Netflix unveiled a new trailer and character photos for its upcoming series 'Aema' and is generating major buzz among fans. Rated R (19+), the drama has drawn much attention for its bold subject matter, set against the backdrop of the 1980s Korean erotic film industry.
On July 30, Netflix released several character stills featuring lead actors Lee Hanee, Bang Hyo Rin, Jin Seon Kyu, and Cho Hyun Chul. The series depicts the behind-the-scenes story of the making of 'Madame Aema,' an erotic film that shook Korea in the 1980s.
The film 'Madame Aema,' which inspired the series, holds a special place in Korean cinema history. Beginning with the 1982 debut directed by Jeong In Yeob, the franchise went on to produce 13 installments through 1996, making it one of the most iconic erotic film series in Korea.
The first film was especially groundbreaking, becoming the first Korean movie to introduce midnight screenings. It ran for four months and drew in 310,00 viewers, which is an enormous success by 1980s standards. On opening day, its popularity was so explosive that box offices were damaged and police had to be dispatched.
Lead actress Ahn So Young quickly rose to stardom through 'Madame Aema,' becoming Korea's original "sexy icon." She even won Best New Actress at the 18th Baeksang Arts Awards for her performance. Later, stars such as Oh Soo Bin, Kim Bu Seon, Kang Seung Mi, and Jin Joo Hee carried on the franchise as subsequent Madame Aemas.
The 2025 Netflix drama adaptation 'Aema' centers on two female characters. Top star Jung Hee Ran (played by Lee Hanee), an actress who won Best Actress at an international film festival, declares, "I will never do nude scenes again," rejecting the offer to star in 'Madame Aema.' Her shocking refusal paves the way for a bold and unique newcomer, Shin Joo Ae (played by Bang Hyo Rin), who, despite having no acting experience, is chosen as the new "Aema."
Lee Hanee described her character as "a figure who exudes firm elegance. Even when just standing still, I wanted her charisma to shine through." Bang Hyo Rin added, "Joo Ae is very confident, assertive, and clear in her beliefs and convictions."
The drama also introduces Goo Jung Ho (played by Jin Sun Kyu), the head of Shinsung Films, and rookie director Kwak In Woo (portrayed by Cho Hyun Chul). Jin Sun Kyu said of his role, "He loves films deeply, but his approach is overly focused on money." Cho Hyun Chul explained, "Kwak In Woo is a timid man whose life is full of rejection. He has big ambitions but is constantly frustrated and pained."
'Aema' marks director Lee Hae Young's first drama series, following films such as 'Believer,' 'Phantom,' and 'Like a Virgin.' The teaser poster features the striking tagline, "In a time when all they wanted was to strip women, we boldly turn the tables," set against a vivid backdrop of 1980s Chungmuro, the street of culture, artists, and the film industry.
Even with just the teaser trailer, social media and online communities have erupted with comments like “A refreshingly bold subject,” “Authentic 1980s Chungmuro vibes,” and “A brilliant mix of Korean-style black comedy and feminism.”
The trailer highlights Hee Ran angrily boycotting a script filled with nudity and Joo Ae confidently declaring, “Make me the next Jung Hee Ran.” To this, Hee Ran replies, “Interesting,” creating a subtle but palpable tension between the two characters.
The series contrasts the glamorous façade of 1980s Chungmuro with its darker realities. Detailed costumes, authentic set designs, and stylish visuals vividly recreate the atmosphere of the era.
'Aema' offers an unflinching look at the power structures of the Korean film industry at the time, as well as the harsh realities faced by actresses. Central to the story is the atmosphere that pressured women into nudity and the solidarity of those who resisted, delivering a sharp critique of the unjust system.
The Netflix series 'Aema' will run for six episodes and premiere all at once on August 22. With its daring subject matter and powerhouse cast, anticipation among viewers is running high.
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