"the first man" Kim Minseol's ability to embody her character and her presence stand out.
Kim Minseol plays Jin Hong-ju, the "embodiment of ambition," in MBC's "the first man" (planning: Jang Jae-hoon; director: Kang Tae-heum; writers: Seo Hyun-ju, Ahn Jin-young; produced by MBC C&I, DK Entertainment), delivering a role that effectively raises the drama's tension.
Hong-ju threw her resignation letter at Cha Hwa-young (played by Oh Hyunkyung), who had assigned her to India, and shocked people by delivering a heavy blow to Ma Seo-rin (played by Ham Eunjung), saying, "I'm not your underling anymore, you know?" Afterwards, she rapidly rose to head of team in Dream Group's corporate strategy team, then made a comeback at Dream Hotel, once again exerting a powerful presence. Kim Minseol's appearance smiling at Hwa-young while backed by Chairwoman Ma (played by Lee Hyo-jung) brought the drama's tension to a peak on its own.
In episode 17, which aired on the 6th, Hong-ju said, "Ma Seo-rin, you'll see in time. The day my mother becomes your grandmother is not far off. My mother and I have risked everything for that day. Today is the last day I'll tolerate you crossing the line," burning with resolve. At that moment, Kim Minseol's fierce gaze and each line, delivered as if chewing over every word, were more than enough to overwhelm those around her.
As the prospective daughter of Chairwoman Ma slowly increasing her equity, Hong-ju delivered a cutting remark to Hwa-young, who repeatedly belittled her: "President, this is a company; although I am a subordinate, belittling me is inappropriate. Please correct your behavior." Hwa-young is also watching her closely amid Hong-ju's composed demeanor, as if she has nothing to fear. Attention is focused on whether Hong-ju, once she becomes Chairwoman Ma's daughter, will be able to fully unleash her long-hidden ambition.
Kim Minseol fully immerses herself in Hong-ju, who spares no effort to climb higher, breathing life into the character. Kim Minseol's command of the character, her line delivery, and the changes in her gaze and vocal tone depending on whether someone is an ally or an enemy undoubtedly captured attention. The bold newcomer Kim Minseol, taking her first leading role in this work, is generating anticipation for the performances she will show as the series progresses.
Meanwhile, MBC's new daily drama "the first man" airs every Monday through Friday at 7:05 p.m.
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