Buried Hearts cast led by Park Hyung-sik as Seo Dong-ju, a corporate executive caught in a high-stakes battle for survival. Alongside him, Huh Joon-ho plays Yeom Jang-seon, a powerful behind-the-scenes figure, while Lee Hae-young portrays Huh Il-do, the ambitious CEO of Daesan Energy.
Table of Contents
Introduction
“Buried Hearts” is a gripping South Korean drama that blends political intrigue, corporate power struggles, and intense personal conflicts. Set against the backdrop of a multi-billion-won slush fund, the story revolves around Seo Dong-ju, played by Park Hyung-sik, an ambitious corporate executive whose life takes a dramatic turn after he uncovers dark secrets within the company. Alongside a cast of powerful figures like Huh Joon-ho, Lee Hae-young, and Hong Hwa-yeon, the series delves into a complex web of betrayal, survival, and revenge. With high stakes and an unpredictable plot, “Buried Hearts” keeps viewers on the edge of their seats every episode.
Buried Hearts Cast
Park Hyung-sik as Seo Dong-ju
- Character Overview: Seo Dong-ju is a highly ambitious and shrewd corporate executive, serving as the Executive Director of Daesan Group and the leader of the Chairman’s Office External Cooperation. His character is central to the drama’s conflict, as he finds himself drawn into a dangerous battle for survival after uncovering the dark underbelly of the company. Dong-ju’s motivations are driven by both personal gain and the need to protect his future, making him a complex figure whose actions have far-reaching consequences.
- Actor’s Background: Known for his versatility and charm, Park Hyung-sik has starred in hit K-dramas such as Strong Woman Do Bong-soon and Suits. His performances often blend warmth and intensity, making him a fan favorite in both romantic comedies and more serious roles.
Huh Joon-ho as Yeom Jang-seon
- Character Overview: Yeom Jang-seon is a law school professor who serves as the powerful figure behind much of the manipulation and political maneuvering in Buried Hearts. A former intelligence director, Yeom’s character is enigmatic and deeply influential. His role as a mastermind of covert operations and corporate manipulation ties him to the core of the drama’s plot, as he becomes a key player in the fight for control over the slush fund.
- Actor’s Background: Huh Joon-ho is renowned for his strong and commanding performances, often playing authority figures or strategic minds. His extensive career in film and television, including roles in The Guest and Mr. Sunshine, has earned him critical acclaim for his ability to portray complex and multi-dimensional characters.
Lee Hae-young as Huh Il-do
- Character Overview: Huh Il-do is the CEO of Daesan Energy, a key subsidiary of the powerful Daesan Group. He is the son-in-law of Kang-cheon, the chairman of the group, which places him in a position of both privilege and vulnerability. As the CEO, Il-do is determined to secure his position, using any means necessary to outsmart his competitors and navigate the dangerous waters of corporate politics. His relationship with his family, especially with his powerful father-in-law, adds another layer of tension to his character’s ambitions.
- Actor’s Background: Lee Hae-young is an experienced actor known for his roles in a range of genres. His performances in dramas such as My Father is Strange and The Last Empress have showcased his ability to portray multifaceted characters with both strength and vulnerability.
Hong Hwa-yeon as Yeo Eun-nam
- Character Overview: Yeo Eun-nam is a staff member at Daesan Energy and the granddaughter of the powerful Daesan Group chairman, Kang-cheon. Despite her strong family ties, Eun-nam finds herself caught between loyalty to her heritage and the harsh realities of the cutthroat corporate world. Her character provides a more grounded perspective in the midst of the power struggles, offering insight into the impact of the events on the family dynamics within the company.
- Actor’s Background: Hong Hwa-yeon is known for her captivating performances in both drama and film. With roles in dramas like Matrimonial Chaos and Secret Zoo, she’s built a reputation for her ability to portray characters that balance strength and emotional depth.
Supporting Cast
1. Kim Ji-woo as Kim So-young
- Character Overview: Kim So-young is a rising star within the corporate world, working closely with the main characters in the power hierarchy of Daesan Group. She is highly intelligent and ambitious but is also caught between her own personal goals and the manipulation happening around her. As the story unfolds, So-young’s role becomes increasingly significant, and her relationships with key players like Seo Dong-ju and Huh Il-do provide additional layers of drama and tension.
- Actor’s Background: Kim Ji-woo is known for her roles in dramas such as Wok of Love and One the Woman. Her ability to play strong, ambitious women makes her a perfect fit for this role in Buried Hearts.
2. Jang Hyun-sung as Kang-cheon
- Character Overview: Kang-cheon is the chairman of Daesan Group and a central figure in the drama. As the patriarch of the family, he holds significant power within both the company and his family. His relationships with his children and other family members, including his son-in-law, Huh Il-do, are complicated, and his decisions set the stage for many of the power struggles in the series.
- Actor’s Background: Jang Hyun-sung has been a staple in the South Korean entertainment industry for years. His notable roles in My Daughter Seo-young and The K2 have solidified his status as a highly respected actor in both family dramas and action thrillers.
3. Yoon Seung-ah as Min Joo-hyun
- Character Overview: Min Joo-hyun is an important character in the web of corporate relations within Buried Hearts. She serves as an ally to Seo Dong-ju, offering him valuable support as he navigates the increasingly dangerous world of power plays and conspiracies. Her loyalty and intelligence make her a key figure in the unfolding drama, though her own motivations remain somewhat mysterious.
