Netflix is expanding its K-drama slate with A Proper Romance, a 12-episode romantic comedy that pairs Park Hyung-sik and Park Gyu-young in a clever role-reversal story blending military history, workplace hierarchy, and slow-burn romance.
TL;DR
A Proper Romance is an upcoming Netflix K-drama starring Park Hyung-sik and Park Gyu-young, centered on a military-to-office role reversal that sparks comedy and romance.
Still in early development, the series is already drawing attention for its high-profile casting and a premise that flips traditional power dynamics—both in uniform and in the boardroom.
A Power Shift That Sparks Romance
At the heart of A Proper Romance is Na Jeong-seok (Park Hyung-sik), a brilliant but openly arrogant startup CEO who thrives on control and authority. Years earlier, however, Jeong-seok lived under very different circumstances during his mandatory military service. His commanding officer was Woo A-mi (Park Gyu-young), feared and respected under the codename “Viper.”
Fast forward to the present: A-mi unexpectedly joins Jeong-seok’s company as an employee. In a dramatic reversal of fortunes, she now answers to the man she once commanded. The setup creates instant comedic tension, unresolved emotional baggage, and a layered exploration of pride, power, and vulnerability.
As the two navigate office politics, bruised egos, and memories from their shared past, the relationship slowly shifts from rivalry to mutual respect—and eventually, romance.
Park Hyung-sik’s Return to His Comfort Genre
With A Proper Romance, Park Hyung-sik continues his strong return to romantic comedies following recent successes like Doctor Slump and Strong Girl Nam-soon. Long regarded as one of Korea’s most reliable rom-com leads, his earlier roles in Strong Woman Do Bong-soon and Happiness cemented his appeal as an actor who balances charm, humor, and emotional depth.
Na Jeong-seok marks a slightly sharper character turn—confident to the point of arrogance, yet shaped by a past that still challenges his sense of superiority. The role allows Park Hyung-sik to play with comedic irony while gradually peeling back layers of insecurity and growth.
Park Gyu-young’s Expanding Netflix Presence
Park Gyu-young continues her steady rise on Netflix with another lead role that contrasts sharply with her recent darker projects. Known internationally for Squid Game, Sweet Home, and Celebrity, she brings authority and quiet intensity to Woo A-mi—a woman who once held unquestioned power but must now adapt to corporate life under a former subordinate.
Her character’s journey is expected to explore restraint, professionalism, and emotional recalibration as A-mi learns to assert herself without relying on rank or fear. It’s a role that leans into Park Gyu-young’s versatility, blending strength with understated vulnerability.
Creative Team and Production
The series is helmed by director Nam Sung-woo, known for his character-focused storytelling, with Kim Ha-na handling the script. Production is backed by Big Ocean ENM, signaling a polished, character-driven rom-com rather than a purely gag-based comedy.
Together, the creative team appears poised to balance humor with emotional realism, grounding the workplace antics in believable character growth.
When Will A Proper Romance Release?
Netflix has not yet announced an official release date. Filming is expected to begin in 2026, with industry expectations pointing toward a late 2026 or early 2027 premiere.
While details remain limited, the combination of star power, a proven rom-com framework, and a fresh narrative hook positions A Proper Romance as one of Netflix’s more promising upcoming Korean romantic comedies.
For fans of office romances, military backstories, and power-dynamic-driven storytelling, this is one K-drama worth keeping firmly on the radar.
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