Secret Garden

"Secret Garden" tells the enchanting story of Kim Joo-won, a wealthy CEO, and Gil Ra-im, a spirited stuntwoman, whose worlds collide in the most extraordinary way. When a mysterious soul swap occurs between them, they are forced to live each other's lives, uncovering the profound differences and hidden struggles beneath their seemingly separate worlds. This fantastical twist not only fuels comedic moments but also deepens their understanding and empathy for one another.

The series delves into themes of identity, class disparity, and love transcending societal boundaries. Through the lens of fantasy, it portrays the challenges that come from living in different social strata, highlighting issues of pride, vulnerability, and acceptance. The soul swap becomes a metaphor for walking in someone else's shoes, teaching both characters—and viewers—valuable lessons about tolerance, self-discovery, and the transformative power of love.

Upon its release, "Secret Garden" received widespread acclaim for its compelling narrative, charismatic performances by Hyun Bin and Ha Ji-won, and its blend of romance, comedy, and fantasy elements. It not only captivated audiences domestically but also gained international popularity, influencing the romantic drama genre and inspiring numerous adaptations and cultural references. The show's impact endures as a beloved classic within Korean drama and pop culture at large.

Main Cast of Secret Garden

In the TV series 'Secret Garden,' Hyun Bin portrays Kim Joo-won, a wealthy and charismatic CEO who experiences a fantastical body swap with a stuntwoman, leading to both comedic and romantic situations. This role is significant in Hyun Bin's career as it showcases his versatility, seamlessly blending intense dramatic moments with lighthearted comedy. Compared to his earlier, more serious roles, such as in 'My Name is Kim Sam-soon,' 'Secret Garden' allowed Hyun Bin to display a broader emotional range and charm that resonated deeply with audiences. The show's immense popularity elevated his status as a top Hallyu star and highlighted his ability to lead a romantic fantasy series, distinguishing this performance as a standout milestone in his career.

Ha Ji-won's portrayal of Gil Ra-im in the TV drama 'Secret Garden' is a career-defining performance that showcases her versatility as an actress. She skillfully embodies the tough and spirited stuntwoman, bringing depth and charm to the character that resonated with audiences worldwide. Unlike some of her previous roles, such as the historical figure in 'Empress Ki' or the medical professional in 'Hospital Ship,' her role in 'Secret Garden' blends action, romance, and comedy seamlessly. A fun trivia fact is that Ha Ji-won performed many of her own stunts in the series, adding authenticity to Gil Ra-im's fearless persona.

Yoon Sang-hyun's portrayal of Choi Woo-young in the hit TV series 'Secret Garden' showcases his ability to embody a charismatic and complex character with a blend of charm and intensity. His performance as Woo-young, a wealthy and confident figure, stands out when compared to his other roles, often characterized by more comedic or romantic leads, as he brings a nuanced depth and subtle vulnerability to the character. This role allowed Yoon to demonstrate a balance between suave sophistication and emotional resonance, distinguishing his versatility as an actor. Trivia: Yoon Sang-hyun and Hyun Bin, the lead actor of 'Secret Garden,' share a close friendship in real life, often supporting each other's projects.

In "Secret Garden," Yoo In-na delivers a captivating performance as Lim Ah Young, the loyal and endearing secretary whose understated charm and subtle humor provide a perfect balance to the intense romance and fantasy elements of the series. Compared to her other roles, such as the witty Nam Hong-joo in "Goblin," Yoo In-na showcases a softer, more reserved character in Lim Ah Young, highlighting her versatility as an actress. A fun trivia fact is that Yoo In-na initially dreamed of becoming a singer before she pursued acting, which adds a unique depth to her expressive performances.

Crew of Secret Garden