Lights, Camera, Controversy: ‘Aema’ Premieres Worldwide
The cast of Netflix’s upcoming K-drama ‘Aema’ gathered in Seoul on July 18 to spill the tea on one of Korea’s most provocative new releases. Held at Hotel Naru in Mapo-gu, the press event featured director Lee Haeyoung and actors Jin Seonkyu, Bang Hyorin, and Cho Hyunchul. Mom-to-be Lee Honey (a.k.a. Lee Hanee) was notably absent from the photo wall due to her late-term pregnancy.
A Bold Throwback to the 1980s
‘Aema’ takes viewers back to the 1980s, a time when Korea’s erotic film industry exploded onto the silver screen. But don’t expect cheap thrills—this series goes beyond the red curtain. At its core, it’s a story about power, survival, and the contrasting realities behind the spotlight.
The series follows two women: seasoned A-list actress Heeran, and rookie Jooae. Together, they challenge the male-dominated industry norms and confront the harsh truths beneath the glamorous façade. The show mixes melodrama and social commentary—think Mad Men meets Minari, but with a spicier kick.
What the Stars Are Saying
Jin Seonkyu, known for his scene-stealing roles in films like The Outlaws, called the project “a daring look at the buried stories of our past.” Bang Hyorin added that the role gave her a newfound respect for women who paved the way during those difficult times.
Director Lee Haeyoung previously helmed hits like Believer and The Silenced, so expect a blend of stylish cinematography and nuanced storytelling.
Mark Your Calendar: Global Release on August 22
Set to drop on Netflix globally on August 22, ‘Aema’ isn’t just a period piece—it’s a cultural reckoning. It revives a forgotten chapter in Korean cinema history while resonating with today’s ongoing conversations about gender, fame, and control in entertainment industries worldwide.
Whether you’re a K-drama fanatic or a film history nerd, this one’s worth binging.
Ready to witness the revolution behind the reel?
