo Hyuk is more than just decent looking.
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yrlvv
January 2, 2017 at 9:36 PM
He has cute boy, high school look. While mahnwa mainly is manly, dreamy eyes. If you put NJH next to jo in sung, won bin, jung woo sung, you know what i mean :) even when i dont like seo kang joon (and his acting), he still more handsome and mahnwa like
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paroles
January 2, 2017 at 10:26 PM
It depends on your personal preferences really. I never thought Jo In-sung (and Seo Kang-joon) is good looking. Plus imo, Seo Kang-joon is definitely not "more handsome" than Nam Joo-hyuk. I can't comment on who's more manhwa-like though; I don't read them at all. But I certainly don't think Nam Joo-hyuk's appearance is a reason for why he should not be casted.
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12 Mag
January 2, 2017 at 8:54 PM
Hmmm....I don't think Nam joo Hyuk will be able to pull this off very well...like javabeans said..he's better at cheesy roles..well who knows too! The writer might make the story cheesy or nam joo hyuk might surprise us!
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Safeenah
January 2, 2017 at 11:19 PM
my tots exactly... when d casting news for WLFKBJ was out, lots of people tot d casts can't really act but now everyone is all singing praises. As you said hr might surprise us when given the chance.
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Baek
January 3, 2017 at 6:46 AM
i think its because his character in weightlifting was well written and really tailored for him.. he was also very clear cut with his past relationship towards shi-ho which wasnt what many expected.. and save us the agony of him going through agony or in a messy relationship of anything..
actually weightlifting isnt really a big breakthrough for him yet.. yes he improved.. but the fact is, its really similar to what he had done and always done just that this time a longer version and more screen time..
not forgetting his chemistry with LSK.. they already partnered many times in modelling, photoshoot etc and in the same agency.. so its expected for them to act more comfortably..
as for this show, i didnt read the manhwa and from the post, it seems the writer, director were pretty experienced.. so who knows, maybe he is suited for this role after all, if not why would he be casted..
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13 so
January 2, 2017 at 8:55 PM
i really want to see kim ji won in this drama as a female lead but now not so much if he take the lead..he is good but its too soon for him to take such a role...Lee Jun Ki would be better..or alot more experienced actors but anyway if he take the offer good luck!!
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cloudyme28
January 3, 2017 at 8:58 AM
Kim ji won! She would be the perfect female lead. Where has she been all this time after DOTS...
Imagining her with LJK on tvn drama. I would cry of happiness
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whimsyful
January 3, 2017 at 10:32 AM
Yess I wanted Kim Ji-won as the female lead in this ever since I saw that fan-made dream cast gifset with her and Kim Woo-bin as So-ah and Hae-bak.
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14 pickledplumtree
January 2, 2017 at 9:03 PM
Ohmigosh! I was wondering why it wasn't a drama already!
I understand everyone's concerns, but when I saw the announcement I was just happy for him.
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Rhumball
January 2, 2017 at 10:10 PM
Me too!! i so want NJH to succeed. There must be a reason tvn offers this role. NJH participated in three meals a day, maybe he impressed them with his work ethic. I watched a lot of dramas and when they dont get high ratings, you could totally see everything seems to run outta gas, and everyone seems to throw the towels. In Kim Bok Joo, I still see the insane and fun chemistry between the cast eventhough they re so underrated they keep giving us nice episodes.
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pogo
January 2, 2017 at 10:38 PM
I wouldn't put all my stock in tvN's casting decisions, considering they handed Seo Kang-joon the male lead role in Entourage.
This role really should be offered to someone who's a little better at natural intensity while also being really good-looking - someone like Park Bo-gum or Yoon Doo-joon, if they're casting younger.
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Hannah Kim
January 3, 2017 at 12:07 AM
I agree that tvN doesn't have a perfect casting record, but considering the strong team behind this drama, I doubt that the decision to offer Nam Joo-hyuk the role was made unilaterally by the network. Seems more like there's something that the PD and writer see in him that they think would be good for Ha-baek (at least, their version of Ha-baek - I have a feeling that the emphasis on "spinoff" means that there are going to be significant changes made).
It's definitely a leap in acting ability for NJH, but I don't think it's completely unrealistic for him considering how much he's grown in the past few months, I want to say maybe after spending time with Cha Seung-won and Yoo Hae-jin. Either way, I have enough confidence to remain very cautiously optimistic about this drama.
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pogo
January 3, 2017 at 1:29 AM
I believe tvN clarified that he was one of several candidates, so all this speculation may be moot and we end up getting a different actor in the role.
But tvN has had the odd 'trying to push the younger lead' moment for a while now and NJH is a rather surprising departure from the previous leads this writer and PD have worked with, especially in terms of ability/accomplishment, which is why I assumed he was the network's first choice rather than the PD/writer's. And somehow I doubt we're going to get a performance on the level of Lee Jun-ki in Arang or Im Shi-wan in Misaeng.
Yoo
January 3, 2017 at 1:03 AM
I don't see PBG going back to cable anytime soon though.
tvN may have a more varied slate than the big 3 stations but they have also big flops this year. They're just as prone to failure.
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pogo
January 3, 2017 at 1:24 AM
oh I definitely don't see PBG coming back to cable at this stage either, but if tvN can court stars as huge as Kim Hye-soo, it's not beyond the realm of possibility to at least give PBG a call on this one.
Syl
January 3, 2017 at 2:28 AM
@pogo, Yeah. I assume this is one of the (very many) dramas PBG is being offered at the moment. He and YSH would definitely be on top of every casting director's list when it calls for an early 20's actor.
If tvN clarified that he's just one of the candidates then this could be mere media play or a testing-the-waters tactic.
Baek
January 3, 2017 at 6:52 AM
I expect the mood to be low or bad naturally..
but is this how it works in korea? if the show is a failure, then just let it fail let if fail? i mean i could understand the show being cut short, given less budget or even neglected and stuff.. but anything more beyond that especially in terms of quality in terms of directing acting and editing does sound really unprofessional.. its as if the loyal audience watching the less rated shows are being punished since majority arent tuning in..
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15 pickledplumtree
January 2, 2017 at 9:06 PM
And I'm just having trouble imagining this story in modern day Seoul...
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lolabeans
January 2, 2017 at 9:22 PM
The most memorable thing about it was pretty it looked and that had a lot to do with the costuming and backgrounds so that seems like a bit of a missed opportunity. Plus it might leave room for comparisons to Goblin.
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pickledplumtree
January 4, 2017 at 4:21 PM
Yeah, BotWG definitely takes the cake for the most lavish, luxuriant, and fanciful scenes. The creativity and extravagance of the hair alone is unlike anything I've ever seen in real life.
As I recall it also is a master in the field of infuriating noble idiocy, flip-floppiness, and melodramatics.
