The upcoming SBS Friday-Saturday drama 'Brave New World' is already generating buzz ahead of its May premiere, thanks to the highly anticipated pairing of trending actors Lim Ji Yeon and Heo Nam Jun. Newly released script reading photos offered a first glimpse of their romantic chemistry, further heightening expectations.
Heated Script Reading From the Very First Line
'Brave New World' tells the story of Shin Seo Ri (Lim Ji Yeon), an unknown actress who becomes “villainous” after being possessed by the spirit of a notorious Joseon-era villainess, and Cha Se Gye (Heo Nam Jun), a ruthless chaebol heir dubbed a “monster of capitalism.” Their relationship unfolds as a tense, war-like romance.
The drama boasts a strong ensemble cast, including Jang Seung Jo, Kim Min Seok, Lee Se Hee, Chae Seo An, Yoon Joo Sang, Yoon Byung Hee, Jung Young Joo, Baek Eun Hye, Baek Ji Won, Park Jin Woo, and Oh Min Ae, with Kim Hae Sook making a special appearance. Director Han Tae Seop, known for 'Hot Stove League' and 'Cheer Up,' teams up with rookie writer Kang Hyun Joo.
At the script reading held on April 2, the atmosphere was electric from the start. Lim Ji Yeon immediately seized control of the room with her opening line, “What exactly is my crime?” The cast quickly immersed themselves in their roles, delivering performances that felt far beyond a typical reading. According to insiders, the actors already displayed near-perfect chemistry, balancing humor, tension, and deep immersion.
Im Ji Yeon and Heo Nam Jun’s Powerful Synergy
At the heart of the drama are Lim Ji Yeon and Heo Nam Jun. Lim Ji Yeon plays Shin Seo Ri, a struggling actress possessed by the infamous Joseon villainess Kang Dan Sim. She is expected to convincingly portray the contrasting emotions coexisting within a single character.
Since debuting in the 2014 film 'Obsessed,' Lim Ji Yeon has built a solid filmography across both film and television. She gained global recognition for her chilling portrayal of school bully Park Yeon Jin in Netflix’s 'The Glory.' She also proved her versatility in historical dramas through JTBC’s 'The Tale of Lady Ok,' where she delivered a stable and convincing performance within the genre.
Heo Nam Jun takes on the role of Cha Se Gye, the sole heir of the Cha Il Group. Though outwardly cold and authoritative, his character reveals emotional vulnerability in front of Shin Seo Ri, offering a compelling contrast. The actor is expected to further elevate his presence through this project, having steadily built his career with roles in 'Sweet Home,' Your Honor, and 'The Call You Just Made.' His performance in JTBC’s 'A Hundred Memories' last year also showcased a softer, romantic side, raising anticipation for his chemistry with Lim Ji Yeon.
Supporting roles add further depth: Jang Seung Jo plays Cha Se Gye’s cousin Choi Moon Do, a seemingly gentle figure with hidden ambitions; Kim Min Seok appears as Baek Gwang Nam, a job seeker connected to Shin Seo Ri; Lee Se Hee plays top star and Seo Ri’s rival Yoon Ji Hyo; and Chae Seo An takes on the role of Mo Tae Hee, the third daughter of a mimicry family.
Teaser Already Sparked Strong Reactions
A special teaser released in January had already heightened anticipation. The video stood out for its unique blend of Joseon-era and modern settings, teasing complex relationships and conflicts across time.
The teaser opens with Kang Dan Sim (Lim Ji Yeon), a notorious Joseon villainess, being sentenced to death by poison. As she throws the bowl and cries out, “What exactly is my crime?” the scene abruptly cuts with a staff member shouting, “Cut! Okay,” revealing that she has awakened as actress Shin Seo Ri on a historical drama set.
The teaser continues with Seo Ri hurling insults at Cha Se Gye while brandishing a leaf, only for him to fire back by swinging a bouquet—hinting at the drama’s playful and dynamic banter.
Viewers have already expressed excitement online, leaving comments such as “I’ve been waiting for the script reading behind-the-scenes,” “Please come quickly,” “I can’t wait,” “This lineup is insane,” and “Looking forward to May.”
'Brave New World' is set to premiere this May on SBS.
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