ENA’s Monday–Tuesday drama Climax is set to premiere at 10 p.m. on March 16, and anticipation is already building thanks to preview screenings and promotional events held ahead of the broadcast.
A special preview screening and audience talk session (GV) with director Lee Ji Won was held on March 12 at the Onmadang hall in the KT West Building in Gwanghwamun. Around 100 viewers attended the event, marking the drama’s first introduction to audiences. According to ENA, the screening of episodes 1 and 2 was an opportunity to communicate directly with viewers and gauge their level of immersion in the story.
Rather than focusing solely on a marital storyline, the drama explores the fierce ambitions and survival instincts of individuals racing toward the highest levels of power in South Korea. From the very beginning, the intense narrative managed to capture the audience’s attention.
Preview Screening Proves Strong Engagement
The preview of the first two episodes ran for approximately 120 minutes. With powerful performances from actors such as Ju Ji Hoon, Ha Ji Won, Nana, Oh Jung Se, and Cha Joo Young, combined with director Lee Ji Won’s tense and dynamic direction, the screening kept viewers fully engaged.
After the screening ended, applause broke out throughout the audience, reflecting the heightened excitement for the upcoming broadcast. During the talk session, the director revealed behind-the-scenes stories, the inspiration behind the project, and details about key scenes and directing choices.
Lee Ji Won explained that the story gradually builds toward an increasingly intense climax, living up to its title. She emphasized that maintaining tension throughout the narrative was one of the main priorities during the directing process.
The event also included a surprise lucky draw where participants received gifts themed around the word “MAX,” adding even more excitement to the atmosphere. Many attendees praised the drama afterward, describing it as “simply fun,” “extremely immersive from the very first episode,” and “fast-paced with impressive tension.” Others highlighted the powerful performances from the lead actors and expressed curiosity about how the story will unfold.
Yoon Sung Sik, head of ENA’s Content Strategy Center, commented that following the rising momentum of ENA’s Monday–Tuesday dramas, Climax is expected to deliver fresh entertainment and strong engagement, especially among the key 2049 (viewers aged 20~49) demographic.
Even before its official premiere, Climax has already proven its popularity. In the first week of March, the drama entered the Top 10 of the TV drama buzz rankings compiled by Good Data Corporation’s FUNdex. This marks the first time an ENA drama has appeared on the list before its broadcast, indicating high anticipation among viewers.
Star-Studded Cast and Power-Driven Storyline
Another major highlight of Climax is the strong acting synergy among its cast. Ju Ji Hoon plays star prosecutor Bang Tae Seop, portraying a complex character torn between relentless ambition for power and deep internal conflict.
Meanwhile, Ha Ji Won takes on the role of Chu Sang Ah, a once-top actress who faded from the public eye after marriage. Her character struggles with anxiety and desire, delivering a nuanced portrayal of emotional vulnerability.
This project marks the first time Ju Ji Hoon and Ha Ji Won have worked together. During the production press conference, director Lee Ji Won explained that when imagining a character driven by overwhelming ambition, Ju Ji Hoon was the first actor who came to mind. She noted that his sharp facial features and intense gaze give him a presence reminiscent of both a predator and a venomous snake.
Speaking about Ha Ji Won, the director shared that after previously collaborating with her on Portrait of a Family, she recognized the actress as an extremely professional performer and wanted to work with her again on a long-term project.
The drama also features Nana as Hwang Jeong Won, a secretive informant connected to Bang Tae Seop; Oh Jung Se as Kwon Jong Wook, a man competing to inherit a powerful conglomerate; and Cha Joo Young as Lee Yang Mi, the second wife of the chairman of WR Group, ranked third among the nation’s top conglomerates.
The production team explained that Climax centers on the intertwined desires and choices of each character, creating a tightly woven narrative. Combined with director Lee Ji Won’s detailed storytelling and the actors’ strong presence, the drama is expected to produce powerful on-screen synergy.
During the press conference, Lee Ji Won confidently stated that she expects the series to achieve one of the highest ratings in ENA’s history. She even referenced Extraordinary Attorney Woo, which recorded a peak rating of 17.5%, saying there is no reason Climax cannot surpass that milestone.
With its star-studded cast, intricate storytelling, and intense dramatic tension, Climax is set to premiere on ENA at 10 p.m. on March 16. As anticipation continues to grow following its preview screenings and strong buzz rankings, attention is now focused on whether the drama can become ENA’s next major hit and possibly challenge the legendary success of Extraordinary Attorney Woo.
Sources: Daum