Acclaimed actor Ryu Seung Ryong is set to star in the upcoming JTBC drama The Dream Life of Mr. Kim, which promises to offer a heartfelt and relatable exploration of everyday life.
Based on a popular webtoon, the series follows the journey of a middle-aged man, Kim Nak Soo, who suddenly finds himself losing everything he once considered important.
Through this journey, he learns that true value does not lie in career success or material possessions but in embracing one’s authentic self and the meaningful connections in life.
The drama is scheduled to premiere on October 25, 2025, at 10:40 p.m. KST, and fans are eagerly anticipating Ryu Seung Ryong’s portrayal of a character who reflects the struggles and aspirations of ordinary people in contemporary society.
Introducing Kim Nak Soo
Ryu Seung Ryong plays Kim Nak Soo, the head of Sales Team 1 at a major corporation. Nak Soo’s life, at first glance, appears enviable: he has spent 25 years climbing the corporate ladder, earning the respect of his peers, becoming a department head, and even owning a home in Seoul.
He also enjoys a seemingly stable family life, with a homemaker wife and a son attending a prestigious university.
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Despite this outwardly successful life, Nak Soo begins to realize that achievements, status, and possessions do not define true happiness or fulfillment.
The drama delves into the internal struggles of a man who has long adhered to societal definitions of success and is now confronting what truly matters in life.
Ryu Seung Ryong on Why He Chose the Role
Speaking about his decision to take on the role, Ryu Seung Ryong explained,
“What struck me most was how realistic the story felt. We live in an era where everyone is just trying to get by in their respective places, and this drama captures that very honestly. I thought a lot of people would be able to relate to it.”
The actor was drawn to the relatability and realism of the narrative. Kim Nak Soo represents the type of person audiences might encounter in their daily lives—ordinary, unassuming, and deeply human.
Character Insights
Ryu Seung Ryong describes Kim Nak Soo as initially appearing blunt and stubborn, yet underneath, he is a man of principle who deeply loves his family.
“He’s not special, and that’s exactly what makes him more realistic. The more you see him, the fonder of him you get,” the actor shared.
Nak Soo’s journey emphasizes the importance of appreciating the people around us and understanding that personal worth is not measured by career success or social prestige.
Ryu Seung Ryong notes that Nak Soo’s greatest achievement is the meaningful relationships he has cultivated, underscoring the drama’s message about valuing everyday life and human connection.
Acting Approach and Preparation
To authentically portray Kim Nak Soo, Ryu Seung Ryong dedicated himself to thoroughly understanding the character and his emotional journey. He stated,
“I focused on staying true to the script while building the character. I read the script carefully to understand what kind of person Nak Soo is and what sort of emotional journey he goes through.
On set, I constantly discussed each scene with the director, crew, and other actors in order to depict Nak Soo as authentically as possible.”
The actor’s commitment to nuance and authenticity ensures that viewers will connect with Nak Soo on a deep, personal level.
Themes and Messages
The Dream Life of Mr. Kim is not solely about the life of one man—it reflects the experiences and struggles of ordinary people navigating modern life. Ryu Seung Ryong hopes that audiences will reflect on questions such as:
“What have I missed while living? What have I taken for granted? What am I still clinging to?”
Through Nak Soo’s story, the drama encourages viewers to reconsider their own definitions of success and happiness, advocating for a flexible and compassionate approach to life.
Also Read: Ryu Seung Ryong Set to Star in New Heartfelt Office Drama “Manager Kim”
Looking Forward
As the premiere date approaches, anticipation for The Dream Life of Mr. Kim continues to build.
With Ryu Seung Ryong’s heartfelt performance, the drama promises to be a thoughtful and moving exploration of personal growth, family, and the often-overlooked beauty of ordinary life.
Audiences can expect a series that blends relatability, emotional depth, and thoughtful storytelling, making it one of the most anticipated dramas of October 2025.
