Lee Sung Kyung & Chae Jong Hyeop Reveal Behind-the-Scenes Chemistry
Lee Sung Kyung and Chae Jong Hyeop share insights about their upcoming MBC drama 'In Your Radiant Season' in an exclusive Esquire interview, discussing their on-set dynamics and character preparations.
Two of Korea's most compelling actors are about to light up your screen. Lee Sung Kyung and Chae Jong Hyeop sat down with Esquire ahead of their upcoming MBC Friday-Saturday drama "In Your Radiant Season," premiering this February.
The drama follows Sunwoo Chan (Chae Jong Hyeop), a man who's been merely surviving each day until a fateful encounter changes everything. Lee Sung Kyung plays the person who brings new light into his world—a role that seems tailor-made for her radiant screen presence.
What Really Happens Behind the Cameras
Chae Jong Hyeop didn't hold back when describing his co-star: "Working with Lee Sung Kyung sunbaenim has been incredibly educational. Her professionalism constantly pushes me to do better." He emphasized how even casual conversations between takes deepen his understanding of his character.
The sentiment is mutual. Lee Sung Kyung praised her co-star's dedication: "Chae Jong Hyeop is genuinely passionate and hardworking. Creating scenes together feels natural and enjoyable." Both actors stressed how their mutual respect translates into authentic on-screen chemistry.
Character Deep Dives and Personal Insights
The interview revealed how seriously both actors approach their craft. Chae Jong Hyeop shared his method for portraying Sunwoo Chan: "I'm trying to express both his wounds and his hope simultaneously. It's about finding that delicate balance."
Lee Sung Kyung offered insight into her acting philosophy: "I'm naturally energetic and bright, but when I'm acting, I completely immerse myself in the character." She emphasized the importance of ensemble acting, noting how crucial it is to maintain strong chemistry with scene partners.
Strategic Positioning in the K-Drama Landscape
"In Your Radiant Season" marks MBC's first Friday-Saturday drama offering of 2026. With K-drama's global momentum showing no signs of slowing, this pairing represents a calculated move by the network.
Lee Sung Kyung has proven her romantic comedy prowess through hits like "Doctors" and "Romance is a Bonus Book," while Chae Jong Hyeop has demonstrated his range in "Twenty Five Twenty One" and "Eerie Tales." Their collaboration targets both established fandoms and potential new audiences.
The Broader Industry Context
This casting choice reflects the current state of Korean entertainment: established stars collaborating to create content that can compete both domestically and internationally. The actors' emphasis on mutual respect and professional growth mirrors the industry's maturation.
Their approach—focusing on character depth rather than just visual appeal—suggests a shift toward more substantial storytelling in the romance genre.
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