DEAR HONGRANG
August 14, 2025
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“Dear Hongrang” (2025) — A Captivating K-Drama Unfolded
Overview
Dear Hongrang (Korean: Tangeum, meaning Swallowing Gold) is a South Korean mystery-melodrama sageuk series that premiered on Netflix on May 16, 2025. Adapted from the novel Tangeum: Swallowing Gold by Jang Da-hye, the drama is directed by Kim Hong-sun and written by Kim Jin-a. The series spans 11 episodes, each running approximately 60 to 70 minutes.
Plot & Themes
Set in the late Joseon Dynasty, the story follows the Min (Sim) family, prominent merchant elites. Their young heir, Hong-rang, mysteriously vanishes at age eight, leaving his half-sister Jae-yi (played by Jo Bo-ah) obsessed with finding him.
Twelve years later, a 20-year-old man claiming to be Hong-rang (played by Lee Jae-wook) returns—but with no memory of his past. While the family welcomes his return, Jae-yi is haunted by doubt: Is he truly her brother or an imposter? Her search for the truth uncovers deep family secrets, power struggles, and questions of identity and love.
Main Cast
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Lee Jae-wook as Hong-rang, the enigmatic returnee
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Jo Bo-ah as Jae-yi, his skeptical half-sister
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Jung Ga-ram as Mu-jin, the adopted heir and rival for affection
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Uhm Ji-won as Min Yeon-ui, their emotionally scarred mother
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Park Byung-eun as Shim Yeol-guk, the father
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Kim Jae-wook as Prince Han Pyeong
Critical Reception & Impact
The series has been praised for its moody cinematography, emotional depth, and rich period details. Its blend of mystery, romance, and psychological drama makes it stand out in the 2025 K-drama lineup.
However, its romantic tension between characters believed to be siblings sparked controversy, with some viewers criticizing the narrative. Later plot developments clarify that the leads are not related by blood, but the subject matter still stirred debate.
International audiences also voiced concerns over subpar subtitles, arguing they diminished the nuanced emotions and historical context of the show.
Spoiler Alert: Finale & Themes of Redemption
SPOILERS — In the end, the man claiming to be Hong-rang is revealed to be an impostor trained to infiltrate the merchant family. The real Hong-rang had died in childhood. Despite his deception, he grows deeply attached to Jae-yi. Tragically, he dies due to long-term poisoning, but not before helping bring the corrupt to justice. Jae-yi finds closure and opens an orphanage in his memory—transforming loss into hope.
Global Reach & Future Prospects
During its debut weekend, Dear Hongrang ranked among the top 10 non-English Netflix titles in multiple countries and rose to 3rd place globally in its second week. Despite its success, no second season has been announced, as it was conceived as a limited series.
Final Thoughts
With haunting visuals, layered performances, and a story interwoven with mystery, family bonds, and forbidden love, Dear Hongrang delivers a powerful blend of emotion and intrigue. Though steeped in tragedy, its ending offers a poignant note of redemption, ensuring it remains one of the most memorable Korean dramas of 2025.