Work Text:
June 2024
Baek Saeon's Return to Romance Genre, Anticipated by Fans
posted by Kdrama Daily Source | 10/06/2024
Baek Saeon (Sunset in Argan) is considering the starring role in an adaptation of the famous web novel "When the Phone Rings" by Geon Eomul Nyeo. "When the Phone Rings" follows the story of the youngest Blue House spokesperson from an affluent political family who is married in secret to a sign language interpreter who developed selective mutism. Their quiet yet loveless marriage is shaken when the spokesperson receives a call that his wife has been kidnapped.
"This project feels fresh. I have done romance and thriller genres separately, but not in the same series," the actor spoke to Osen. "I have met with the director, and we're coming up with the cast who will work on this project."
The new MBC romance-thriller drama is set to air sometime later in 2024.
yoo_are_loved · 1 year ago
oppa is hardworking! he just finished filming argan three months ago!
quuensies · 1 year ago
the web novel is not THAT good tho
lovequack· 1 year ago
not to be that person but this is a dream come true
manhwareader · 1 year ago
the web novel is rated XXX LOL
LEE_SEOYEON · 1 year ago
honestly, anything that oppa works on is great
July 2024
OFF SCREEN DATE?: Labyrinth stars Baek Saeon and Hong Heejoo Spotted in Musical "Shakespearean Love"
posted by allkpop | 12/07/2024
Actor Baek Saeon is spotted attending the musical "Shakespearean Love" starring Ji Sangwoo and Na Yuri. The "Sunset in Argan" protagonist is joined by actress Hong Heejoo (She's a Robot) and veteran director Lee Gwangtae.
While some netizens are surprised to see the two together seemingly 'on a date', fans have commended their support of their mutual friend.
Baek Saeon, Hong Heejoo, and Ji Sangwoo are managed by Labyrinth Entertainment.
moneyeopseo · 11 months ago
they're agency friends. get your minds out of the gutter
yoo_are_loved· 11 months ago
saeon oppa is a great sunbae supporting his juniors
bunnyhong· 11 months ago
OR they're just friends how about that
manhwareader · 11 months ago
the marketing level is insane bcs they're working on a project probs
underthesamesky · 11 months ago
they don't match at all LMFAO
August 2024
Baek Saeon and Hong Heejoo Confirmed to Star in MBC Drama "When the Phone Rings"
posted by koreaboo | 02/08/2024
The cast for MBC's upcoming romance-thriller drama "When the Phone Rings" has been announced. Based on a web novel of the same title, the story revolves around an arranged marriage couple who is forced to communicate after receiving a kidnapping call that threatens to reveal their families' secrets.
Portraying the male lead is actor Baek Saeon (Sunset in Argan) who seems to have a perfect political path carved for him by his family. Starting his career as a well-respected anchorman, he rose to greater heights when he was appointed the youngest Blue House spokesperson. Although he seems perfect on paper, in front of his wife, his icy personality comes into play.
Meanwhile, the female protagonist is played by actress Hong Heejoo (She's a Robot) who had suffered from a traumatic childhood accident that caused her mutism. Despite this, she found success in her career as a sign language interpreter for news programs and commercials.
Their secret arrangement is threatened to be revealed after an unknown culprit kidnaps the wife. Now the two must come together and catch the kidnapper before their loveless union is leaked to the public.
Directed by Lee Gwangtae (The Yellow Sea), this exciting story consists of 12 episodes and will premiere on November 22 in MBC's Friday-Saturday slot.
Twitter:
@wittyunnie: baek saeon and hong heejoo in the same drama??? give me yearning, give me ROMANCE
@heejooyaaah: GIVE ME BACK MY HONG HEEJOO, MY ROMCOM QUEEN
@saeonswaifu: when the master of kissing meets the master of eye acting = CHEMISTRY
@drkwakkwak: i'm sorry but i DON'T see what the casting director saw in these two
@justacinephile: it's crazy bcs i just finished watching argan and there is now way i could have predicted that baek saeon would act in a romance drama
Instagram:
@labyrinth_ent: Sneak peek! #BaekSaeon #HongHeejoo #WhenThePhoneRings
[5 photo attachments]
05/08/2024
@styled_by_kai: Hong Heejoo, I'm cheering you on!
