ENA's new romance drama 'Dream to You' premieres today as Hyeri pledges 7% ratings goal

13 Jul 2026, 22:51 by K-Soul · allkpop

ENA is ready to launch its next Monday-Tuesday drama following the success of 'Doctor on the Edge.' Starring Hwang In Youp and Hyeri, the new romantic comedy 'Dream to You' premiered today (July 13) at 10 PM KST. The series follows a man who returns after achieving his dream and a woman who has long forgotten hers as they reunite 15 years later. Attention is also focused on whether the drama can fulfill Hyeri's self-imposed ratings pledge of reaching 7%.

An unfinished film, an unfinished love story

'Dream to You' is a romantic comedy about the reunion of genius film director Woo Soo Bin (played by Hwang In Youp), who returns to Korea after achieving his dreams, and struggling reporter Joo Yi Jae (played by Hyeri), who has abandoned hers. Once united by the same dream, the two reconnect 15 years later to finish both the unfinished film they once dreamed of making and the love story they never completed. The series aims to blend romance, humor, and relatable themes of chasing dreams.

Woo Soo Bin is a filmmaker who first discovered his passion after meeting Joo Yi Jae during his late teens, when he had only been living according to the path laid out by his parents. After making a dazzling debut with his first feature film, which earned acclaim at international film festivals, he returns to Korea—not just as a successful director, but to reunite with the woman who became his true dream.

Joo Yi Jae, meanwhile, was once fearless in pursuing her ambitions as a teenager. However, after facing the harsh realities of adulthood, she gave up on those dreams and settled into life as a hardworking reporter, carrying a lingering sense of emptiness.

The supporting cast also explores different forms of love and ambition. Baek Sung Chul plays Shim Yoo Gun, a struggling actor determined to become "Korea's Takeshi Kaneshiro," while Lee Yeol Eum portrays top actress Oh Hana, who has lived in the spotlight since birth thanks to her former Miss Korea actress mother. As Shim Yoo Gun, whose dream is quickly running out of time, crosses paths with Oh Hana, who has never truly had a dream of her own, the two begin a youthful romance.

The drama also features a more mature love story between film production company CEO Seo In Wook (Lee Sang Yeob) and television writer Choi Sa Rang (Lee Ji Min). Veteran actors Park Myung Shin, Jung Hae Kyun, Bang Eun Jin, Lim Ki Hong, and Park Ji Young round out the ensemble cast.

The key themes: dreams and chemistry

One of the drama's defining elements is how it intertwines romance with the pursuit of dreams.

Director Yoo Sun Dong explained during the production press conference held on July 7 in Seoul, "This is a love story, but it's also about finding your dream. Sometimes people give up love because of their dreams, and sometimes they give up their dreams because of love. I think that's what makes this romantic comedy unique. I wanted to deliver the message that it's never too late to pursue both your dreams and your love."

Both lead actors agreed that their on-screen chemistry would be one of the biggest highlights.

"In a romantic comedy, the chemistry between the two leads is the most important thing," Hwang In Youp said. "I think we worked together incredibly well, so I'm very confident."

Hyeri echoed his sentiment, saying, "My chemistry with Hwang In Youp was honestly a perfect 100."

The actors, both now in their 30s, also drew attention for once again wearing school uniforms to portray their teenage selves across the drama's dual timeline. At the press conference, both jokingly bowed and apologized for returning to high school roles.

Hwang In Youp laughed, "I've said many times in previous projects that it would be my last time wearing a school uniform, but here I am again. I'll say it one more time—this really is the last time."

Hyeri also attracted attention with her ratings promise. She pledged that if the drama surpasses 7% nationwide ratings, she will hold a special event where fans can watch the drama together in a movie theater while enjoying free popcorn.

What to expect from Hwang In Youp and Hyeri

Hwang In Youp made his debut as a model in 2017 before beginning his acting career with the 2018 web drama 'WHY: What Happened to Your relationship.' He later built an impressive résumé with series including 'The Tale of Nokdu,' 'The Sound of Magic,' 'Why Her?,' and 'Family by Choice.' He rose to global fame in 2020 through tvN's 'True Beauty,' where he played the charismatic Han Seo Jun. Many of his best-known works revolve around school life, first love, and youthful romance, making 'Dream to You' another natural fit for his signature style.

Hyeri debuted as a member of Girl's Day in 2010 before establishing herself as an actress through dramas including 'Reply 1988,' 'Miss Lee,' 'My Roommate Is a Gumiho,' 'Moonshine,' 'May I Help You,' and 'Friendly Rivalry.' Since winning nationwide popularity as Deok Sun in 'Reply 1988,' she has become known for portraying energetic, optimistic, and resilient characters. Her role as the determined reporter Joo Yi Jae is expected to showcase those strengths once again as she returns to the romantic comedy genre.

Following the success of 'Doctor on the Edge'

'Dream to You' succeeds 'Doctor on the Edge,' which concluded on July 7. Starring Lee Jae Wook and Shin Ye Eun, the medical romance followed public health doctor Do Ji Eui and nurse Yuk Ha Ri as they healed one another's emotional wounds on the remote island of Pyeondongdo. The finale recorded its highest ratings yet, earning a nationwide average of 5.9% and peaking at 7.0%, finishing as the most-watched program in its time slot.

ENA has enjoyed a string of well-received dramas with 'Honour,' 'Climax,' 'Scarecrow,' and 'Doctor on the Edge,' all delivering solid ratings and positive reviews. With a total of 12 episodes, 'Dream to You' now hopes to continue that momentum and win over viewers.

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