'Way Back Love': Fantasy romance about longing, loss, second chances

Actress Kim Min-ha felt an instant connection to the love story at the heart of Tving's upcoming romantic fantasy "Way Back Love."

"It was exactly the kind of story I had wanted to tell for so long," the "Pachinko" star said at a press event in Seoul on Tuesday.

"I've always been interested in exploring themes of longing, the people left behind and how they carry on with life, often weighed down by guilt," she said.

In this six-episode coming-of-age series, Kim plays Hee-wan, a young woman who loses her will to live after the death of her first love, Ram-woo (Gong Myoung). However, their story takes an unexpected turn when Ram-woo returns as a grim reaper, rekindling their connection beyond the boundaries of life and death.

"Everyone experiences sorrow and longing in their own way, but at their core, these emotions are all connected to love," Kim said.

"Through this series, I hope to offer comfort and remind people that even in our most difficult moments we stand beside each other."

Gong echoed her sentiment, calling the drama "a lyrical and heartbreaking tale" of youthful innocence and first love, and expressing his hope it would bring "warm comfort" to viewers.

Adapted from Seo Eun-chae's novel "A Week Before I Die," the series is directed by Kim Hye-young, known for her delicate yet profound touch in romantic storytelling. Her previous works include the 2019 romantic series "Be Melodramatic" and the 2023 coming-of-age film "It's Okay!"

At the press event, the director said the show explores the struggles of youth as they navigate love, loss and farewell, calling the process a journey of growth.

She thanked the cast for their hard work and support for one another.

"I feel very lucky to be able to work with such wonderful actors," she said, noting how they consistently credited each other for their performances.

In October last year, the series was officially invited to the On Screen section of the Busan International Film Festival, which showcases highly anticipated drama series from online streaming platforms.

"Way Back Love" premieres this Thursday, with two episodes released weekly at 12 p.m. (Yonhap)