On June 16, KBS 2TV’s upcoming weekend drama Love on the Menu unveiled photos from the cast’s script reading session. Notably, Hani will be making her return as an actress for the first time in three years through the drama, while also taking on her first-ever weekend series since debut.

In the drama, Hani plays Han Gyu Rim, an employee at a side dish shop who fights through a demanding daily life while supporting her family financially. After her once-comfortable family suddenly falls apart, Gyu Rim takes on various part-time jobs and household responsibilities, becoming a resilient character who survives what feels like a constant battle every single day.

Speaking in an interview, Hani described her character by saying, “She’s impressively strong yet full of love. Just watching her feels comforting, and she naturally makes you want to root for her.”

She continued, “As the story unfolds, viewers will see Gyu Rim grow. I found the process and direction of her growth incredibly comforting and joyful. I felt that if it was for a character like Gyu Rim, I could truly give my best, and that’s what gave me the courage to take on this project,” explaining both why she chose the drama and how she came to decide on her return.

Previously, Hani announced her marriage to psychiatrist Yang Jae Woong in September 2024. However, the wedding was indefinitely postponed after a patient death incident occurred at the psychiatric hospital where Yang serves as director. Hani also voluntarily stepped down from a variety show she had been scheduled to appear on, effectively suspending her entertainment activities.

Meanwhile, Love on the Menu is a family recipe drama that tells the story of two people piecing together a broken family and preparing the warmest table of life. Alongside Hani, the cast includes Ha Seok Jin, Park Yu Na, Bae Jung Nam, Kwon Hae Hyo, Yoon Yoo Sun, Ryu Seung Soo, Jin Kyung, Min Jin Woong, Lee Joo Yeon, Bae Yoon Gyu, and Jung Bo Min. The drama is set to premiere on July 25.

Sources: Nate