Rising Star Kim Dong-gyu Captivates Audiences in Debut Historical Drama 'When the Camellia Blooms'

Actor Kim Dong-gyu has emerged as a promising new talent, showcasing his impressive character portrayal in his first historical drama, 'When the Camellia Blooms' (MBC).

The drama, set to conclude on the 20th, features Kim Dong-gyu as Hanseong, a handsome Sungkyunkwan scholar harboring a poignant love for a woman.

Hanseong is destined to be bound by a fated connection, symbolized by an invisible red thread, with Hongnan (played by Park Aein), a gisaeng he encounters by chance. He develops deep feelings for her, while also serving as the elder brother to Princess Yeonwol (played by Kim Sejeong), who leads a life full of twists and turns.

Kim Dong-gyu masterfully expressed Hanseong's deep affection and longing for Hongnan, despite their societal differences, through his heartfelt gaze and nuanced delivery. In a critical moment where his family faced death, his plea for Hongnan's well-being before his own demise left a powerful and moving impact on viewers.

Despite his limited screen time, Kim Dong-gyu earned the affectionate nicknames 'Kim Sejeong's Older Brother' and 'Hongnan's Man,' solidifying his presence. His intellectual aura and striking visuals perfectly embodied the role of Hanseong, drawing attention and marking him as a rising star to watch.

"I am grateful to have participated in my first historical drama with 'When the Camellia Blooms'," Kim Dong-gyu shared. "It was a truly valuable experience where I learned so much on set. I will continue to strive for growth based on this experience."

Having debuted with the web drama 'Time to Boil the Sum,' Kim Dong-gyu has steadily built his filmography with appearances in 'Wind Blowing in Jeju' and tvN D's 'Love for the Essential.' His performance in 'When the Camellia Blooms' has proven his potential, drawing anticipation for his future projects.

'When the Camellia Blooms,' featuring Kim Dong-gyu's impactful performance, will air its final episode on the 20th at 9:40 PM KST.

Netizens have praised his performance, with comments like, "I didn't expect his first historical drama role to be so fitting!" and "Hanseong's unrequited love was so touching, I cried." Others noted, "He was perfect as Kim Sejeong's older brother!"