Netflix has officially confirmed the production of its upcoming original series ‘Beauty in the Beast,’ a youth fantasy romance that brings together Kim Min-ju, Lomon, and Moon Sang-min in a campus-set story blending coming-of-age emotion with supernatural elements.
On January 8, Netflix announced that ‘Beauty in the Beast’ has entered production, unveiling its main cast lineup and creative team. The series is positioned as a fantasy romance centered on youth, identity, and uncontrollable instincts set against the backdrop of university life.
A Fantasy Romance Rooted in Youth
‘Beauty in the Beast’ tells the story of a young woman who transforms into a wolf and the two very different men who enter her life: a fellow wolf human hybrid and a seemingly ordinary senior with an unusual pull toward her. Through these encounters, the series explores themes of restraint, desire, and emotional growth during one’s most volatile years.
Kim Min-ju as a Girl With a Secret
Kim Min-ju stars as Min-su, a university student living with a dangerous secret. To prevent herself from transforming into a wolf, Min-su has spent her life suppressing her emotions and strictly controlling her behavior. Through intense self discipline, she has learned to “pass” as ordinary but at the cost of emotional freedom. Min-su’s carefully maintained balance begins to falter when unexpected relationships force her to confront feelings she has long buried.
Lomon as a Straightforward Wolf Boy
Lomon takes on the role of Do-ha, a wolf-human hybrid who lives by instinct rather than restraint. Unlike Min-su, Do-ha acts first and thinks later, following his emotions with unapologetic directness. Initially frustrated by Min-su’s guarded behavior, Do-ha gradually becomes drawn to her, setting up a dynamic built on contrast impulse versus control, instinct versus suppression.
Moon Sang-min as the Mysterious Senior
Completing the central triangle is Moon Sang-min, who plays Hae-jun, a university senior known for his emotional distance and lack of interest in others. However, Min-su is the exception. For reasons he doesn’t fully understand, he finds himself repeatedly drawn to her presence, complicating the already delicate balance between the characters.
A Proven Creative Team
The series will be directed by Jin Hyuk, known for visually driven and emotionally resonant works such as ‘The Legend of the Blue Sea,’ ‘Sisyphus: The Myth,’ and ‘The Tale of Lady Ok.’ His experience with fantasy infused narratives positions him as a strong fit for the project. The script is penned by Jin Han-sae, the writer behind ‘Extracurricular’ and ‘Glitch,’ both praised for their sharp social insight and unconventional storytelling. Expectations are high for a drama that blends genre elements with psychological depth.
A New Take on Campus Fantasy
With its mix of supernatural identity, romantic tension, and campus chaos, ‘Beauty in the Beast’ aims to offer a fresh twist on the youth drama genre. By framing fantasy as an extension of emotional reality, the series is expected to resonate with viewers navigating their own transitions between control and freedom.
Netflix has yet to announce a release date, but with production now confirmed, ‘Beauty in the Beast’ is already emerging as one of the platform’s most anticipated Korean originals in the coming slate.