[2 photo attachments]
07/08/2024
@actorbaeksaeon: #WhenThePhoneRings
[3 photo attachments]
11/08/2024
@wtpr_drama: Repost from @actorbaeksaeon
Baek Saeon and Hong Heejoo on set for their upcoming romance-thriller drama #WhenThePhoneRings
Everyone, please show immense support for these two!
[3 photo attachments]
11/08/2024
@actresshongheejoo: filming :)
[3 photo attachments]
13/08/2024
@do_taeri: Captain Baek is generous. Thank you for the sweet treats!
[2 photo attachments, 2 video attachments]
22/08/2024
September 2024
CONFIRMED: Hong Heejoo to Join Cast for "The Prophecy" Live Action, Premieres 2025
posted by Labyrinth | 15/09/2024
The highly-anticipated live-action of the manga "The Prophecy" is set to premiere in mid-2025!
Labyrinth actress Hong Heejoo will join the star-studded cast along with Min Wookgi, Seo Woojin, and Han Songyi. The filming is revealed to start in December 2024. Behind-the-scene stills from the script reading showed the actors portraying their characters enthusiastically.
"The Prophecy" is based on a manga of the same name and follows the story of Kwon Minseo (Min Wookgi) who finds himself transported to the world of the manga he is currently reading after a devastating subway accident. Meanwhile, Hong Heejoo (Do Byeol) plays Kwon Minseo's colleague who helps him find his way back to the real world. Fans all over the world are excited to see the synergy between the manga characters in live action.
The upcoming film is directed by Kim Wooseok (Terror Nights), and he will be working with the production company behind the "Way Back Home" series, A25 Pictures.
Are you excited about the film adaptation? Follow us for more updates on actress Hong Heejoo and "The Prophecy".
hongheejooyaaah · 9 months ago
my queen is booked and busy
forheejooonly · 9 months ago
i am so stoked for this! my favorite manga and favorite actress!!!
bunnyhong · 9 months ago
see girlies, this is why you should not KYS
changetheprophecy · 9 months ago
hong heejoo in an action film i know that's right
heejooisarlbunny · 9 months ago
QUEEN OF RANGE
October 2024
@actorbaeksaeon: @actresshongheejoo #WhenThePhoneRings
[5 photo attachments]
11/10/2024
@actresshongheejoo: Repost from @actorbaeksaeon #WhenThePhoneRings
[5 photo attachments]
11/10/2024
PHOTOS: Baek Saeon and Hong Heejoo Show Off their Chemistry in Harper Bazaar's October Cover
posted by Labyrinth | 12/10/2024
In anticipation of their new romance-thriller drama "When the Phone Rings", actor Baek Saeon took to Instagram to post behind-the-scene photos with actress Hong Heejoo for their Harper Bazaar's October cover. Fans have expressed their excitement as the two show intense chemistry in still pictures. With their charms, the two stars captivated the hearts of many fans.
Check the slideshow below to see the photos!
[Photo 1: Baek Saeon in an all-black suit is a sight to die for! Donning Loewe, an intense look directly to the lens captures the broody look of our male protagonist.]
[Photo 2: In a delicate Akris black poppy embroidery dress, Hong Heejoo emanates feminine innocence.]
[Photo 3: In a couple photo, Baek Saeon and Hong Heejoo show off romantic tension with a fleeting glance at each other.]
[Photo 4: Sizzling hot! Sitting on her husband's lap, Hong Heejoo raises a seductive eyebrow at Baek Saeon, portraying a couple very much in love.]
[Photo 5: A candid BTS photo, with Baek Saeon and Hong Heejoo sharing a laugh.]
callmenoona · 8 months ago
oh. Oh. OH.
