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Son Ye-jin's First Historical Drama in 24 Years and Ji Chang-wook and Nana's Transformation: Netflix Series 'Scandals' Premieres Today

Published : Sep 18, 2026 5:45 PM


As Netflix's new series 'Scandals' meets global viewers at 5 p.m. today (September 18), key points to watch have been revealed.

'Scandals' is a series depicting a bold and dangerous love wager between Lady Cho (played by Son Ye-jin), a woman with talents that surpassed the limitations of the Joseon Dynasty, and Jo Won (played by Ji Chang-wook), the greatest romantic in Joseon, along with the story of Heeyeon (played by Nana), a woman entangled in their bet.
Scandal (Photo: Getty Images Korea)
#1. A Classic Reinterpreted Through a 2026 Perspective… A More Dimensional Female Narrative

The first key point is that director Jung Ji-woo has reinterpreted the classic novel 'Les Liaisons Dangereuses', which has captivated numerous people since its publication in 1782, through the perspective of 2026. In addition to multi-layered portrayals of the desires of characters who yearn for what the era does not permit and try to choose their own lives, the production completes a richer and more dimensional female narrative by delicately drawing the relationship between 'Lady Cho' and 'Heeyeon', which did not exist in the original work.

'Les Liaisons Dangereuses' was previously made into the domestic hit film 'Untold Scandal' in 2003, starring Bae Yong-joon, Jeon Do-yeon, and Lee Mi-sook. Viewers can also enjoy the fun of comparing the movie and the series.
Scandal (Photo: Getty Images Korea)
#2. Son Ye-jin X Ji Chang-wook X Nana, A Stealthy and Captivating Psychological Warfare

The project unfolds a captivating ensemble featuring Son Ye-jin (as Lady Cho), returning to a historical drama after 24 years with alluring acting and multi-layered emotional lines; Ji Chang-wook (as Jo Won); and Nana (as Heeyeon), taking on a historical drama for the first time in her filmography. Director Jung Ji-woo shared, "All three characters have a wide gap between 'the self they reveal' and 'the self they hide.' In the process of being discovered or peeking into each other, the push-and-pull psychological tension among the three will create a compelling spectacle."
Scandal (Photo: Getty Images Korea)
#3. Utilizing Pansori, Voiceovers, and Minhwa… Fresh Production Breaking the Mold of Traditional Historical Dramas

The final key point is the fresh direction that breaks away from the mold of conventional historical dramas. Letters containing the inner thoughts of the characters are delivered in a voiceover format to enhance immersion, while strategically placed pansori (traditional Korean narrative singing) and minhwa (folk painting) elements maximize the unique aesthetics of the Joseon Dynasty. Furthermore, there is plenty to see, ranging from alluring costumes that incorporate the characteristics of each character to art direction and props that realistically recreate the gorgeous and elegant scenery of Bukchon.

Blending modern narrative, dense performances by the actors, and unrivaled production, the Netflix series 'Scandals' will be released via Netflix at 5 p.m. on Friday, September 18.

(Photo: Netflix)

Reporter Kang Sun-ae

(SBS Entertainment News, Reporter Kang Sun-ae)