"The Scandal" is a series depicting a daring and dangerous love wager between Lady Jo (played by Son Ye-jin), a woman with talents that transcend the limitations of the Joseon Dynasty, and Jo-won (played by Ji Changwook), the greatest romantic in Joseon, along with the story of Hui-yeon (played by Nana), a woman entangled in their wager.
#1. A Classic Reinterpreted Through a 2026 Lens... More Multidimensional Female Narrative
The first point to watch is that director Jung Ji-woo has freshly reinterpreted the classic novel "Les Liaisons Dangereuses," which has captivated countless people since its publication in 1782, through the perspective of 2026. While multi-dimensionally addressing the desires of characters who yearn for what the era does not permit and attempt to choose their own lives, the series also meticulously portrays the relationship between Lady Jo and Hui-yeon—which did not exist in the original work—completing a much richer and more multidimensional female narrative.
"Les Liaisons Dangereuses" was previously adapted into the 2003 domestic hit film "Untold Scandal," starring Bae Yong-jun, Jeon Do-yeon, and Lee Mi-sook. Viewers can enjoy the fun of comparing the film and the series.
#2. Son Ye-jin X Ji Changwook X Nana, a Stealthy and Enthralling Psychological Warfare
An alluring ensemble unfolds, featuring Son Ye-jin (as Lady Jo) returning to a historical drama after 24 years with captivating acting, Ji Changwook (as Jo-won) portraying multi-layered emotional lines, and Nana (as Hui-yeon) taking on a historical drama for the first time in her filmography. Director Jung Ji-woo shared, "All three characters have a major gap between 'the self they show' and 'the self they hide.' The process of being caught or peeking into each other will create visual appeal through the push-and-pull psychological tension among the three."
#3. Fresh Production Breaking the Mold of Traditional Historical Dramas by Utilizing Pansori, Voiceovers, and Minhwa
The final point to watch is the fresh direction that breaks away from the mold of traditional historical dramas. Letters containing the characters' innermost thoughts are delivered in a voiceover format to heighten immersion, while pansori and minhwa elements placed appropriately maximize the unique aesthetics of the Joseon Dynasty. On top of this, there is plenty to see, ranging from alluring costumes capturing each character's traits to art direction and props that realistically implement the gorgeous and elegant scenery of Bukchon.
Combining modern narrative, dense acting by the actors, and unmatched production, the Netflix series "The Scandal" will be released via Netflix on Friday the 18th at 5:00 PM.
[Photo = Netflix]
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)