Chen Feiyu & Zhang Zifeng Star in New Modern Romance ‘He Qing Hai Yan’
A highly anticipated modern romance drama is gearing up for production. Fan account @FKShi shared an update that the Tencent Video series He Qing Hai Yan (河清海晏), adapted from the popular novel by Zhihu Salt Stories author Ju Zi Bu Suan (橘子不酸), is set to begin filming this month (August 2026) in Fujian for a planned 90-day shoot.
The cast features rising stars Chen Feiyu (Arthur Chen) and Zhang Zifeng in the lead roles, with Lai Weiming also joining the ensemble. Directing duties fall to Qin Zhen, known for the hit Lost You Forever (Chang Xiang Si), while Zhang Ying handles the screenplay. The series is a contemporary romance expected to air on Tencent Video.
What’s the Story About?
The novel, which gained strong traction online (including high engagement on Zhihu and an audio drama adaptation), follows Tang Heqing, a young woman from a seaside town who endures domestic violence and hardship. At 16, she encounters Zhou Haiyan, who steps in to protect her—starting with a memorable scene involving a mere 10 yuan “protection fee.”
Their bond deepens amid themes of redemption, family trauma, drug trafficking, and quiet sacrifice. Zhou later pursues a path as a police officer (with undercover elements), while Tang trains as a doctor. The story blends tender romance with heavier social issues and carries a bittersweet, emotionally intense tone.
The title He Qing Hai Yan draws from a classical Chinese idiom meaning “the Yellow River runs clear and the sea is calm,” symbolizing lasting peace and prosperity—fitting for a narrative that explores personal and broader forms of protection and healing.
Production Snapshot
Location: Fujian (reports specifically mention Quanzhou/泉州).
Duration: Approximately 90 days, with a mid-August start targeted.
Genre: Modern romance with dramatic and social elements.
Platform: Tencent Video.
Fans of novel adaptations and emotional C-dramas will want to keep an eye on this one. With a proven director, solid leads, and source material that already resonated with hundreds of thousands of readers, He Qing Hai Yan looks poised to deliver a heartfelt, high-stakes romance once it hits screens. Stay tuned for official stills and further updates as cameras start rolling.
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