‘Melancholia’ Director Shares How the New Drama Differs from Others, Talks About Im Soo Jung and Lee Do Hyun + New Release Date Due to COVID-19 Positive Staff

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Melancholia
Im Soo Jung
Lee Do Hyun
Kim Sang Hyup

"Melancholia" director Kim Sang Hyup shared his honest reasons on choosing the new drama. He also talked about how it differs from all his past dramas.

The director also shared his thoughts on Im Soo Jung and Lee Do Hyun's refreshingly new combination.

'Melancholia' Director Shares Honest Thoughts on the Drama and How it Differs From Others

Director Kim Sang Hyup shared his honest thoughts on his upcoming melodrama "Melancholia."

The new drama follows the story of the passionate Mathematics teacher Ji Yoon Soo and a former Math prodigy Baek Seung Yoo, played by Im Soo Jung and Lee Do Hyun, respectively, who try to get through life and Mathematics while navigating their way in their corruption and scandal-filled private school.

Kim Sang Hyup, who made noise for his popular dramas "True Beauty" and "Extraordinary You", said, "It ["Melancholia"] has an entirely different texture from my past works."

'Melancholia'
(Photo : tvN)
Lee Do Hyun and Im Soo Jung for Melancholia

The director reasoned, "I was drawn to the unique story of teaching Mathematics through love. Ironically, the relationship between a student and a teacher, which is considered one of the most commonly considered "taboos", is actually purer than the self-proclaimed successful people around them."

According to him, "Melancholia" wants to convey the message of hope amidst the struggles and prejudices of society.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: tvN's 'Melancholia' Writer Shares Inspiration in Creating the Drama + Reveals Thoughts on Im Soo Jung and Lee Do Hyun

He continued, "It's not entirely about solving mathematical problems. Mathematics is a metaphor in our journey of life and love. I wanted to depict the idealism, passion and euphoria through the mix of logic and emotions."

The sensuous director raises the expectation index to an increasingly high amount by saying, "We are using Mathematics to depict a love story that is as beautiful as art."

Director Kim Sang Hyup on Im Soo Jung and Lee Do Hyun's Casting

Unbeknownst to many, Kim Sang Hyup is the one who chose to cast Im Soo Jung and Lee Do Hyun in the starring roles.

'Melancholia'
(Photo : tvN)
Lee Do Hyun for Melancholia

He revealed his reason, "I liked Im Soo Jung and Lee Do Hyun's voices and their looks in the eyes. The two of them have a similar image and aura, too. Above all, I want their innocent looks to make the drama more appealing."

'Melancholia'
(Photo : tvN)
Im Soo Jung for Melancholia

"I hope that "Melancholia" is a drama that will make the viewers be determined about their dreams in life and not let go of hope even in trying times," he concluded.

'Melancholia' Release Date and Where to Watch

"Melancholia," which was originally slated to air on November 3, rescheduled its premiere date due to the drama's production staff who have been diagnosed positive with COVID-19.

'Melancholia'
(Photo : tvN)
Kdrama Melancholia poster

One member of the production staff tested positive for COVID-19 on October 31, and took immediate action with mass testing. Three other staff tested positive while everyone else was diagnosed negative.

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After reviewing the situation, the production team decided to delay the premiere.

"Melancholia" is now slated to premiere on November 10 at 10:30 p.m. KST on tvN. It is also available for worldwide streaming on iQIYI and Viki.

ICYMI, watch the teaser here:

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KDramaStars owns this article.
Written by Elijah Mully.

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