Ju Ji-hoon X Ha Ji-won ‘Climax’ First Episode Ratings Record 2.9%... The Rebellion of the Underprivileged Prosecutor Begins

The ENA Monday-Tuesday drama ‘Climax’, which was highly anticipated as the best work of the first half of the year due to the meeting of Ju Ji-hoon and Ha Ji-won, has unveiled its story. It vividly portrays the desires of characters charging boldly into the heart of power, leaving a strong impression on the home audience.

Starting with a Rating of 2.9%... The Precarious Union of an Underprivileged Prosecutor and a Top Star

According to Nielsen Korea, the ratings agency, the first episode of ‘Climax’ aired on the 16th recorded a nationwide paid household rating of 2.9%.

In the first broadcast, the narrative of Bang Tae-seop (played by Ju Ji-hoon), who grew from the son of a factory worker to a fierce prosecutor, unfolded with great immersion. After witnessing his father's unjust death, he entered the prosecution for revenge but felt the limitations of an organization where lineage is prioritized over ability. He made a shocking choice to marry top star Chu Sang-ah (played by Ha Ji-won) as a lever for social mobility. Although they are a ‘power couple’ admired by the public, the subtle cracks in their relationship, filled with each other's calculations and cold desires, sparked curiosity about future developments.

The Power Struggle of WR Group Shaking Politics and Business... Bang Tae-seop's Dangerous Gamble

The drama meticulously delved into the internal workings of the massive power structure that moves South Korea, beyond Bang Tae-seop's personal story. The political turmoil surrounding the next presidential candidate, Mayor Nam Hye-hoon, along with the tense power struggle between WR Group's heir Kwon Jong-wook (played by Oh Jung-se) and the influential Lee Yang-mi (played by Cha Joo-young), added to the tension.

In particular, the ending where Bang Tae-seop, who captured the secretive movements of the influential Lee Yang-mi connecting the entertainment and political worlds, heads to the WR Hotel to overturn the power dynamics was spectacular. His leap into the lion's den, throwing a gamble that could determine his fate, was enough to raise the viewers' heart rates.

‘Acting Climax’ of Trusted Actors Like Ju Ji-hoon, Ha Ji-won, and Oh Jung-se

From the first episode, the rapid development and solid directing stood out, and the actors' passionate performances also shone. Ju Ji-hoon's chilling performance as an ambitious prosecutor and Ha Ji-won's presence, hiding secrets behind the glamour of a top star, created perfect synergy. Additionally, the solid supporting cast including Nana, Oh Jung-se, and Cha Joo-young heightened the drama's intensity.

Announcing the Beginning of a Massive Power Game, ‘Climax’ airs every Monday and Tuesday at 10 PM on ENA and can also be viewed again through Genie TV and Disney+.