Wish Upon A K-Star by Kat Cho

Wish Upon a K‑Star by Kat Cho — A Fresh K‑Pop Meets K‑Drama Romance

If you loved Once Upon a K‑Prom, you’re in for another treat - Kat Cho’s Wish Upon a K‑Star (published April 29, 2025) takes readers deeper into the polished - and often messy - world of Korean entertainment.

What It's About

• Moon Minseok (aka Moonster), a jokester member of the mega-popular K-pop group WDB, is forced to step up as the face of the band when dating scandals spin out of control.

• Shin Hyeri, an up-and-coming K-drama star and former idol, is battling rumors labeling her a “nepo baby” and a cyberbully.

• After a live on-air incident, their agencies arrange for them to star in a fake-relationship variety show called Our Celebrity Marriage to rehabilitate both their images.

What starts as a strategic PR move turns into something unexpected - this enemies-to-lovers rom-com weaves in themes like fandom scrutiny, identity, anxiety, and modern love.

Why Readers are Swooning

• Reviews describe it as a cozy K-drama in novel form - packed with emotional beats and behind-the-scenes glimpses of showbiz life.

• Themes of reputational repair and gender pressures are handled thoughtfully, adding depth beyond the central romance.

• Dual point-of-view shows growth in both leads, especially in Hyeri's attempt to reclaim her voice and Moonster’s unexpected maturity.
  
  

What Reviewers Are Saying

• A glowing Goodreads review called it "a must-read for any K-pop fan" and praised its engaging characters and insider details.

• School Library Journal noted its accessible charm, drama, and relatable characters - perfect for YA readers new to K-pop.

• Kirkus Reviews highlighted its critique of double standards and anti-fan culture, while noting its “entertaining peek behind the scenes of Korean pop culture”.
  
  

The Takeaway

Wish Upon a K‑Star merges romantic comedy with the realities of K-pop and K-drama fame. It balances sparks of affection, staged paparazzi moments, and real-world pressure with honesty and heart. Whether you’re reading for second-chance romance or social commentary, this novel charms and resonates.

Bottom line: If you’re hungry for a sweet, stylish read that feels like a binge-worthy K-drama with substance, Wish Upon a K‑Star is a standout YA pick.

Check out the Book here: