“First, For Love” Confirms Star-Studded Cast and Begins Filming for a 2025 Release – kdramadiary

tvN’s upcoming romantic drama First, For Love has officially locked in its leading cast—Yum Jung Ah, Park Hae Joon, Choi Yoon Ji, and Kim Min Kyu—and is set to begin filming ahead of its premiere in the second half of 2025.

The series, directed by acclaimed romance specialist Yoo Je-won and written by a promising new voice in the industry, is being planned and produced by Studio Dragon and Showrunners.

First, For Love tells a heartwarming and emotionally rich story about a single mother and her daughter who, at unexpected turning points in their lives, encounter their first loves—not the final ones—and choose to embrace the present rather than wait for some distant future. With a tone that shifts between cheerful, touching, and exhilarating, the drama promises to deliver a narrative that resonates deeply with viewers and brings both empathy and joy.

Veteran actress Yum Jung Ah will portray Lee Ji-an, a tough and respected construction site manager who has lived her life with unshakable confidence. Although she commands her work environment with authority, her deep affection for her daughter Lee Hyo-ri reveals a softer, more vulnerable side. When her daughter begins to rebel and stray from her previously straight path, Ji-an’s once-steady world begins to tremble.

Speaking about the project, Yum Jung Ah shared, “I’m excited and grateful to join a drama filled with good people. I’ll do my best to live sincerely as Lee Ji-an during the time I’m given.” The transformation of this “legendary” actress—who has made a mark in films, dramas, and variety shows—is highly anticipated.

Joining her is Park Hae Joon as Ryu Jeong-seok, a meticulous and slightly prickly architectural designer who also happens to be Ji-an’s first love. Now a single father raising his son, his quiet life is upended when Ji-an and her daughter arrive unexpectedly.

Park Hae Joon, known for his compelling roles in The World of the Married, My Mister, and When Life Gives You Tangerines, will return with a fresh character who gradually opens his heart. He noted, “This is a warm story about people slowly making space in each other’s lives and comforting old wounds.”

Choi Yoon Ji plays the role of Lee Hyo-ri, Ji-an’s daughter and a once-stellar medical student who now finds herself lost and rebellious. Leaving behind her rigid life path, she heads to a quiet seaside town where she meets new people and redefines her identity. Choi, praised for her strong performances in Love Your Enemy and The Trunk, brings a fresh image and depth to the character, and her chemistry with Yeom Jeong-ah is expected to be a standout element of the show.

Rounding out the cast is Kim Min Kyu as Ryu Bo-hyeon, Jeong-seok’s son and the heart of the village’s youth community. Having worked on a flower farm for the past six years, Bo-hyeon lives a peaceful life surrounded by blooms—until Hyo-ri’s unexpected arrival in her camper van brings new emotions into his life. With his warm presence and youthful energy, Kim Min-gyu is expected to deliver a charming performance that adds a sweet romantic subplot to the series.

Directed by Yoo Je-won—known for hits like Hometown Cha Cha Cha, Crash Course in Romance, and Love Next Door—and written by a fresh new voice, First, For Love is shaping up to be a touching and beautifully crafted drama. Featuring rich characters and a narrative that celebrates new beginnings and emotional growth, the show is already building anticipation as it prepares for its debut in late 2025.

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