Actors Lee Jung‑jae (54) and Lim Ji‑yeon (36) are starring in tvN’s new Monday-Tuesday drama Nice to Not Meet You, premiering November 3 at 8:50 p.m. KST.
A Fresh Take on Rom-Com Conflicts
The series tells the story of Hyun-joon (played by Lee Jung-jae), a once-beloved actor at a crossroads, and Jeong-sook (Lim Ji-yeon), a dedicated entertainment-sector reporter trying to break the mold. When professional rivalry becomes unexpected romance, the “enemy to lovers” trope gets both laughs and heart. The twist? These two also have an 18-year age difference — a romance angle stirring both curiosity and discussion.
Star Power Meets Proven Creators
With Lee Jung-jae’s global recognition and Lim Ji-yeon’s golden profile, the cast alone is generating buzz. Added to that is the creative team: director Kim Ga‑ram (known for Good Partner) and writer Jeong Yeo‑rang (of Dr. Cha fame). Fans are expecting a well-crafted series that blends smart comedy, emotional depth, and TV-drama polish.
Real Talk About the Romance
Some viewers have voiced concerns over the age gap — Lee Jung-jae (born 1972) and Lim Ji-yeon (born 1990) share nearly two decades in age. At a press event, Lim Ji-yeon addressed it candidly:
“Working with him was easy because he received whatever I offered. Our real chemistry felt natural.”
Lee Jung-jae added, with a wry smile:
“I don’t see age as something to overcome. I was teased… and it just got worse over time.”
What to Watch For
Expect plenty of playful banter, unexpected enemies-turned-partners vibes, and the entertainment-industry setting that lets the story explore ambition, identity, and connection. Whether the “18-year gap” becomes a feature or a hurdle will be part of the show’s intrigue.
Catch Nice to Not Meet You on tvN, starting November 3 at 8:50 p.m. KST — where awkward meetings may become meaningful connections.
Editor’s Insight: Why ‘Nice to Not Meet You’ is the Rom-Com We Didn’t Know We Needed in 2026
Let’s address the 18-year age gap between Lee Jung-jae and Lim Ji-yeon. In any other year, this might have been a “Brand Power” risk. However, as we look at the ratings from late 2025 into 2026, it’s clear the audience stayed for the “Stability of Chemistry” rather than the birth years. Lim Ji-yeon, fresh off her chilling turn in The Glory, brings a frantic, “justice-driven” energy that perfectly clashes with Lee’s polished, yet quirky, veteran charm