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.
Lim Ji-yeon delivers high-octane comic turn in 'My Royal Nemesis'
From left, actors Jang Seung-jo, Lim Ji-yeon and Heo Nam-jun pose during a press conference for the new SBS drama series "My Royal Nemesis" at SBS headquarters in Seoul, Thursday. Yonhap
By Park Jin-hai
Having previously excelled in genre dramas, actor Lim Ji-yeon is now trying her hand at full-blown comedy, set to showcase her versatility in the SBS series "My Royal Nemesis."
The upcoming series is a high-octane, "war-like" romantic comedy following Seo-ri (Lim), an obscure actress possessed by the soul of a legendary Joseon-era villainess, and Cha Se-gye (Heo Nam-jun), a cold-blooded chaebol heir.
"Lim Ji-yeon herself is our greatest competitive edge," director Han Tae-sub said during a press conference for the drama at the SBS headquarters in Seoul, Thursday.
"The script features a line that says, 'Good women go to heaven, but bad women go wherever they want.' The strength of this drama lies in the unpredictable journey of Dan-sim — the Joseon villainess — as she navigates her second chance at life and builds new relationships," he said.
He further emphasized the depth of the project. "Someone who has experienced death gains a completely different perspective on life; that shift is the very plot and genre of this show. We’ve packed in everything an actor can possibly do, from rom-com and period melodrama to action. Lim delivered 120 percent, proving why she is the heart of this production," he said.
A promotional poster for SBS drama "My Royal Nemesis" / Courtesy of SBS
Lim said that her move to the project was fueled by her personal interest in comedy.
"I came across the script right as I was falling in love with the genre," she said. "It's a major challenge for me. After a string of dark, heavy thrillers, I was desperate to try something bright, bubbly and genuinely fun."
Though Lim is still synonymous with the iconic villain Yeon-jin from Netflix’s "The Glory," she promised a completely different breed of "bad girl" this time around.
"Honestly, I’m incredibly confident. This character will be just as impactful as Yeon-jin," she said. "I feel like I’ve tapped into every ounce of my ability for this role. Seo-ri is a character unlike any other in the K-drama landscape. I’ve poured my heart and soul into her and I truly hope the audience loves her as much as I do."
Heo plays Se-gye, a man who views marriage as a mere corporate merger. The emotional core of the drama lies in the "enemies-to-lovers" chemistry between Lim and Heo. A key point for viewers will be the connection between this ruthless tycoon and the possessed actress.
"While he is an antagonistic figure, he has moments of humanity and clumsiness that make him charming," he said, explaining his character’s appeal.
"My Royal Nemesis" premieres Friday, with streaming available for international fans on Netflix.