Chae Jong Hyeop Opens Up About His 'Winter Season' and Finding Warmth in 'In Your Radiant Season'

In a candid interview with Elle Korea magazine, actor Chae Jong Hyeop opened up about his return to Korean television with MBC's romance drama "In Your Radiant Season." The series, which began airing on February 20, pairs him with actress Lee Sung Kyung in a story about two people whose contrasting emotional seasons collide in unexpected ways.

Embracing Sunwoo Chan

Chae Jong Hyeop plays Sunwoo Chan, a man who lives each day like an exciting summer vacation. Despite his outwardly carefree demeanor, the character harbors secrets that he struggles with internally. The actor described Sunwoo Chan as fundamentally honest, noting that his character wants to speak truthfully about his struggles rather than hiding them.

"He's kindhearted," Chae Jong Hyeop explained during the interview. "If he's hurting, he believes others are probably hurting too, so he tries to help." This empathetic quality, the actor suggested, drives many of the character's actions throughout the drama and creates a compelling contrast with his seemingly lighthearted exterior.

Drawing From Personal Experience

The drama's central question — "What season of your life are you in right now?" — resonated deeply with the actor. Chae Jong Hyeop drew parallels between his character's emotional journey and his own time studying abroad, a period that shaped his perspective on life and career. He revealed that discovering modeling work during his time in South Africa was a transformative experience that shifted his worldview from what he described as monochrome to color.

When asked about his current life season, the actor offered a reflective answer, describing himself as being in winter — a period of preparation and anticipation for future opportunities. Despite the metaphorical cold, he emphasized maintaining the same passion and emotions he felt during his debut, suggesting a maturity that belies his relatively young career.

Chemistry With Lee Sung Kyung

The actor spoke warmly about working with co-star Lee Sung Kyung, who plays Song Ha Ran, a woman emotionally trapped in a long winter. He praised her natural talent and the energy she brings to set, noting that she makes the atmosphere bright and cheerful even during demanding filming schedules.

"I'm gaining a lot of energy from Sung Kyung and learning a lot," he shared candidly. Their on-screen chemistry has already drawn attention from viewers, with the contrasting warmth and coolness of their characters creating a dynamic that fans have found compelling since the drama's premiere.

A Rising Star's Homecoming

"In Your Radiant Season" represents Chae Jong Hyeop's highly anticipated return to Korean drama following his massive success in Japan with "Eye Love You." The actor, who also starred in "Serendipity's Embrace" and "Unlock My Boss," has rapidly emerged as one of the most in-demand romantic leads in the industry. Singer-songwriter Sunwoojunga recently contributed the OST track "Forest" to the drama, adding another layer of emotional depth to the series.

The MBC drama airs every Friday and Saturday, with Lee Mi Sook, Kang Suk Woo, Han Ji Hyun, and Oh Ye Ju rounding out the supporting cast.