The Mays Entertainment drama “I Believe You,” (translated) in which Jaehyun of boy band NCT was set to star, has been on hold for nearly four months due to friction between its production company and investors, broadcaster YTN reported.

The production company, which is also behind tvN dramas “Sh**ting Stars” (2022), and an unidentified investor had not finalized their contract before shooting began, according to the YTN report Wednesday. The investment firm ended up pulling out, leading the producers unable to cover costs. Filming was reportedly suspended in June, nearly three months after it began, and remains on hold.


Mays Entertainment has reportedly been unable to find another investor since the suspension. It has also been unable to pay its actors and staff for footage shot so far, increasing the likelihood of legal disputes, per the report.

“I Believe You” is a black comedy series that follows the journey of an underdog standing up against a more powerful opponent. It features actors Lee Chae-min, Park Sung-woong and Kim Sun-young, alongside Jaehyun.

The NCT singer was slated to make his small-screen debut in the drama's lead role.


Jaehyun debuted as a member of NCT under SM Entertainment in 2016 and recently kicked off his acting career with the film “You Will Die in 6 Hours,” which premiered at this year’s Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival. The film premiered in Korean theaters on Wednesday.

Jaehyun will begin his mandatory military service in November. He is slated to hold fan concerts on Oct. 26 and 27 at Olympic Park Handball Stadium in southern Seoul before beginning his enlistment.


BY KIM JI-YE [kim.jiye@joongang.co.kr]