Lights, camera, controversy: ‘Aema’ hits Netflix this week
The cast and crew behind Netflix’s edgy new K-drama ‘Aema’ gathered in Seoul on the morning of July 18 for a press conference ahead of its global premiere on the 22nd. Hosted at the luxurious Hotel Naru in Mapo-gu, the event drew major names including actor Jin Seonkyu, rising star Bang Hyorin, Cho Hyunchul, and auteur director Lee Haeyoung.
‘Aema’: A sizzling reimagining of Korea’s erotic film era
Set amid the dramatically transforming social backdrop of the 1980s, ‘Aema’ (애마) dives deep into the chaotic birth of Korea’s now-legendary erotic film boom. But don’t expect simply another soft-focus period drama—this is a punchy, psychological exploration of fame, female agency, and what it means to be bold in an industry built on illusions.
Veteran star Heeran and fearless rookie Joo-ae anchor this high-voltage drama. As Joo-ae steps into a role that could change her life—and earn her public infamy—Heeran faces the darker side of her stardom. Think Feud: Bette and Joan, but in a smoky Korean film studio in Chungmuro circa 1982.
Missing a mom-to-be
Lead actress Lee Honey was absent from the press conference’s photo wall due to her pregnancy, but her presence still loomed large as excitement builds over her powerful performance. “She’s incredible in this,” director Lee Haeyoung said, “She brought both the sex appeal and the heartbreak we needed.”
Who’s who in the cast
- Jin Seonkyu brings gravitas and grit, hot off his roles in hard-hitting thrillers.
- Bang Hyorin, a standout rookie, is earning buzz as the emotional core of the series.
- Cho Hyunchul, known for DP and Hotel Del Luna, adds tension and mystery to the cast.
- Director Lee Haeyoung, of Believer fame, pulls no punches in his storytelling.
1980s Seoul gets a raw retelling
If you’re expecting nostalgia-drenched lighting and disco beats, think again. ‘Aema’ portrays the 1980s not as rosy retrospection, but as a time of censorship, double standards, and the explosive rise of an underground movie scene. Mixed in? Backroom politics and the very real costs of fame for women in the spotlight.
Streaming soon—and grabbing attention
With ‘Aema’ set for worldwide release on July 22, there’s already chatter about its potential to spark conversation far beyond South Korea. As K-dramas continue to diversify genres and subjects—this one being a rare historical, feminist meta-drama exploring the film industry itself—Netflix may have another hit on its hands.
Are we ready to talk about the stories behind the silver screen? ‘Aema’ dares us to peek behind the curtain.
