The global BL community just received massive news regarding one of the industry’s biggest titles. The legendary manhwa Painter of the Night (야화첩) by Byeonduck is officially moving from the page to the screen. On April 7, 2026, a representative from the production company confirmed that filming is already complete. Rising stars Kim Kang Jae and Ji Min Seo lead this highly anticipated adaptation.
The Cast: Introducing Seungho and Nakyum
Casting the “infamous tyrant” and the “gifted painter” was a difficult task. However, the production team chose two promising actors to bring these iconic roles to life:
- Ji Minseo (Baek Nagyeom): Represented by VARO Entertainment, Ji Minseo debuted in 2025. He plays the vulnerable yet stubborn Nakyum. Viewers are eager to see him portray the emotional complexity of an artist trapped in a nobleman’s world.
- Kim Kangjae (Yoon Seungho): This model and actor trainee belongs to Hodu & U Entertainment. He majored in dance at the Seoul Institute of the Arts. His background as a b-boy gives him a commanding physical presence. Many fans expect him to capture Seungho’s dominant aura perfectly.
Production Status: Filming Wrapped and Ready for Release
According to a report from SpoTV News, the series has finished principal photography. “After finishing editing, it will be released soon,” the production representative stated. The drama is directed by Choi Bo Kyung, who recently gained attention for co-directing the drama The Divorce Insurance.
The live-action adaptation will release on Lezhin Snack. This new platform focuses on vertical, short-form storytelling. While the original manhwa contains explicit content, the drama will likely carry a 15+ rating. Consequently, the series will focus on psychological obsession and power dynamics. This “snackable” format offers a fast-paced take on the classic Joseon-era story.
The Story: Danger and Desire in Joseon
The plot takes place during the Joseon era. It follows Baek Na Gyeom, a young man who creates secret erotic paintings under a pseudonym. Although he plans to quit, the nobleman Yoon Seung Ho disrupts his life. Seung Ho is a notorious tyrant who becomes obsessed with Na Gyeom’s talent after discovering his secret illustrations.
He forces Na Gyeom to become his private painter. Soon, their relationship blurs the lines between artistic inspiration and total control. The two men must navigate a world filled with trauma and intense, hidden emotions. This story became a global phenomenon for Lezhin Comics, even inspiring the famous OST “Night Flower” by singer Ahn Ye Eun.
Why the Stakes are High
Painter of the Night remains one of the most successful BL titles in history. Because Byeonduck’s artwork is so iconic, expectations for the cinematography are soaring.
Key elements to watch:
- Visual Style: Fans want to see if Choi Bo Kyung captures the lush, dark aesthetic of the original work.
- Actor Chemistry: The dynamic between Seung Ho and Na Gyeom is famously intense.
- Narrative Depth: The 15+ rating may allow the series to explore character healing and emotional growth more deeply.
In conclusion, this is the most ambitious project for the short-form BL market. All eyes will remain on Lezhin Snack for the official premiere date, which is expected to be announced very soon.
