[Sportschosun Reporter Kim So-hee] As SBS's A Brave New World nears its finale, Im Ji-yeon, Heo Nam-jun, and Jang Seung-jo personally expressed their thanks.
The SBS Friday-Saturday drama A Brave New World, directed by Han Tae-seop and Kim Hyun-woo, written by Kang Hyun-joo, and produced by Studio S and Gil Pictures, is a romantic comedy about a fierce, near-collision war between Shin Seori (played by Im Ji-yeon), an unknown actress possessed by the spirit of a notorious Joseon-era villain, and Cha Se-gye (played by Heo Nam-jun), a ruthless chaebol heir described as a monster born of capitalism. As of episode 12, it once again broke its own highest ratings, reaching 11% in the Seoul metropolitan area and 10.5% nationwide. It also ranked No. 2 in Netflix's Global Top 10 Non-English Shows weekly viewing chart and topped various buzz rankings and brand reputation surveys, proving its overwhelming popularity. (Based on Nielsen Korea, Tudum, FunDex, and the Korea Corporate Reputation Research Institute)
A Brave New World continues to drive intense buzz through the unmatched rom-com chemistry between Im Ji-yeon and Heo Nam-jun, the actors' flawless character portrayals, a tightly written script full of sharp dialogue, stylish and detailed direction, and music that deepens immersion. Against that backdrop, Im Ji-yeon (Shin Seori/Gang Dansim), Heo Nam-jun (Cha Se-gye), and Jang Seung-jo (Choi Moon-do), the leads behind the show's global success, drew attention by sending their thanks to viewers.
First, Im Ji-yeon, who showcased an unlimited acting range by effortlessly moving between comedy, melodrama, and action as Shin Seori and Gang Dansim, said, "Playing a dual role, switching between a Joseon villain suddenly thrown into the future and the timid unknown actress Shin Seori, was not easy, but I sincerely thank all the viewers who laughed and cried with us." She added, "I hope Seori remains in your memories for a long time as a bold and lovable character," expressing her affection for the role and leaving a moving impression.
Meanwhile, Heo Nam-jun, who created a new chaebol rom-com male lead as Cha Se-gye, said, "I spent a happy time receiving such overwhelming love and support from viewers. I was so happy that I wished this time would never end." He also said, "Thank you sincerely for enjoying A Brave New World and for all the interest you have shown. I hope you always stay healthy," easing the sadness of the finale with heartfelt gratitude.
Finally, Jang Seung-jo, who delivered a chilling performance as Choi Moon-do and led the drama's tension with a standout villain role, offered a witty farewell: "Thank you for waiting for A Brave New World every week, for being so passionate about Seori and Se-gye's love story, and for disliking Moon-do so much." He added a meaningful reflection, saying, "Watching A Brave New World become what it is for you was also a 'brave new world' for me," leaving a lasting impression.
In episode 12, the ending delivered a major twist as Seori realized that she is the "real Shin Seori." Viewers will have to tune in to episode 13 to find out whether Seori, now aware of her true identity, can remain by Cha Se-gye's side in the 21st century, and how the time-transcending romance between Seori and Se-gye will unfold.
Episode 13 of SBS's A Brave New World airs tonight at 9:50 p.m.
Kim So-hee, yaqqol@sportschosun.com
