‘When the Stars Gossip’ : Cast and Filming Locations
Set to premiere on January 4, 2025, on tvN, When the Stars Gossip (Korean: 별들에게 물어봐) is an eagerly anticipated romantic comedy that takes viewers on a journey beyond Earth. Written by Seo Sook-hyang and directed by Park Shin-woo, this series marks a groundbreaking addition to Korean television as it explores life aboard a space station, blending elements of romance with science fiction.
Plot Overview of ‘When the Stars Gossip’
The drama follows Gong Ryong, played by Lee Min-ho, an obstetrician-gynecologist who embarks on a mission to the space station as a space tourist. His character is described as responsible and dedicated, reflecting the high stakes of his profession. Alongside him is Eve Kim, portrayed by Gong Hyo-jin, a Korean-American astronaut known for her perfectionism and expertise in space missions. The story revolves around their unexpected encounter in zero gravity, where they navigate personal challenges and romantic tensions amidst the backdrop of space exploration.
The narrative promises to delve into the unique dynamics of their relationship while showcasing the daily lives of astronauts in a setting that has never been depicted in Korean dramas before. With a production budget of 500 billion KRW (approximately 420 million USD), the creators have invested heavily in building realistic space station sets and special effects to bring this extraordinary world to life.
Cast Details of ‘When the Stars Gossip’
The cast features a mix of established stars and rising talent:
- Lee Min-ho as Gong Ryong: An obstetrician-gynecologist who becomes a space tourist.
- Gong Hyo-jin as Eve Kim: A highly skilled Korean-American astronaut.
- Oh Jung-se as Kang Kang-soo: A space experiment expert who has been stationed for ten months.
- Han Ji-eun as Choi Go-eun: The ambitious CEO of Mirae Electronics and Gong Ryong’s fiancée.
- Kim Joo-hun as Park Dong-ah: A veteran astronaut with multiple missions to the station.
- Lee El as Chief Kang: The commanding officer managing operations at the ground control center.
- Lee Cho-hee as Mina Lee/Dona Lee: A supporting character with personal ties to the main cast.
- Huh Nam-Jun as Lee Seung-Joon: Another key figure in the unfolding drama.
- Park Jin-Joo makes a special appearance as a reporter.
Production Insights of ‘When the Stars Gossip’
Filming for When the Stars Gossip began in April 2022, and it has faced delays due to its ambitious scope and high production values. The series aims to capture not only the romance but also the scientific aspects of life in space, making it both entertaining and educational.
The collaboration between writer Seo Sook-hyang, known for her work on Pasta and Jealousy Incarnate, and director Park Shin-woo, who previously directed Don’t Dare to Dream, has generated excitement among fans. Their combined experience is expected to deliver a compelling narrative filled with humor, emotion, and stunning visuals.
Filming Locations of ‘When the Stars Gossip’
When the Stars Gossip was filmed at the CJ E&M Studio located in Paju, South Korea, which serves as a significant hub for Korean content production. This studio is part of the larger Korean Content Complex, known for its state-of-the-art facilities designed to support various film and television projects.
Location Details
- CJ E&M Studio, Paju:
- Situated approximately 30 kilometers north of Seoul, Paju is easily accessible and has become a popular filming location due to its expansive studio spaces and scenic surroundings.
- The studio is equipped with advanced technology and sound stages that cater to the unique requirements of high-budget productions like When the Stars Gossip.
Features of CJ E&M Studio
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: The studio includes multiple sound stages, production offices, and post-production facilities. This allows for a seamless workflow from filming to editing.
- Versatile Shooting Locations: The complex is designed to accommodate a variety of genres, making it suitable for dramas, films, and variety shows. It provides both indoor and outdoor settings that can be customized for different scenes.
- Proximity to Other Attractions: Being in Paju means that the studio is close to other notable filming locations and tourist attractions, which can enhance the overall production experience.
Significance in Korean Entertainment
The CJ E&M Studio has played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of Korean entertainment. It has hosted numerous popular dramas and films, contributing to the global rise of K-drama culture. By choosing this location for When the Stars Gossip, the production team aims to leverage the studio’s resources to create a visually stunning narrative set in space.
Overall, the choice of Paju’s CJ E&M Studio as a filming location emphasizes the commitment to quality and innovation in Korean television, promising viewers an exciting new series that pushes creative boundaries.
Conclusion
When the Stars Gossip is poised to be one of tvN’s flagship shows in 2025, airing every Saturday and Sunday at 21:20 KST. With its unique premise set against the vastness of space, it promises to be a captivating watch that combines romance with adventure. Fans can look forward to this innovative series that not only entertains but also explores themes of love, duty, and human connection across the cosmos.
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