Will I watch it? DEFINITELY.
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kanz
January 2, 2017 at 10:18 PM
Probably just like Goblin? The backstory is set in ancient time but the main story is in modern day Seoul..
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civilsecret
January 3, 2017 at 4:19 AM
yeah, its gonna get compared to goblin especially if it has flashbacks to saeguk times. but it feels like a missed opportunity to not set it in the past, looking at goblin, their saeguk parts are so beautiful and cinematic. but it requires are higher budget, so maybe that's why they opted for modern day settings but i just feel it could have been better in the past. like i could watch goblins saeguk parts all day and wouldnt mind if the whole drama was saeguk. it very well done.
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pogo
January 2, 2017 at 10:39 PM
My feelings exactly - the entire appeal of the manhwa was its setting and aesthetic, and now they're changing both of those.....
I'll still be watching though, because I love the writer - I'm just worried about the project following the adaptation/casting decisions.
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16 Callie
January 2, 2017 at 9:10 PM
I like him, but this is a miscast.
Honesty, I think he rose up to lead roles too quick. Weightlifting Fairy was a good match for him because of the character, but he's not ready for this kind of role.
tvN's been doing well, I have a great amount of respect for them for taking risks, but they seem to be getting a little too ambitious too fast. This feels like they're hoping for a repeat of the success of Goblin, but I don't think it's gonna work out for them.
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pogo
January 2, 2017 at 10:44 PM
@Callie - I agree, I like him and he's improved majorly since School 2015 but he is definitely NOT up to leading roles in dramas that
1) require him to play something other than sweet and likable, the way he was in Surplus Princess or Weightlifting Fairy
2) are not heroine-centric. A good chunk of the appeal of Weightlifting Fairy comes from how easily Lee Sung-kyung carries it, which takes a huge lot of weight off NJH. If he's the one having the story centred around him/equally with him and the heroine though.... nope.
Seriously, I'd have far less misgivings if Lee Sung-kyung had been the Weightlifting Fairy cast member courted for the lead in this drama - she really does look like the most gorgeous girl around, and she can act too.
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17 cekodokpisang
January 2, 2017 at 9:13 PM
Reading this, I'm speechless. He is a good looking actor but can't they cast someone who has the acting chops to make it more interesting for us to watch. If he is cast as a supporting actor instead of the main, I'm definitely fine with it. This dude has a long way to go. Maybe YG should lobby him in a weekend drama instead of primetime, because I'm so sick of watching unworthy actors getting primetime lead roles.
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Mandy
January 2, 2017 at 9:25 PM
"Unworthy actor" - either you're not watching his current drama or... you're not watching his current drama. As a prime time lead actor, he is basically pitch perfect casting for WLFKBJ. There's absolutely zero doubt about that.
And just as a FYI, no one knows what kind of time slot this drama will be getting. So you may very well get your wish and this may just be a "weekend drama". Who knows.
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Nancy
January 2, 2017 at 10:07 PM
tvN doesn't work like other stations. Their primetime weekend dramas are their crowning jewels (ie Reply 1988, Signal, Goblin).
Weekend dramas in network television are less regarded because they're mostly makjang with lower production value and less starry cast.
I get that YG wants him to be a bonafide leading man but I find that they're personally being too ambitious as NJH hasn't really proven himself an actor with range and weekend dramas are a good way to polish skills.
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pogo
January 2, 2017 at 11:08 PM
I like him a lot and I think he's good at certain things as an actor (basically everything he's doing in WF) but this kind of project/role is definitely biting off more than he can chew. Nothing wrong with people pointing that out.
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Dominique Lola
January 3, 2017 at 4:30 PM
The only reason he's perfect for his current role in WLFKBJ is because of the character he's portraying. It doesn't take much to pull off that kind of lightweight character that many other actors can as well. HaBaek is a totally different character to his current one. Far more multi-dimensional that requires more acting skills. He just doesn't seem like he can pull off the vibe AT ALL. While some may argue that if he takes the role and prove us all wrong, he could be amazing. I'd rather not risk such a big role with a 'he might be able to' situation. Why not cast someone with more surety.
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missjb
January 2, 2017 at 9:31 PM
he is pretty much green.
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Cynthia
January 2, 2017 at 10:12 PM
MTE. He got leads the easy way through YG and his good looks. Well-regarded leading men worked their way up in weekend drams and supporting roles to polish their skills first. He's being loved in Weightlifting but that doesn't mean he is ready for more leading roles, especially with a character like this.
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jei
January 2, 2017 at 10:35 PM
and do you think to become YG actor is easy? I don't think so.
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Yeng
January 2, 2017 at 10:55 PM
LOL of course it is. He started out modeling with YG then YG transitioned him into acting. That's basically like flying business class while his contemporaries are building up careers in supporting roles with no assurance that they'll hit big someday. However you put it, being in a big agency is an advantage.
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kx
January 2, 2017 at 11:36 PM
I will not deny that being in a big agency has helped him as an actor and especially in getting juicy roles, but it irritates me when people say NJH is only getting these roles because of the power of his agency or even sponsors! Or that he is not hardworking.
His first acting role in Surplus Princess was not because YG pulled any strings. The director actually sought him out after seeing him in Akmu's mv and practically begged him to be in it although he initially refused. In an interview he stated that he AUDITIONED for the leading role for School 2015 FIVE times. After the bad reception from School 2015 this dude went back to working his way up doing supporting characters. He did Glamorous Temptation, CITT, and ML then went to lead for WF. The boy barely get any breaks as well working so hard and doing a variety show 3MAD in between all consecutively.
And he's not the most popular young actor out there, but looking at his instagram numbers he has a good amount of fans that may be of interest to casting directors + he actually shows growth potential.
Koko
January 2, 2017 at 11:59 PM
@kx Chill. No one is saying he's not working hard enough but compared to other actors he had it way easier. Why do you even think he was in AKMU's music video in the first place? YG.
He's getting these opportunities, so of course the audience expects him to improve with them. He did good with Weightlifting but like others here, it's still not enough to attract confidence in him as leading man.
kx
January 3, 2017 at 12:42 AM
@Koko
I'm a little hotheaded rn I will agree, but the "unworthy" irked me and old past comments which are thankfully not here brought up sponsors which I thought was an insult to his hard work. I just wanted to get my point across. Yes he got that akmu mv role because of YG and I acknowdlege that but what jump started his acting career was not because YG all of a sudden decided he was an actor too and was going to find him his first gig in a substantial acting project or that his first failed lead role landed in his lap easily. The audience expects him to improve and he did in WF although many likewise responded negatively to his casting to WF.
