Go Min Si Exits ‘Grand Galaxy Hotel’; Rising Star Shin Si Ah Steps In as Female Lead

A significant casting shake-up has occurred in the production of the highly anticipated Korean drama Grand Galaxy Hotel. Actress Go Min Si, previously announced as the female lead, has officially stepped away from the project. According to her agency, the decision was made due to scheduling conflicts and a need to prioritize other commitments.

In a quick turnaround, Shin Si Ah has been confirmed to take over the lead role. The rising starlet, who gained attention for her compelling performance in The Witch: Part 2. The Other One, is now set to star in this grand fantasy-romance series that blends mystery, magic, and emotional storytelling.

🌀 About Grand Galaxy Hotel

Grand Galaxy Hotel is a fantasy-romance K-drama set in a mysterious hotel that serves as a resting place for souls caught between life and death. The drama follows the story of a stoic, immortal hotel manager and a fiery woman who unexpectedly becomes tied to the hotel’s fate.

The project is helmed by director Jung Ji Hyun, known for Twenty-Five Twenty-One and Search: WWW, and written by Kim Eun Jung, celebrated for fantasy-rich storytelling. The drama is backed by one of Korea’s top production companies and is expected to air in early 2026 on tvN and Netflix.

💔 Go Min Si’s Departure: Official Statement

Go Min Si’s agency, Mystic Story, released a brief statement on June 20:

“After careful consideration and discussion with the production team, Go Min Si has decided to step down from Grand Galaxy Hotel due to overlapping schedules. She expresses her sincere gratitude to fans for their support and hopes to return with another strong project soon.”

Her departure marks a disappointment for fans, as her recent performances in Youth of May and Smugglers had established her as a rising star with both emotional depth and screen presence.

🌟 Shin Si Ah Takes the Lead

Despite the sudden change, the replacement with Shin Si Ah is being met with optimism. Shin Si Ah is considered one of the most promising new-generation actresses. After debuting in The Witch: Part 2, she quickly impressed viewers with her screen charisma, intense emotional delivery, and versatile acting skills.

Sources close to the production say that Shin Si Ah had already been on the shortlist during early casting talks, making the transition smoother than expected.

“We believe Shin Si Ah brings a unique blend of innocence and power, which is ideal for the complex character at the center of Grand Galaxy Hotel,” said a representative from the production team.

🎥 Production Updates

The drama was initially set to begin principal photography in July 2025. With the casting change, production is now expected to resume in early August, with only a minor shift in the shooting schedule. The production team confirmed that no major rewrites would be necessary.

Filming locations include a custom-built hotel set in Gangwon Province and digitally enhanced scenes to portray the fantasy elements of the drama. A mid-2026 release remains on schedule.

👥 Fan Reactions and Expectations

Fans have reacted with mixed feelings online. While some expressed disappointment over Go Min Si’s departure, many welcomed Shin Si Ah, citing her fresh appeal and acting potential.

“Sad to see Go Min Si go, but Shin Si Ah is an amazing replacement!”
“Can’t wait to see how Shin Si Ah takes on a fantasy drama—she’s going to shine.”

Anticipation continues to build around the show, which promises to blend the romantic mystery of Hotel Del Luna with the layered emotion of Goblin.

✨ What This Means for Shin Si Ah

This marks Shin Si Ah’s first major lead role in a fantasy-romance television series. It's a significant career milestone that could catapult her into mainstream recognition. The drama’s wide platform distribution through both tvN and Netflix also means increased global visibility.

Her casting signifies the industry’s confidence in her growing stardom and ability to carry a complex storyline alongside top-tier actors.

📅 Final Thoughts

While casting changes are never easy, they often mark new beginnings. Grand Galaxy Hotel is still poised to be a 2026 hit, thanks to its unique concept, seasoned creative team, and now, the addition of an actress ready to prove her star power.