Acclaimed South Korean actress Lee Na Young is officially making her highly anticipated return to the silver screen.
On September 8, 2026, her management agency, EDEN9, formally announced that the actress has accepted the lead role in the upcoming feature film provisionally titled “Love Counselor” (literal translation).
In this new cinematic endeavor, Lee Na Young will portray the central protagonist, Oh Bo Mi, stepping into a narrative that explores intricate human relationships and psychological complexities.
The official announcement from EDEN9 immediately generated widespread interest among film enthusiasts, marking a pivotal next step in the career of one of Korean cinema’s most distinguished talents as she takes on a character defined by deep emotional depth and unconventional personal philosophy.
The upcoming feature film “Love Counselor” is described as a romance counseling drama that delves into the multi-layered dynamic of human relationships.
The narrative structure centers around characters whose lives become deeply entangled through contrasting themes of sin and devotion, protection and control, as well as love and dependence.
Rather than presenting a conventional romantic story, the movie promises to examine the darker, more intricate realities of human affection and attachment.
The production aims to provide a nuanced exploration of emotional shortcomings and the ways individuals seek connection, healing, and validation through one another despite their inherent flaws and psychological burdens.
Character Dynamics and Psychological Depth of Oh Bo Mi
In “Love Counselor,” Lee Na Young takes on the role of Oh Bo Mi, a character whose approach to romantic relationships is described as both precarious and distinctly unusual.
Oh Bo Mi possesses an unpredictable and highly complex inner world that sets her apart from traditional romantic leads.
Her mindset toward human connection challenges conventional boundaries, as she holds a firm and idiosyncratic belief regarding emotional suffering within partnerships.
Specifically, Oh Bo Mi believes that even “being in pain together” amid their emotional shortcomings is a form of love.
This unique perspective forms the emotional backbone of her character, driving her actions and interactions throughout the narrative as she navigates the blurred boundaries between devotion, control, and mutual dependence.
Lee Na Young’s portrayal of Oh Bo Mi is expected to bring a compelling blend of vulnerability, unpredictability, and quiet intensity to the screen.
By exploring a personality that views shared psychological pain as a legitimate expression of affection, the film offers Lee Na Young a rich platform to showcase her subtle acting repertoire.
Industry observers and fans alike anticipate that her interpretation of Oh Bo Mi’s unconventional interior life will offer a profound reflection on the intricate ways people cope with personal flaws, emotional trauma, and the desire for intimacy in modern relationships.
Visionary Direction by Lee Ok Seop and Lee Na Young’s Career Return
Adding to the high expectations surrounding “Love Counselor” is the involvement of director Lee Ok Seop, who will be helming the project.
Director Lee Ok Seop previously earned widespread critical acclaim and industry recognition with her feature film directorial debut, “Maggie.”
Her debut work garnered prestigious accolades, including the Citizen Critics’ Award at the 23rd Busan International Film Festival, establishing her as a unique and creative voice in modern Korean cinema known for her distinct narrative pacing, vivid visual storytelling, and insightful character studies.
The creative synergy between director Lee Ok Seop’s quirky, sensitive directorial style and Lee Na Young’s enigmatic on-screen presence is expected to produce a fresh cinematic experience that stands out within the romance counseling genre.
“Love Counselor” holds significant importance as it marks Lee Na Young’s direct return to acting following her prominent television work earlier in the year.
The film serves as her very first project since the conclusion of her ENA legal mystery thriller drama “Honour,” which successfully wrapped up its broadcast run in March 2026.
Having previously captivated audiences with her powerful portrayal in television and streaming formats, Lee Na Young’s transition back to feature films with “Love Counselor” underscores her continued commitment to selecting challenging, character-driven roles.
As pre-production continues under EDEN9 and the production team, further updates regarding supporting cast members, filming schedules, and official release dates are expected to be announced in the coming months.