I did not make a statement about the doubts towards his leading man status in my original reply in which if I did many of it I will agree with. Also I'm too wordy and sleep deprived for my own good.
zia
January 3, 2017 at 12:45 AM
@kx He debuted in 2014 and landed a lead role in 2015. He went back doing supporting roles and got another lead in the following year. Don't you think that's way too easy? Other actors who are can act better than him even got a lead role after 10 years.
Tina
January 3, 2017 at 1:08 AM
@kx Right?! Talented and raved about Kang Haneul hasn't even headlined a drama before! And say what you want about Lee Minho but even he had a longer time doing weekend dramas and supporting roles than NJH.
kx
January 3, 2017 at 1:44 AM
@zia I don't like the word easy because my fried brains equates that to "he wants it and he gets it from the get go and doesn't even have to lift a finger."
From my pov I don't think so. I mean he definitely absolutely is getting there quicker because of his agency and a lot of other things I mentioned like the fact that he is marketable. It's not so easy but I guess he's facing less hurdles than what people want him to. I'm looking at the amount of projects he's doing in that time span and the amount of supporting roles versus leading more than just years. I don't think it's been that easy since when it comes to the acting world since I'm comparing his situation to a few idols being that he's more of in their league acting and status wise. Though this is not to say that more than a few idols aren't making their way up from the bottom too.
Let's just agree to disagree? I won't change anyone's mind and I hate that I'm so mouthy here.
Sera The Ms Temper
January 2, 2017 at 10:31 PM
Ironically, the actors worth to be the leads for primetime drama stuck doing the weekend makjang drama.
Anyway, weekend drama actually a good training for rookie actors to develop their acting skills. Please just dont trash weekend drama totally, in some ways it is helping the actors, although the plot often disappointed.
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pogo
January 2, 2017 at 10:45 PM
I would be far happier if Lee Sung-kyung was the one being courted for the lead here, albeit female - she's a much more capable/versatile actor than him, WF works largely because she's the one providing the groundwork for him to be cute.
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kx
January 2, 2017 at 11:21 PM
I was new to both LSK and NJH when I started WF and I agree that she is a much better actor than he is and so pretty to boot. She's a total package.
However, a huge reason that WF is so special is the chemistry between the leads and NJH deserves credit for doing his part well. His expressions and the way he looks at her as if he's really in love makes up most of the sweetness since so far Bok Joo has barely has time to reciprocate it. If he can learn to transfer his good chemistry with irl friend LSK to other projects I'll give him more props.
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pogo
January 2, 2017 at 11:32 PM
From what I've seen, NJH is decent enough as a romantic lead when the following two conditions are fulfilled:
1) he plays roles that are a lot like the one in WF - basically, nice sweet boys who could easily be their gf's bff
2) The actress is competent - see: Kim Seul-gi in Surplus Princess, Park Min-ji in Cheese, Kim So-hyun as Eun-byul in school 2015, and especially Lee Sung-kyung in Weightlifting Fairy.
He really tends to struggle when his role is of the angstier type (later episodes of School 2015 when they tried it with the 'angsty top swimmer' storyline) or the female lead is a weak actress to begin with (see: Seohyun in Scarlet Heart).
He does all right when his costars raise the bar, but he's not yet at the level to transcend a mediocre/terrible costar - which is why, if he takes this role, they need to either rewrite it drastically or get a really talented female lead, or preferably both (or not cast him at all).
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kx
January 2, 2017 at 11:49 PM
I agree. While waiting for WF episodes I watched all of his previous works and I actually think aside from ML where his character was different all of the other roles was the same character - easy and him playing himself (which in his interviews he also confessed to it and is a feat in itself). In all of these including ML I often cringed when he had to emote and even sometimes when he had to be cute. WFKBJ is himself but at least a step above that so that's why I see potential in him growing and will allow him chances for that. That's also why I hope WFKBJ really touches on his trauma and family issues because I need to see if he can show evidence that he can be more.
Also crossing my fingers that we get an actress that doesn't disappoint me.
pogo
January 3, 2017 at 1:41 AM
@KX - exactly. He has an ease onscreen when it comes to playing characters that may be like him, and credit must be given for pulling that off. But this role isn't (from what we know) anything like the ones he has done well at, he has to prove himself.
18 lolabeans
January 2, 2017 at 9:16 PM
Don't do it. I think he's had some good emotional scenes in Weightlifting Fairy, but a 12-20 episode drama is not the place to test yourself and gain hours. I'm still not sure exactly how the entertainment industries work in Korea, but this is what short films, independent films, ensemble casts, and secondary roles are for imo.
Then again, maybe tvN has completely changed the character (not that I remember much about him anyway, it's been awhile since I read the manhwa and I never finished it).
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19 twinkledot
January 2, 2017 at 9:18 PM
the god's bride? is 2017 marriage season for the god?
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20 sumee
January 2, 2017 at 9:18 PM
nooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo
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21 peaches
January 2, 2017 at 9:18 PM
ok so there's no doubt that he's adorbs in weightlifting fairy, but i vote for lee jong suk in this role...definitely has the acting experience, and has a otherworldly beauty...or lee soo-hyuk, he looks very god-like, no?
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Sera The Ms Temper
January 2, 2017 at 9:47 PM
LJS already have another drama with Bae Suzy this year, so no for him.
LSH would be a better choice with an actress with better acting chop. also, it is about time for LSH to land his first leading role.
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kanz
January 2, 2017 at 10:20 PM
My vote goes to Lee Jong Suk, Lee Soo Hyuk (it's about time!) or Kim Soo Hyun (miss him already).
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Del
January 2, 2017 at 10:41 PM
Out of the three, I think the perfect choice is Lee Soo Hyuk. He has that unconventional yet mesmerizing look and he also has the acting chop (I was impressed by his version of Gwi in Scholar Who Walks The Night). I don't think Kim Soo Hyun would want to portray another non-human character after YFAS.
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pogo
January 2, 2017 at 10:47 PM
Lee Soo-hyuk would be perfect, he has the look and aura down pat and he's a good actor too. Like you can actually believe he'd be something supernatural.
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GedSkaiKru
January 3, 2017 at 12:56 AM
+1000 for
Lee Soo Hyuk!
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byeol
January 3, 2017 at 3:01 AM
+10000000000000
LEE SOO HYUK!
DRAMA GODS, PLEASE HEAR US.
silentkecik
January 2, 2017 at 11:08 PM
From being a vampire to god.. I don't mind. He is ethereal.
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Ga
January 3, 2017 at 8:19 AM
Plus, he has that heavy, sexy, husky voice <3
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purpleowl
January 3, 2017 at 8:17 AM
But isn't there a rumor that LSH doesn't want lead roles?
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Sera The Ms Temper
January 3, 2017 at 8:27 AM
But why.....
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Dominique Lola
January 3, 2017 at 4:33 PM
As handsome as he is, I really don't see LJS's face fitting the character AT ALL. Too fresh face and not enough angst. He just has a kind look in general
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thelady
January 10, 2017 at 12:44 PM
Lee SooHyuk, other world beauty check, can act check, smoldering charisma check, deep voice check, needs his first lead role check
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22 Mandy
January 2, 2017 at 9:19 PM
I love him sooooo damn much right now that even if I wanted Yoo Seung-ho or Kim Soo-hyun to be Haekbak so much, I basically squealed that NJH got offered it instead. He might be new but I think he'll be just fine. He's been improving so much in the past year alone and WLFKBJ is such a huge testament to that awesomeness he has in him. I'm going to keep my fingers crossed that he takes it up and squash any doubt I may have in his abilities. If he does it and does it well, I think he's our next big thing.
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pogo
January 2, 2017 at 11:13 PM
The trouble is that Weightlifting Fairy draws precisely on the same thing from him, as Surplus Princess - his ability to play nice, sweet, good-natured characters, usually facilitated by far more accomplished/capable female leads who carry their scenes together (Kim Seul-gi/Lee Sung-kyung, heck even Kim So-hyun in School 2015 since he was actually all right when his character was written as the sweet best friend and not the angsty classic male lead)
If the character of Habaek here was anything like his WF/SP/Cheese characters, I wouldn't have any issues with his casting. But it's not, and in fact is a lot like the things he seems to have the hardest time with, acting-wise - that doesn't exactly inspire confidence.
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kx
January 3, 2017 at 12:02 AM
Sorry seems like I'm replying too much especially since I already did to another of your comments above but this comment of yours suddenly made me think - maybe by just seeking out these roles so far NJH is unintentionally typecasting himself or going to that path pretty soon. Though maybe being knowm as the cute amd friendly bff is better than the popular tsundere chaebol but for such a young actor I actually hope he will learn to branch out more even if in supporting roles.
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appie
January 3, 2017 at 8:03 AM
@kx
I totally agree wid u. Weren't a lot of us complaining about Ji soo being typecast? If by taking this role he can branch out more I fully support him. We'll never know whether he is capable or not unless we see him in action.
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Min
January 3, 2017 at 11:33 PM
i am sorry if it seems rude but i rather he not try his hand at other types of roles as the main lead. especially in the adaptation of this manhwa that I love. Don't get me wrong I like him and in fact I dig his bromantic relationship with Ji Soo and he seems adorable and wonderful in WLFKBJ, but I don't think he's ready to carry a drama like BotWG. Habaek is a complicated character and needs someone with more experience. and I find NJH too green and too young that he won't have the life experience to pull from for meaningful scenes.
23 Lucifermeo
January 2, 2017 at 9:23 PM
Looking at NJH's age, it seems the drama is looking at a young cast. I like him in Moon Lovers, even when he couldn't hard-carry for the incredible blandness of Seohuyn, and adore him to bits in Weightlifting Fairy! Even if his acting is not excellent, NJH can generate chemistry with whoever he plays with (notable exception of Seohuyn - but then I don't think anyone can have chemistry with her) so it's a bonus point for him. Of course there are better actors his age, but if the drama is rewritten to have a lighter tone in Seoul then I'm fine with NJH, and glad he could have more exposure.
Not that I'm not still annoyed they changed the saguek to modern.
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trash
January 3, 2017 at 5:41 PM
"I don't think anyone can have chemistry with her." Not true exactly. There was Yong Hwa when they did WGM, took him 6 months but the boy finally did it!
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24 ѕαѕнα נσя∂єη ♡
January 2, 2017 at 9:24 PM
Ideally for me the lead would be Kim MIn Jae (the young king in Goblin). His saeguk speech is G R E A T and he can pull off both scary AND cute with that heavenly face... not to mention his voice makes me want to melt. If I had one wish this would be in the Top 10.
Kim Min Jae P L E A S E
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Anna
January 2, 2017 at 9:25 PM
Makes me think Yeo Jingoo would have been a good choice as well.
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Makoto
January 3, 2017 at 4:08 AM
Voice that melts anyone's heart, that's defiintely Yeo Jin Goo.
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elric
January 2, 2017 at 9:39 PM
+1 for this! I'm also praying that he and Kim So-hyun do a sageuk project since their scenes are just stunning to watch.
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hanbin
January 2, 2017 at 9:41 PM
Me three! I pray to the heavens that Sohyun and Minjae will have a project together in the future. I don't care if it's sageuk or modern, I'm positive they'll nail their characters anyway. Their chemistry is so so sooooo good.
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kanz
January 2, 2017 at 10:23 PM
God, I'm not the only one want them to do a project together, as leads in a drama, not just cameo or special appearances.
Their chemistry is sizzling and they're really really beautiful to look at together! However KSH has a sageuk project with YSH and KMJ is still filming RDTK, I don't know how it's possible to cast them here..
Still, I'm hoping they'll reunite again in the future.
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ET
January 2, 2017 at 9:54 PM
This actor made quite an impression on me. I didn't even know his name and got him mixed up with another actor. I hope to see him in bigger roles soon.
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Sera The Ms Temper
January 2, 2017 at 10:02 PM
Looking at Kim Min Jae currently and how he has improved himself, I just remember how I hated his acting in Twenty Again as Choi Ji Woo's son.
One of the actors that I want to see him in another sageuk again. Even he and KSH have limited screentimes in Goblin, they really did well and made me want to see their pairing again.
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Sera The Ms Temper
January 2, 2017 at 10:03 PM
He also cute as Nurse Park in RTDK.I ship him with Yeon Hwa.
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ET
January 2, 2017 at 10:09 PM
What! He was CJW's son in Twenty Again and he's Nurse Park!!! I can't believe I watched both shows and couldn't recognize him!
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Sera The Ms Temper
January 2, 2017 at 10:35 PM
LOL I know right.
He was forgettable before, but no more now. He also grabbed New Star Awads recently so I hope he will have a nice future.
Makoto
January 3, 2017 at 4:12 AM
He was the jealous idol in Persevere Goo Haera, too. I really hated his character there but then he melted my heart in Twenty Again, when he realized where he got his talent and then became very supporting to his mother.
25 Anna
January 2, 2017 at 9:24 PM
Wow he never stops working, does he?
Hoping for either Kim Jiwon or Kim Yoojung to be the female lead.
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26 believed
January 2, 2017 at 9:25 PM
#LetJiSooStarAsALead
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Tris
January 2, 2017 at 9:29 PM
Ji Soo is no more ready for this role than NJH. And I say that as a fan of both.
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Sunflowerdiva
January 2, 2017 at 10:03 PM
+1 So very very true. I love them both, but they're still not weathered/experienced/mature enough to carry shows that are more serious in tone. One day, I hope! But not right now.
