Wi Ha-Joon’s Romantic Debut in ‘Midnight Romance in Hagwon’

Wi Ha-joon, renowned for his dynamic roles in Korean dramas like the widely acclaimed Squid Game, is set to take on a new challenge. While he has showcased his prowess in action-packed scenes, embodying a daring alter ego in Bad and Crazy and delivering a nuanced portrayal as a vulnerable gangster in The Worst of Evil, Wi’s latest endeavor marks his debut as a romantic lead in a drama.

In ‘Midnight Romance in Hagwon,’ Wi stars alongside Jung Ryeo-won, portraying Lee Joon-ho, a former student of an afterschool cram academy. Despite initially attending the academy for academic support, Joon-ho undergoes a significant transformation, excelling in his studies, pursuing higher education, and securing a prestigious job. His return to the academy as an instructor is not fueled by a passion for academics but rather by his feelings for a particular instructor who had inspired him—a move he considers more romantic than foolhardy.

Reflecting on his role, Wi expressed his delight in exploring a new genre, one that both his fans and he had longed to delve into. He highlighted the emotional and romantic depth of his character, emphasizing the valuable learning experience gained from working with the director and cast.

Director Ahn Pan-seok’s distinct storytelling style, characterized by a slow-paced narrative that mirrors real-life romance, resonated with Wi, who had previously worked with the director on ‘Something In The Rain.’ Wi’s admiration for Ahn’s work played a pivotal role in his decision to join the cast of ‘Midnight Romance in Hagwon,’ a drama that explores the evolving relationship between two individuals who transition from student and teacher to colleagues and lovers.

Comparing the drama to some of Ahn’s other works, Wi noted the difference in the portrayal of love, highlighting ‘Secret Affair’ as a story of conflict and anguish between societal norms and personal feelings, while ‘Midnight Romance in Hagwon’ depicts the gradual development of a relationship between former student and teacher, now colleagues, overcoming challenges to find love—a narrative akin to a realistic office romance.

Produced by Studio Dragon, known for producing popular dramas like ‘The Glory,’ ‘Crash Landing on You,’ and ‘It’s Okay to Not Be Okay,’ ‘Midnight Romance in Hagwon’ promises to captivate audiences with its heartfelt story and compelling performances.

For viewers in the U.S., ‘Midnight Romance in Hagwon’ is available for streaming on Viki.com, offering a glimpse into the enchanting world of Joon-ho and his romantic journey.