Critically Acclaimed K-Drama From Film Festival Finally Unveils Its Premiere!

Even before its official release, TVING’s original series ‘Way Back Love’ has been making waves, having completely sold out all screenings at the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF). With anticipation running high, the drama has now confirmed its premiere next month and released its first official teaser on March 5.

A Fantasy Romance That Bridges Past and Present

Based on a popular novel of the same name, ‘Way Back Love’ tells the story of Hee-wan (Kim Min-ha), a young woman who has distanced herself from the world, only to be confronted by her first love, Ram-woo (Gong Myung),—who has now returned as a grim reaper. The drama will unfold over the course of one fateful week, intertwining the bittersweet memories of their youth with their transformed present.

Helming the project is director Kim Hye-young, known for her healing, well-crafted storytelling in projects like the critically acclaimed film ‘It’s Okay’ and the hit drama ‘Be Melodramatic’. The cast includes Gong Myung, Kim Min-ha, Jung Geon-joo, Go Chang-seok, and Seo Young-hee, promising an emotionally immersive viewing experience.

The teaser opens with Hee-wan turning her head upon hearing a friend call out for Ram-woo. Unlike Ram-woo, who appears indifferent, Hee-wan seems completely engaged in the playful moment. A flashback shows a mischievous Hee-wan shoving Ram-woo aside during gym class, shouting, “I’m Kim Ram-woo!” before sprinting forward to hit a volleyball, bringing laughter to the scene.

Her friend Tae-kyung (Oh Woo-ri) playfully asks, “Do you like Ram-woo?” leaving Hee-wan momentarily stunned. Meanwhile, Ram-woo—who initially seemed unbothered—gradually finds himself drawn to Hee-wan’s infectious energy.

The teaser then takes a dramatic turn. Ram-woo’s narration states, “Finding something to love was a good thing.” Joyful scenes of youthful days flash across the screen—only to suddenly cut to a much darker present. Unlike before, Hee-wan now lies in a dimly lit room, lifeless and unmotivated. Then, Ram-woo, who passed away four years ago, suddenly appears before her.

As a shocked Hee-wan looks up at him, Ram-woo simply says, “I came because there’s something I have to tell you.” The scene ends, leaving viewers eager to uncover the secrets of their fateful reunion.

Before its official release, ‘Way Back Love’ was invited to the ‘On Screen’ section of the 29th Busan International Film Festival on October 3 last year—further solidifying its status as a drama to watch.

At the event, Kim Min-ha shared her thoughts on the project, saying, “I was drawn to the deep sense of longing between Hee-wan and Ram-woo. The emotions they share are incredibly touching, and at the same time, I loved how charming both characters are.”

When asked how she would spend her last week if she only had seven days to live, she responded, “I’d want to travel, do everything I love, and cherish time with the people I care about. You never know when life will end, so my mindset is to live each day to the fullest.”

Fans won’t have to wait much longer—‘Way Back Love’ premieres on April 3 exclusively on TVING.