Hyun Bin, Son Ye-jin appear in TV series after romantic rumors

By Dong Sun-hwa

Actors Hyun Bin and Son Ye-jin have dispelled rumors about their romance and are set to show off their much-adored chemistry again in a new rom-com tvN drama series “Crash Landing on You.”

This is their second encounter. They met on the crime flick “The Negotiation” (2018) and were twice embroiled in dating rumors ― which both denies ― after its release.

“Son and I just laughed at the rumors. I didn't find them uncomfortable and they didn't affect me in deciding my next work ('Crash Landing on You,')” Hyun Bin said during a press conference at Four Seasons Seoul on Monday.

“I am well-acquainted with Son and hoped to meet her again on other dramas or movies. The chance to do so came faster than I thought, so I quickly made up my mind to join 'Crash Landing on You.'”

Son also said, “That was the same for me. When I starred in 'The Negotiation' with him, I thought it would be great if we could co-star in other rom-com or melo works. I also believed Hyun Bin would be the perfect fit for the male protagonist of the 'Crash Landing on You,' Ri Jong-hyok, when I reviewed the scenario. Now, it seems we are also becoming more compatible in terms of acting.”

“Crash Landing on You” is a 16-episode love tale about a South Korean chaebol scion Yoon Se-ri (Son) and high-ranking North Korean officer Ri Jong-hyok. The two meet in North Korea after a paraglide carrying Yoon makes an emergency landing there. As Ri protects and tries to hide her, they eventually fall in love.

Hyun Bin said Ri was a reserved “man of principle,” who was nevertheless considerate to his people. Yoon is an optimistic and witty woman, according to Son. Actress Seo Ji-hye appears as Lee's fiancee Seo Dan, a North Korean cellist, with Kim Jung-hyun playing Goo Seung-jun, a businessman.

The soap opera has also grabbed attention for its unique plot and setting, but its distinctiveness has also fueled worries regarding realism. Nonetheless, producer Lee Jung-hyo is at ease about it.

“I know some people are uncomfortable about our subject, North Korea, but we don't portray wholly authentic North Korea on our drama,” he said. “Most settings are closer to a fantasy, although some aspects do reflect real North Korean life. When we find it demanding to depict some specific places in the country, we resort to computer graphics (CG) as well.”

Lee, who seemed excited about the premiere, added: “I hope our TV series garners 10 percent viewership for its first episode.”

The stars also have high hopes.

“I wish the drama could bring unexpected thrills and romance to the viewers,” Hyun Bin said.

“Crash Landing on You” will go to air on Dec. 14.