Kang Ha-neul seems a perfect match for the role he will play in KBS' upcoming TV series "When the Camellia Blooms."

Kang attended a press event for the drama on Sept. 17 along with main cast members Kong Hyo-jin and Kim Ji-seok.

The series revolves around a single mother played by Kong who fights prejudice and social stereotypes while running a bar in a small town, and a local policeman played by Kang who gives her unwavering and unconditional love and support.

It is the first project Kang has joined since finishing his mandatory military service earlier this year. "[My character] is a rough but pure man who believes in love," Kang said of his character.

"The biggest reason for choosing this role was the script, but Kong was also a big influence -- I'm such a big fan of her." He added, "We have a partnership that goes beyond description. To be honest, because she is a superstar and I'm much younger, I did feel uneasy at first. But she treated me as [the character] from the onset, and made efforts to make me feel comfortable. She really is the best."

Kong said, "You only ever hear positive anecdotes about Kang -- and they're true. He is such a hard worker and is so full of positive energy that it makes me happy. I keep telling my friends that [he] is really, really nice."

It will be exciting to see what kind of chemistry these two show in "When the Camellia Blooms."