Hyun is the Crown Prince’s cousin, and he carries a torch for “Lee Hwi” (unknowingly, the woman behind the mask). He is loyal, gentle, and heartbreakingly unaware.
This is the Hallmark movie treatment of adult content. Two best friends (often of any gender pairing) spend 40 minutes of a 60-minute runtime in denial. They go on platonic dates, share secrets, and experience jealousy. The romantic resolution comes only when one finally admits, "I don't want to lose you, but I can't pretend I don't love you."
Why it worked: 2021 was the year of emotional vulnerability. Men, in particular, sought out storylines where the male lead was allowed to be shy, nervous, or awkward. The sex was not dominating but tender.
In 2021, several trends emerged or continued to grow, influencing how relationships and romantic storylines were developed and consumed: