Secret Ingredient (miniseries)


Secret Ingredient is a Philippine romantic miniseries starring South Korean actor Sang Heon Lee, Filipino actress Julia Barretto, and Indonesian actor Nicholas Saputra. The show was created by Corinna Vistan, written by Baek Dong-hoon, and directed by Cho Young-gwang. It premiered on Viu on April 30, 2024 as a Viu Original series.
This is Viu's first regional original drama production featuring an ensemble Asian cast - from the Philippines, South Korea and Indonesia. It is also the first collaboration between Viu and Unilever Nutrition SEA.

Synopsis

A story about a Korean man who gives up his affluent life in Seoul in search of the childhood friend he’s never forgotten.

Cast

Production

Casting

In January 2024, the casting of South Korean actor Sang Heon Lee, Filipino actress Julia Barretto, and Indonesian actor Nicholas Saputra for a Viu original series was announced. Lee later revealed in an interview that he received a direct casting for the lead role instead of auditioning.

Pre-production

Lee worked in a Hanwoo omakase restaurant for a month as preparation and Barretto attended a short course in a culinary school to prepare for her role.

Release

Viu released the first trailer on April 2024. An official media launch was held on the same month in Taguig City, Philippines.