The world of K-Dramas is buzzing with excitement thanks to the news that "Men of the Harem", a wildly popular webtoon, is getting a live-action drama adaptation like other webtoons! Produced by the top-tier Studio Dragon, and potentially starring the beloved actress and K-Pop star Suzy (she is considering the role), this upcoming series is already one of the most anticipated Korean dramas in the works.

Whether you're a longtime fan of the webtoon or new to the story, here's everything you need to know about this court romance fantasy that flips the classic harem trope on its head.

 

👑 A Webtoon with a Twist: What Is "Men of the Harem" About?

Suzy In Talks For Lead Role In "Men Of The Harem" K-Drama: What Fans Can Expect From the Webtoon Adaptation

"Men of the Harem” by HereLee and Alphatart on Naver Webtoon

"Men of the Harem" tells the story of Empress Latil, ruler of the Tarim Empire, who makes the bold move of bringing male concubines into her palace to secure her political power. This reversal of traditional gender roles immediately caught readers’ attention, offering a refreshing take on harem stories—where this time, it's a powerful woman in control.

Latil’s decision is driven by palace intrigue and personal heartbreak. After a painful betrayal by her first love, Prince Hyacinth, Latil chooses not to suffer in silence. Instead, she builds a harem of her own—sparking drama, romance, and power struggles that keep fans hooked.

Themes of female empowerment, political strategy, and romantic entanglements make "Men of the Harem" a standout story in the fantasy romance genre.

 

📈 A Global Hit: 21.4 Million Downloads and Counting

The popularity of "Men of the Harem" is nothing short of phenomenal. The original web novel, serialized on Naver Webtoon from March 2020 to June 2023, racked up over 21.4 million downloads. Its webtoon adaptation continues to be updated even in 2025, showing the story's lasting impact and devoted global fanbase.

This massive readership not only shows how deeply the story resonates with fans, but also sets the stage for a successful drama adaptation. If you are looking to read the webtoon, you can have a read here.

 

✍️ From the Author of "The Remarried Empress"

If the style of "Men of the Harem" feels familiar, it’s because it’s written by Alphatart, the same brilliant mind behind the hit webtoon "The Remarried Empress". Known for complex characters and gripping court drama, Alphatart has built a reputation for delivering emotionally charged, politically rich narratives centered on strong female leads.

This connection raises expectations for the live-action "Men of the Harem"—and fans are eager to see another of Alphatart’s stories brought to life.

 

🎬 Suzy in Talks to Lead as Empress Latil

Suzy In Talks For Lead Role In "Men Of The Harem" K-Drama: What Fans Can Expect From the Webtoon Adaptation

Management SOOP

On May 12, 2025, it was confirmed that Studio Dragon is moving forward with the production—and the biggest casting news came shortly after: Suzy has been offered the lead role of Empress Latil and is currently reviewing the offer.

Suzy, who rose to fame as a member of Miss A and has since starred in beloved and hit dramas like "While You Were Sleeping" and "Start-Up" (and more), would bring both acting talent and major star power to the series. Suzy is one of the most-loved K-Pop idols among second-generation turned actors. Her agency, Management SOOP, confirmed the casting offer, sparking excitement among fans worldwide.

If confirmed, Suzy’s involvement is expected to draw both webtoon fans and K-Drama viewers, boosting the show’s popularity even further.

 

🎥 A Powerful Production Team: Studio Dragon, Lee EungBok, and Hwang JinYoung

The drama is backed by some of the biggest names in the Korean entertainment industry.

Studio Dragon, known for hits like "Crash Landing on You", "Goblin", and "Sweet Home", will lead the production.

Director Lee EungBok, famous for his work on "Sweet Home", "Descendants of the Sun", "Mr. Sunshine", "Goblin", and more, is set to direct. His skill at creating emotional and visually rich stories makes him the perfect choice for "Men of the Harem"’s fantasy-historical setting.

Writer Hwang JinYoung, best known for the hit 2023 drama "My Dearest", will adapt the script. Her ability to craft emotionally layered characters and intense relationships promises a compelling watch.

With this dream team behind the scenes, expectations for high-quality storytelling and production are sky-high.

 

💫 Meet the Empress’s Men: Who’s in the Harem?

One of the most exciting aspects of the drama will be seeing who gets cast as the various male consorts in Empress Latil’s harem. Each of these characters brings a unique dynamic to the story, and fans are eager to see how they’ll be portrayed on screen. Fans are waiting for the news about actors casting as there are none at the moment of the redaction of this article.

Here are some of the male characters of the webtoon (note that not all of them are part of the Harem).

Suzy In Talks For Lead Role In "Men Of The Harem" K-Drama: What Fans Can Expect From the Webtoon Adaptation

"Men of the Harem” by HereLee and Alphatart on Naver Webtoon

Hyacinth Karisen

Latil’s former fiancé and the catalyst for the creation of the harem. Once in love with Latil, he chose political power over romance. Now he’s back—but she’s not so quick to forgive.

 

Suzy In Talks For Lead Role In "Men Of The Harem" K-Drama: What Fans Can Expect From the Webtoon Adaptation

"Men of the Harem” by HereLee and Alphatart on Naver Webtoon

Klein Abisinaugh Karisen

Hyacinth’s younger brother, sent to Latil’s palace as a consort. Often seen as a tsundere type, Klein’s icy demeanor hides layers of complexity.

 

Suzy In Talks For Lead Role In "Men Of The Harem" K-Drama: What Fans Can Expect From the Webtoon Adaptation

"Men of the Harem” by HereLee and Alphatart on Naver Webtoon

Sonnaught Melosi

Latil’s loyal bodyguard and knight. Devoted and dependable, he later confesses his love for her and becomes a consort, offering a deep emotional arc.