Nam Ji Hyun is set to make a notable return to historical drama with her new series, “To My Beloved Thief,” premiering on January 3, 2024, at 21:20 KST. The series tells the captivating story of Hong Eun Jo, portrayed by Nam Ji Hyun, who unexpectedly assumes the role of a bandit named Gil Dong. Alongside her, Moon Sang Min plays Yi Yeol, a royal prince of the Joseon era who finds himself switching souls with her during their pursuits. This intriguing premise sets the stage for an adventure where both characters ultimately save one another and protect their community.
After an eight-year hiatus from sageuk, or historical dramas, Nam Ji Hyun expressed her excitement and anticipation for returning to this genre. She stated, “It’s been a while since I last did a sageuk, so I feel excited, nervous, and full of anticipation. Although the gap between my historical projects became unexpectedly long, I’m really happy to be able to greet viewers again with a great production.” She emphasized the commitment and sincerity invested in the project, hoping it garners significant interest and affection from audiences.
Discussing her decision to take on the role of Hong Eun Jo, Nam Ji Hyun highlighted the engaging script, noting that she was moved by the characters’ intricate backstories and their evolving relationships. “The script is incredibly fun. I was moved by each character’s backstory, the way they influence one another, and how they come to understand and change through their relationships,” she remarked. She particularly appreciates that the character development extends beyond just Hong Eun Jo and Yi Yeol, impacting their entire world.
The dialogue in “To My Beloved Thief” also captivated Nam Ji Hyun. She described the lines as lively and dramatic, adding depth to the narrative. “I hope viewers enjoy that aspect as well,” she said, underscoring the importance of powerful dialogue in storytelling.
Hong Eun Jo, who balances her life as a physician by day and a bandit by night, embodies resilience and moral integrity. Nam Ji Hyun explained, “Hong Eun Jo’s charm lies in her upright and resilient heart. If you look at her actions purely logically, there may be moments that seem hard to understand, but when you consider her warm yet strong nature, everything she says and does makes sense.” According to her, the character’s bravery shines through, as she confronts danger without hesitation, even while trying to suppress this side of herself.
In preparing for the role, Nam Ji Hyun focused on the character’s gaze and attitude. She recognized the importance of subtlety in interactions with different characters. “While she maintains basic courtesy, she chooses her words carefully depending on the situation, and even when facing someone of higher status, she speaks up to persuade them if something feels wrong,” she explained. This complexity in character helps to create a more three-dimensional portrayal.
Nam Ji Hyun also acknowledged the collaborative effort involved in bringing Hong Eun Jo to life. She engaged in extensive discussions with the writer and director, which greatly enhanced her understanding of the character and the overall project. “I wanted all of these elements to come together so Hong Eun Jo would feel like a fully three-dimensional character,” she added.
As the premiere date approaches, audiences are eager to witness Nam Ji Hyun’s performance in “To My Beloved Thief.” In the meantime, fans can catch her in another series, “Good Partner,” available on Viki.
