Get ready to step back in time to the golden (and fiery) age of Korean cinema: Netflix Korea has unveiled the poster and first trailer for its new drama Aemascheduled for August 22, 2025. A series that promises to shake things up behind the scenes of the 7th art industry.
The synopsis
Freely inspired by true events, Aema takes us through the streets of Chungmurothe epicenter of South Korean cinema in the 80s. The story follows two actresses on opposite paths: Hee Ran (performed by Lee Ha-nee), an established star confronted with a sexist industry, and Joo Ae (played by Bang Hyo-rin), an ambitious young debutante thrust into the limelight.
The drama revolves around the eventful shooting of Madame Aema, a sultry film that made Korean box-office history. Between compromises, ambitions and power struggles, Aema paints a satirical yet poignant portrait of women's place in a male-dominated industry.
In the teaser, Hee Rantired of scripts where the word "breasts" keeps cropping up, she tries to resist... in vain. Stuck by her contract, she finds herself relegated to a supporting role by the producer. Goo Joong-ho (played by Jin Sun-kyu), who is looking for a new "Aema" with the help of a young director (played by Cho Hyun-chul). Their choice is Joo Aewhose freshness and audacity are captivating.
"Make me the new Hee Ran," says the young actress. "Interesting", replies the star, in a tone as enigmatic as it is provocative. A rivalry as silent as it is explosive seems to be brewing between the 2 women...
With a meticulous recreation of the period's sets, costumes and make-up, Aema is shaping up to be a series as aesthetic as it is hard-hitting. Between satire of the system, assertive feminism and homage to Korean cinema, the drama could well be one of this summer's must-sees.
To be discovered August 22 on Netflix (Korea, to be confirmed internationally).
