Dear Hongrang

Dear Hongrang (original title: 탄금) is a captivating South Korean television drama released in 2025, featuring the compelling performance of Lee Jae-wook. Set in a poignant historical backdrop, the series explores themes of love, resilience, and redemption through the lives of its richly drawn characters. The story follows the titular character Hongrang, whose journey intertwines with Lee Jae-wook's character in a narrative that balances intense emotional depth with beautifully crafted storytelling. With its intricate plotlines and stunning cinematography, Dear Hongrang invites viewers into a world where personal struggles meet the broader socio-cultural dynamics of its time, offering a moving portrayal that resonates profoundly with audiences.

Dear Hongrang has received generally positive reviews, with critics praising the strong performances and emotional depth of the series. On Rotten Tomatoes, the show holds an 85% approval rating, with critics highlighting Lee Jae-wook's nuanced portrayal as a standout in the ensemble cast. A review from The Korea Herald describes the series as 'a beautifully crafted story that balances historical drama with intimate human experiences,' commending its thoughtful character development and evocative narrative style. IMDb users rate the show at 7.8/10, noting its engaging plot and the chemistry between leads as key strengths, though some viewers mentioned a slower pacing in the mid-season episodes. Metacritic gives the series a score of 74 out of 100, reflecting generally favorable reviews, with critiques pointing to occasional predictability in the storyline but acknowledging the overall high production values. The consensus among reviews suggests that Dear Hongrang is a must-watch for fans of emotionally driven dramas that blend history with personal storytelling.