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Sera The Ms Temper
January 2, 2017 at 10:07 PM
I want Ji Soo to land his first lead role and get the girl but give him something light, youthful drama maybe just lIke Nam Joo Hyuk's role in WFKBJ. They are eye candies, but they need to get more experiences before take heavier roles.
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pogo
January 3, 2017 at 3:54 AM
I think Ji-soo can actually take on heavier roles (he does well with intensity) but as the supporting act to a more experienced actor, like Im Shi-wan in The Attorney.
I mean, we may think of his roles as cute puppy fluff but his characters in both Angry Mom and Sassy Go Go were quite dark, in places - I'd say what he does need is a heroine who can balance it out and take it lighter where needed, like Jun Eun-ji (drama gods, reunite them please! In a good project!*)
*I feel like I have become very specific about asking for this post Gab-soon.
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Sera The Ms Temper
January 3, 2017 at 8:32 AM
i agree, i want him to branch out from his usual roles but start with suppporting roles first.
Right pogo, after Gab-soon, we seriously need to pray specifically on the reunion. I feel sad whenever i think about this drama especially Kim So Eun. i hate to admit it but most people watching for other storylines aside from main couple's storyline.
pogo
January 2, 2017 at 10:49 PM
yeah, not for this role.
But in general, I think he'd make a more believable hero than NJH because he can at least do stuff acting-wise that goes beyond playing cute puppy.
(note: I would NOT recommend him if this were a sageuk though)
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Tris
January 2, 2017 at 10:53 PM
Ji Soo has basically only done the cute puppy thing though.
I think he's above NJH currently as far as skill goes (though Scarlet Heart wasn't really a good showing for either of them), but I need his agency to get him to play something different, cause right now it feels like he's type-casting himself.
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pogo
January 2, 2017 at 11:04 PM
yeah, but within those roles he's done a much better job of portraying intense emotion than NJH has ever done.
I mean, I can't see Nam Joo-hyuk pulling off anything like Bokdongie's breakdown with No-ah in Angry Mom, or the scene in Sassy Go Go where he and Lee Won-geun have it out with each other over falling for the same girl. And from what I've seen of him in movies (ok, one movie), he at least can hold a screen on his own.
That said, NJH is better at sageuk - I was surprised by him in Scarlet Heart, the tone isn't perfect but at least comes easier to him than Ji-soo.
Yunal
January 3, 2017 at 12:01 AM
JiSoo is way more charismatic than NJH. JS commands attention. NJH is just pretty to look at.
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pogo
January 3, 2017 at 1:35 AM
I can't help but agree. Ji-soo isn't perfect as an actor, but he does have charisma, it's a huge part of the reason he became such a scene-stealer in Angry Mom when before the drama, literally none of us even knew who he was.
ѕαѕнα נσя∂єη ♡
January 2, 2017 at 9:48 PM
I don't know if i'm the only one but I don't think i'll be able to make it through a drama with him as the lead characther because his voice is kinda annoying, i mean it really stands out.. supporting charachter sure but lead :/
jisoo is also not that much of a better than njh so it's like dropping one twin for the other
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27 Miky
January 2, 2017 at 9:30 PM
Woa such a great oportunity for him..While for sure he wasn't my first choice when thinking of the drama as i somehow always hie Lee Jung Gi as the lead or Yoo Seung Ho i don't mind at all as i like him a lot and more than sure the stuff considered him perfect for the role so not gonna comm much till after i see it..This is a rare remake were i don't mind the changes as i hated the ending of the manhwa a lot so hope they change it here...Now i'm even more eager to know about the lead actress choice and the drama per se as i wasn't going to watch it but tvN rarely dissappointed me.
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28 lunatic4kd
January 2, 2017 at 9:31 PM
Talk about a stretch for this fine young actor. He's proven his comedy chops in Weightlifting Fairy, which frankly surprised me, and I think he's been acting WAY above what we saw in Surplus Princess and Moon Lovers - but WF has shown me he has some range.
Bless his heart, he must be scared to DEATH at the possibility of the serious role in this new drama, but if his sudden exhibition of raw talent in WF is any indication, he could surprise us all. I'll be pulling for him 100% because I don't want this good young guy to fail - at anything!
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29 jheart
January 2, 2017 at 9:33 PM
Liking NJH more after his transformation as Joon Hyung
However, he is still too "green" for this type of role.
When I heard of it last year, I wish for Song Joong Ki/Kim Ji Won or Kim Woo Bin/Kim Ji Won
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silverring
January 3, 2017 at 12:54 AM
I want Kim Ji Won/Kim Woo Bin basically in anything. How could no one jumped to cast them yet. Their chemistry in The Heirs was a killer.
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Jennalyn Zul
January 3, 2017 at 3:19 AM
Yep...I've been waiting for this pairing since Heirs...someone please make this happen
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30 harem
January 2, 2017 at 9:33 PM
uhh..just no. His acting in weightlifting is just alright, nothing striking. His expresions range were limited. The one who carry the show is lee sung kyung with her antics and persona. To me, he doesn't have the x-factor for me to watch for him alone.
Recommendation:
Lee Dong Wook
Song Joong ki (I mean this misaeng blockbuster production!)
Lee Jun Ki( a modern theme jun ki!)
Bae Yong Joon (XD I know he's old but still..)
Jo insung
Kim Bum
Park Seo joon
Park Shi hoo(as his comeback!)
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ET
January 2, 2017 at 9:48 PM
I beg to differ. In Weightlifting Fairy, his expressions are so to the point and very subtle and nuanced at that. Lee Sung Kyung is great but it's not just her.
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Sera The Ms Temper
January 2, 2017 at 10:13 PM
He is improved from his past projects, but he still has that stiff expression, sometimes. I really love him in this drama so i hope i dont have to dislike him in another role too soon due to his lacking in acting. I do think LSK is not so much better than him, but generally she is better even slightly.
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ET
January 2, 2017 at 10:16 PM
While I see him differently, I agree with you that I hope I don't have to dislike him in this new role. I have low tolerance for lack in acting.
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Sera The Ms Temper
January 2, 2017 at 10:37 PM
Same I also have zero tolerance in acting. I want NJH to keep rise but step by step.
Harem
January 2, 2017 at 11:38 PM
His expressions..just barely on point, TO ME. I mean, when he sad, I dont feel sad, or when he was feeling conflicted, I can see the emotion as it's there, but I couldn't get myself to drawn to the emotion that was being presented by him. The good thing is, he is good in fluffy, cute romance without melo. I smiled along when he smiles or doing cute things with LSK, but that's it. He needs to polish his skill more, not by going jump RANK like this.
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Elle
January 2, 2017 at 10:29 PM
Ehhhh... no for most of these. Habaek is supposed to look young because he's a god, and I want Lee Jun-ki to play something very different from his last two roles.
