Netflix’s latest casting announcement has sent ripples through the K-Drama community, igniting passionate discussions among fans and industry insiders alike. On July 21, Netflix confirmed the production of its upcoming original series, Variety, and revealed that the series will feature top-tier talent, including Son Ye Jin of Crash Landing on You fame and Jo Yuri, a former member of IZ*ONE who recently gained acting acclaim in Squid Game.
The announcement has generated significant buzz, particularly due to the striking resemblance between Son Ye Jin’s character and one of Korea’s most talked-about entertainment figures, former ADOR CEO Min Hee Jin. According to a report by Sports Seoul, Son Ye Jin’s role is described as a “charismatic and refreshing ‘straight-shooter’ character,” reminiscent of Min Hee Jin.
Character Parallels and Industry Impact
While Netflix has not officially confirmed any direct connection to Min Hee Jin, the parallels have not gone unnoticed by fans. The streaming giant has confirmed that Son Ye Jin will portray Sae Eun, a highly capable entertainment company executive known for her strategic prowess and ambition. Sae Eun’s character is portrayed as someone who makes cold, calculated decisions to protect her idol group, even risking everything for a contract renewal.
This character arc has drawn inevitable comparisons to Min Hee Jin’s real-life career, particularly her influence in shaping idol branding through NJZ (NewJeans) and her recent legal disputes with HYBE. The resemblance has sparked debates among fans about the portrayal of industry figures in fictional narratives.
Jo Yuri’s Role and Rising Stardom
Joining Son Ye Jin is Jo Yuri, who plays Seung Hee, a passionate fan who obsessively follows her favorite idol. Seung Hee’s character is expected to add an intense and unpredictable layer to the story, as she uses any means necessary to get close to her idol. Jo Yuri’s casting is seen as a strategic move by Netflix to draw in younger audiences familiar with her work in Squid Game and her idol background.
Industry Reactions and Viewer Anticipation
The announcement of Variety has sparked massive interest, with many viewers eager to see how the series will portray the idol industry and its real-life parallels. The casting of Son Ye Jin and Jo Yuri is seen as a bold choice, reflecting Netflix’s commitment to producing high-quality content that resonates with global audiences.
“Netflix has green-lighted the Kpop Netflix series ‘Variety’ inspired by the heroic actions of Min Hee Jin. The cast features Jo Yu-ri and Son Ye-Jin.” — Lia (@Splias), July 21, 2025
Social media has been abuzz with reactions, with some fans expressing excitement over the casting choices, while others debate the ethical implications of drawing inspiration from real-life figures. One tweet passionately defended Min Hee Jin’s impact, highlighting the complex dynamics of public opinion in South Korea.
“Min Hee Jin mother THAT’S HER IMPACT. y’all outside SK, have the audacity to speak on the behalf of SK’s women themselves, despising them for siding with Min Hee Jin??? WHO TF ARE YOU? listen to the women who live and going through shit in that country not fanwars opinions.” — .ℛℴ𝓈 (@_Honeyily), July 21, 2025
Looking Forward: Implications for K-Drama and Beyond
The casting news and its subsequent reactions underscore the evolving landscape of K-Drama, where real-life events and figures increasingly influence fictional narratives. This trend reflects a broader shift in the entertainment industry, as creators seek to engage audiences with stories that resonate on both personal and cultural levels.
As Variety moves into production, industry watchers will be keenly observing how the series balances its fictional elements with the real-life inspirations it draws from. The series is poised to challenge conventional portrayals of the idol industry, potentially setting a new standard for K-Drama storytelling.
With its high-profile cast and intriguing premise, Variety is set to capture the attention of viewers worldwide, offering a unique lens into the complexities of the entertainment world and the figures who shape it. As the series unfolds, it will be interesting to see how it navigates the fine line between fiction and reality, and what it ultimately reveals about the idol industry and its influence on popular culture.
