Kakao Entertainment Captivates with Strong Female Characters in Upcoming Releases

Kakao Entertainment, led by CEOs Kwon Ki-soo and Jang Yoon-jung, is receiving acclaim both domestically and internationally for its diverse and well-crafted productions this year. The company is particularly drawing attention for its focus on intricate narratives centered around female characters. Notable releases from the first half of the year include the Netflix series 'You Have Done Well' starring IU, Disney+ original series 'Nine Puzzle' featuring Kim Da-mi, and the film 'The Black Nuns' with Song Hye-kyo and Jeon Yeo-bin. These works have delivered profound emotions and entertainment through their captivating characters and stories that transcend time and genre. Looking ahead to September, Kakao Entertainment plans to release more female-centric stories with unique charms, such as 'Mantis: The Murderer's Outing,' 'Eunsoo's Good Day,' and 'Eunjoong and Sangyeon.'

Kakao Entertainment is gaining attention for its broad diversity in character backgrounds, themes, and genres. By breaking away from stereotypes, the company portrays female characters in a multifaceted and relatable manner, adding fresh excitement by exploring genres like crime and thriller from a female perspective. A representative from Kakao Entertainment stated, "Our stories, centered around intriguing female characters, are crafted with both subtlety and intensity, offering viewers thrilling immersion or warm healing and inspiration."

Highly anticipated transformations by renowned actresses Go Hyun-jung and Lee Young-ae are set for September. Go Hyun-jung will take on the role of a ruthless serial killer in the new SBS drama 'Mantis: The Murderer's Outing,' premiering on September 5. The series follows a detective who must collaborate with his mother, the infamous 'Mantis,' to solve a copycat crime 20 years after her capture. Go Hyun-jung will portray the character Jung Yi-shin, known as 'Mantis,' with an overwhelming presence, exploring a complex relationship with her son, played by Jang Dong-yoon. Director Byun Young-joo, known for her meticulous and sensory mise-en-scène, helms the project, heightening anticipation.

National actress Lee Young-ae will star in the KBS2TV mini-series 'Eunsoo's Good Day,' premiering on September 20. She plays a housewife who is thrust into an unpredictable fate after discovering a mysterious bag. The series tells the story of Kang Eun-soo, a parent trying to protect her family, and Lee Kyung, a teacher with a double life, as they become entangled in a dangerous partnership over a bag of drugs. Lee Young-ae expressed her excitement about the role, noting the character's transformation from a typical housewife to someone facing intense internal conflict and fear. She also shared her preparation for the action scenes, which included strength training and running.

Acclaimed actresses Kim Go-eun and Park Ji-hyun will also deliver heartfelt performances in the Netflix series 'Eunjoong and Sangyeon,' releasing on September 12. The series explores the lifelong friendship and separation of two friends, Eunjoong and Sangyeon, who experience admiration, jealousy, and love throughout their lives. Kim Go-eun plays Ryu Eunjoong, a character with a unique charm that draws people in, while Park Ji-hyun portrays her closest friend, Cheon Sangyeon. The actresses will depict the evolving emotions and misunderstandings between the friends from their teenage years to their 40s, evoking deep empathy and connection with viewers.

Lee So-jung, TenAsia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr