My Lovely Journey

“My Lovely Journey” (Korean: “여행을 대신해 드립니다”), also translated as “I Will Travel for You”, is a 2025 South Korean slice-of-life romance drama. It premiered on Channel A on August 2, 2025, airing on Saturdays and Sundays in the 21:20 primetime slot. The drama is based on the Japanese novel “Welcome Back, Traveler” by Mahiro Harada and is produced by Big Ocean ENM. The series, penned by Jung Hoe-hyun and directed by Kang Sol, comprises 10 episodes, each around 60 minutes.

Plot Synopsis

The story centers on Kang Yeo-reum (Gong Seung-yeon), a former idol turned travel reporter. Though she radiates energy and charm on screen, she secretly grapples with anxiety and a lack of direction in life. She works on the lifestyle segment “One Day Travel”, where she embarks on journeys on behalf of others, becoming their eyes and heart. Each trip becomes a mirror, leading her to rediscover herself, her dreams, and her place in the world.

Along the way, she develops a special connection with Lee Yeon-seok, an ex-engineer turned film director’s assistant who edits her travel segment. They grow closer through shared creativity and quiet moments. Meanwhile, Oh Sang-sik, CEO of her agency, OGU Entertainment, offers steady support as both manager and emotional anchor.

Cast & Characters

Main Cast

• Gong Seung-yeon as Kang Yeo-reum (Ha-tang) – A former idol and travel reporter struggling with identity and purpose.
• Yoo Joon-sang as Oh Sang-sik – CEO of OGU Entertainment, Yeo-reum’s manager, with a warm, long-standing bond with her.
• Kim Jae-young as Lee Yeon-seok – Former engineer, now Yeo-reum’s assistant and potential romantic interest.
• Hong Soo-hyun as Yoo Ha-na – CFO at OGU Entertainment and a trusted insider in the agency's inner workings.
• Oh Hyun-joong as Hyun-poong – A planning director and Yeo-reum’s agent at the agency.

Supporting Cast

• Supporting roles include Yeo-reum’s ex-wife (Yoo Ji-yeon), producers, reporters, and fellow ex-idol colleagues who enrich the story’s real-world detail.

Reception

Ratings

The initial episodes recorded relatively modest viewership – hovering in the 0.3–0.5% range according to Nielsen Korea – but the show steadily gained attention for its calming tone and insightful premise.

Audience Buzz

Early teasers and fan reactions highlighted the “roof-top date” between Yeo-reum and Yeon-seok as a standout scene, boosting anticipation for their developing relationship.

Critical Anticipation

Previews emphasized the drama’s healing theme – proxy travel as self-discovery – drawing praise for its unique, introspective premise and strong lead performances.

Fun Facts

Source Material

Adapted from Mahiro Harada’s novel “Welcome Back, Traveler”. It received adaptation rights in 2023, with elaborate promotional posters created in traditional folk painting and ink-wash styles in collaboration with artists.

Behind the Scenes

Director Kang Sol previously helmed “Delivery Man”, offering a delicate, character-driven visual style well-suited to this healing drama.

Emotional Resonance

Reviews noted how the show gently pokes fun at the “idol bubble,” contrasting Yeo-reum’s glitzy past with her present journey of everyday rediscovery.

Soundtrack Launch

The original soundtrack began releasing alongside the drama – in both English and Korean parts – featuring theme songs “My Travel” and “Smile For Me.”

Summary

“My Lovely Journey” is a gentle, healing romance that invites viewers to rediscover life’s meaning through the lens of travel. Anchored by Gong Seung-yeon’s sensitive performance, teased by soulful cinematography, and buoyed by a heartfelt premise – this series promises emotional warmth, quiet introspection, and the joy found in loving small moments.

Where to Watch

Broadcast Schedule

Aired on Channel A.

Streaming Access

• South Korea: Netflix, TVING, Wavve.
• Taiwan: FriDay Video, Hami Video.
• Indonesia: Vidio.
• Thailand: TrueVisions Now.
• Globally: Rakuten Viki.

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