Tving's new 19+ drama "Dear X" has gained much attention before its airing date of November 6 with its daring tone and emotional depth. It is directed by Lee Eung-bok, whose works include "Descendants of the Sun," "Goblin," and "Mr. Sunshine," and stars Kim Yoo-jung and Kim Young-dae in the lead roles; it is an adaptation of a popular Naver webtoon.

According to KBZoom, the live-action version adds complexity and visual allure to the original story, reimagining its characters and atmosphere through a darker, more cinematic lens.

Director Lee Eung-bok shared his insights about his creative direction. "I wanted to express Baek Ah-jin's pain in greater depth than the original," Lee said. "Her laughter, tone, and actions are all masks, and the mystery of her true emotions drives the story."

While the original webtoon portrayed Baek Ah-jin's disconnection from her own emotions, the adaptation furthers the trauma and inner turmoil she feels regarding morality.The progression of this multi-layered anti-heroine reveals more humane aspects of guilt, survival, and yearning.

The drama also expands beyond the webtoon's central relationship between Ah-jin and Yoon Joon-seo, played by Kim Young-dae, to secondary characters getting bigger arcs: Kim Do-hoon as Kim Jae-oh and Lee Yeol-eum as Han Seo-yoo add to a richer web of relationships and rivalries.

Visually, "Dear X" wears its 19+ rating proudly, with ramped-up sensuality and emotional realism. Working with co-director Park So-hyun, Lee Eung-bok aims for a fusion of psychological intensity with aesthetic sophistication. Critics have described the trailer as "hauntingly beautiful and dangerously addictive."

Hints from the production indicate that the ending of the drama will be different from the open ending in the webtoon, perhaps more conclusive.
The director explained, "Ah-jin's journey won't seek pity or melodrama. Viewers will be captivated by the tension between her downfall and her possible redemption."

Lead actors also spoke about their collaboration. Kim Yoo-jung shared, "Kim Young-dae completely embodied Yoon Joon-seo. His sincerity and gaze gave life to the character." Kim Young-dae added, "Kim Yoo-jung was Baek Ah-jin herself—her immersion was so strong that it pulled me deeper into the story"

With special appearances from Kim Ji-hoon and Hwang In-yeop, "Dear X" promises to be one of Tving's most visually striking and emotionally charged dramas this year.