On September 3, Lee Jong Suk’s agency, ACE FACTORY, told Ilgan Sports, “Lee Jong Suk had been preparing to appear in ‘Iseop’s Romance’ after spending a long time discussing the project with the production team from the early development stage. However, as the production and filming schedules were adjusted from the original plan, it became difficult to coordinate them with his upcoming commitments.”
The agency added, “After extensive discussions with the production team, we ultimately agreed that he would not be participating in this project.”
The agency also said, “As this is a project we have prepared for with great affection over a long period of time, we will continue doing our best to ensure that ‘Iseop’s Romance’ can be completed as a great production.”
“Iseop’s Romance” is described as a chaotic office romance between Tae Iseop, a man who does not want to do anything, and Kang Min Kyung, a woman who feels she has to get everything done somehow. The drama follows Tae Iseop, a third-generation chaebol who is perfect in every aspect except romance, and Kang Min Kyung, known as TK Group’s secret weapon. It is based on the web novel of the same name by writer Kim Eon Hee.
Lee Jong Suk was originally set to play male lead Tae Iseop, marking his return to the romance genre seven years after “Romance Is a Bonus Book.” However, with his departure from the project now confirmed, attention is turning to who will take over the role of the new male lead.
The female lead will be played by Choi Yoon Ji, who has made a name for herself through projects including “Resident Playbook” and “The WONDERfools.”
“Iseop’s Romance” is scheduled to begin filming in earnest in the second half of this year, with its release targeted for next year.
Sources: Nate