Park Jin-hai primarily focuses on K-dramas, entertainment shows and actor interviews. Beyond that, she also pens articles covering the broader arts scene, with a particular emphasis on classical music, dance and various aspects of lifestyle. Since joining The Korea Times in 2013, she has made significant contributions in the realms of hallyu (Korean wave), industry news and international affairs.
Ko Hyun-jung's new role mirrors Ador's Min Hee-jin
Ko Hyun-jung / Courtesy of Netflix
By Park Jin-hai
Veteran actor Ko Hyun-jung, who has recently been interacting with fans on social media, is returning to the small screen with a role that reminds many viewers of Ador CEO Min Hee-jin.
In the upcoming Genie TV original drama, "Namib," set to premiere later this year, the 53-year-old actor will take on the role of Kang Soo-hyun, a renowned producer and co-CEO of Pandora Entertainment, known for developing idols with her unique vision and approach. After being dismissed from her role as co-CEO, she embarks on a new project to create a star and reclaim her place in the industry.
She chooses Yoo Jin-woo (Ryeoun) as her trainee. Yoo, who has been an idol for the past decade, was on the verge of giving up his dream due to his parents' debts and the setbacks of his past career. With Kang’s selection, he begins his training anew with renewed determination.
Ko's character has drawn comparisons to the Ador CEO, who has been embroiled in a management feud with HYBE since April. HYBE attempted to remove Min, often referred to as the "mother" of the K-pop sensation NewJeans, accusing her of trying to gain complete control of Ador. The dispute escalated into a public spectacle, with both sides exchanging accusations, filing lawsuits and even disclosing private messages, turning the situation into a highly visible and contentious battle.
"Given Min's ongoing dispute, Ko's new character bears a resemblance to her, which makes me eager to see how the drama explores the power struggles and realities of the K-pop industry," a netizen left a comment on the upcoming series showing expectations.
Actor Yoon Sang-hyun will play Kang's husband, a former music producer who transitioned to being a homemaker after their son lost his hearing in a childhood car accident. Lee Jin-woo from the K-pop boy group Ghost9 will portray their son.