Just Between Lovers

Behind the Scenes of Just Between Lovers: Casting Secrets and On-Set Chemistry

Just Between Lovers (2017), the melancholic yet tender Korean drama directed by Kim Jin-won, captivated audiences with its raw emotional depth and standout performances. But what went on behind the camera? latestnetflix.com's take is that From casting surprises to on-set camaraderie, here’s what the evidence reveals about the making of this beloved series.

The Casting Gamble That Paid Off

The production team took a bold risk by casting Lee Jun-ho, then best known as a K-pop idol from 2PM, in the lead role of Lee Kang-do. His transition to acting had been gradual, but Just Between Lovers marked a turning point. The show’s producer (PD) later revealed the reasoning behind the decision: Jun-ho’s "quiet intensity" and ability to convey deep emotion without dialogue made him the perfect fit for Kang-do, a character grappling with trauma and guilt . The PD also praised his work ethic, noting that Jun-ho’s dedication to the role helped elevate the entire series .

Won Jin-ah, who played the resilient Ha Moon-soo, was another calculated choice. At the time, she was a relative newcomer, but the PD saw potential in her ability to balance vulnerability with strength—a dynamic central to Moon-soo’s character . The chemistry between Jun-ho and Won was immediate, both on and off screen, which the PD credited for the show’s authentic romantic tension .

On-Set Harmony and Playful Moments

While Just Between Lovers dealt with heavy themes—loss, grief, and rebuilding—behind the scenes, the cast kept the atmosphere light. Interviews and behind-the-scenes footage show a group that genuinely enjoyed working together. Jun-ho and Won Jin-ah, in particular, were known for their playful dynamic, often breaking into "aegyo" (cute gestures) to lift spirits during long shoots . Their off-screen rapport translated seamlessly into their characters’ relationship, making their emotional scenes feel even more genuine .

The entire cast was described as "harmonious and caring," with veterans like Na Moon-hee and Yun Yoo-sun mentoring younger actors . This supportive environment likely contributed to the show’s cohesive tone, where even minor characters felt fully realized.

The Emotional Toll of the Role

For Jun-ho, playing Lee Kang-do wasn’t just a professional challenge—it was a personal one. The character’s heartbreaking backstory and emotional outbursts required a level of intensity that pushed the actor to his limits. In interviews, Jun-ho admitted that some scenes left him drained, particularly those depicting Kang-do’s grief and self-loathing . Fans later highlighted these moments as some of his best work, with compilations of his most powerful scenes going viral .

Won Jin-ah, too, faced the difficulty of portraying a character who oscillates between hope and despair. Her performance as Ha Moon-soo, a woman rebuilding her life after tragedy, earned widespread praise, but she later shared that the role took an emotional toll . The couple commentary (a behind-the-scenes feature where actors discuss their characters’ relationship) revealed how deeply both leads immersed themselves in their roles, often staying in character even between takes .

Where Are They Now?

Five years after Just Between Lovers aired, the cast had moved on to new projects—but the drama remained a career-defining moment for many. Jun-ho continued to build his acting résumé, taking on more complex roles in series like The Red Sleeve (2021) and King the Land (2023) . Won Jin-ah, too, saw her star rise, starring in hits like Life (2018) and The Light in Your Eyes (2019) . Kang Han-na, who played the spirited Jung Yoo-jin, became a household name after Start-Up (2020), while Kim Min-gue and Lee Ki-woo also found success in subsequent dramas .

For the cast, Just Between Lovers wasn’t just another project—it was a turning point. The bonds formed on set endured, with Jun-ho and Won Jin-ah often reminiscing about their time together in interviews .