The table read for SBS’s upcoming Friday-Saturday drama Buried Hearts has generated considerable buzz, building anticipation ahead of its February 14, 2025, premiere.
This intense political thriller follows a man who embarks on a life-altering journey of vengeance against a powerful, faceless enemy responsible for the murder of his father. Set against the backdrop of a brutal power struggle and political corruption, the drama promises to explore the darker side of ambition, loyalty, and retribution.
The script reading, held on January 9, 2025, marked a pivotal moment in the drama’s development. It featured not only the esteemed writer Lee Myung-hee and director Jin Chang-gyu but also an all-star cast, including Park Hyung-sik, Heo Jun-ho, Lee Hae-young, Hong Hwa-yeon, Woo Hyun, Kim Jung-nan, Do Ji-won, and Kwon Soo-hyun. The actors’ performances during the reading session captivated everyone in attendance, providing a vivid preview of the gripping drama to come.
Park Hyung Sik’s portrayal of Seo Dong-joo was particularly noteworthy. As the head of the external cooperation team at Daesan Group, Seo Dong-joo is a character marked by calculated ambition and a relentless pursuit of power. Park’s masterful delivery, which captured both the character’s cold precision and his simmering inner turmoil, left an indelible impression on the production team. Fans are poised to see a stark departure from Park’s usual roles, as he transforms into a dark and multifaceted anti-hero—a shift that has generated considerable excitement.
Heo Joon Ho, as the enigmatic Yeom Jang-seon, brought a commanding presence to the script reading. A former National Intelligence Service director turned law professor, Yeom Jang-seon operates behind the scenes, orchestrating the rise of the “Kingmaker.” Heo Jun-ho’s nuanced performance, marked by a chilling calm and the subtle menace in his eyes, established him as a formidable antagonist. Known for his depth and range, Heo’s portrayal is set to redefine the villain archetype, potentially cementing Buried Hearts as a landmark drama in his illustrious career.
The chemistry between Park Hyung-sik and Heo Joon Ho emerged as one of the most compelling aspects of the reading session. Despite their significant age difference, the two actors exhibited an exceptional dynamic, with their on-screen rivalry promising to drive much of the narrative’s emotional intensity. Their ability to engage in a battle of wits and willpower makes for a tantalizing conflict that promises to unfold throughout the series.
Beyond the central pairing, the supporting cast further enriched the drama’s promise. Lee Hae-young’s portrayal of Heo Il-do, the CEO of Daesan Energy, was marked by a subtle yet potent charisma, capturing the character’s cold ambition and hidden layers of complexity. Hong Hwa-yeon’s portrayal of Yeo Eun-nam also stood out for its vitality and depth, suggesting that her character will evolve into a key player in the drama’s unfolding tension.
The ensemble cast also featured veteran actors like Woo Hyun, Kim Jung-nan, and Do Ji-won, whose performances solidified the drama’s intricate, multifaceted narrative. Their veteran presence balanced the dynamic between the younger and more experienced cast members, ensuring that the storytelling remained grounded in both emotional resonance and dramatic tension. Young actors such as Kwon Soo-hyun and Cha Woo-min brought a fresh energy to the script, complementing the seasoned veterans and adding vitality to the narrative.
The script reading underscored the exceptional chemistry between the actors, a synergy that is poised to elevate Buried Hearts into a standout drama. Director Jin Chang-gyu and writer Lee Myung-hee worked closely with the actors to refine the drama’s tone, ensuring that each scene exuded a sense of urgency and immersion. The meticulous attention to detail and the actors’ dedication to their roles have sparked considerable excitement for the series’ official broadcast.
Premiering on February 14th, Buried Hearts promises to deliver a gripping exploration of ambition, revenge, and the darker undercurrents of Korean society.
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