Park Seo-joon could work, but Park Hyung-shik is a much better fit as he's more classically handsome. And a big NO to Park Shi-hoo.
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pogo
January 2, 2017 at 10:53 PM
Park Hyung-shik would actually be a good fit, he's young but classically handsome and can definitely pull off lovelorn/tortured godliness (plus he has great chemistry with all his female leads so far).
definite NO to Park Shi-hoo though. This is a romantic lead, and considering how murky the circumstances surrounding his alleged offence were, I would rather not see him in a role like this. Especially considering the manhwa has scenes where Habaek uses physical force on Soah.
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Nadila Nadila
January 2, 2017 at 10:58 PM
I agree with park hyung sik, he has that otherworldly beauty feel, yeah I just watched hwarang ep. 5 so I can say that for sure, he would be suitable on playing a god character
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Harem
January 2, 2017 at 11:46 PM
err..did u read the article above? It will going to be modern setting instead of saeguk. So I dont see why he cant fit into the role since I always want to see him in modern romance for once.
Ok2,how about so ji sub or lee dong wook?
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Elle
January 2, 2017 at 11:58 PM
Yep I read it. But I want Lee Jun-ki in a role that isn't supernatural or princely/kingly. Habaek is both, sort of.
Both So Ji-sub and Lee Dong-wook are too old. TvN seems to be skewing younger with the casting.
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Sara Rojas
January 3, 2017 at 12:23 AM
odd to say that about lee dong wook as tvn cast him in bubblegum from 2015 and goblin 2016-2017. he does tvn very well and i think they and all of us love him a lot in anything he does.
Elle
January 3, 2017 at 12:31 AM
No one's saying that Lee Dong-wook is not a good fit for TvN, just that he may look too old for the part of Habaek. Dong-wook is in his mid-30s and he looks it. His leading lady in Bubblegum was near his age, as is Yoo Inna in Goblin. I love him and think he looks really good as the Reaper/King, but I can't imagine him as the eternally youthful Habaek.
Besides, if the casting directors are have offered the role to Nam Joo-hyuk, who is more than 10 years younger than LDW, then they probably are looking for actors around that age for the main cast.
Hilda
January 3, 2017 at 12:04 AM
+1 for Park Seo-joon
He's not really top-tier yet so he's not going to be too expensive but you get talent + looks.
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Nina Chikovani
January 3, 2017 at 1:28 AM
Agree and after watching One Warm Word I am sure he can pull any angsty-tortured-mysterious character role.....
On another note, I really hope Nam Joo Hyuk would decline, because now I know at least five guys who would be a better fit for this role than him
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31 neslinin
January 2, 2017 at 9:33 PM
We do not know about the tone of the drama though. Also who the female lead will be. Maybe it will not be an overwhelming, serious character that he will play, and he will be paired with somone who is at the same acting range with him?
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Min
January 3, 2017 at 11:43 PM
we do kind of know the tone since there is source material for the drama and it wont be anything as lightweight as wlfkbj
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32 Viki
January 2, 2017 at 9:33 PM
I'm looking into this positively, just because of his performance in Kim Bok-Ju.
It really depends on how light or melo the drama will be though. Will it be lighthearted like Kim Bok-Ju or more melo like Goblin but with a hint of humor? I think NJH will do fine if it's the former...but I'm not sure if he can pull off the latter. We shall see!
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33 hanbin
January 2, 2017 at 9:36 PM
I love him in Weightlifting Fairy, I really do. But isn't this too soon?Moon Lovers wasn't that long ago but he couldn't emote. The reason he's breezing through WF is because those kind of roles fit him best -- cheerful, cute, puppy-like. And if they're going for younger, talented but relatively unknown male lead, there's Kim Minjae, Shin Jaeha. They could use this to showcase their talent and (possibly) propel to stardom.
If he does accept this, I just hope he proves me wrong. Just like he did in WF.
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34 Nadila Nadila
January 2, 2017 at 9:36 PM
the guy lacked charisma as the lead material guy, I truly hope he improves since I like the premise of this drama
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35 elric
January 2, 2017 at 9:36 PM
As much as I absolutely love Weightlifting Fairy and Nam Joo-hyuk in it, it's his character that I love and not his acting. His good at being boyish, charming, and cute but he sometimes struggle with showing deep emotions.
If they're looking for young, I hope they would consider Kim Min-jae. He's great as the young Wang Yeo in Goblin and he can also pull of the boyish charm as seen in the coming of age drama, Because It's the First Time.
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36 so
January 2, 2017 at 9:42 PM
plus i think its too early for him to take another role in drama when his previous drama was not a long ago..a lot of fans probably still ship him with the leadind lady of that drama and i don't know what kind of behavior they would show to the leading actress in this.i really was hope to see kim ji won with kim soo hyun!!
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37 Harem
January 2, 2017 at 9:43 PM
how about SO JI SUB?
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38 mk
January 2, 2017 at 9:44 PM
Mm, I would have hoped for an older actor.
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39 ET
January 2, 2017 at 9:46 PM
This is a huge surprise!
Nam Joo Hyuk must be "The It Boy" because I think tvN has high hopes on this one. Despite Weightlifting Fairy not doing well in ratings, its hype and popularity must be noticeable in Korea.
On DB and KP, Lee Jun Ki seems to be the most desired actor for this role. Contrary to most people, I prefer Lee Jun Ki when he's not serious and not brooding. I feel that he overacts whenever he is supposed to be serious or in an emotional scene. I enjoyed those rare bits in Moon Lovers when he was being cheeky and teasing.
As much as I am loving Nam Joo Hyuk in WFKBJ, I admit I am uncertain if he can pull off this role. But I sure hope he will! If he succeeds, we have a new star in the making. If he doesn't then I hope that he at least tries his best and learn how to act better.
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Mina
January 2, 2017 at 10:35 PM
Weightlifting is popular with teens in Korea, plus he already starred in School which is also popular with the younger set. He is handsome and tall so of course he's going to get noticed. But he is also known for being an inadequate actor. The top article on this are peppered with such comments as well.
Basically, he is a notch below Seo Kang-joon and nowhere near the levels of Park Bo-gum which are all in their early 20s.
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Hannah
January 2, 2017 at 10:41 PM
I'm feeling that he is equal to or slightly above SKJ now in terms of being a trendy actor especially after Entourage.
I agree though that NJH is still inexperienced. Even if he is good in Weightlifting, most of his contemporaries can pull it off just as well, or even better.
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Hannah
January 3, 2017 at 2:33 AM
Actually, it's just not "peppered", it's full of doubt with his acting.