KathrynB · 8 months ago
i have never doubted the chemistry of these two
underthesamesky · 8 months ago
i'm afraid i have judged them too hastily bcs WOW
wtpr_drama · 8 months ago
baek saeon: can somebody match my freak hong heejoo: YES
secretalliance · 8 months ago
i am SO excited for this drama
YouTube:
[When the Phone Rings Trailer] Starring Baek Saeon and Hong Heejoo Premieres November 22, 2024
labyrinth_ent
22k subscribers
7.1M views · 7 months ago
Andrea Smith· 8 months ago
HOLY. SHIT. my excitement cannot be contained!
KDramaEnthusiast· 8 months ago
is this in the running for best kdrama of 2024?
LoverOfAllKindsRomance· 8 months ago
Now this is how you make a trailer
Tony Garcia· 8 months ago
i don't know, i'm still not convinced of their chemistry lol
SorrySorrySorry · 8 months ago
can november come faster juseyo
Instagram:
@wtpr_drama: Repost from @labyrinth_ent
Trailer to #WhenThePhoneRings starring Baek Saeon and Hong Heejoo @netflix @mbc_drama
[1 video attachment]
27/10/2024
@HongHeejooOFC: The trailer for #WhenThePhoneRings starring our Hong Heejoo and Baek Saeon is out now! Everyone, go to @netflixkr @labyrinth_ent @mbc_drama and spam them with comments!!! This show looks so exciting!!!!!
[1 video attachment]
27/10/2024
@forBAEKSAEON: @labyrint_ent released the trailer for #WhenThePhoneRings Baek Saeon with Hong Heejoo. This is Saeon oppa's romance drama comeback after almost 10 years, so please watch with anticipation!
[1 video attachment]
27/10/2024
@actresshongheejoo: trailer for #WhenThePhoneRings is out now! @labyrinth_ent
[1 video attachment]
27/10/2024
@actorbaeksaeon: Repost from @actresshongheejoo
trailer for #WhenThePhoneRings is out now! @labyrinth_ent
[1 video attachment]
27/10/2024
November 2024
YouTube:
[KR] When The Phone Rings Press Conference (Baek Saeon and Hong Heejoo)
labyrinth_ent
22k subscribers
1.4M views · 7 months ago
2, 734 comments
YourKoreanUnnie · 7 months ago
OMG. The chemistry is unreal it feels like they're really dating!!! Omg you guys. I'm so excited!!!
231 replies
⤷ YourKoreanUnnie · 7 months ago
Okay, okay, here are some of the English transcripts of the convo. I will NOT translate everything lol (this is an hour-long video). But here are my favorite moments!!!
23:32-24:04
MC: How would you describe the level of comfortability between the two of you?
SE: Although we come from the same company, Heejoo and I rarely interacted with each other. I would say we mostly see each other during company events. And honestly, she is a bit shy.
HJ: Yes, I'm not really that outgoing. It's hard for me to approach people. But...
MC: But?
HJ: Saeon oppa is a kind senior, so I guess it was not that hard to get close.
SE: I try to look after her. Like I said, Heejoo is naturally shy, so you have to approach her gently. You just stay by her side until she opens up about her thoughts. Also, I bribe her with delicious food.
HJ: (laughs) That's right.
28:17-29:45
MC: What's something about each other that you discover while filming?
HJ: I discovered about oppa that he likes wearing striped shirts. Since oppa wears a lot of his own clothes on set, I noticed that he almost always wears striped shirts.
MC: How about Heejoo?
SE: Heejoo's favorite food is sushi rolls. She can eat that almost every day. Also, we filmed a lot of scenes where Heejoo has to lie on a bed...
MC: Omo omo omo (the audience by this point is also losing their mind)
SE: (panic) No, no, not like that. The scene requires it. Anyway, Heejoo prefers the left side of the bed. Even though it's not written exactly on the script, she would lie on the left side of the bed.
MC: That's interesting (LMFAO mc is a hoot but same)
33:13-35:56
MC: If there's a word that you can use to describe each other's character in the drama, what is it?
