Yoo Yeon-seok stars in MBC's new drama 'When the Phone Rings' after 9 years, a secret romance thriller based on a web novel.
November/22/2024 12:48Related Groups & Members
Yoo Yeon-seok will appear in an MBC drama for the first time in 9 years through 'When the Phone Rings.' On November 21, at the Golden Mouse Hall of MBC in Sangam-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, a production presentation for the new Friday-Saturday drama 'When the Phone Rings' was held, attended by Yoo Yeon-seok, Choi Soo-bin, Ho Nam-jun, fromis_9's Jang Gyu-ri, and director Park Sang-woo. Based on a popular web novel of the same name, 'When the Phone Rings' begins with a threatening phone call from a kidnapper to a couple living as a facade in a strategic marriage for three years without any conversation. Yoo Yeon-seok plays the role of Baek Sa-on, the youngest spokesperson for the presidential office, who is perfect in family background, appearance, and ability, while Choi Soo-bin plays his wife, Hong Hee-joo, a sign language interpreter suffering from mutism, showcasing her first romantic acting. One day, Baek Sa-on receives a threatening call saying that his wife, Hong Hee-joo, has been kidnapped, leading to unpredictable developments. Hee-joo, who is kidnapped by a mysterious person and decides to change her life, and Sa-on, who pursues the kidnapper, gradually learn about each other and become important to one another. On this day, when asked about his feelings on returning to MBC dramas after 9 years, Yoo Yeon-seok said, 'I returned to MBC, which feels like home, after 'Recipe for Happiness - Love Words are Mendolontot.' My first drama was 'General Hospital 2' with Cha Tae-hyun. I am excited and looking forward to meeting the viewers in the new genre of 'romance thriller' after a long time.' Choi Soo-bin also shared, 'We filmed really intensely during the hot summer, and there is only one day left until we meet the viewers, which makes me excited and anxious about how they will perceive it.' Yoo Yeon-seok explained his character choice, saying, 'Recently, I have played indecisive or warm characters in romance works, but this character is very calm, hides his emotions, and has a cold heart. As the romance deepens due to an incident, I felt a great charm as I peeled back the layers of this cold character. I was attracted to the changes he undergoes.' Choi Soo-bin mentioned, 'I found it very fresh that the work combines romance and thriller, and I enjoyed reading the script. I immediately wanted to play the character after reading it. I am used to expressing myself with words, but communicating in sign language was refreshing. Having lived a repressed life, I felt that the character, though seemingly passive, has a core and a unique charm.' She also referred to her character preparation process. Yoo Yeon-seok said, 'I looked for videos of spokespersons from news anchors and learned from Jung Jong-hwan, who taught me several times about announcing.' He added, 'He was very passionate in teaching me, and thanks to him, I was able to complete my character. I think he is here (at MBC), and I would like to greet him.' Regarding the tailored suits he wears throughout the drama, he said, 'I wore almost all custom-made suits to fit my body perfectly,' and smiled, saying, 'I was able to pull off both the role and the suits perfectly.' He also shared his thoughts on competing with SBS's 'Hot Blooded Priest 2,' saying, 'Unfortunately, I have promoted both works simultaneously on a variety show where I appeared.' Yoo Yeon-seok expressed, 'I enjoyed watching 'Hot Blooded Priest' and am currently watching Season 2. It's very interesting,' but added, 'There is a genre difference between us.' He concluded, 'I expect that viewers who wanted to see a combination of thriller and romance will choose this one.' 'When the Phone Rings' will start airing in Korea on the 22nd at 9:50 PM.
Related Articles
The 2025 KGMA has revealed its fourth lineup, including NEXZ, THE BOYZ, xikers, Jo Seungyeon (WOODZ), CRAVITY, and fromis_9, for the event on November 14-15 in Incheon. The event will be hosted by Nam Ji-hyun, with special appearances by Red Velvet's Irene and KISS OF LIFE's Natty.
On the afternoon of the 22nd, fromis_9 departed from Incheon International Airport to Japan for their '2025 fromis_9 WORLD TOUR NOW TOMORROW.' They also shared their thoughts on achieving first place in a music program, stating that this is just the beginning of their challenges ahead.
On the afternoon of the 17th, the 30th Busan International Film Festival kicked off with a red carpet event in Busan, South Korea. Notable attendees included f(x)'s Krystal, BLACKPINK's Lisa, and various Japanese actors. The festival, established in 1996, runs from September 17 to 26.
On the afternoon of the 6th, the 2026 S/S Seoul Fashion Week was held at the Dongdaemun Design Plaza, featuring stars such as JO1's Kinjo Aoi, fromis_9's No Jisung, and members from DREAMCATCHER, Dal★Shabet, UP10TION, and VICTON. The event highlighted the presence of various artists in the fashion scene.
On the morning of the 25th, fromis_9 departed from Incheon International Airport to the U.S. for their first world tour, '2025 fromis_9 WORLD TOUR NOW TOMORROW,' which will kick off in Seoul this August. Additionally, their official fan club has opened, raising expectations for diverse content.
In a recent interview with MEN Noblesse, fromis_9's Lee Chaeyoung reflects on her growth and experiences since returning to the stage. She discusses her latest EP, fan interactions, and her excitement for the upcoming world tour 'NOW TOMORROW.' Chaeyoung expresses gratitude towards fans and her commitment to continue evolving as an artist.
fromis_9's Song Hayoung and DinDin showcase their unique collaboration in the new ballad 'Sleepless,' which reflects on memories and heartbreak after a breakup. The song features heartfelt lyrics and a calming melody, enhanced by Hayoung's delicate vocals and DinDin's honest rap. Produced by Rocoberry, the track combines their distinct musical styles to create a captivating synergy. fromis_9 recently completed their first world tour in Seoul and will continue their global journey with performances in the U.S., Japan, Taiwan, and Hong Kong.
The official fan club for fromis_9, 'flover JAPAN', opened on July 25, 2025. Members will enjoy exclusive content, early ticket access for the 2025 world tour, and special perks like a digital membership card and birthday messages. Membership costs 1,100 yen for registration and 6,600 yen annually.
Kang Daniel secured first place on the chart with his single "Episode," despite not performing live. The June 28th 'Show! Music Core' featured a vibrant lineup of K-pop artists, including NINA, H1-KEY, ENHYPEN, and fromis_9, showcasing the power of fan engagement in the digital era.
In a recent YouTube video, fromis_9's Park Ji-won revealed he underwent a hair transplant. He discussed ideas for a women's insurance product with a company, asking if they cover hair loss. He shared that frequent styling caused his hair loss and the procedure cost around 2-3 million won.
