Ha Ji-won Delivers a Shocking Performance in 'Climax' with a Dramatic Downfall

Actress Ha Ji-won (47) has left viewers in shock with her portrayal of a dramatic downfall in the ENA series 'Climax'. Her character becomes embroiled in an unexpected scandal, leading to a 'ruinous ending' at the peak of her career. Ha Ji-won, who lost weight down to 45kg for the role, previously drew attention with a bold transformation, including a same-sex kiss scene.

In the episode aired on the 7th, Ha Ji-won played the role of Choo Sang-ah, who, after a fierce struggle, reemerges gracefully as the wife of a congressional candidate, Bang Tae-seop (played by Joo Ji-hoon). She faces a life-altering event once again, delivering a 'rollercoaster performance' that heightened the drama's intensity.

In this episode, Choo Sang-ah reunites with Hwang Jung-won (played by Nana), with whom she shared a special bond in the past, as her co-star in a comeback project. The two actresses create tension from the first shoot with their intense emotional scenes and later resolve misunderstandings during a private conversation. Through Hwang Jung-won's confession, Choo Sang-ah gets closer to uncovering the truth behind Park Jae-sang's (played by Lee Ga-seop) murder, plunging her into chaos.

Choo Sang-ah perfectly plays the role of a 'trophy wife' to secure her husband Bang Tae-seop's election victory, but an unexpected twist occurs on election day. Lee Yang-mi (played by Cha Joo-young) releases a provocative video of Choo Sang-ah's private life to sabotage Bang Tae-seop's campaign. The video leak dramatically shifts public opinion, turning the world upside down and leaving viewers stunned.

Ha Ji-won once again proves her exceptional acting skills, portraying the emotional turmoil of her character with precision and intensity. Her fearless performance, fully embodying her character, has earned her applause from viewers. With only two episodes left until the finale, all eyes are on Choo Sang-ah as she stands on the brink, poised for a final counterattack.

Despite the trend of actors facing fewer roles as they age, Ha Ji-won continues to maintain her position as a leading actress, demonstrating her enduring influence.

'Climax' will air its 9th episode on Monday, the 13th, at 10 PM.

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