SE: I think for Heejoo, it's 'sunset'. Without giving spoilers, you know how a lot of people wake up early just to watch the sunset, right? I think that's how my character feels for her character.
MC: That you're willing to sacrifice just to see her?
SE: Yes, just to see her brighten up the sky. Also, maybe the word 'determination' is fitting too. For example, because Heejoo's character is a sign language interpreter, she has to learn SL too.
But not just the regular SL. She had to learn the kind of SL you use for news. There are also different signs for different languages. But Heejoo is determined to portray her character well.
MC: Wait, is that about Heejoo or her character?
SE: (laughs) Oh. Maybe a little bit of both.
MC: (laughs) Okay, I'll accept that. How about Heejoo?
HJ: (thinks hard) For oppa's character, I think 'two'?
MC: (laughs) Like two-faced?
HJ: (laughs) I don't know how to explain it without giving too much spoilers, but I think he is talented at showing opposite emotions. Okay, I have a line that I think I can spoil. "So cold yet so warm".
MC: Oh, I get you now. How about for Saeon himself?
HJ: (shocked) For oppa?
MC: Yes, he gave two words. 'Sunset' for your character and 'determination' for you.
HJ: (thinks hard again she's so cute) Oh, for oppa himself. I think 'reliable'. Because he is my senior, I relied on him a lot. He's like a co-director on set, so we follow his lead. He guides me well.
SE: Thank you.
MC: (the MC looks confused bcs SE suddenly thanked HJ) Oh you're thanking her?
43:45-48:19
MC: Do you have a message for each other?
SE: Heejoo-yah... (and the crowd goes wild LMFAO) Heejoo-yah, you've done really well. You are a great and talented actress, so don't ever doubt yourself. Underestimating yourself is a bad habit.
MC: Wow, Saeon-ssi is suddenly serious.
SE: (laughs) I'm not saying that Heejoo lacks confidence, but she could take more pride in her work. She is really good, and I enjoy acting opposite her.
MC: How about Heejoo?
HJ: (thinks hard as usual haha) To Saeon oppa... thank you for your patience and guidance. Thank you for taking care of everyone in the set. I will take your advice seriously and believe in myself more.
MC: Omo omo, you two are like a married couple.
HJ: (laughs but looks very shy)
SE: (looks at HJ) Are we not a married couple? (and again the crowd goes BBRRRRRR seriously this fanservice is a work of god)
MC: Only a senior actor can be this bold.
SE/HJ: (laughs)
MC: Final message to your fans?
SE: We've worked hard on this project. Heejoo will show you a different character, so please watch out. (this husband)
HJ: Thank you very much for your anticipation. See you on November 22!
⤷ YourKoreanUnnie · 7 months ago
You guys know the rest. They took lovey-dovey photos. Seriously, Saeon CANNOT keep his hand to himself (adoringly). He is a gentleman and our Heejoo is an innocent bunny <3
⤷ Andrea Smith · 7 months ago
tysm for the transcript!!! you're right. the fanservice is out of this world. this is ao3 fanfic ahh level of dialogue
⤷ hongheejooonly · 7 months ago
thank you for your hard work! and you're right, heejoo is an innocent bunny <3
⤷ wtpr_drama · 7 months ago
you're a lifesaver!!! (and what if they're ACTUALLY dating irl too LMFAOOOO)
When The Phone Rings First Two Episodes Met with Enthusiasm
posted by Kdrama Daily Source | 25/11/2024
The first two episodes of MBC's romance-thriller drama "When the Phone Rings" starring Baek Saeon and Hong Heejoo were released this weekend and were met with overwhelming support from the viewers. While the episodes provided important background about our estranged couple, fans cannot help but notice the intense chemistry between the two.
Our drama started with the introduction of the handsome and cold-hearted Blue House spokesperson played by Baek Saeon. With a determined stride and well-pressed suit, Baek Saeon emits a sense of authority and masculinity. In contrast, Hong Heejoo's natural innocent looks capture her character's kind persona but with a fiery personality.
