Summer is right around the corner, but the drama planning chugs along towards the Fall season already. MBC, always known for its epic (long) dramas, is turning back to its behemoth success of the 60+ episode Queen Seon Deok (also known as Queen Snore Deok around here) and the 50+ episode Dong Yi and preparing for another 60 episode sageuk. This one is called Horse Doctor and is about the true story of a Joseon horse vet who becomes the royal physician. The PD will be sageuk veteran Lee Byung Hoon (Dae Jang Geum, Seodongyo, Dong Yi), and the lead will be played by movie star Jo Seung Woo in his first drama appearance in his decades long career. Another upcoming MBC drama The Secret Lovers (a remake of the movie 7th Level Civil Servant) has reportedly landed as its leading man Lee Dong Gun in his first post military service project.

The leading ladies for both dramas are still in discussions, but it looks like Lee Yo Won may be accepting the role in Horse Doctor, while Lee Da Hae is in talks for The Secret Lovers. There was rumors Lee Da Hae was offered the role in Horse Doctor, but I’m actually glad it’s going to be Lee Yo Won, since I know she has the stamina for a 60 episode sageuk having pulled it off with Queen Seon Deok. I also think Lee Da Hae and Lee Dong Gun has the potential to be such a winning pairing. I approve! Other casting offers floating around has Lee Sang Woo (Feast of the Gods, Thousand Day Promise) and Kim So Eun joining Horse Doctor.

Since Horse Doctor and The Secret Lovers are Fall dramas, neither will air will for months. The Secret Lovers will air on MBC Wed-Thurs after Arang with Lee Jun Ki and Shin Mina, while Horse Doctor will follow Golden Time with Lee Seon Kyung and Hwang Jung Eum on Mon-Tues. Speaking of Golden Time, the drama is currently filming and released script reading pictures. By the PD who did Pasta and written by the scriptwriter for OB/GYN, it’s a medical drama that I actually think should be pretty solid. I like OB/GYN and the directing for Pasta was excellent. On an unrelated note, yay for King Jae Kang (Lee Sung Min) not being dead and off being a doctor in Golden Time!