Actor Chae Jong-hyeop is set to make a high-profile return to Japanese primetime, where he sparked the viral ‘Hyopsama’ craze.
According to News1 on the 9th, Chae has confirmed his role in the Japanese drama Bakangseuui Beobchik and has begun filming. The series will air in Japan and also reach global viewers via a worldwide OTT streaming platform.
Back in 2024, Chae delivered a breakout performance in the TBS drama I Love You (Eye Love You) as a younger Korean exchange student, winning explosive popularity locally. He even earned the honorific nickname ‘Hyopsama,’ following Bae Yong-joon’s ‘Yonsama,’ and became a full-on sensation — so Japanese media and fans are laser-focused on his next move.
Korean fans are cheering him on as well, reacting, "A smart move to target the Japanese market," and "Love that he’s hustling hard while also working on his next Korean sageuk (historical drama)."
With ‘Hyopsama’ officially back in the island nation’s spotlight, all eyes are on whether Chae Jong-hyeop can set new records once again with this upcoming drama.