Why ‘엉큼한 맞선’ is the Must-Watch Short Drama of 2026: Gu Ja-sung’s Captivating Performance

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[EPN NPinow reporter Seo Hye-bin] Actor Gu Ja-seong shared behind-the-scenes stories from the short drama \”Sly Blind Date\” and spoke warmly about his experience on the project.

On the 9th, Gu assumed the role of Cha Kang-jun, the male lead in \”Sly Blind Date,\” released by short-drama platform Lezhin Snack. He struck a balance between tenderness and a dangerously alluring presence in his performance.

\”Sly Blind Date,\” adapted from the web novel of the same name, follows the romance that ignites when Kim Na-eun (played by Yeoreum) and Cha Kang-jun (played by Gu Ja-seong) meet on a blind date. As of the 20th, the series had climbed to No. 1 on Lezhin Snack’s popularity chart, drawing wide attention.

Gu embraced a new acting challenge with Cha Kang-jun. On the surface, Cha is a cool, composed surgeon, but toward Kim Na-eun he reveals a warmer side. Gu described the character not as a simple \”cold, handsome man\” but as someone fragile and warm, bearing inner wounds. He said he focused on conveying the awkward sincerity hiding beneath the cold exterior rather than simply trying to act aloof.

When he first read the script, Gu expected his fit with Cha to be less than 1 percent; after filming, he estimates they’re about 70 percent alike. His performance brought the character to life and deepened viewers’ immersion in the story.

Gu singled out Cha’s psychological transformation as the series’ key element. \”What struck me most was how Cha changes almost without realizing it as he grows closer to Kim Na-eun,\” he said, adding that the scenes showing Cha’s jealousy stayed with him. His nuanced emotional work elevated the drama and won over many viewers.

\”Sly Blind Date\” marks Gu Ja-seong’s move into short-form drama, leaving a strong impression on audiences and raising expectations for his future projects. The series is available to stream on Lezhin Snack.

Photo: Lezhin Snack