Scheduled to premiere on April 20th at 10 PM, ENA's new Monday-Tuesday drama 'Scarecrow' (directed by Park Joon-woo, written by Lee Ji-hyun, planned by KT Studio Genie, produced by Studio Anzailen) follows a detective investigating a serial murder case who unexpectedly forms an alliance with someone he despises. The story spans 30 years, from 1988 to 2019, as two men pursue the truth, offering a suspenseful narrative of alliances forged through hatred and animosity. Director Park Joon-woo, known for his stylish direction in 'Taxi Driver' and 'Crash', teams up once again with writer Lee Ji-hyun to ensure high-quality production.
Park Hae-soo leads the drama as 'Kang Tae-joo', an ace detective with keen observation and intuition. After being demoted to his hometown of Gangseong, he pursues the true culprit of the Gangseong serial murder case. However, he faces a dilemma when he must catch the criminal he despises with the help of prosecutor Cha Si-young (played by Lee Hee-jun). Park Hae-soo meticulously portrays Kang Tae-joo's confusion, conflict, and transformation, enhancing the drama's immersion.
Lee Hee-jun plays 'Cha Si-young', an elite prosecutor with cold judgment and political acumen, adding tension to the narrative. He leads the investigation into the high-profile Gangseong serial murder case, using it as a stepping stone for his political ambitions. Lee Hee-jun's nuanced performance captures the complexity of a character who hides inner turmoil beneath a composed exterior, consistently impressing viewers.
Kwak Sun-young portrays 'Seo Ji-won', a reporter for the Gangseong Daily and Kang Tae-joo's elementary school classmate. She is a character with a strong sense of duty and integrity as a journalist, determined to uncover and report the truth. Throughout the investigation, she keeps a close watch on the police, acting as a guardian. Kwak Sun-young returns with her signature gentle charisma, perfectly embodying Seo Ji-won and amplifying the character's charm.
Song Geon-hee takes on the role of 'Lee Ki-beom', the younger brother of Lee Ki-hwan (played by Jung Moon-sung) and the lover of Kang Sun-young (played by Seo Ji-hye). He returns to Gangseong from university in Seoul to help with his brother's bookstore. Despite his determination to protect his family and lover, his life is shaken by the serial murder case that rocks Gangseong. Having proven his solid acting skills in 'Sunjae's Escape' and 'Joseon Lawyer', Song Geon-hee once again demonstrates his talent.
Seo Ji-hye plays 'Kang Sun-young', Kang Tae-joo's sister and Lee Ki-beom's lover. She is a kind and caring teacher at school and the only family member who worries about her brother at home. Like her lover Lee Ki-beom, she is an ordinary youth caught up in unexpected events. Seo Ji-hye, a rising star known for her roles in 'Accidentally Encountered You' and 'Speed to You 493km', showcases a new side of her acting.
Jung Moon-sung embodies 'Lee Ki-hwan', a local bookstore owner and Lee Ki-beom's brother, exuding a quiet yet strong presence. As a native of Gangseong and an elementary school classmate of Kang Tae-joo and Seo Ji-won, Jung Moon-sung's realistic portrayal enhances the drama's immersion.
Baek Hyun-jin, known for his unique charisma and acting prowess, joins the cast as 'Kim Man-chun', the head of Gangseong Police Station. He portrays a leader who prioritizes organizational and public sentiment over solving cases, presenting a new face not seen before.
Veteran actor Yoo Seung-mok, with his deep experience and gravitas, adds weight to the drama as 'Cha Moo-jin'. As Cha Si-young's father and a former military general turned influential politician, his authoritative and cold nature has significantly impacted Cha Si-young since childhood. Yoo Seung-mok perfectly embodies the aura of an absolute power figure.
'Scarecrow' premieres on April 20th at 10 PM on ENA and will also be available on KT Genie TV and TVING.
Lee So-jung, TenAsia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr