Resident Playbook: A New Chapter In K-Drama
As a spinoff of the acclaimed medical series Hospital Playlist, Resident Playbook is set to capture hearts with its ensemble of both new and familiar faces, charting the demanding journey of four first-year OB-GYN residents. This drama follows the complexities and challenges that arise as these young doctors navigate their intensive training in a rigorous medical environment. Originally slated for release in late 2024, Resident Playbook is rapidly becoming one of the most anticipated K-dramas of 2025, having already gained traction on Netflix, where it has secured a spot among the Global Top 10 non-English TV shows.
Audiences will recognize many of the talented cast members from their previous experiences in popular dramas like Alchemy of Souls, Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha, and Sweet Home. While the primary cast is concise, the series incorporates several supporting roles, including some familiar characters from Hospital Playlist.
Go Youn-Jung as Oh Yi-Young
Date of Birth: April 22, 1996
- Active Since: 2019
Actor Profile: Go Youn-jung, originally from Seoul, stepped into the acting arena in 2019 and shot to fame with her role in Disney+’s Moving. With notable performances in Alchemy of Souls, Sweet Home, and Law School, she has also appeared in the film Hunt. Her character, Oh Yi-young, is repeating her first year in residency after previously quitting, forced back due to financial struggles.
Character Insights: Oh Yi-young often finds herself in trouble due to her mistakes but exhibits an indifferent attitude towards the pressure of her role.
Shin Si-A as Pyo Nam-Kyung
Date of Birth: May 12, 1998
- Active Since: 2018
Actor Profile: Shin Si-a, born in South Korea, debuted her acting career in My Darling Boyfriend and has since appeared in The Witch: Part 2 and others. Pyo Nam-kyung, her character, is a former classmate of Oh Yi-young who bravely tackles the challenges of being a resident while managing a passion for her profession.
Character Insights: Despite considering quitting, Nam-kyung’s dedication to her patients and her role keeps her motivated.
Kang You-Seok as Um Jae-Il
Date of Birth: June 10, 1994
- Active Since: 2018
Actor Profile: Kang You-seok, formerly known as Kang Shin-cheol, first rose to prominence in Payback: Money and Power. His character, Um Jae-il, is notable for his energetic nature as he transitions from a failed idol career into medicine, making an impact on his colleagues as well as patients.
Character Insights: Though he sometimes annoys his peers with his enthusiasm, Jae-il’s interactions with patients reveal his genuine care for their wellbeing.
Han Ye-Ji as Kim Sa-Bi
Date of Birth: June 17, 2000
- Active Since: 2021
Actor Profile: Han Ye-ji made her debut with the role of Yoo Min-jae in User Not Found and has recently gained popularity through her performances in Beauty and Mr. Romantic and Walk to Kwangya. Portraying Kim Sa-bi, she stands out as the top medical student struggling with emotional connection.
Character Insights: Although she excels academically, Sa-bi’s lack of empathy presents challenges in her burgeoning career as a doctor.
Jung Jun-Won as Ku Do-Won
Date of Birth: January 13, 1988
- Active Since: 2014
Actor Profile: Jung Jun-won gained fame for his role in Mr. Lawyer, Mr. Jo 2 and has since appeared in various projects including VIP and Little Forest. His character, Ku Do-won, is the dedicated chief resident who invests himself in the education and wellbeing of first-year residents.
Character Insights: With a deep commitment to his responsibilities, Do-won often prioritizes the needs of his residents over his own personal life.
Supporting Cast & Characters
Lee Bong-ryun as Seo Jeong-min: An accomplished actress born on February 7, 1981, Lee Bong-ryun has made contributions to renowned K-dramas like When Life Gives You Tangerines and Sweet Home.
Lee Hyun-kyun as Jo Jun-mo: With over 23 credits, Lee Hyun-kyun is known for taking on significant roles in projects such as Parasyte: The Grey and Emergency Declaration.
Jung Woon-sun as Oh Joo-young: Known for her contributions to Forecasting Love and Weather and Happiness, she plays Oh Joo-young in Resident Playbook.
Hong Na-hyun as Cha Da-hye: A burgeoning talent, born April 29, 1996, with her role in My Perfect Stranger contributing to her rising profile.
Kim Hye-in as Myung Eun-won: Previously seen in Hospital Playlist, Kim Hye-min appears as Myung Eun-won and is also recognized for roles in She Would Never Know and Entourage.