We’re only halfway through 2025, and already we’re being gifted with dark, addictive dramas that aren’t afraid to dig deep into human flaws, and Dear X is about to join that list. This upcoming K-drama is everything we love in a slow-burning thriller: intense emotions, layered relationships, beautiful people with ugly secrets, and a lead female character who doesn’t play by the rules.
If you’re someone who enjoys stories that blur the lines between love and manipulation, kindness and cruelty, Dear X is going to pull you in and keep you there.
Plot Summary of Dear X
Dear X, follows Baek A Jin, a famous actress whose picture-perfect life hides a very dark past. As a child, she was a victim of domestic violence, and in order to survive, she learned how to mask her emotions and read others like an open book. On the outside, she’s sweet and generous, but if you cross her, she won’t hesitate to turn ruthless.
Dear X (2025) K-Drama: Kim You Jung
She’s not alone in this twisted world. Standing beside her is Yun Jun Seo, her childhood friend and protector. He’s the only one who’s always stayed by her side, but one day, he decides to betray her, choosing to bring about her downfall. Why? That’s one of the burning questions the drama promises to answer.
Then there’s Kim Jae O, another man from her past who suffered his trauma. He found purpose through Baek A Jin and remains deeply connected to her. Add in Im Re Na, a former idol turned actress who quietly harbours feelings for Jun Seo, and you’ve got a completed, emotionally charged web of loyalty, love and revenge. This isn’t your typical love triangle. It’s darker, messier, and way more intriguing.
Main Cast of Dear X
Dear X (2025) K-Drama:
- Kim You Jung as Baek A Jin: Finally taking on a bolder, morally complex role, Kim You Jung leads this series as a woman who refuses to be anyone’s victim.
- Kim Young Dae as Yun Jun Seo: Loyal, intense, and emotionally torn, he’s a key piece in A Jin’s puzzle.
- Kim Do-hoon as Kim Jae O: A quiet, brooding presence, who has always seen through A Jin’s mask.
- Lee Yeol Eum as Im Re Na: The Observant outsider who might play a bigger role than expected.
- Hong Jong Hyun as Moon Do Hyeok: A Jin’s fiancé, yes, there’s even more to complicate things.
- Kim Yoo Mi in a support role, adding gravitas to an already stacked cast.
When & Where To Watch
Dear X (2025) K-Drama: Kim Young Dae
Release: In 2025 (exact date TBA) Episodes: 12, Network: TVING, Streaming on: Likely to premiere on TVING, with potential global streaming platforms to be announced later. Fingers crossed for Netflix or Viki!
Why You Should Watch Dear X
- A female lead who isn’t here to be “likeable” – Baek A Jin is the kind of character we don’t often see in mainstream K-dramas. She’s manipulative, emotionally guarded, and morally grey—but she’s also incredibly human. Her story isn’t about redemption; it’s about survival. And that makes her fascinating to watch.
- The perfect mix of thriller, romance, and psychological tension – this isn’t just a romance drama. It’s packed with secrets, betrayals, and emotional chaos that’ll keep you second-guessing every character’s intentions.
- Based on a popular webtoon – The original webtoon “Dear X” by Ban Ji Un already had a strong fanbase, which means there’s a solid foundation for complex storytelling and well-written character arcs.
- Fresh chemistry and intense performances – The pairing of Kim You Jung and Kim Young Dae is already creating buzz, and with Kim Do Hoon and Lee Yeol Eum joining the mix, expect some emotionally heavy and highly watchable scenes.
Final Thoughts
If you’re into melodramas that come with a bite, Dear X is going to be your new obsession. It’s not just about love, it’s about what happens when that love turns into a weapon. With a female lead who’s beautifully flawed, and a storyline full of tension, betrayal, and mind games, this drama is shaping up to be one of 2025’s boldest releases.
Whether you’re here for the psychological twists, the tangled relationships, or just to see Kim You Jung take on a refreshing dark role, you won’t want to miss this one. So go ahead and add Dear X to your 2025 watchlist now.