Dex Agency Responds to "Men of the Harem" Casting Rumors

Former Navy UDT member turned entertainer's representatives issue conflicting statements about potential role in Suzy's fantasy drama

Entertainment industry buzz erupted on June 19 when reports surfaced linking popular broadcaster Dex to the upcoming fantasy romance "Men of the Harem." However, his agency's response has left fans confused about his actual involvement in the project.

Dex's agency kthd studio told Xports News "The reports about Dex appearing in Men of the Harem are not true," according to some outlets. Yet other sources reported the same agency stating "Nothing has been decided yet. He received the proposal and is reviewing it positively, but no decision has been made." This contradiction suggests ongoing negotiations behind the scenes.

The initial reports claimed Dex would play one of the male concubines serving Empress Latil, the role offered to actress Suzy.

"Men of the Harem" is a palace romance fantasy set in the fictional Tarim Empire. It follows Empress Latil as she recruits male concubines to strengthen her power and protect her throne. The story is based on a web novel by Alphatart, author of "The Remarried Empress," which began serialization in March 2020 and concluded in June 2023.

The drama will be directed by Lee Eung Bok, known for "Descendants of the Sun," "Guardian: The Lonely and Great God," "Mr. Sunshine," and "Sweet Home." The script is being written by Hwang Jin Young, writer of "My Dearest," with Studio Dragon handling production.

Suzy's agency confirmed receiving the offer for the lead role but said the actress is still considering it.

Kim Jin-young, professionally known as Dex, gained fame through Netflix's "Single's Inferno 2" as the "Catfish Man." The 29-year-old served four years in the Republic of Korea Navy's UDT (Underwater Demolition Team) before his 2020 discharge.

He made his acting debut in the horror drama "Tarot," using his real name Kim Jin-young to separate his acting and entertainment personas. This summer, he'll appear in ENA's "The Defects" and reportedly has a cameo in "Bloodhounds Season 2."

Dex won Best New Entertainer at the 2nd Blue Dragon Series Award for "Bloody Game 2" and continues appearing on variety shows like "Adventure by Accident" and "Fresh off the Sea."

The original web novel has garnered over 21.4 million downloads, while its webtoon adaptation has nearly 120 million views on official platforms. This massive popularity makes "Men of the Harem" one of the most anticipated drama adaptations currently in development.

With Suzy still considering her role and Dex's participation unclear, the project remains in active casting mode. The conflicting agency statements suggest negotiations are ongoing, leaving fans to wait for official confirmation from the production team.

The drama is expected to begin production once casting is finalized, with Studio Dragon targeting a potential 2026 release.