Lee Jung‑jae, Lim Ji‑yeon & Kim Ji‑hoon Test Their Chemistry at Petty Love Script Reading

Earlier in 2025, the cast of Petty Love met for their inaugural script reading, marking the first official image of the star-studded ensemble—Lee Jung‑jae (a veteran actor seeking a rom-com lead), Lim Ji‑yeon (The Glory and Lies Hidden in My Garden), and Kim Ji‑hoon (Money Heist: Korea) joining the set. ([turn0search0][turn0search6])

• Lee Jung‑jae is finalized to play Im Hyun‑joon, a legendary actor yearning to break into romantic comedy.
  
  

• Lim Ji‑yeon portrays Wi Jung‑sook, a fierce political journalist recently demoted to the entertainment desk under scandal.
  
  

• Kim Ji‑hoon may play Joo Jae‑hyung, a second-gen chaebol turned newspaper CEO—forming a triangle amid work ambition and love. ([turn0search0])
  
  

Photos shared on media show the trio animatedly reading scenes together—scenes balancing snappy dialogue about fame with tender moments that hint at brewing affection. Their energy and mutual respect during the read-through set an optimistic tone for production ahead.

Lim Ji‑yeon laughed during a humorous exchange; Lee Jung‑jae nodded appreciatively; Kim Ji‑hoon chimed with warm supportive banter—indicators their off-screen rapport could translate into on-screen chemistry.

• Lee Jung‑jae’s transition into romantic comedy is a long-awaited shift, and pairing him with Lim Ji‑yeon—who excels in both emotional depth and charm—makes for high anticipation. ([turn0search1][turn0news10])
  
  

• Kim Ji‑hoon’s shift from intense thrillers into a softer rom-com tone adds a refreshing dimension.
  
  

• The premise of celebrity ambition, media fallout, and unexpected pairing amidst contrasting careers creates rich ground for emotional storytelling and romance.
  
  

Some netizens expressed concern over a 17-year real-life age gap between Lee Jung‑jae and Lim Ji‑yeon—but strong acting skills and the supporting context of their characters fuel optimism. ([turn0search1][turn0news10])
Still, debates online reflect differing expectations among viewers about age dynamics in romantic roles.

• Petty Love is being produced for tvN, written by Jung Yeo‑rang (Doctor Cha) and directed by Kim Ga‑ram (Good Partner).
  
  

• No exact premiere date is confirmed yet, though filming is slated to begin in late 2025. Fans expect a potential early 2026 broadcast. ([turn0search0])