It’s almost time for Hidden Love for You 偷偷藏不住之许你, the short drama version of the popular hit series Hidden Love, to hit screens tomorrow. However, even before its scheduled release date on June 26, 2025, it appears the youth drama which features Tian Hongjie as Duan Jiaxu, Huang Panpan as Sang Zhi and Ma Zhe as Sang Yan has already hit a couple of speed bumps.
Criticisms and Copyright Controversy
For one thing, only two years have passed since the original version starring Zhao Lusi and Chen Zheyuan won the hearts of audiences. Averaging at 40 million views per episode, I’d say that’s pretty hard to beat. Netizens are now wondering, is a short drama version of the original hit series really necessary? Aside from criticisms for “consuming IP” and accusations it’s attempting to ride on the original’s success, Netizens also pointed out how the production didn’t really seem to put that much effort to set itself apart. Why even the Chinese title sounds like a mishmash of Zhao Lusi’s two dramas Hidden Love 偷偷藏不住 and her upcoming series Love’s Ambition 许我耀眼 .
Then there’s the newly surfaced copyright infringement allegations against drama producer Wajijiwa. In a statement released late last night, publisher Jinjiang said that based on their agreement with Wajijiwa Entertainment, the novel’s author Zhu Yi only granted them the right to adapt her work into a web drama. They were not authorised to turn it into a short drama. That said, a lawsuit for violating their contract agreement and for copyright infringement might be in the cards if the broadcast will push through. In its response, Wajijiwa meanwhile insists that their contract stipulates the company has obtained film and television adaptation rights as well as filming and distribution. “the contract defines ‘film and television’ to include movies, TV series, online series and online movies. Online series refers to serial dramas on streaming sites online with no limit on the duration.”
Hidden Love for You follows the emotional journey of Sang Zhi and Duan Jiaxu from puppy love to their reunion as adults.
UPDATE: Hidden Love for You Permanently Taken Down
On July 4, Wajijiwa issued a statement announcing that they had reached a consensus with Jinjiang and author Zhu Yi. The company admitted to oversights and publicly apologized. They also announced that the short drama Hidden Love for You has been permanently taken down as of July 3, 2025.
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HL
Would love to know if there will be truly a court case and outcome. Likely a settlement. No need to go to court for this.
Lisa
Nobody asked for this. It’s one thing if Hidden Love was a short drama first and then the CZY/ZLS version came out. But the web version with more budget and more popular (and better looking imho) actors was made first. It was a decent hit, and only two years ago. There’s no way they’re expecting this to be popular. They don’t even remake Jinyong dramas that quick. ATP I can only assume the purpose of this drama is to launder money or one of the actors/actresses has some strong backing.