Netflix original series 'Dear Hongrang (Tangeum)' has revealed key viewing points in light of its premiere on May 16. 

This mystery melodrama set in the Joseon era follows the story of Hong Rang (played by Lee Jae Wook), the long-lost son of Joseon's largest merchant clan, who returns after 12 years with no memory of his past. Suspicious of his identity is his half-sister Jae Yi (played by Jo Bo Ah), and the two become entangled in a web of mysterious emotions.

The first key point of 'Tangeum' is its multi-genre story structure. As Hong Rang returns to the Min Merchant Guild, strange and mysterious events begin to unfold, which develop into a melodramatic narrative. With his past memories wiped clean but bearing the same appearance and behavior, the question of whether he is truly Hong Rang and what hidden truths lie beneath becomes central to the plot.

The one who yearned most for his return, half-sister Jae Yi, is ironically the first to doubt him. Their relationship begins with wariness but slowly transforms into a mysterious attraction. As seen in the released stills, their dynamic evokes both tension and excitement.

Intertwined with their story are other layered relationships: adopted heir Moo Jin (Jung Ga Ram), the de facto owner Min Yeon Ui (Uhm Ji Won), and the powerful merchant leader Shim Yeol Guk (Park Byung Eun). Each character pursues their own goals and desires, leading to unexpected conflicts and heightening the drama’s intensity.

The second highlight is the powerful cast lineup. Seasoned actors Lee Jae Wook, Jo Bo Ah, Jung Ga Ram, Uhm Ji Won, Park Byung Eun, and Kim Jae Wook bring the characters to life with emotional depth.

Lee Jae Wook plays Hong Rang, delivering a convincing performance of a man grappling with lost memories and inner turmoil. Jo Bo Ah portrays Jae Yi, who is drawn to him despite her doubts, expressing her conflicted emotions with nuance.

Jung Ga Ram embodies Moo Jin, whose status and future are threatened, showcasing a complex emotional spectrum. Uhm Ji Won plays Min Yeon Ui, a mother trying to protect her son, balancing cold calculation with desperation. Park Byung Eun adds tension as the power-hungry Shim Yeol Guk, while Kim Jae Wook appears as Grand Prince Hanpyeong, known for his unmatched aesthetic sense.

From confusion and suspicion to affection and loyalty, the emotional entanglements between the characters are central to the show. The cast’s compelling performances and chemistry draw attention to the series' intricate web of relationships.

The third viewing point is the production quality. Director Kim Hong Sun, known for 'Money Heist: Korea – Joint Economic Area,' 'The Guest,' and 'Voice,' helms 'Tangeum' with precision. The series intricately blends emotional depth and mystery, and excels in set design, costumes, and music typical of the historical drama genre.

The bustling marketplace settings, the internal structure, and artifacts of the Min Merchant Guild all authentically capture the Joseon-era atmosphere. The characters' hanbok also stands out, reflecting personality and status through differences in design, color, and texture, visually expressing the characters’ tension and emotional undercurrents.

The OST also draws attention. ABOUT’s track “Burning Petals” delivers the gravitas of a historical drama, while Kwon Jin Ah’s “Yoamjae” captures the emotional tone of the melodrama. The music, costumes, and set design all work together to immerse viewers in the world of Tangeum.

SEE ALSO: Jo Bo Ah radiates traditional elegance in behind-the-scenes stills for “Tangeum”