Kang Ha-neul Returns in ‘Your Taste’ with a Unique Take on a Chaebol Heir

Korean actor Kang Ha-neul, known for his versatile performances across genres like period pieces and noir dramas, is making a much-anticipated return to the small screen with a new role in the romantic drama ‘Your Taste’, premiering May 12 on ENA and Genie TV.

In ‘Your Taste’, Kang plays Han Beom-woo, a passionate yet materialistic second-generation chaebol on a mission to take over a small restaurant as part of a high-stakes recipe acquisition project for his food corporation. His on-screen counterpart is Mo Yeon-joo (played by Go Min-si), a stubborn chef operating a nameless one-table eatery in Jeonju. As the two collide in the kitchen, sparks fly in what the series promises to be a “kitchen warfare growth romance.”

Discussing his role, Kang Ha-neul said, “It’s been a while since I starred in a drama, and I was drawn to the project by its highly engaging script. I read it all in one sitting.” He emphasized his desire to depict Han Beom-woo differently from other chaebol characters, portraying him as a prideful, yet oddly clumsy individual. “There’s charm in his contradictions. The writing itself is solid, which allowed me to explore how viewers can engage more deeply with his story,” he added.

Kang cleverly compared his character to gosari (bracken fern), saying, “By itself, it’s tasty, but it really enhances a dish like bibimbap when combined with other ingredients. If the drama is bibimbap, then my fellow actors are all the other delicious ingredients.”

He also shared heartfelt thoughts about his co-stars, mentioning the joy of seeing their faces every morning despite the rigors of filming. “Even though the early call times were tough, I found myself smiling, excited to work. Each scene was developed with tremendous teamwork. We truly want to deliver a drama that warms viewers’ hearts.”

As for what viewers can expect, Kang hopes ‘Your Taste’ will be the kind of drama audiences can unwind to before bed—relaxing, entertaining, and full of heart. The series premieres May 12 at 10 PM on ENA, with free streaming available via KT Genie TV and Genie TV Mobile after broadcast. Ahead of the premiere, a promotional special titled ‘Your Taste: Pre-opening’ will stream on May 6 at 11 PM on Genie TV and Studio Genie’s YouTube channel.