When an unknown man threatened Baek Saeon by kidnapping his wife, Baek Saeon's character spoke harshly, "Tell me when there's a corpse", not knowing that it was not a phishing scam, which decidedly enrages our heroine. Crashing her car intentionally to escape her kidnapper, Hong Heejoo showed that she was no damsel in distress that needed saving.
In episode two, a major story arc immediately happened. After the car incident, the kidnapper taunted Baek Saeon even more by appearing in the same event that he and his interpreter wife were attending. Confronting Heejoo about the incident the night before, Saeon learned that the kidnapper did harm his secret wife. But in a twist of fate, the 'kidnapper' was shown to be... Hong Heejoo herself! How!
It's a roller coaster introduction to our story, so make sure to tune in. You can stream "When the Phone Rings" on Netflix every Friday and Saturday.
moneyeopseo · 7 months ago
ngl i was seated. on the edge of my seat actually.
yoo_are_loved· 7 months ago
saeon oppa needs to be in suit like 24/7
bunnyhong· 11 months ago
our queen heejoo is really back like i cannot believe it's already november and we're just crowning the best kdrama of the year
manhwareader · 11 months ago
when the chemistry is chemistrying
underthesamesky · 11 months ago
so that was a great introduction to the story. the PLOT TWIST yall
MyFavoriteKGossip
published November 28, 2024 | 12:32 AM
Y'all are not ready for these. I have gathered the juiciest info from the juiciest corners of the sasaeng world. Here goes!
- This Top Actor A is rumored to have abandoned a major project because of a personal event (which means an incoming baby). Now the production team is cramming to cast another top actor because they've already announced the premiere of the film which is set for next year. Top Actor A is in major breach of contract (probably).
- Drama Actress A is Top Actor A's co-star in the said major project. The production team asked Drama Actress A if she could recruit her 'friend' (read: secret boyfriend), Top Actor B, to replace Top Actor A, but Top Actor B is hesitant because this is Drama Actress A's comeback to the big screen and he didn't want to overshadow her moment (that's actually sweet).
- Back to Drama Actress A and Top Actor B. They're from the same company and have had a couple of projects together in a while. How that flew under everyone's radar is a maze on its own :)
- Veteran Actress A is rumored to have a drama comeback (revenge thriller genre) after her failed marriage (divorce) from Forgotten Actor A. Directors are all over this project, vying for her attention. Imagine how queenly you are that you have a dozen decorated directors begging at your feet to choose them to direct your new show.
- Top Idol A is dating notorious serial Cheater Actor A, but it seems that Cheater Actor A has turned over a new leaf because he's quite serious about this relationship now. Is this the end of all the endgames???
note: remember not to drop any names! just good ol' clue words :)
tags: blind items kpop kdrama south korea
aeleaders· 7 months ago
damn BI #5 is actually so sweet??? wtf i just hope it's not somebody from my girl group stans tho
herestaeyeon· 7 months ago
don't mind me, i'm just thinking of some PROPHET for BI#1
ikidyoonot· 7 months ago
no because of Top Actor B will replace Top Actor A, that would be really sus???
⤷ MyFavoriteKGossip· 7 months ago
hmmmm... is it? ;)
manhwareader · 7 months ago
ARE THEY REALLY ABOUT TO FUCK UP MY MOVIE OF THE YEAR
rocketPUNcher · 7 months ago
i literally forgot Forgotten Actor A's name i had to search him up LMFAO
⤷ MyFavoriteKGossip· 7 months ago
Bet ur first search result is his drama with Veteran Actress A that they did like 7 years ago lmfao
Baek Saeon and Hong Heejoo Embroiled in Dating Rumors; Agency Yet to Comment
posted by koreaboo | 30/11/2024
Only eight days after their new drama "When The Phone Rings" premiered, lead stars Baek Saeon and Hong Heejoo have been involved in dating rumors after an anonymous user uploaded a blog on Weibo with the title "Labyrinth's in-house couple". In their post, the user revealed that they first witnessed the two on a date in April 2024, three months before Baek Saeon's rumored romance drama comeback and five months before Hong Heejoo's casting announcement for "When The Phone Rings".
