Lee Jong Suk and Lee Jun Hyuk to Lead Two Romance Dramas Set in the Same Universe
ACE FACTORY announces ambitious dual-drama project based on web novels sharing a connected fictional world
By Jang Hojin
In one of the most intriguing drama announcements of 2026, ACE FACTORY has revealed that top actors Lee Jong Suk and Lee Jun Hyuk will headline two separate romance dramas set within the same fictional universe. The simultaneous production of "Iseop's Romance" and "A Casual Lie" marks a bold creative experiment in Korean television, connecting two distinct love stories through shared characters and overlapping narrative threads.
Two Dramas, One Universe
The announcement, made on February 23, confirmed that both dramas are adaptations of web novels by author Kim Eon Hee, whose works are set in the same fictional universe. While each series features its own protagonist and self-contained love story, the connected world-building promises crossover moments and shared narrative elements that will reward viewers who follow both productions.
Lee Jong Suk will star in "Iseop's Romance" as Tae I Seop, a third-generation chaebol heir who excels at everything in life except matters of the heart. The drama follows his love story with Kang Min Kyeong, described as the talented "secret weapon" of TK Group, exploring the classic tension between privilege and genuine emotional connection in a corporate setting.
Cousins, Different Paths
Lee Jun Hyuk takes the lead in "A Casual Lie" as Tae Jun Seop, the grandson of TK Group's chairman. His character becomes entangled with Yeon Woo Kyung, a copywriter, as both navigate the treacherous waters of the company's succession race. The drama interweaves romance with corporate intrigue, offering a grittier counterpoint to the lighter tone expected from "Iseop's Romance."
Notably, the two lead characters — Tae I Seop and Tae Jun Seop — are cousins within the narrative, providing a natural connection point between the two series. This familial link, combined with the shared TK Group corporate backdrop, creates organic opportunities for storyline intersections without forcing artificial crossovers.
Lee Jong Suk's Highly Anticipated Return
For Lee Jong Suk, the project represents another high-profile addition to an already stellar career. The actor, beloved for his roles in hits like "While You Were Sleeping," "W," and "Big Mouth," continues to be one of the most sought-after leading men in the industry. His casting as a chaebol heir navigating the complexities of love aligns perfectly with the type of charismatic, emotionally layered roles at which he excels.
Lee Jun Hyuk, known for his intense performances in dramas such as "Stranger" and "Designated Survivor: 60 Days," brings a different energy to the shared universe. His reputation for portraying complex characters under pressure makes him an ideal choice for a role that blends romantic vulnerability with corporate ambition.
Production Plans and Outlook
Both dramas are expected to begin filming within 2026, with simultaneous production planned to ensure narrative consistency across the shared universe. While details about the broadcast platform and additional casting remain forthcoming, the ambitious scope of the project has already generated significant buzz among drama enthusiasts eager to see how the connected storytelling unfolds across two parallel series.
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Entertainment Journalist · KEnterHub
Entertainment journalist specializing in K-Pop, K-Drama, and Korean celebrity news. Covers artist comebacks, drama premieres, award shows, and fan culture with in-depth reporting and analysis.
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