Actor Seo Beom-joon has successfully captured the hearts of viewers in his first historical drama after his debut in "The First Night With the Duke."

Seo Beom-joon took on the role of Jeong Soo-gyeom, the youngest scholar of the Hongmungwan and an alternate male lead in the novel, in KBS2's new Wednesday-Thursday drama "The First Night With the Duke," which first aired on the 11th (written by Jeon Seon-young, directed by Lee Woong-hee and Kang Soo-yeon). In the drama, Jeong Soo-gyeom is portrayed as the son of an academically distinguished family and a capable young official, showcasing the quintessential characteristics of a "Joseon-era gentleman who is adored by women."

Seo Beom-joon drew attention in episodes 1 and 2 of "The First Night With the Duke" as Jeong Soo-gyeom, who has a kind and affectionate demeanor, in contrast to his only friend, the prickly Gyeongseong-gun Ibeon (Ok Taecyeon). He made a strong impression right from his debut, appearing as Jeong Soo-gyeom, a charismatic character who rescues the female lead, Jo Eun-ae (Kwon Han-sol), from danger while reading her favorite novel.

In particular, Seo Beom-joon left a strong impression with his warm visuals, sweet voice, and kind nature as Jeong Soo-gyeom. When Gyeongseong-gun Ibeon passed by with a cold expression, Jeong Soo-gyeom comforted a frightened child amid the whispers of fear, saying, "There's no need to be so scared. It's best to trust what you see with your own eyes rather than rumors," while handing over a dried persimmon, showcasing his warm humanity.

Furthermore, next to the expressionless Ibeon, Jeong Soo-gyeom remarked, "Have you figured out who those guys are? I can tell just by looking at Ibeon's eyes." This contrasts sharply with Ibeon’s cold demeanor, emphasizing Jeong Soo-gyeom’s warm personality. During a conversation, Jeong Soo-gyeom exchanged glances filled with affection for Jo Eun-ae, who passed by, and smiled at the chaos caused by a bomb drink made by the college student K, saying, "It's a bomb drink," piquing interest.

In episode 2, while conversing with Ibeon, Jeong Soo-gyeom said, "I think you place great significance on being the first. I hope you have many firsts. That way, I won’t have to experience daily good fortune alone," bursting into laughter and adding dramatic fun to the scene. Additionally, Jeong Soo-gyeom performed astonishing actions reminiscent of a martial arts film, such as leaping from a tree to save the alternate lead being pursued by Ibeon and pulling the alternate lead's hand to escape, flying into the air while grabbing a rope.

Moreover, Jeong Soo-gyeom suggested that the alternate lead join his literary club, remarking on the impressive sight of her making a bomb drink. However, when the alternate lead declined, he sweetly persuaded her, saying, "I would also like to share that romance with you. You won’t refuse my invitation, will you? Miss Seon-taek?" His words intrigued those around as the relationship between Ibeon and the alternate lead subtly unfolded.

Seo Beom-joon has proven his potential as a "passionate rookie" after winning the rookie award at KBS and SBS in 2024. In "The First Night With the Duke," he challenges himself in his first historical drama, attempting a bold transformation into a unique character described as the "top bible of alternate male leads" while demonstrating solid acting that transcends genre boundaries. From his dignified visual as a scholar completed in traditional attire to his warm personality and sweet voice delivering delightful lines, along with his pure and radiant smile, Seo Beom-joon perfectly embodies the character of Jeong Soo-gyeom, hinting at a strong reception in home theaters.

Meanwhile, KBS2's "The First Night With the Duke," where actor Seo Beom-joon takes on his first historical drama, airs every Wednesday and Thursday at 9:50 p.m.

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