Shin Hye-sun Shines in 'Secret Audit' as Ratings Soar

Shin Hye-sun continues to prove her acting prowess with her latest role in 'Secret Audit', following her acclaimed performance in 'Lady Dua' released in February. The new series, which premiered on the 25th, has been praised for its strong performances, script, and storyline.

The second episode of tvN's weekend drama 'Secret Audit', aired on the 26th, showcased the collaboration between Joo In-ah (played by Shin Hye-sun) and Noh Gi-jun (played by Gong Myung). The episode featured a thrilling plot with unexpected twists, including Noh Gi-jun missing a chance to escape the audit office and a shocking tip-off targeting Joo In-ah.

The audience response was enthusiastic. The second episode's ratings reached an average of 6.7% and a peak of 7.7% in the Seoul metropolitan area, and an average of 6.3% and a peak of 7.1% nationwide, securing the top spot in its time slot across cable and general programming channels. It also ranked first among tvN's target demographic of men and women aged 20-49, both in the metropolitan area and nationwide, according to Nielsen Korea's paid platform data.

The episode began with the aftermath of Noh Gi-jun's embarrassing incident, earning him the nickname 'Sea Fog Fainting Man'. His next task involved investigating an anonymous complaint on 'Company.com F Zone Complaints', related to a scandal in the basement parking lot of Haemu Group. The audit team launched a 'human intelligence' investigation to uncover the truth behind the rumors.

Noh Gi-jun faced unexpected challenges in his personal life as well. Park Ah-jung (played by Hong Hwa-yeon), his ex-girlfriend, unexpectedly moved in with him due to unforeseen circumstances. Her presence triggered memories of a secret moment he shared with Joo In-ah, leading him to become more conscious of her. A tense encounter on the emergency stairs confirmed his suspicions when Joo In-ah approached him with the cryptic remark, "Were you doing this again?", leaving Noh Gi-jun in a state of shock.

Noh Gi-jun's plan to escape the audit office hit a snag during a stakeout in the F Zone parking lot with Joo In-ah. They stumbled upon a shocking scene involving Kim Jeon-moo (played by Kim Jong-tae), Noh Gi-jun's only hope for escape. While Joo In-ah was thrilled by the 'big catch', Noh Gi-jun was devastated as his last lifeline was severed, especially with the revelation of Kim Jeon-moo's corruption.

Joo In-ah's suspicious actions were also highlighted. Her intense focus on Noh Gi-jun's handover documents suggested an agenda beyond a simple personnel transfer, heightening curiosity. Additionally, a tip-off email targeting Joo In-ah arrived just as Noh Gi-jun decided to resign, hinting at unpredictable developments ahead.

The precarious position of Haemu Group's Vice Chairman Jeon Jae-yeol (played by Kim Jae-wook) was also revealed. The unspoken pressure of not being recognized by his father and the news of his half-brother Jeon Sung-yeol's return to the headquarters hinted at his unstable standing. The subtle tension between Jeon Jae-yeol and Park Ah-jung added intrigue to the storyline.

Pyo Ye-jin and Shin Hyun-soo, portraying the office couple Yeon So-young and Kwon Hyun-woo, delivered a realistic portrayal of their relationship dynamics, leaving a strong impression. Kim Jong-tae's special appearance as Kim Jeon-moo added to the drama's intensity, enhancing the suspense and engagement of the plot.

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