Kim Ji-won Returns in Lead Role for SBS Drama 'Doctor X: Era of the White Mafia'

Actress Kim Ji-won is set to return in a leading role following her romantic collaboration with Kim Soo-hyun in 'Queen of Tears.'

SBS's upcoming Friday-Saturday drama 'Doctor X: Era of the White Mafia'(닥터X : 하얀 마피아의 시대) is a medical noir series that follows 'Doctor X' Gye Soo-jung, played by Kim Ji-won, as she tackles corruption within a tainted medical community through her exceptional skills.

The series is based on the popular 'Doctor X' franchise that aired on TV Asahi from 2012 to 2021. Known for hits like 'Taxi Driver,' 'The Fiery Priest,' 'Flex x Cop,' and 'The Judge from Hell,' SBS is ambitiously launching this new project. Directed by Lee Jung-lim, known for 'VIP,' 'Revenant,' and 'As You Stood By,' the drama is penned by the industry-noted writer Pyeon Seong-geun. The cast includes Kim Ji-won (as Gye Soo-jung), Lee Jung-eun (as Jang Hee-sook), Son Hyun-joo (as Boo Seung-kwon), and Kim Woo-seok (as Park Tae-kyung), all of whom bring both acting prowess and box office appeal, heightening anticipation.

In the drama, Kim Ji-won plays Gye Soo-jung, a genius surgeon dispatched from a medical staffing agency to fill a vacancy at Guseo University Hospital. Known as the 'mad dog of the operating room,' she is set to deliver a compelling performance. Lee Jung-eun portrays Jang Hee-sook, the money-driven head of the 'Jang Hee-sook Medical Staffing Agency,' Son Hyun-joo plays Boo Seung-kwon, the director of Guseo University Hospital's branch, and Kim Woo-seok takes on the role of Park Tae-kyung, a privileged intern whose life becomes complicated after meeting Gye Soo-jung.

'Doctor X: Era of the White Mafia' commenced filming on the 4th, marking a promising start. Kim Ji-won, stepping in front of the camera as Gye Soo-jung for the first time, showcased her complete immersion into the character, signaling a smooth beginning for the production.

Director Lee Jung-lim shared, "'Doctor X: Era of the White Mafia' has finally begun filming. From day one, the actors and crew have shown incredible focus, making the set feel very secure. Kim Ji-won, in particular, vividly brought the character of Gye Soo-jung to life from the first shoot, firmly establishing the core of the series. Her remarkable immersion and expressiveness make us look forward to the journey ahead."

He added, "'Doctor X: Era of the White Mafia' is a medical noir centered around the exploits of a genius surgeon. We will do our utmost to deliver a deeply engaging and high-quality story to our viewers."

'Doctor X: Era of the White Mafia'(닥터X : 하얀 마피아의 시대) is slated to air in 2026.

Tae Yuna, TENASIA Reporter youyou@tenasia.co.kr