“When the Stars Gossip” is a South Korean television series that premiered on January 4, 2025. The series airs every Saturday and Sunday at 21:20 (KST) on tvN and is available for streaming on Netflix in selected regions.
When the Stars Gossip ㅣInformation
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Native title | 별들에게 물어봐 |
| Country | South Korea |
| Genre | SF, Office, Romantic Comedy, Human, Growth |
| Director by | Park Shinwoo, Kim Jin, Oh Seungyeol |
| Story by | Seosukhyang |
| Starring Cast | Lee Minho, Gong Hyojin, Oh Jungse, and Han Ji Eun |
| Number of Episodes | 16 |
| Release dates | January 4, 2025 to February 23, 2025 |
| Streaming by | Netflix |
When the Stars Gossip Cast
Lee Min-ho as Gong Ryong
Gong Ryong is a responsible and empathetic doctor who unexpectedly finds himself on a space station as a tourist. Despite his initial discomfort in the alien environment, his natural kindness and quick thinking make him an asset to the team. His journey in space is as much about self-discovery as it is about navigating the challenges of his new surroundings. His interactions with Eve Kim lead to unexpected emotional growth and romantic tension.
Lee Min-ho 이민호
◾Date of Birth: June 22, 1987
◾Place of Birth: Seoul, South Korea
◾Debut Work: Secret Campus (2006)
◾Notable Works: Boys Over Flowers, City Hunter, The Heirs, The Legend of the Blue Sea, The King: Eternal Monarch
◾https://www.instagram.com/actorleeminho/
Gong Hyo-jin as Eve Kim
Eve Kim is a skilled and charismatic leader with a no-nonsense approach to her role as commander of the space station. Her professional demeanor hides a more vulnerable side that begins to surface as she interacts with Gong Ryong. She represents strength and independence while also showcasing the complexities of being a leader in an isolated and high-stakes environment.
Gong Hyo-jin 공효진
◾Date of Birth: April 4, 1980
◾Place of Birth: Seoul, South Korea
◾Debut Work: Memento Mori (1999)
◾Notable Works: Pasta, The Greatest Love, Master’s Sun, It’s Okay, That’s Love, When the Camellia Blooms
◾https://www.instagram.com/rovvxhyo/
Oh Jung-se as Choi Sung-woo
Choi Sung-woo is an experienced astronaut with a sharp wit and a practical approach to problem-solving. He serves as a mentor figure to some of the younger crew members while providing a steady hand during crises. His camaraderie and occasional humor lighten the mood in the intense environment of the station.
Oh Jung-se 오정세
◾Date of Birth: February 26, 1977
◾Place of Birth: Uiryeong County, South Gyeongsang Province, South Korea
◾Debut Work: Address Unknown (2001)
◾Notable Works: Missing, How to Use Guys with Secret Tips, It’s Okay to Not Be Okay, Hot Stove League, The Good Detective
◾https://www.instagram.com/ohjeongse/
Han Ji-eun as Han Kyung-joo
Han Kyung-joo is a passionate and highly skilled engineer who ensures the space station runs smoothly. Her meticulous nature often clashes with the laid-back attitudes of others, but her dedication is vital to the team’s success. She also adds moments of levity and warmth, balancing the tension aboard the station.
Han Ji-eun 한지은
◾Date of Birth: June 3, 1990
◾Place of Birth: South Korea
◾Debut Work: Be with Me (2010)
◾Notable Works: 100 Days My Prince, Melo Is My Nature, Kkondae Intern, Lovestruck in the City, Bad and Crazy
◾https://www.instagram.com/hanjieun0603/
Supporting Characters
Station Crew Members : Various secondary characters who contribute to the functioning of the station and the dynamics of the story. These include a mix of international astronauts, adding diversity and additional subplots.
Earth-Based Characters : Family members, colleagues, and mission control personnel who remain in contact with the crew, providing insights into their personal lives and the broader context of the mission.
When the Stars Gossip Plot
The series follows the fateful encounter between a space tourist and an astronaut on a space station.