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Chandler
January 2, 2017 at 11:54 PM
I actually understand your feelings on Lee Jun Ki because l like him in lighter roles too (though l personally like him dramatic too now because he's improved drastically). But this would be a reteam with the Arang and the Magistrate writer, which is arguably his lightest, most comedic role in recent years. It's actually why I love him as much as I do. So that's a huge reason why I'd be excited to see this reunion. That said, there are plenty of other actors I'd be happy to see in this. I'm just not sure Nam Joo-hyuk is ready for this yet. I kinda just want to make him play the same character forever, tbh. Joon-hyung, don't leave me!
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pogo
January 3, 2017 at 4:10 AM
@Chandler - yeah, but the manhwa is super angsty, I'd say it has about as much humour as Scarlet Heart lol.
Lee Jun-ki's a natural fit to play a god (how could he not be, with that face) but if Lee Jun-ki in lighter mode is what you're looking for, this might not be quite the ticket though of course any kdrama worth its salt will slip in some humour here and there.
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40 Rhumball
January 2, 2017 at 9:53 PM
I love NJH in weightlifting fairy to pieces. I am glad if I get to see him on screen that soon. I dont read the manga so I dont know the story. But the writer is from Misaeng. And if they can get gelling fun cast, directing, it will be great. What makes me crazy about Kim Bok Joo is their chemistry, his gaze is so heart fluttering. if he accepts this role, I hope he will get some directions fom his sunbaes in YG. I am rooting for his success.
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41 jycr
January 2, 2017 at 9:58 PM
Ehh, not a fan of this. I know it isn't confirmed but I honestly don't think he'll be a good choice Yes, he's improved from his Surplus Princess days but to be quite honest I don't think he has the skill to pursue something heavier like this yet.
That being said, it could also mean this spinoff is set to be more youth-oriented the way WLF is? Not sure how I feel about that though.
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42 wackycashew
January 2, 2017 at 9:59 PM
Interesting choice... To be honest, I was looking forward to this adaptation, but I was expecting it to be a sageuk. So, if they are planning to do a modern spin, I'm not sure if I'd like it as much even if I like the writer and PD's past works.
I like NJH, but I think the current role in Weightlifting Fairy really suits him. I don't know how well he can emote as HB though I have no idea how they will apply or transform the water god role for modern Seoul. I think I'd prefer a more seasoned actor with good emotional range to play the lead.
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43 redfox
January 2, 2017 at 10:01 PM
why! there is nothing much to adapt here. it is a boring manhwa with boring characters. why would you adapt it
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ET
January 2, 2017 at 10:06 PM
Oh dear! So the story and characters aren't good?
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cozybooks
January 2, 2017 at 10:18 PM
The first 100 chapters or so are good... but after that it just gets hard to follow. I lost interest after I stopped actively following it--but I think it would make a great Kdrama.
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bananachocolate
January 2, 2017 at 10:22 PM
Speaking from reading this manhwa to what I believe 50 chapters in and more (been a very long time since I've read it so my memory is bad but I definitely read more than 50 for sure) but dropped it (I was reading too much stories and I decided to drop this)... the story is okay.
It has the cliche tropes you see in mangas/manhuas/manhwas, but I felt it had the richness of culture. I though both the characterizations of the male lead and the female lead to be standard (fall in love). They both had their flaws and perks so i wasn't a bad read at all.
The beginning of the story the male lead was so mysterious and forlorn. I just kinda stopped when the political stuff from the other gods got annoying for me. The art is definitely the greater portion of reading the manhwa. Absolutely breathtaking drawing and details given in each volume and chapter cover.
Just my two cents on this manhwa.
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bananachocolate
January 2, 2017 at 10:22 PM
it** wasn't a bad read at all
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ET
January 2, 2017 at 10:27 PM
Looks like the beauty of the manhwa stands out more than anything else. Then why did they adapt this into modern setting? Bummer :(
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Sera The Ms Temper
January 2, 2017 at 10:41 PM
Reading at this sybopsis i really want it to be sageuk.
pogo
January 2, 2017 at 10:55 PM
I dropped it at about what felt like the 100th time some god or other was either trying to kill Soah or separate her and Habaek. But the first handful of volumes, up to about chapter 60 or so, are gorgeous and swoony.
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44 stripesanddots
January 2, 2017 at 10:15 PM
I really like Nam Joo Hyuk but as many have said before me, he looks too boyish for this role not to mention he has yet to acquire "brooding" skills that would satisfy the fans of this manhwa (if which I am).
However, if you've read the manhwa, you'd realize that even though haebak is old in age, he is portrayed as rather young in the artwork. So does most of the rest of the main characters actually. Therefore, someone in their mid 20s to late 20s would be good for this role.
IMO, Lee Jun Ki will be a little too old for this role. Joo Won would have been good (If not for him enlisting), Yoo Seung Won (but why is he so busy?) and Seo Kang Joon? (Yeah. He's just 1 year older than NJH, but I just want him for the pretty and the eyes. Damn the eyes.)
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ET
January 2, 2017 at 10:26 PM
Joo Won is good but he's stuck in MSG. Totally agree about Seo Kang Joon. Damn he's pretty and those eyes!
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Elle
January 3, 2017 at 12:02 AM
Seo Kang-joon is pretty but he lacks the charisma of some of his contemporaries. He was good in Cheese but was unable to rise above the poor writing in Entourage.
He might be better off playing one of the other major gods though.
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Sera The Ms Temper
January 3, 2017 at 2:13 AM
I often see SKJ and NJH not so much diffference in term of acting. SKJ was quite good in CITThis past works before CITT are bad, especially his first sageuk Splendid Politic - i mean his acting. I caught a glimpse of Entourage but I dont think he is leading material yet.
Who i like better -NJH
Who is better actor between these two - both are in same category.
I like NJH enough that I dont want him to be a victim of other ppl ambition to push him into leading man when he is not ready yet.
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Sara Rojas
January 3, 2017 at 12:28 AM
its not that he's portrayed as young its that theres a younger version of him always flitting about. then add on he is a god he doesn't age as regular humans but however you look at it based on the fact that the network isnt going to fully follow they could choose any age for our main lead. but in any case the female would have to be either the same or younger in age but not 15. though legitimately kim sae ron does good work. but if lee dong wook would get it i dont know if that would work out all that well.
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45 ffroyo
January 2, 2017 at 10:16 PM
oh man I really really wanted Lee Jun Ki as the lead for this and thought he had pretty good chances as the lead since the writer wrote Arang. He sounds perfect for the role and nobody looks more like a manhwa character than LJK!
I actually like NJH in ML but I don't think he can pull off this role yet. Any chance he will turn this role down? Man YG is really powerful....
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Alexa
January 2, 2017 at 10:59 PM
Agree. In term of look and acting chop, Lee Jun Ki is perfect. But some said he is too old for this role (idk, I never read the manhwa).
