In a recent interview and pictorial with Elle Korea, Chae Jong Hyeop spoke candidly about his upcoming drama “In Your Radiant Season,” his collaboration with Lee Sung Kyung, and the personal reflections that have shaped his current mindset.
MBC’s “In Your Radiant Season” centers on a romance between two individuals living in contrasting emotional climates. Chae Jong Hyeop plays Sunwoo Chan, a man who approaches each day as though it were an exciting summer vacation. In contrast, Lee Sung Kyung portrays Song Ha Ran, a woman who has emotionally withdrawn, as if trapped in an unending winter. The metaphor of seasons runs throughout the drama, symbolizing not only their personalities but also the internal landscapes they inhabit.
Describing his character, Chae Jong Hyeop emphasized Sunwoo Chan’s honesty. Although the character carries wounds and secrets he cannot easily reveal, he still longs to speak openly about them. That tension between concealment and sincerity defines much of Sunwoo Chan’s emotional journey. Rather than suppressing his pain entirely, he perseveres while attempting to remain genuine.
He further explained that Sunwoo Chan is deeply kindhearted. The character believes that if he himself is hurting, others must also be experiencing similar struggles. This perspective motivates him to help those around him without hesitation. Instead of portraying a purely carefree personality, Chae presents a layered figure—someone who maintains warmth despite internal scars.
When asked whether he personally related to Sunwoo Chan’s experiences, Chae Jong Hyeop admitted that he did. He reflected on the drama’s central question, “What season of your life are you in right now?” and said it reminded him of his time studying abroad. Living overseas brought moments of uncertainty and solitude, yet it was also a period of growth and self-discovery. Those memories helped him connect emotionally with his character’s sense of introspection.
Regarding his co-star Lee Sung Kyung, Chae Jong Hyeop spoke with admiration. He described her as immensely talented and full of energy on set. According to him, her presence brightens the atmosphere during filming and contributes to a lively, positive environment. He also shared that he has gained significant energy from working with her and continues to learn from her throughout the production process.
In the interview, Chae Jong Hyeop also looked back on a defining moment in his life. He revealed that the most meaningful turning point was when he first discovered something he truly wanted to pursue. This realization came unexpectedly while he was doing modeling work in South Africa. It was not part of a grand plan, but the experience awakened a sense of purpose. He described that period as the moment when his world shifted from monochrome to color.
When asked how he comforts himself emotionally, Chae offered a thoughtful answer. He explained that immersing himself in new environments helps him clear his mind. By experiencing unfamiliar customs and lifestyles, he finds that worries and distracting thoughts fade away. The sense of fascination that accompanies discovery becomes a form of emotional reset.
Finally, reflecting once more on the metaphor of seasons, Chae Jong Hyeop described his current stage in life as winter. However, he clarified that this does not signify stagnation. Instead, it represents a time of preparation and steady effort. By working diligently without becoming overly excited, he believes he is laying the groundwork for a better season ahead. He expressed hope that no matter what path he walks in the future, he can retain the emotions he felt at the time of his debut.
Through his reflections, Chae Jong Hyeop reveals a thoughtful and measured approach to both acting and life. “In Your Radiant Season” appears to mirror many of his own contemplations about growth, resilience, and emotional climate. As audiences anticipate the drama, his words offer insight into the layers behind the performance and the mindset guiding him forward.
