K-drama stars Yoona and Park Sung-hoon set to lead new series about a modern chef who time travels to meet a gourmet tyrant king.
December 2, 2024Girls' Generation member-turned-actress Im Yoon-ah (Yoona) and "The Glory" star Park Sung-hoon will headline the upcoming K-drama "A Tyrant's Chef," scheduled to premiere on tvN in 2025.
The series will be helmed by acclaimed director Jang Tae-yoo, known for creating the phenomenally successful "My Love from the Star" and other hit dramas including "The Painter of the Wind" and "Tree With Deep Roots."
"A Tyrant's Chef" follows the story of a talented chef who mysteriously time travels to the past at the peak of her career. There, she encounters a complex ruler who, despite being remembered as history's worst tyrant, is also recognized as the greatest gourmet of his time.
Park Sung-hoon will portray the dual-natured king who oscillates between being a feared tyrant and an enthusiastic food connoisseur. The role adds to Park's impressive portfolio, following his notable performances in Netflix's "The Glory," ENA's "Not Others," "The Kidnapping Day," and tvN's "Queen of Tears."
The drama marks Yoona's return to television after a two-year hiatus following her successful run in JTBC's "King the Land." The actress has built a strong reputation through her performances in various projects, including films like "Confidential Assignment" and "Exit."
Director Jang Tae-yoo's involvement has heightened expectations for the series. His most recent work, MBC's "Knight Flower," demonstrated his expertise in handling historical dramas, making him an ideal choice for this time-travel narrative.
The combination of Park Sung-hoon's recent success and Yoona's established popularity has generated significant buzz around the project. Park's upcoming appearance in "Squid Game Season 2," premiering on Netflix on December 26, has further elevated his profile in the industry.
Industry observers are particularly interested in the chemistry between the two leads and how they will bring their unique characters to life. The series promises to blend elements of historical drama, romance, and culinary arts, offering viewers a fresh take on the popular time-travel genre.
While specific production details remain under wraps, "A Tyrant's Chef" is currently in discussions for a 2025 broadcast on tvN. The series joins a growing trend of K-dramas incorporating culinary themes with historical and fantasy elements.