Lee Jung Jae felt 'bullied' by Lim Jiyeon in 'Nice To Not Meet You' drama.
But, she helped him get the new role.
The drama will start airing this November.
Get ready for one of the most unexpected and dynamic pairings on the small screen this year. In the upcoming tvN drama "Nice To Not Meet You (My Secret Romance)," global superstar Lee Jung Jae and the talented Lim Jiyeon are set to deliver a hilarious and chemistry-filled performance. At a recent production conference, the two stars opened up about their unique working relationship, and it turns out, there's a lot more playful teasing than anyone might have expected from a duo with a significant age gap.
While an 18-year age difference between leads can often be a point of skepticism for viewers, Lee Jung Jae revealed that any concerns about a generation gap on set were completely unfounded. In fact, the "Squid Game" icon confessed that the dynamic was quite the opposite, with the younger Lim Jiyeon taking the reins and, in his own words, putting him in his place. So, what exactly did he mean by that? Let's dive into their entertaining revelations.
Source: Instagram/tvn_drama
Lee Jung Jae Admits to Being 'Bullied' by Lim Jiyeon
The new drama "Nice To Not Meet You (My Secret Romance)" stars Lee Jung Jae as Lim Hyeonjun, a nationally beloved actor trapped by his iconic detective role, and Lim Jiyeon as Wi Jeongshin, a principled political reporter who is forcibly transferred to the entertainment department. With Lee Jung Jae being 18 years older than his co-star, one might assume he would be the more senior, reserved presence on set. However, Jung Jae was quick to flip that assumption on its head, jokingly claiming that he was the one being 'bullied' by Jiyeon.
When asked about how they overcame the age gap to build their characters chemistry, Lee Jung Jae immediately dismissed the notion of it being a hurdle.
"I don't think it's something to overcome," he stated, before revealing the real situation.
"In fact, despite the age difference, she still treated me so harshly, and it just got worse," Lee Jung Jae continued.
This playful complaint was met with laughter, and Lim Jiyeon countered with her own perspective.
"I was much more comfortable than with any other actor my age. I don't think there's anything to overcome," Lim Jiyeon rreplied.
To this, Lee Jung Jae wryly added, "It's comfortable to do whatever I want," suggesting that Jiyeon's comfort level allowed her to be freely expressive and bold in their interactions, leaving him to play the 'victim'.
This dynamic is perfectly captured in the drama's promotional material, where his character, Lim Hyeonjun, is literally shown being stepped on by Wi Jeongshin, with the caption: "I think I messed with the wrong crazy person." Lee Jung Jae admitted that facing Lim Jiyeon's intense character made him feel like he had lost his original intention, perfectly setting the stage for their on-screen "war of disses."
Source: Instagram/tvn_drama
Lee Jung Jae Grateful for Joining 'Nice To Not Meet You'
Beyond their playful on-set dynamic, the professional respect between the two actors is profound. Interestingly, Lee Jung Jae credits Lim Jiyeon for his involvement in the project altogether. He co-starred in the drama not just with her, but almost because of her. When explaining his reason for choosing "Nice To Not Meet You" as his first major TV project following the worldwide phenomenon of "Squid Game," Lee Jung Jae was unequivocal.
"The first reason is because Lim Ji-yeon cast me in this project," he revealed. "I'm so grateful to have been able to participate in such a wonderful project," he revealed.
He elaborated further, connecting his choice to his desire for a lighter role.
"My previous work was heavy, and I was thinking about doing something light, lively, and fun, and then the opportunity came thanks to Lim Jiyeon, so I snapped up this project," Lee Jung Jae revealed.
This speaks volumes about Lim Jiyeon's influence and the trust that top-tier actors place in her judgement. Their chemistry, therefore, isn't just for the cameras, it's built on a foundation of mutual professional admiration.
"Nice To Not Meet You (My Secret Romance)" promises to be a sharp, witty, and entertaining dive into the world of celebrity and media. It tells the story of a top star who has lost his original passion and an entertainment reporter obsessed with justice, as they engage in a messy, diss-filled relationship that slowly breaks down their prejudices. The drama is helmed by director Kim Garam (Good Partner) and writer Jung Yeorang (Doctor Cha Jung-sook), and also stars Kim Jihoon and Seo Jihye. Mark your calendars, the drama is set to premiere on November 3, 2025, every Monday and Tuesday at 8:50 PM on tvN.
Source: OSEN, Sports Chosun
This is the best news ever! My heart is so happy for him. I will 100% be watching this the day it premieres!
This is the funniest behind-the-scenes story! Their chemistry must be insane. Can’t wait to stream this!