"It was around 2:00 AM when HHJ exited the Labyrinth Building riding a familiar car. I already knew it was BSE's car. Okay, you can say that it was a kind gesture by a senior, but at 2:00 AM? And to especially fetch you from work? It does not feel friendly at all."
"Before riding the car, HHJ said goodbye to her manager. The manager also waved at the person behind the wheel. BSE honked twice. The manager knew it was BSE. If they were not dating, the manager would have cautioned HHJ not to ride with him."
"Okay, so he fetched HHJ. Where did they go? Of course, it's straight to BSE's house. Just a booty call? No, it's like 2:30 AM already. Even I, with a rush of adrenaline, just wanted to go home and sleep."
"When they exited the car at BSE's building, they immediately shared a kiss... sure, that's what sunbae-hoobaes do. The next afternoon, HHJ and BSE went back together to the Labyrinth Building for work...then at night, they went back to BSE's home together."
"This happened on Saturday. HHJ went back home on Thursday morning (riding BSE's car again) and was fetched again by BSE the same night. BSE just finished filming his SBS program. Mind you, HHJ did not even bring any overnight bags. One might say she had most of her things at his place already."
"In short, they have been dating for quite a while. And now, they decided to act in a drama together. Congratulations to this couple!"
Their agency, Labyrinth Entertainment, has yet to comment on this matter.
Twitter:
@heejooyaaah: wtf did i just read is this wattpad
@poohbear: i miss the me when i had not read this trash
@exoxiuxiu: no because why do i actually believe it HELP
@saeonswaifu: are u guys seriously believing this
@artherapy: that would explain the sexual tension LOL
@mymindisalive: who in the right mind would actually concoct such lies stop sabotaging WTPR
@justacinephile: yall crazy people need to stop
@soundbites: I can write a better fanfic than this
@notjustafan: guys... i think it's actually cute---[gunshot]
@taylorsslut: i mean it COULD be true idk yall the chemistry in insane
DECEMBER 2024
Instagram:
@YourFavoriteUnnie: YALL. It's true. Baek Saeon and Hong Heejoo are dating! The Weibo user uploaded the photos!!!!! MERRY EARLY CHRISTMAS!!!
[10 photo attachments]
01/12/2024
@labyrinth_ent: Statement Regarding Baek Saeon and Hong Heejoo Dating Rumors
[1 photo attachment]
02/12/2024
"Good day. This is Labyrinth Entertainment. We have seen the reports and have confirmed with the actors about the matter."
"Actors Baek Saeon and Hong Heejoo met 10 years ago in a commercial that they did together. Although the two did not have any connection after this collaboration, they remained good acquaintances who greeted each other warmly when they passed by each other. When both joined the company, they had more opportunities to meet and get to know one another."
"Please continue to show them your support as they show you their good sides as actors. Rest assured that private matters such as this will not affect the quality of work that the actors will offer their fans. Thank you very much for your support."
- Labyrinth Entertainment
[Comments for this post have been turned off.]
Twitter:
@heejooyaaah: i just fell to my knees. MY BABY IS DATING NOW
@runthatshow: OH MY GOD. the chemistry bout to eaaaat
@baekhyuneee: i have not been this seated since baekhyun/taeyeon dating reveal
@YourFavoriteUnnie: Weibo is a cesspool of stalkers but also goddamn good stalkers
@saeonswaifu: you sly fox
@argansunset: NOOOOOO but also YESSSSSSSS they match each other's freaks
@ccchaessss: I DONT THINK HE DESERVES HER NO?????
@justacinephile: damn weibo unnie really said YOU CANT FACT CHECK ME HERE'S THE RECEIPT DAMN
@justapasserby: no because when i watch the show, it really looked like they were about to tear each other's clothes DAMN EP 2
@ithinkthereforeiam: next news: Baek Saeon and Hong Heejoo are married