Gong Ryong, portrayed by Lee Min-ho, is an obstetrician-gynecologist with a strong sense of responsibility who arrives at the space station as a tourist.
Eve Kim, played by Gong Hyo-jin, is a Korean-American astronaut serving as the space station’s commander. Their interactions in the confined and high-stakes environment of space lead to unexpected developments, blending elements of science fiction and romantic comedy.
When the Stars Gossip Point to watch
Unique Setting: A Korean Drama in Space
“When the Stars Gossip” stands out as one of the first Korean dramas to use space as its primary setting. The story unfolds aboard a space station, a backdrop rarely explored in K-dramas, offering a refreshing change from the usual urban or historical settings. This confined and isolated environment naturally amplifies the drama’s tension and stakes, as characters must navigate their relationships and responsibilities in a high-pressure atmosphere. Space is not just a backdrop but also a character in itself, shaping the challenges and dynamics between the protagonists. The zero-gravity setting and the technical realism of the space station add an exciting layer of authenticity to the storytelling. Themes of human connection, survival, and love take on new significance when viewed through the lens of space exploration. This unique setting appeals to global audiences familiar with Western sci-fi dramas but is reimagined with a distinctly Korean emotional depth. Moreover, the space station serves as a metaphor for human vulnerability and resilience, emphasizing the universal nature of the story. This innovative concept signals a new frontier for Korean dramas, blending traditional storytelling with modern, high-tech visuals.
Star-Studded Cast: A Dream Team of Performers
The casting of Lee Min-ho and Gong Hyo-jin instantly elevates expectations for “When the Stars Gossip.” Lee Min-ho, known for his global popularity through hits like Boys Over Flowers and The King: Eternal Monarch, brings his signature charm and acting prowess to the role of Gong Ryong, a relatable and empathetic space tourist. Gong Hyo-jin, dubbed the “Queen of Romantic Comedies,” adds depth and charisma as Eve Kim, a skilled yet emotionally complex astronaut. Their contrasting personalities create a perfect foundation for captivating chemistry, a hallmark of any successful romantic drama. Supporting actors like Oh Jung-se, celebrated for his versatility in roles ranging from comedic to deeply emotional, and Han Ji-eun, a rising star, round out the cast, ensuring a strong ensemble performance. The presence of such seasoned and talented actors reassures fans that the drama’s characters will be brought to life with nuance and authenticity. Their ability to navigate both light-hearted and dramatic moments adds richness to the narrative, ensuring that viewers remain emotionally invested throughout.
Experienced Production Team: A Proven Track Record
The creative duo behind the drama—writer Seo Sook-hyang and director Park Shin-woo—further solidifies its potential for success. Seo Sook-hyang has a knack for blending humor and heartfelt moments, as seen in her works like Pasta and Jealousy Incarnate. Her skill in crafting relatable, endearing characters ensures that “When the Stars Gossip” will have emotional depth beneath its high-concept setting. Director Park Shin-woo, known for visually stunning dramas like It’s Okay to Not Be Okay, is adept at balancing intricate storytelling with breathtaking cinematography. His experience in directing complex relationships against unique backdrops ensures that the drama will be both visually compelling and emotionally resonant. Together, this seasoned team is poised to deliver a high-quality production that combines the best of storytelling, visuals, and character development.
Massive Investment: A Billion-Won Spectacle
With a production budget of ₩50 billion (approximately $42 million USD), “When the Stars Gossip” is one of the most expensive Korean dramas ever produced. This level of investment is evident in the high-quality CGI used to recreate the space station and the breathtaking views of Earth from orbit. The set design has been meticulously crafted to depict life aboard a space station realistically, immersing viewers in the environment. Beyond visuals, the budget also supports top-tier costumes, props, and sound design, ensuring every detail contributes to the authenticity of the series. The commitment to realism reflects the production team’s ambition to compete with global sci-fi dramas, proving that Korean dramas can push technical and creative boundaries. This investment also underscores the growing confidence in K-dramas as a global cultural export, capable of standing shoulder to shoulder with Western productions.
