“What Comes After Love” is a refreshing work depicting a love that transcends borders between a Korean woman and a Japanese man.
The original novel “What Comes After Love” was co-authored by popular Korean writer Gong Ji-young and Tsuji Hitonari, the author of “Between Calmness and Passion”. The original novel garnered significant attention both domestically and internationally upon its release.
Lee Se-young takes on the role of Hong, whose emotions are overwhelming as she reunites with Jungo, the man she once loved so deeply. Sakaguchi Kentaro plays Jungo, who carries the scar of regret.
With each episode, Lee Se-young continues to elevate her acting, effortlessly portraying the complex emotions of her character. Her on-screen chemistry with co-star Sakaguchi Kentaro and the buzz surrounding the drama have solidified her status as a “melodrama queen”.
Lee Se-young’s expressive gaze and unforgettable visuals have captivated viewers. In particular, her portrayal of Hong’s emotional breakdown while telling Jungo about their separation resonated deeply with viewers. Switching between Korean and Japanese, Lee Se-young masterfully expressed Hong’s long-suppressed frustration, creating a scene that continues to be widely discussed.
Furthermore, she demonstrated her broad acting range through Hong’s complex, conflicted emotions. In a heartfelt confession to Min-jun (played by Hong Jong-hyun), she admits, “Even if I had dated you first, even if we were married with three kids, if he had come first, my heart would have still sunk.” Her calm yet sorrowful tone and trembling eyes vividly conveyed the depth of her character’s story.
Lee Se-young skillfully navigates the balance between melancholy and beauty, coldness and warmth, drawing viewers deeper into the story. As Hong struggles with swirling emotions and relationships, Lee Se-young explores the many facets of her character, creating a unique “Lee Se-young-style melodrama”.