Hwang Minhyun Eyed for Iseop’s Romance After Lee Jong Suk’s Exit — Here’s What We Know

Casting shuffles happen, but rarely does an entire lead pair drop out before filming even starts. That’s exactly the situation “Iseop’s Romance” found itself in — and now, a familiar face may be stepping in to save the day.

According to a YTN report on September 15, Hwang Minhyun is being considered for the male lead role of Tae I Seop, following Lee Jong Suk’s earlier departure from the project over scheduling conflicts. Female lead Choi Yoon Ji also exited for similar reasons, leaving both top roles empty until now.

Where Things Currently Stand for Hwang Minhyun?

Neither side has confirmed the casting outright. The production company said nothing is finalized yet, while Hwang Minhyun’s agency, PLEDIS Entertainment, offered a cautious response, noting it’s simply one of several projects he’s currently considering.

What’s Iseop’s Romance About?

The story follows an office romance between Tae I Seop, a third-generation chaebol heir who’s excelled at everything except love, and Kang Min Gyeong, a new colleague whose work performance quietly outshines his own. If cast, Hwang Minhyun would play an elite achiever forced to confront “second place” for the first time — both professionally and emotionally — as feelings develop with his own secretary.

Hwang Minhyun has built a steady acting résumé through dramas like “Live On,” the “Alchemy of Souls” series, and “Study Group,” and recently resumed acting duties after completing his military service.

For background on the chaebol trope that shapes so much of Korean drama storytelling, Wikipedia’s overview of chaebols offers useful context. For more K-drama casting updates as they break, check our entertainment section.

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