Blend of Genres: Sci-Fi Meets Romantic Comedy
One of the drama’s standout features is its ability to blend two seemingly disparate genres—science fiction and romantic comedy. While the space setting introduces elements of adventure and suspense, the core of the story remains deeply rooted in human relationships and emotional growth. The romance between Gong Ryong and Eve Kim unfolds naturally amidst the high-stakes environment, where every interaction is heightened by the isolation of space. Lighthearted moments of humor, stemming from cultural misunderstandings and character quirks, balance the tension and drama. This genre-blending approach appeals to a wide audience, offering something for fans of both heartwarming love stories and thrilling sci-fi tales.
Global Accessibility: Reaching a Worldwide Audience
The drama’s release on Netflix ensures it reaches a global audience, further solidifying the international appeal of Korean dramas. The universal themes of love, survival, and self-discovery resonate with viewers across cultures, making “When the Stars Gossip” relatable to a broad demographic. Additionally, the high production value and unique concept align with global trends, attracting fans of shows like The Expanse or Gravity. By pushing creative boundaries and exploring a fresh setting, the drama showcases the versatility and evolution of K-dramas on the global stage.
K-Dramas for Fans of When the Stars Gossip
If you’re intrigued by the professional settings and unique storytelling of When the Stars Gossip, here are some other Korean dramas that focus on fascinating professions and science-related themes.
Dr. Romantic (낭만닥터 김사부)
Genre: Medical Drama, Romance
Synopsis: A story set in a rural hospital where a genius surgeon teaches young doctors about the importance of humanity in medicine.
Why You’ll Love It: Like When the Stars Gossip, this drama showcases high-pressure environments, life-or-death situations, and meaningful character growth. The medical profession adds a sense of realism and urgency.
Forest of Secrets (비밀의 숲)
Genre: Legal, Crime, Thriller
Synopsis: A prosecutor and a detective team up to uncover corruption within the legal system.
Why You’ll Love It: This drama dives deep into the inner workings of the legal and criminal justice systems, with sharp storytelling and an emphasis on logic and professionalism.
Start-Up (스타트업)
Genre: Business, Romance, Drama
Synopsis: Young entrepreneurs navigate the challenges of launching a tech startup in South Korea’s competitive business environment.
Why You’ll Love It: It captures the highs and lows of pursuing innovation and dreams, showcasing professional struggles and character-driven narratives similar to When the Stars Gossip.
Kairos (카이로스)
Genre: Science Fiction, Thriller
Synopsis: A time-bending thriller about individuals who communicate across timelines to prevent a tragedy.
Why You’ll Love It: The suspenseful narrative and science fiction elements resonate with the futuristic setting of When the Stars Gossip.
Live Up to Your Name (명불허전)
Genre: Medical, Fantasy, Historical
Synopsis: A traditional Korean medicine doctor from the Joseon era time-travels to modern-day Seoul and learns about contemporary medicine.
Why You’ll Love It: This drama combines historical and modern medicine, offering a unique perspective on the evolution of medical science, much like the mix of tradition and technology in When the Stars Gossip.
Doctor John (의사요한)
Genre: Medical Drama
Synopsis: A pain management specialist with a mysterious past treats patients with chronic illnesses while uncovering his own secrets.
Why You’ll Love It: This drama dives into the intricacies of medicine with a focus on rare and complex conditions, providing a similar intellectual depth and professional focus.
Through the Darkness (악의 마음을 읽는 자들)
Genre: Crime, Psychological Drama
Synopsis: A profiler in the early days of criminal psychology in South Korea faces the challenge of understanding serial killers.
Why You’ll Love It: The focus on psychological analysis and the pioneering spirit of the protagonist parallel the innovative storytelling of When the Stars Gossip.
These dramas offer compelling stories set in professional and science-oriented environments, blending unique backdrops with strong character development and emotional depth. Whether you’re drawn to the science fiction elements of space or the grounded realism of professions, these recommendations are sure to keep you hooked!
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