‘Lovely Runner’ Writer Lee Si-eun Returns With Fantasy Romance ‘Heartbeat’ Starring Nam Joo-hyuk
Nam Joo-hyuk confirmed as male lead; Han So-hee in talks for female lead in upcoming Bon Factory production. Screenwriter Lee Si-eun, the writer behind global K-drama hits “Lovely Runner” (2024) and “True Beauty” (2020–2021), is developing her next fantasy romance series titled “Heartbeat” (literal title). Actor Nam Joo-hyuk has been confirmed to star as the male lead, while actress Han So-hee is currently in positive discussions to join as the female lead. The project is being produced by Bon Factory, the studio behind “Lovely Runner.”
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What Happened
On July 23, 2026, South Korean news outlet mydaily reported that Nam Joo-hyuk would star as the lead in the romance drama “Heartbeat.” A source from Nam Joo-hyuk’s agency confirmed to Ilkan Sports: “He will be starring as the lead of ‘Heartbeat.’”
Later the same day, mydaily further reported that Han So-hee would be starring alongside Nam Joo-hyuk in the drama.
The drama is written by Lee Si-eun, the screenwriter behind “True Beauty” and “Lovely Runner.”
Official Statement
Han So-hee’s agency, 9ato Entertainment, responded to the reports stating: “She received an offer to star in ‘Heartbeat,’ and she is positively in talks.”
Nam Joo-hyuk’s confirmation was provided through his agency, with a representative confirming his participation as the male lead.
No official statement has been issued regarding the drama’s streaming platform, broadcaster, or premiere date.
Background
Screenwriter Lee Si-eun previously wrote “True Beauty” (2020–2021), which achieved significant popularity both domestically and internationally, and “Lovely Runner” (2024), which became a breakout sensation during its 16-episode run from April to May 2024. The series ranked No. 1 in more than 130 countries on Rakuten Viki.
Nam Joo-hyuk most recently appeared in Netflix’s “The East Palace”-his first project after completing his mandatory military service-which premiered on July 17, 2026, and drew 4.9 million views with 39.2 million hours viewed in its initial days. He has also been confirmed to star in the Disney+ crime thriller “Code,” slated to premiere in 2027.
Han So-hee is also in talks to star in the live-action adaptation of “Solo Leveling” and is preparing for the release of the Korean remake of “The Intern.”
Why It Matters
“Heartbeat” marks the reunion of Lee Si-eun with Bon Factory, the production company behind “Lovely Runner.” The project represents Nam Joo-hyuk’s return to the romance genre since starring in “Twenty-Five Twenty-One” (2022).
The fantasy romance premise-centering on a woman who can see people’s pasts and a man who must conceal his own-builds on Lee Si-eun’s established track record in the romance genre.
If Han So-hee confirms her participation, it would mark the first on-screen collaboration between the two actors.
Fan Reactions
Social media reaction has focused on anticipation for the creative team’s reunion following the success of “Lovely Runner,” as well as interest in the potential pairing of Nam Joo-hyuk and Han So-hee. Early discussions have centered on the fantasy romance premise and the visual pairing of the two leads.
What’s Next
Han So-hee’s final casting has not been confirmed. Filming for “Heartbeat” is expected to begin in late 2026, with the series targeting a 2027 premiere.
Further details-including the supporting cast, director, streaming platform, and exact premiere date-have yet to be announced.
References
- Korea Herald. (2026, July 26). ‘Lovely Runner’ creator’s next choice is Nam Joo-hyuk.
- Soompi. (2026, July 23). Nam Joo Hyuk Confirmed + Han So Hee In Talks For New Romance Drama By “Lovely Runner” Writer.
- Rolling Stone India. (2026, July 27). Nam Joo-hyuk Confirmed for New Drama ‘Heartbeat’ as Han So-hee Reviews Female Lead Offer.
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