Ha Ji-won Delivers Intense Performance Amid Scandal in ENA Drama 'Climax'

Actress Ha Ji-won delivers a powerful emotional performance in the ENA drama 'Climax', portraying a character who hits rock bottom due to a major scandal.

In the episode aired on the 13th, Ha Ji-won's character, Choo Sang-ah, faces her worst nightmare when a scandalous video with a same-sex partner leaks on the day of her husband Bang Tae-seob's (played by Joo Ji-hoon) election. Ha Ji-won vividly expresses Choo Sang-ah's fear and despair as she discovers cameras filming her from outside the window, feeling utterly isolated after Bang Tae-seob's defeat and the betrayal of her trusted friend Hwang Jung-won (played by Nana).

However, Choo Sang-ah soon regains her composure, declaring, "I won't end it like this. I'll reclaim everything I've lost," as she confidently faces the reporters waiting outside her house. She confronts Hwang Jung-won, admitting, "I was sincere with you, even if just for a moment," and requests a weapon to bring down Lee Yang-mi (played by Cha Joo-young), the mastermind behind the video leak. In a tragic turn, Hwang Jung-won is killed by an assailant meant for Choo Sang-ah, leading to a heart-wrenching scene where Ha Ji-won portrays her character's complete breakdown.

Later, Choo Sang-ah realizes that Bang Tae-seob intended to kill her and confronts him, asking, "Are you disappointed it wasn't me?" She also attempts to reveal the truth about the innocent Nam Woo-sik (played by Bae Yoon-kyu) being framed for Hwang Jung-won's murder, but is thwarted by Bang Tae-seob's interference, capturing her frustration and despair.

Towards the end of the episode, the existence of a USB file containing the truth about the events leading to Hwang Jung-won's death is revealed, heightening anticipation for Choo Sang-ah's final act of revenge against Lee Yang-mi. The finale of 'Climax' airs on the 14th at 10 PM.

Reporter: Jung Se-yoon, TenAsia yoon@tenasia.co.kr