Netflix has confirmed the production of a new series titled 'Slowly but Intensely' (working title) by renowned writer Noh Hee-kyung, revealing the cast, which includes Song Hye-kyo, Gong Yoo, Kim Seol-hyun, Cha Seung-won, and Lee Ha-nee.
Set against the backdrop of the Korean entertainment industry during the tumultuous 1960s to 1980s, 'Slowly but Intensely' tells the story of individuals who, despite having nothing, throw themselves into pursuing their dreams of success.
Noh Hee-kyung, known for her emotionally resonant works such as 'Our Blues', 'Dear My Friends', 'It's Okay, That's Love', 'That Winter, the Wind Blows', and 'The World They Live In', is the writer behind 'Slowly but Intensely'. Her name alone has already generated significant interest in the series. The show will be directed by Lee Yoon-jung, who has a reputation for delivering high-quality and engaging content in dramas like 'Coffee Prince', 'Cheese in the Trap', and 'Heart to Heart'.
The casting is equally impressive. Song Hye-kyo, who has captivated audiences with her performances in Netflix's 'The Glory', 'Boyfriend', 'Descendants of the Sun', 'That Winter, the Wind Blows', and films like 'The Black Nun' and 'My Life's on Fire', is set to deliver another remarkable transformation in 'Slowly but Intensely'. She will portray 'Min-ja', a character who has developed a strong inner self after enduring numerous hardships in her childhood. While navigating life's challenges, she seizes opportunities in the Korean music industry with boldness. This marks Song Hye-kyo's third collaboration with Noh Hee-kyung, and expectations are high for her portrayal of 'Min-ja'.
Gong Yoo, known for his impactful roles in dramas like 'Goblin', 'Coffee Prince', and films such as 'The Age of Shadows' and 'Train to Busan', will take on the role of 'Dong-goo'. 'Dong-goo' is a childhood friend of 'Min-ja', who has shared various experiences with her and will eventually enter the music industry alongside her. He is a character full of surprises, yet possesses a loyal and devoted nature, always listening to 'Min-ja'. Fans are excited to see Gong Yoo reunite with director Lee Yoon-jung after 'Coffee Prince'.
Kim Seol-hyun, who has steadily built her filmography with projects like 'Lighting Store', 'I Don't Want to Do Anything', 'The Killer's Shopping List', and films such as 'The Great Battle' and 'The Outlaws', will play 'Min-hee', a character intertwined with 'Min-ja' in a complex relationship of love and hate since childhood. Through 'Min-hee', Kim Seol-hyun will showcase a range of emotions, from innocent obedience to 'Min-ja' to a more assertive and rebellious side.
Cha Seung-won, who has consistently demonstrated his charisma and strong presence in films like 'The Drug King', 'Night in Paradise', and dramas such as 'One Day' and 'The Greatest Love', will portray 'Gil-yeo', the era's top composer. 'Gil-yeo' is a powerful figure in the music industry, known for making every singer he works with a success. After collaborating with Noh Hee-kyung in 'Our Blues', Cha Seung-won is set to surprise viewers with his portrayal of this once-in-a-lifetime character.
Lee Ha-nee, recognized for her solid acting skills and unique charm in films like 'Alien + Human', 'Killing Romance', and dramas such as 'Hot Blooded Priest' and 'Flowers Bloom at Night', will play 'Yang-ja', 'Min-hee's' mother and an aspiring singer. Lee Ha-nee is expected to portray the perseverance and passion of 'Yang-ja', who refuses to give up on her dream of becoming a singer despite facing financial struggles and harsh realities.
Kang Sun-ae, reporter,
[SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae]