• Web Novel Author of 'When the Phone Rings' Praises Yoo Yeon Seok’s Sexy New Take on Baek Sa Eon, Says Drama Version is Even Better Than the Original

    The original author of When the Phone Rings, the hit MBC drama starring Yoo Yeon Seok and Chae Soo Bin, is all praises for the amazing chemistry between the two lead actors.

    The author, Geon Eo Mul Nyeo, shared their excitement, saying, "Now when I read the original work, I hear Yoo Yeon Seok's voice. The version of 'Baek Sa Eon' in the drama feels even sexier than in the novel."

    The drama, a thrilling romance about a couple in a political marriage, has taken the world by storm since its debut on November 29.

    With its explosive popularity, When the Phone Rings is currently ranked number two globally on Netflix and is a top trending TV show in 48 countries. The original web novel has also seen huge success, with viewership and sales skyrocketing after the drama's release.

    Yoo Yeon Seok plays Baek Sa Eon, a seemingly cold spokesperson for the presidential office, who hides his deep feelings for his wife, Hong Hee Joo, played by Chae Soo Bin.

    Geon Eo Mul Nyeo praised Yoo Yeon Seok's portrayal, saying, "His deep gaze and low, resonant voice are exactly Baek Sa Eon."

    The author also raved about Chae Soo Bin’s portrayal of Hong Hee Joo, describing her as "a live-action version of the character" with her "rabbit-like face" and "clumsy threatening gestures."

    The chemistry between Yoo Yeon Seok and Chae Soo Bin has captivated fans, and the author couldn't be happier with how the drama has brought their characters to life.

    Geon Eo Mul Nyeo also expressed their approval of the drama’s new characters, such as Ji Sang Woo, played by Heo Nam Joon, and Na Yoo Ri, played by Jang Gyu Ri, who were not in the original web novel but fit perfectly into the story.

    The author explained that When the Phone Rings focuses on the theme of “communication,” and these new characters help build on that idea. Geon Eo Mul Nyeo added, "I’m curious to see how these characters will influence the relationship between Baek Sa Eon and Hong Hee Joo."

    With its gripping storyline and stunning character development, When the Phone Rings is quickly becoming a must-watch drama.

    Episode 5 airs on December 13 at 9:40 PM, and episode 6 follows on December 14 at 9:50 PM.

    Source: [1]

  • IU melts hearts by helping young actress Kim Tae Yeon pick a dress for her first awards show and even goes shopping with her

    IU has once again warmed hearts with her sweet and caring nature — this time by personally helping young actress Kim Tae Yeon get ready for her very first awards show.

    The two actresses both played the same character, Ae Soon, in different stages of life in the Netflix drama "When Life Gives You Tangerines". IU played the adult version while Kim Tae Yeon touched viewers with her emotional performance as young Ae Soon.

    Even though Kim Tae Yeon doesn’t have an agency yet, IU made sure the young star wouldn’t be alone. According to insiders, IU personally visited a dress shop with Kim Tae Yeon to help her pick out a beautiful outfit. She even helped with hair and makeup plans, making sure Tae Yeon could shine at the upcoming 61st Baeksang Arts Awards, where both actresses are nominated.

    Kim Tae Yeon’s mom posted about the moment on Instagram, saying:

    “Tae Yeon met IU unnie and told me to say thank you. Words aren’t enough to express how grateful we are. We were so surprised by her unexpected visit, and her thoughtful care truly touched our hearts. Thank you again to IU for the gift.”

    The post also showed a happy Kim Tae Yeon holding IU’s present and choosing a dress — a moment that melted fans’ hearts.

    IU is well-known in the industry for her generosity and kindness. While filming "You Have Done Well", she reportedly gave thoughtful gifts and created a warm, friendly vibe on set for everyone, from co-stars to staff.

    The drama itself became a big hit, earning praise both in Korea and overseas. IU, Park Bo Gum, Yeom Hye Ran, Choi Dae Hoon, and Kim Tae Yeon all received Baeksang nominations — a huge achievement, especially for the young star.

    Kim Tae Yeon, born in 2011, has been acting since she was little and appeared in dramas like Crash Landing on You, A Dog’s Love Today, and Gyeongseong Creature. But her powerful acting in "When Life Gives You Tangerines" truly made people cry, smile, and remember her name.

    IU didn’t stop at helping Kim Tae Yeon. She also invited fellow cast members Moon So Ri, Park Hae Joon, Ahn Tae Rin, and more to her concert, sending them gifts to show her love and support.

    In an earlier interview, IU talked about giving gifts to so many people. She humbly said,

    “As I do more projects, there are more people I’m thankful for, but it’s not as hard as people think. I just hope the people receiving the gifts feel happy.”

    Talking about the drama, she added,

    “It was such a grand project. Just being part of it was a blessing. It made me think, ‘Ji Eun, you really experienced something amazing.’ I’m grateful I could work with such great people.”

    Once again, IU has proved she’s not just a talented singer and actress — she’s also a true “Good Deed Queen.”

    Source (1)