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| The Early Spring: Jing Boran and Sun Qian Confirmed as Leads in Youku’s Next Big Workplace Romance (Photo: Instagram/Youku Official) |
The much-buzzed-about modern Chinese drama The Early Spring (早春晴朗 / Zao Chun Qing Lang) has finally dropped its official announcement – and the lead pairing alone is enough to get drama fans spiralling.
Starring Jing Boran and Sun Qian, this Youku original is already being touted as one of the most anticipated CP (couple pairing) dramas of the year.
Adapted from the popular web novel of the same name, the series promises workplace vibes, romance with an age-gap twist, and just the right sprinkle of web-era storytelling across its planned 32 episodes.
About the Drama
The Early Spring (早春晴朗 / Zao Chun Qing Lang) is a modern Chinese workplace romance adapted from the popular web novel of the same name.
Written by screenwriter Gao Xiao Xian and directed by Jiang Ji Zheng, the Youku original is set to run for 32 episodes and will explore the subtle chemistry and emotional depth between its leads in a contemporary office setting.
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With themes of workplace dynamics, age-gap romance and the quiet intensity of unspoken feelings, the drama leans into the kind of storytelling that web series fans love—slow-burn tension, relatable struggles, and a dash of fresh romance energy.
Rooted in China’s current wave of high-quality online adaptations, The Early Spring positions itself as a heartfelt romance that balances modern professional life with tender personal connections.
The plot follows a quietly building office romance, where silence often speaks louder than words – “As their breaths draw close, silence speaks louder than words. In that quiet bond, love stands unwavering.”
That tagline alone already sets the tone for a story brimming with subtle tension and heartfelt connections.
Sun Qian herself teased fans with the line: “Let’s get to know each other again, from the first meeting. Hello, I am Shang Zhi Tao.”
A direct nod to her character introduction, giving viewers a taste of the novel’s delicate romance flavour.
The casting reveal immediately lit up Weibo and Douban, with fans dropping excited takes:
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“The cast look so promising! It’s a visual feast!”
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“Exciting, hope this drama also has a variety show.”
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“Both main casts are what I’ve been dreaming of all this time, they made it happen omg.”
The pairing of Jing Boran and Sun Qian is being celebrated not just for the visuals but for their acting pedigree – an ideal blend of star power and youthful freshness.
Cast Notes.. so far
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Sun Qian – Hot off finishing Love Story in the 1970s (with Chen Feiyu / Arthur Chen), which is due to air soon on Tencent. It’s a retro romance set in the 1970s, giving her a completely different palette before stepping into this crisp modern role.
The contrast between her nostalgic period project and this slick workplace romance shows off her growing versatility.
How to Watch The Early Spring on Youku
For international fans eager to dive in legally and with the best quality:
Download the Youku app – available on both iOS and Android, or stream via Youku’s official website.
Check for International Rights – Youku sometimes restricts titles to mainland China, but most of their big-name dramas (especially those adapted from novels) do roll out subs for overseas viewers.Membership Options – Youku offers free episodes with ads, while premium members get earlier access to The Early Spring drama and HD quality.