- Actor’s Background: Yoon Seung-ah is recognized for her roles in dramas like The Man Who Can’t Get Married and Pride and Prejudice. Her performances often feature a combination of elegance and determination, making her well-suited for the role of Min Joo-hyun.
4. Choi Kyu-jin as Lee Min-seok
- Character Overview: Lee Min-seok is a key character within Daesan Energy, working alongside Huh Il-do. As the head of a crucial department, he plays a significant role in the internal corporate politics that drive the show’s plot. His interactions with other characters, especially the higher-ups in Daesan Group, often reflect the harsh power struggles and betrayals within the company.
- Actor’s Background: Choi Kyu-jin has appeared in numerous supporting roles across Korean dramas, with standout performances in Tale of the Nine Tailed and The Devil Judge. His versatility in portraying secondary characters who have an outsized influence on the plot is a defining feature of his acting career.
5. Kim Young-ah as Han Ji-young
- Character Overview: Han Ji-young is a seasoned corporate strategist who works for Daesan Group. Although her position is not at the very top of the hierarchy, Ji-young is a key player in the company’s operations and has a sharp mind for business. She also plays a vital role in the unfolding drama, helping to drive certain key plot points forward.
- Actor’s Background: Kim Young-ah has built a strong career in both television and film, appearing in notable roles in dramas like The Queen’s Flower and Bad Papa. Her experience in playing intelligent and strategic characters adds depth to the role of Han Ji-young.
Conclusion
Buried Hearts is a captivating drama that expertly combines corporate intrigue, political maneuvering, and intense personal conflicts. With a strong, diverse cast led by Park Hyung-sik, Huh Joon-ho, Lee Hae-young, and Hong Hwa-yeon, the series delves deep into the complex world of power, revenge, and survival. The multifaceted characters—each with their own motivations and ambitions—create a thrilling narrative that keeps viewers hooked from start to finish.
As the drama unfolds, the tension escalates with each episode, revealing dark secrets, hidden alliances, and shocking betrayals. The supporting cast further enriches the story, bringing additional layers of depth to the corporate battle that unfolds. Whether you’re a fan of high-stakes political thrillers or character-driven stories, Buried Hearts offers a compelling viewing experience that’s hard to look away from.
The First Frost Cast & Their Role (2025) Romantic Drama
(FAQs)
Who plays the lead role in Buried Hearts?
Park Hyung-sik plays the lead role of Seo Dong-ju, the ambitious corporate executive caught in the high-stakes battle of power and survival within Daesan Group.
Who is the main antagonist in Buried Hearts?
Huh Joon-ho portrays Yeom Jang-seon, a former intelligence director and a powerful behind-the-scenes figure who manipulates events from the shadows, making him a central antagonist in the drama.
What other roles is Park Hyung-sik known for?
Park Hyung-sik is widely recognized for his roles in Strong Woman Do Bong-soon as An Min-hyuk and Suits as Go Yeon-woo. He has also appeared in Scent of a Woman and Sister Is Alive.
What is Huh Joon-ho’s character like in the drama?
Yeom Jang-seon is a cold and calculating character who operates behind the scenes. He is a powerful figure who is known for his manipulative nature, controlling key players in the corporate world, including the main characters.
What other dramas has Lee Hae-young appeared in?
Lee Hae-young is known for his performances in My Father is Strange, The Last Empress, and Secret Zoo. He has built a reputation for playing complex characters who are involved in corporate or family politics.
What role does Hong Hwa-yeon play in Buried Hearts?
Hong Hwa-yeon portrays Yeo Eun-nam, a member of Daesan Energy and the granddaughter of the chairman of Daesan Group. Her character is caught between loyalty to her family and the growing corporate conflicts around her.
Is Buried Hearts Park Hyung-sik’s first thriller role?
While Park Hyung-sik has been known for roles in romantic comedies and dramas, Buried Hearts marks his first major foray into the thriller genre, showcasing his ability to handle intense and complex characters.
Who plays the powerful chairman of Daesan Group?
Jang Hyun-sung plays Kang-cheon, the chairman of Daesan Group. As the patriarch of the family and a central figure in the drama, his decisions and actions significantly influence the course of events.
What is the dynamic between Seo Dong-ju and Huh Il-do?
Seo Dong-ju (Park Hyung-sik) and Huh Il-do (Lee Hae-young) share a tense, competitive dynamic as they navigate the power struggles within Daesan Group. Their interactions are key to the unfolding drama, with both characters seeking to outmaneuver each other for control.
Does the supporting cast play an important role in the story?
Yes, the supporting cast, including Kim Ji-woo (Kim So-young) and Yoon Seung-ah (Min Joo-hyun), plays crucial roles in advancing the plot and adding depth to the main storyline. They help create additional layers of intrigue and conflict in the corporate and personal drama of Buried Hearts.
Is Buried Hearts Park Hyung-sik’s first K-drama since his military service?
Yes, Buried Hearts is Park Hyung-sik’s first major K-drama after completing his mandatory military service, marking a highly anticipated return to television for the actor.
What is the overall tone of the drama in terms of character development?
Buried Hearts is filled with complex, morally ambiguous characters. As the story progresses, characters like Seo Dong-ju, Yeom Jang-seon, and Huh Il-do undergo significant development, often shifting between allies and enemies as they try to achieve their goals.