Actress's Captivating Voice Wins Her Coveted Role in Historical Fantasy Drama

As the highly anticipated historical fantasy drama 'Moon River' prepares to premiere on November 7, 2025, the director has revealed a surprising secret behind the casting of the lead actress. While many assumed the role of "the most beautiful woman in Joseon" would be based on looks alone, director Lee Dong-hyun has confessed that it was actress Hong Soo-joo's captivating voice that ultimately won her the coveted part.

During the recent press conference, Director Lee explained the immense effort that went into finding the perfect actress for the character of Woo-hee. "When I met with Hong Soo-joo, I found her voice tone to be incredibly attractive. I was mesmerized by her unique vocal color and decided to cast her," he revealed, emphasizing that her voice was the deciding factor.

The drama, which follows the soul-swapping romance between a prince who has lost his laughter and a merchant who has lost her memory, boasts a stellar cast, each chosen for their ability to portray complex, layered characters. Director Lee praised his lead actors, Kang Tae-oh and Kim Se-jeong, as a "perfect match" for their roles, noting their similar vibes and excellent chemistry. He also highlighted the talents of supporting actors like Lee Shin-young and veteran Jin Goo, who bring depth and nuance to their characters.

Hong Soo-joo's journey to this high-profile role is as unique as her voice. A graduate of Yeonsung University's Airline Services department, she has built a career not only as an actress but also as a successful model, known for her striking beauty. Now, poised to play the most beautiful woman in the land, her unique vocal talents are set to be her secret weapon in captivating audiences.