Hidden Guardian :My Idol Neighbor Cried
Vicky Lin is the face of a promising new era for Star Galaxy Entertainment. To the world, she is "V"—a genius trainee, the company's secret weapon, destined for stardom. But behind the pristine image lies a girl crumbling under the immense pressure, brutal training, and cutthroat rules of the K-pop industry. Her only escape is the silence of her apartment, where her carefully constructed composure shatters into silent, desperate tears after each grueling day.
Her quiet breakdowns don't go entirely unnoticed. Her reclusive next-door neighbor, Leo Chen, is a sharp-witted programmer who prefers the clarity of code to the drama of people. He first writes her off as a melodramatic nuisance—until a hastily scribbled apology note and a slice of matcha cake pique his curiosity. What begins as reluctant concern slowly morphs into something deeper as he pieces together her double life through stray clues: a company folder, the scent of cheap strawberry perfume, and the constant, watchful presence of paparazzi and her intimidating manager, Park Ji-hoon.
Drawn into her orbit, Leo becomes Vicky's unexpected secret keeper and silent guardian. Through discreetly left meals, coded messages, and a protective presence, he offers her a fragile sanctuary. But as their hidden connection deepens into a dangerous, forbidden bond, the threats multiply. Her jealous "friend," fellow trainee Seo Soo-jin, schemes to destroy her, while Manager Park’s control tightens, demanding absolute perfection and forbidding any distraction—especially a man.
As Vicky's debut looms, the web of lies, sabotage, and industry pressure threatens to snap. Leo must evolve from a silent supporter into an active strategist, using his skills to uncover the truth and protect the woman he's come to love. But in a world where image is everything, can their secret survive the blinding glare of the spotlight, or will their forbidden love become the scandal that destroys her dream before it even begins?
Hidden Guardian: My Idol Neighbor Cried is a heart-wrenching urban romance that explores the fierce protectiveness of found love, the brutal price of fame, and the quiet strength it takes to chase a dream when the world is watching your every move.