JTBC's hit drama benefits cast members
Yum Jung-ah
By Kang Aa-young
Cast members of TV series “Sky Castle” are being wooed to appear in various commercials as JTBC's hit drama broke its own viewership record by hitting cable network's highest record on Sunday when the 19th episode aired.
Actress Yum Jung-ah and four other actresses ― Lee Tae-ran, Yoon Se-ah, Oh Na-ra and Kim Seo-hyung ―have become the most-sought-after hotshot stars in the advertising industry.
A 48-year-old actress, Yum signed a deal on Friday to represent the test preparation service provider Woongjin Thinkbig, Woongjin Group's education and publishing unit.
“Seeing her in 'Sky castle' as an extremely dedicated mom, we thought she would be the perfect fit for moms who are interested in their children's education to relate to. And her seasoned acting also encouraged us to choose her,” an official of the company said on condition of anonymity. In the TV series, Yum plays a mother who prioritizes her two daughters to get them the best education and strives to get her first daughter into the nation's top medical school.
Yum is also being asked to appear in other commercials and negotiations are reportedly underway. According to her agency Artist Company, the actress has received calls from companies selling beauty, fashion, and outdoor products.
Other cast members are also benefiting from the popularity of the TV series. Actress Yoon Se-ah has clinched five commercial contracts since the drama first aired and is receiving requests to appear in commercials for various products from beauty to fashion to kitchen products.
Kim Seo-hyung, who played a cool education coordinator, also has been requested for several commercials.
On Sunday, “Sky Castle” renewed its viewership ratings with 20.5 percent, the highest among cable network programs.
The last episode will be airing this Saturday.