Should the role have gone to Jiwoong?
Koreaboo
1 hour ago
Reports that Lee Jong Suk will lead the upcoming rom-com I Seob’s Romance have sparked debate among fans, particularly among supporters of ZEROBASEONE’s Jiwoong.
Following news of Lee Jong Suk’s casting, some fans began revisiting past posts from the original webtoon creator, pointing out that the male lead character was allegedly inspired by Jiwoong. Screenshots circulating online show the creator previously referencing Jiwoong on social media, including sharing one of his albums, which fans interpreted as evidence of inspiration behind the character’s design.
As a result, some fans argued that Jiwoong felt like a natural casting choice and expressed disappointment that he was not selected for the drama adaptation.
The main lead was literally inspired by jiwoong I wonder why they had to choose someone who’s over 30 to play someone in his 20s https://t.co/oIAn0YicsR pic.twitter.com/4N1hDk7L2N
— just sassy (@queenof12hearts) February 23, 2026
Many fans felt that they were “robbed” of seeing Jiwoong in the role that might have quite literally been tailored for him.
we got robbed so hard https://t.co/rnvBlIXOJp pic.twitter.com/lZVkJ3uIvB
— 🐈⬛ (@jiwoongli) February 23, 2026
Despite this, some fans have argued back, claiming that the webtoon character is in his 30s, not 20s, as many ZEROBASEONE fans have misunderstood. The character would thus fit Lee Jong Suk better.
“Someone in his 20s” mind you Iseop is literally 33…Jongsuk is 36 and closer to his age than Jiwoong at 27 but ok😭✌️ https://t.co/Ru3AIgV5Pl pic.twitter.com/XFEnZcpE1i
— 💌 (@spiritufingers) February 24, 2026
Inspiration does not guarantee casting and that adaptations also often prioritize established actors depending on production direction. Lee Jong Suk’s experience in romance dramas makes him a strong choice regardless of the original visual reference.
The discussion highlights a recurring debate in webtoon adaptations, where casting decisions frequently differ from how readers imagine characters.