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The actress Gong Seung-yeon could soon enrich her filmography with a project of historic proportions. According to exclusive information relayed by the Korean press, she is currently in discussions to join the cast of the drama « Whale Star« a long-awaited adaptation of an acclaimed webtoon.
If she accepts the role, Gong Seung-yeon would join a particularly high-profile cast, which already includes Moon Ga-young and Choi Woo-shik, This trio is already generating strong public anticipation.
An award-winning webtoon at the heart of Korean history
Whale Star is the adaptation of a webtoon of the same name, published between 2019 and 2021, which revisits The Little Mermaid in a new setting: the Gyeongseong of 1926, under Japanese occupation. Set against the backdrop of the independence movement, the story follows the destiny of Kang Ui-hyeon, a man ready to sacrifice his life for his country, and Heo Su-a, a young woman ready to do anything to protect him.
The original work was hailed for its narrative and visual quality, winning the Presidential Grand Prize at the 2021 Korea Content Awards. Since the announcement of its adaptation as a drama, speculation about the casting has fueled constant discussion among fans.
Gong Seung-yeon has reportedly been offered the role of Yoon-hwa, the daughter of a wealthy pro-Japanese family in Gunsan. Although she comes from a privileged background, her character stands out for the special attention she pays to Su-a, one of the household servants. A figure of support and moral guidance, Yoon-hwa plays a decisive role in the young heroine's journey and choices.
A prestigious cast and a top-notch team
The main roles have already been cast: Moon Ga-young will play Heo Su-a, while Choi Woo-shik will lend her features to Kang Ui-hyeon. Heo Nam-joon has also been approached for the role of Song Hae-su. After a long period of reflection, the actors concerned have agreed in principle to take part in the project.
The production was entrusted to Heo Jin-ho, known for his sensitive and visually striking works such as Christmas in August and The Last Princess. Filming is expected to take place mainly in Gunsan, with a spring launch planned.
This project could also mark the reunion of Gong Seung-yeon and Choi Woo-shik, recent on-screen partners in the film Number One, which hits cinemas on February 11. A collaboration that has not failed to seduce audiences, and whose new incarnation in Whale Star is already arousing curiosity.
In parallel, Gong Seung-yeon will also star in the historical drama Perfect Crown, broadcast in April on MBC, where she plays the elegant, reserved character of Yoon Yi-rang.