I think Kang Ha Neul would be a good choice. He is far more charismatic than Nam Joo Hyuk and he has proven that despite the little that he was given in Moon Lovers, he portrayed Wook to perfection. And it still baffles me why he is being overlooked time and time again and yet to land a leading role when he is so good.
My vote goes to KANG HA NEUL.
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renee
January 3, 2017 at 2:48 AM
"nobody looks more like a manhwa character than LJK!"
Agree! The man is unreal. One thing I don't get is why are people claiming he's "too old" for this role but are offering up names of actors who are within his age group? I mean, he certainly does not possess that youthful vibe anymore that's often found in actors who are in their early 20s, but he certainly looks a whole lot younger than most actors around his age.
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Spi
January 4, 2017 at 1:21 AM
yes Lee Joon Gi will be perfect!!!
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46 Grace Yoon
January 2, 2017 at 10:26 PM
If BotWG is going to be a light, fluffy drama, then perhaps NJK can take on the lead role. But if the drama will have rather intense emotional scenes, I have to say that perhaps not him. I have seen him in WKBJ and he is still rather lacking in emotiveness. True he can improve but if the filming starts this month, it would be too soon.
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47 silentbeluga
January 2, 2017 at 10:28 PM
Dear Dramagods,
I don't want to tell you what to do but if I may... maybe Kim Woo Bin would like another shot at staring in a drama and not opposite a darling porcelain doll who looks pretty but can't connect emotionally? Or you know, Kang Haneul has no drama projects in 2017 and he is a bit of a workaholic so that'd be ok too.
Thank you for considering,
A humble fan of those actors
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pogo
January 2, 2017 at 10:58 PM
I would love it if either of these two got the role. Though idk if Kim Woo-bin would do cable, even tvN?
They'd both nail Habaek's swooniness though - that character is totally an alpha male (i.e. classic kdrama hero) and NJH is just not suited to play that type, while it would come really naturally to both KWB and KHN.
(and maybe throw in Lee Sung-kyung as the heroine please?)
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Ryu
January 3, 2017 at 12:07 AM
I think of Kim Woo Bin too!
OMG I would die if Kim Woo Bin and Lee Sung Kyung star in a drama together... Idk I always have a feeling that they would some day. The visuals are great, they both can act and well I already feel the chemistry!
(It'd be crazy/funny if NJH rejects the role and then LSK gets to be the female lead though)
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pogo
January 3, 2017 at 1:33 AM
Seriously I blame the person who spliced a gif of her in IOIL and him in Heirs together, for how badly I want to see this pairing in an actual drama - they'd blow that screen up with their combined beauty and charisma.
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Ryu
January 3, 2017 at 2:34 AM
omg what I haven't seen it yet please enlighten me O.O
pogo
January 3, 2017 at 3:19 AM
http://reinettewaiting.tumblr.com/post/46574905742/jonqde-blog-kim-woo-bin-lee-sung-kyung
can't find the gif but here's them in 2013, enjoy!
gem28
January 3, 2017 at 7:31 AM
Yeah a hundred times for Kang Haneul, on the contrary, I think Kim So Hyun if we can have her for the project is the ultimate So Ah while Lee Sung Kyung could be Nakbin. Kang Hana would totally be the perfect Mura.
There are couple of Chinese actresses that I can totally see nailing this but I don't know if Korean-Chinese joint project will be possible. I would totally cast Joe Chen without batting my eyelash.
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Beam
January 3, 2017 at 12:06 AM
Yo! Kang Ha-neul!!! It still bothers me that talented guy like KHN still hasn't headlined a drama and new actors like NJH already did.
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48 shoppingking
January 2, 2017 at 10:30 PM
NJH is doing great in Weightlifting Fairy and he's improved a lot, but considering the fact that he did WF and Moon Lovers in the same year, he doesn't seem to have the experience or range for this role just yet. Not to mention if you've seen him in interviews, he and Joon-hyung are practically the same person and so the role works really well for him.
I'd like for him to take a supporting character in another dramatic drama (that's better written than Moon Lovers) so he can get some more experience and we can see if he's good enough for a lead role.
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49 kanz
January 2, 2017 at 10:32 PM
If they have to go for someone young-ish.. please it be a more experienced actors! I mean yeah Nam Joo Hyuk is cute and handsome and he's improving with his latest projects, but he's still green and needs more experience to showcase his talent. In WF he could pull off the role because the role is not hard at all, he just needs to be happy-go-lucky puppy with a heart of gold, not to mention his chemistry with LSK is good, but I doubt he'll do well with another actress in another project. Remember School 2015? Yook Sung Jae stole the thunder from him. Or Moon Lovers? Not convinced as Baek Ah/13rd Prince. IMHO he's still not ready as being the male lead, esp in project like this when he needs aura and gravitas to pull it off, kinda like Gong Yoo in Goblin.
Well, but if they insist, I think I could send some recommendations:
Park Hyung Sik
Lee Soo Hyuk
Lee Jong Suk
Kim Soo Hyun
They're quite young and has this otherwordly aura that comes off like from manhwa.
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Nadila Nadila
January 2, 2017 at 11:03 PM
Agreed with your choice, especially KSH and PHS
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Sara Rojas
January 3, 2017 at 12:30 AM
park hyung sik!!! if we go with younger he could do it well visually and with acting, lee soo hyuk had my vote as did lee jong suk.. didn't think of kim soo hyun but yeah it could work. then lee dong wook. id be so happy.
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kanz
January 3, 2017 at 2:09 AM
Agree to Lee Dong Wook! He's so ethereally beautiful and maybe it's his turn this time to get a bride? LOL
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nami2
January 3, 2017 at 3:09 AM
Hyungsik would be a great choice indeed but his schedule is already packed as it is, I don't want to add more to his workload. He's already filming another drama at the moment with Park Bo Young and Ji Soo (Strong Woman Do Bong Soon) and he's the lead... I rather he focus on this project first.
Concerning 'Bride of the Water God', I read the manhwa during its original run and though I loved the first chapters, story went downhill very quickly in the second part imo...I even dropped it at about 115 chapters. Nevermind... my top picks would be Kim Ji Won for Soah (her resemblance to the character is striking and she has the acting chops to pull off the role imo) and Kim Soo Hyun for Habaek...it sounds like forever since his last drama, let this project be his drama comeback.
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Gem
January 3, 2017 at 7:21 AM
Lee Soo Hyuk, Kim Soo Hyun, Lee Dong Wook, Yoon Shi Yoon, Park Hae Jin could all work.
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50 Lyna
January 2, 2017 at 10:44 PM
Yoo Seung-ho would've of been my ideal Ha-baek but sadly he has a drama up already in Ruler.
Unless they can hold this until after that drama. He definitely would be ideal for me.
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