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| Why 'When I Meet The Moon' is Already One of 2026’s Most Anticipated Chinese Dramas (Photo: Weibo) |
The 2026 C-drama calendar is already heating up, and one title quietly climbing everyone’s watchlist is When I Meet The Moon (折月亮). This modern romance has been building serious buzz thanks to its nostalgic love story, polished visuals, and a lead pairing that fans have been manifesting since the first casting news dropped. If you’re into slow-burn romance with emotional payoff, this one is shaping up to be a proper treat.
Another detail that has fans quietly losing their minds is that When I Meet The Moon is set in the same story universe as Hidden Love and The First Frost. While it tells a completely independent love story, the emotional tone, world-building, and subtle character connections are designed to feel familiar to viewers who loved those earlier romances. Rather than direct crossovers, it shares the same romantic atmosphere and coming-of-age warmth, making it feel like another chapter in a universe built around gentle love, personal growth, and timing-driven relationships.
For long-time fans, this connection adds an extra layer of excitement, as many are already watching closely for small references or shared emotional beats that tie the stories together.
At its core, When I Meet The Moon is a modern romance that blends first-love nostalgia with adult growth. The story follows Yun Li, a shy young woman dealing with social anxiety, who chooses postgraduate studies as a way to prove her independence.
Life throws her a curveball when she reunites with Fu Shi Ze, her high school first love and now a brilliant, highly accomplished academic.
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Their reunion sparks warmth, awkwardness, and unresolved feelings.
As Yun Li learns to step out of her comfort zone and face her emotions head-on, the pair reconnects, only to be pulled apart again by personal differences and lingering emotional scars.
My next modern drama obsession gonna be them #WhenImeetTheMoon pic.twitter.com/cPQQNTFMKR
— ִֶָ֢ (@roshieverse) January 17, 2026
Years later, fate brings them together once more, with Fu Shi Ze determined to win Yun Li back and rewrite their unfinished story.
The drama stars Lin Yi as Fu Shi Ze, the calm and gifted genius with a soft emotional core, and Lu Yuxiao as Yun Li, whose quiet strength and gradual confidence growth form the heart of the story.
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Supporting roles are played by Lu Yangyang, Li Geyang, Huang Shengchi, and Huang Tingting, adding layers of friendship, tension, and realism to the narrative.
Fans who’ve seen behind-the-scenes clips circulating online have already pointed out the natural chemistry between the leads, which only adds to the anticipation.
Good news for planners and binge-watchers alike.
When I Meet The Moon has completed filming and is officially slated for release in 2026. While the exact premiere date hasn’t been confirmed, industry chatter suggests a July 2026 launch window.
The series will run for 30 episodes, a length many viewers see as ideal for developing a romance without dragging the story or rushing emotional beats.
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The broadcast licence for When I Meet The Moon is held by iQIYI, which means the drama will be available on the platform once it premieres.
For international viewers, iQIYI is expected to provide English subtitles, as is standard for its major romance titles. To watch, fans will need an iQIYI account.
Some regions may require a VIP subscription for early access or full episode availability, especially during the initial release period.
This isn’t just a sugary romance. Viewers can expect a more mature take on love, focusing on emotional healing, personal growth, and the reality that timing matters just as much as feelings. The tone is described as warm and comforting, with light humour sprinkled between heartfelt moments.
Visually, the drama leans into bright, cosy settings and intimate framing, giving it a fresh, modern feel. Dialogue is expected to balance tenderness with witty exchanges, making the story feel natural rather than overly dramatic.
There are a few reasons why anticipation keeps climbing. First, the drama is adapted from the popular novel Folding Moon by Zhu Yi, which already has a loyal readership.
Zhuyi next couple is coming soon. #LinYi #Luyuxiao #WhenIMeetTheMoon pic.twitter.com/Z69XyUrDgf
— Softie °•*(*_*╰(⸝⸝⸝´꒳`⸝⸝⸝)╯ (@singh36896) December 18, 2025
Second, some viewers have noted its emotional vibe feels spiritually connected to popular youth romance hits, raising expectations for a similarly soft yet impactful storytelling style.
Lastly, the theme of first love returning in adulthood taps straight into nostalgia, something romance fans never seem to tire of. Online reactions have been lively.
Many fans are praising the casting choice, calling the lead pairing visually compatible and emotionally promising.
Others are excited about the character-driven storyline, hoping it avoids common romance clichés and focuses on genuine emotional progression.
There’s also healthy debate. Some viewers worry the plot might lean too heavily on familiar tropes, while others argue that strong performances and thoughtful writing can elevate even the most classic love stories. Overall, the tone is optimistic, with curiosity outweighing scepticism.
A strong cast, a proven source novel, and a story centred on growth and second chances, When I Meet The Moon is shaping up to be one of 2026’s most talked-about Chinese romance dramas.
If you enjoy emotionally grounded love stories that unfold gently but leave a lasting impression, this one deserves a spot on your watchlist.
Now over to you. Are you excited for this drama, or are you waiting for more teasers before getting invested?