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The upcoming drama « Whale Star: The Gyeongseong Mermaid » (working title) has confirmed its main cast. Choi Woo-shik, Moon Ga-young, Heo Nam-joon, Yoo Jae-myung, Kang Han-na, Kim Yeo-jin and Gong Seung-yeon will take part in this ambitious adaptation of a popular webtoon.
Inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s «The Little Mermaid,» the story will transport audiences to Gyeongseong in 1926—now Seoul—during the Japanese occupation.
A romance set against the backdrop of the struggle for independence
The drama will follow Kang Ui-hyeon, an independence fighter played by Choi Woo-shik. Despite the fact that his father collaborates with the Japanese authorities, he devotes his life to the struggle for Korean independence.
During a mission with Song Hae-su, he is rescued by Heo Su-a, a young woman who will eventually come to play a vital role in his life.
Moon Ga-young will play Heo Su-a, a maid working for a pro-Japanese family. After rescuing Kang Ui-hyeon at sea, she gradually develops feelings for him. Her character’s fate will also become intertwined with that of Song Hae-su.
Heo Nam-joon will play this role. After losing his family, Song Hae-su chooses to devote his life to the cause of independence. Determined and willing to make any sacrifice, he regularly crosses paths with Heo Su-a, forming a bond that seems destined by fate.
A star-studded cast to bring the story to life
The drama will also feature several well-known actors.
Yoo Jae-myung will play Kang Geun-hyung, Kang Ui-hyeon’s father. As a collaborator with the Japanese authorities, he has no qualms about using his own son to further his personal ambitions.
Kang Han-na will play Han Yeon-kyung, a determined woman who continues to champion the cause of independence despite the heavy losses she has suffered in battle.
Kim Yeo-jin will play Hwang Soon-im, the owner of the Whale Star Café. A true moral pillar for the independence fighters, she also offers them a safe haven and treats them like her own family.
Finally, Gong Seung-yeon will make a special appearance as Yeo Yoon-hwa, the daughter of the pro-Japanese family that employs Heo Su-a. Behind her cold and sometimes authoritarian attitude toward her maid lies a sincere affection that should add more nuance to their relationship.
The film will be co-directed by Heo Jin-ho, known for the films «Christmas in August» and «One Fine Spring Day,» and Yoo Bum-sang, director of «Twinkling Watermelon» and «Study Group.».
«Whale Star: The Gyeongseong Mermaid» is expected to be released sometime in 2027.
