The 500 Billion Won Korean Drama Delayed for 2 Years... Anticipation Soars One Month Before Release!

A 500 billion won production that was delayed for two years from its original release date is now set to debut, and it has unveiled an all-star cast lineup. With the release of a group poster, the drama is promising to create a storm in the home television scene.

The highly anticipated tvN new Saturday-Sunday drama When the Stars Gossip (written by Seo Suk-hyang, directed by Park Shin-woo), set to premiere on January 4th, 2024, has unveiled its star-studded lineup and gripping storyline. The drama is a space-themed romantic comedy set in a zero-gravity space station, following the lives of the boss, Eve (played by Gong Hyo-jin), and a mysterious guest, Dinosaur (played by Lee Min-ho), who has a secret mission.

When the Stars Gossip is the latest work by writer Seo Suk-hyang, known for her successful dramas Pasta and Jealousy Incarnate. The show is already being hailed as one of tvN’s most anticipated projects for the first half of 2025, particularly due to its fresh concept of a space office, the first of its kind in South Korea. The drama also boasts an impressive cast including Lee Min-ho, Gong Hyo-jin, Oh Jung-se, Han Ji-eun, Kim Joo-hyun, Lee El, Lee Cho-hee, Heo Nam-jun, ALEX HAFNER, Lee Hyun-kyun, and Park Ye-young, all known for their strong acting skills.

Set against the backdrop of space, When the Stars Gossip is a massive production, with a total of 500 billion won invested in the creation of the space station set. The recently released group poster features 12 characters, each with their own story, navigating the complexities of life between Earth and the space station.

In the poster, astronauts and tourists heading to the space station catch the eye. The main characters, including the mysterious tourist Dinosaur with his secret mission and the commander Eve Kim, are joined by scientists Kang Kang-su (Oh Jung-se), Mina Lee (Lee Cho-hee), Lee Seung-jun (Heo Nam-jun), and astronaut Santi (ALEX HAFNER). Additionally, characters such as Dinosaur’s lover, Choi Goeun (Han Ji-eun), astronaut Park Dong-a (Kim Joo-hyun) from the MCC Ground Control Center, Chief Kang (Lee El), Dr. Donna Lee (Lee Cho-hee), Flight Director Han Si-won (Lee Hyun-kyun), and experimental partner Ma Eun-su (Park Ye-young) also contribute to the story with their compelling presence.

The drama promises to showcase a variety of incidents between astronauts and Earthlings, as well as the day-to-day life aboard the space station. As the story unfolds in the unfamiliar realm of space, viewers are eager to see what happens and how Earth will respond to these extraordinary events. Audiences are eagerly awaiting the premiere, making it one of the most anticipated dramas of the year.

The comment section of the previously released teaser for When the Stars Gossip is filled with reactions like, "It's just a space drama lol, already funny," "Gong Hyo-jin’s acting tone is so good…," "Lee Min-ho is so cute," "Is it finally airing? I’ve been waiting so long," "Definitely watching live," "Two legendary actors have come together… the casting is already amazing," "Finally, Gong Hyo-jin, Lee Min-ho," "This looks fresh, I'm excited," "Trusting writer Seo Suk-hyang, Lee Min-ho, and Gong Hyo-jin, this combination was worth the wait," "Can't wait to watch," "Wow, I heard this was filmed a long time ago, and now it's finally coming out," "It looks like it's going to be hilarious, excited for this fun drama," "I hope it gets global attention," "Expecting a fun and exciting drama," and many more.

The casting news for When the Stars Gossip was first announced in March 2022. At the time, the production team revealed that filming would begin in April, with a goal of simultaneous release on domestic channels and global OTT platforms in 2023. However, in April 2023, the announcement was made that filming had concluded and the post-production phase had begun. The release date and platform were marked as "TBD," and it was revealed that over 10 billion won had been invested in post-production, including special effects, indicating a commitment to achieving high quality.

After a year of anticipation, in August 2024, the scheduling for When the Stars Gossip was finally confirmed. It was announced as a tvN Saturday-Sunday drama, set to air in the first half of 2025, with the premiere scheduled for January 4th. After nearly three years since the casting announcement, the drama will finally meet its viewers. The "space genre" alone has already sparked widespread anticipation. Now, all eyes are on how When the Stars Gossip will be received by home audiences.

‘When the Stars Gossip’ Lead Actors Highlight 5 Key Points to Watch

Based on the stories of lead actors Gong Hyo-jin and Lee Min-ho, here are 5 key points to watch for in the upcoming drama:

1. Perfectly Executed Acting and Scenes in Zero-Gravity

Gong Hyo-jin emphasized that all scenes were shot based on a zero-gravity environment, saying, "We constantly struggled to express a space we had never experienced before, including wire action." Thanks to the actors’ performances and the production team’s efforts, viewers can expect vivid and realistic space scenes.

2. A Unique Take on Life in Space

Unlike typical space dramas that focus on space wars or monsters, When the Stars Gossip focuses on "life in space." Gong Hyo-jin teased, "The story of life unfolding in an unknown space will spark curiosity in viewers," setting the stage for an intriguing plot.

3. The Value of Space Research for Humanity

The drama also highlights the efforts of researchers who dedicate themselves to space exploration for the benefit of humankind. Gong Hyo-jin pointed out, "Pay attention to what the scientists risked their lives to protect," referring to the central message of the story.

4. Emotions and Vastness Only Felt in Space

Lee Min-ho discussed the beauty of the space setting, saying, "You’ll be able to feel the unique emotions of zero-gravity and the vastness of the universe on screen." The sensitive direction promises a sensory experience that lets viewers naturally enjoy the mysteries of space.

5. A Fresh, Unique Vibe

Finally, Lee Min-ho highlighted, "The unique vibe of When the Stars Gossip will offer viewers something new," emphasizing the drama’s innovative atmosphere. The storyline that moves between space and Earth, paired with stylish visual direction, will make the drama stand out even more.

These points raised by the actors heighten the anticipation for the show. Viewers can expect to experience all these captivating elements starting from the first broadcast on January 4th, next year.