Kang Hoon and Kim Hye Joon are reported to lead tvN’s 2026 romantic comedy

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K-drama fans may soon witness a fresh and intriguing on-screen pairing as reports suggest Kang Hoon and Kim Hye Joon are being considered for lead roles in an upcoming tvN romantic comedy titled My Favorite Employee. Industry insiders revealed on July 16 that the two actors are currently in talks for the project, which is based on the webtoon My Oppa is an Idol. Though still in its early development phase, the drama is already sparking excitement thanks to its promising premise and potential casting choices.

Set against the backdrop of a quirky workplace, My Favorite Employee tells the story of Nam Da Reum, a passionate and starry-eyed newcomer who begins working at a company run by Lee Chan — a former idol turned CEO. As she navigates her new job, Nam Da Reum also encounters Kang Ha Gi, the company’s president, whose steely demeanor and impressive rise from startup founder to executive hide a much softer side. The drama promises a delightful mix of office antics, idol-fan dynamics, and slow-burn romantic chemistry, capturing the whimsical charm often found in webtoon-based stories.

If confirmed, Kang Hoon would step into the role of Kang Ha Gi, portraying a man who initially seems distant and authoritative but ultimately reveals himself as a principled and warm-hearted leader. The character’s layered personality could provide Kang Hoon with an opportunity to showcase both his dramatic range and subtle comedic timing. Meanwhile, Kim Hye Joon is reportedly in talks to play the enthusiastic and earnest Nam Da Reum, a woman who finds herself unexpectedly working alongside the very idol she used to admire. Her journey from fan to professional colleague — and perhaps more — offers a compelling arc filled with emotional twists, relatable moments, and heartfelt discoveries.

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The role of Lee Chan, the idol-turned-CEO at the center of this charming fan-to-boss twist, remains unconfirmed, leaving fans to speculate who might be cast in this pivotal role. While no official statements have been made by Kang Hoon or Kim Hye Joon’s agencies, early chatter online is filled with anticipation. Many fans are already envisioning the chemistry between the two, praising the potential pairing for its freshness and visual appeal.

With filming expected to begin in the latter half of 2025 and a tentative broadcast date set for 2026, My Favorite Employee is slowly shaping up to be one of tvN’s most anticipated romantic comedies in the coming year. Fans of the original webtoon are particularly curious about how the drama will adapt the humorous and heartwarming elements of the story for television, especially with such strong actors potentially at the helm. As casting progresses and details emerge, the buzz around this office rom-com only continues to grow.