Amid the success of "Queen of Tears," some viewers are divided as to who between Kim Ji Won and IU is better suited for the role of heiress Hong Hae In.

The rom-com series has been creating a huge buzz as viewers and avid K-drama fans are invested in Kim Soo Hyun and Kim Ji Won's characters as married couple Baek Hyun Woo (a farmer's son and the legal director of Queens Group) and Hong Hae In (third-generation chaebol heiress of Queens Group).

Viewers are drawn to the ups and downs of their years of marriage and, of course, the fairytale romance.

But did you kkow that Kim Ji Won was not the first pick to play the female lead? It turns out that Hong Hae In's role was first offered to IU.

Did You Know? IU Was Selected to Play Hong Hae In in 'Queen of Tears'

While Kim Soo Hyun was the initial choice for the character of Baek Hyun Woo, the team behind "Queen of Tears" wanted IU to portray the heiress role.

In April 2022, various outlets confirmed that IU was selected to headline the upcoming K-drama of screenwriter Park Ji Eun, who is the genius behind "Crash Landing on You," "My Love from the Star," and "The Legend of the Blue Sea."

However, her agency has responded that they have received the offer "but politely declined."

With IU turning down the role, the character was given to the equally talented Kim Ji Won, who is now gaining massive response from the viewers for her amazing portrayal.

Despite this, some are still disappointed that the idol-actress declined the role.

Viewers Debate on Who Between IU or Kim Ji Won Is Better Fit for Role Hong Hae In

In an online community, fans expressed their mixed opinions regarding the choice of "Queen of Tears" lead stars.

Some think that heiress Hong Hae In "would have been even more legendary" if IU played the character.

Others think that this might be because of the idol-actress' closeness to Kim Soo Hyun, whom she has worked with on two K-dramas. The first was in "Dream High, followed by "The Producers" in 2015.

Apart from their on-screen appearances, Kim Soo Hyun was often spotted showing his support for IU by going to her concert.

As for Kim Ji Won, viewers believe that she is the perfect match for Hong Hae In and has been doing an excellent portrayal as Kim Soo Hyun's on-screen partner.

Meanwhile, the majority of the fans are looking forward to seeing IU and Kim Soo Hyun star in one drama.

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Written by Geca Flores