Lim Ji Yeon in Talks to Star in SBS’s Upcoming Drama “Brave New World”
Lim Ji Yeon, one of Korea’s most versatile and captivating actresses, might be returning to the small screen with a bold new project. On June 17, 2025, Ilgan Sports revealed that the acclaimed actress has been cast as the female lead in the upcoming SBS drama tentatively titled “Brave New World.” While the agency has confirmed that Lim Ji Yeon is reviewing the offer, anticipation is already building for what could be one of her most dynamic roles yet.
A New Kind of Rom-Com: What is “Brave New World” About?
“Brave New World” promises to break away from conventional romantic comedy formulas. This upcoming SBS drama blends elements of fantasy, period storytelling, and chaebol drama, creating a unique narrative that spans centuries.
At its core, the show is centered on the turbulent, passionate, and comedic love-hate relationship between two central characters: Shin Seo Ri, a fierce and infamous woman from the Joseon Dynasty, and Cha Se Gye, a cold, calculated chaebol heir in modern-day Korea. The twist? Shin Seo Ri isn’t just a historical figure—she’s a Joseon-era femme fatale whose spirit somehow ends up in the body of a struggling modern actress.
This fusion of timelines promises endless drama, comedic confusion, and emotional moments, as two vastly different eras and personalities collide.
Lim Ji Yeon as Shin Seo Ri: A Dual Identity
Lim Ji Yeon has been offered the role of Shin Seo Ri, a woman with a complex dual identity. By day, she’s an unknown actress in the 21st century, but her body becomes host to the spirit of a notorious concubine from the Joseon Dynasty. This spiritual possession transforms her from a mild-mannered woman into a bold, assertive, and dangerously charming individual.
In the Joseon Dynasty, Shin Seo Ri was a high-ranking concubine labeled a wicked woman, someone whose influence shook the royal court. Her allure, ambition, and cunning made her both revered and feared, eventually leading to her downfall and execution by poison. However, fate gives her another chance—this time in the modern world.
This character demands a wide emotional range and dual-layered acting, something Lim Ji Yeon has consistently proven herself capable of. The opportunity to showcase her skills through slapstick comedy, intense melodrama, and romantic chemistry all in one role makes this casting especially exciting.
A Powerful Male Lead: Cha Se Gye
Opposite Lim Ji Yeon’s character stands Cha Se Gye, a modern chaebol heir known for his ruthless nature and strategic mind. He is logical, pragmatic, and emotionally distant. However, his world is turned upside down when he crosses paths with the possessed Shin Seo Ri.
Their relationship, fraught with tension and conflicting ideologies, promises to be a key highlight of the drama. As Shin Seo Ri attempts to navigate the 21st century—and infiltrate a chaebol’s world using 18th-century sensibilities—comedic and romantic fireworks are expected.
Casting for Cha Se Gye has yet to be confirmed, but industry watchers are hoping for a high-profile name to match Lim Ji Yeon’s star power.
Directed by a Proven Talent: Han Tae Seop
The creative force behind “Brave New World” is none other than Han Tae Seop, the director who co-directed the award-winning drama Stove League and led Cheer Up. With a reputation for balancing high-stakes drama with humanistic storytelling and compelling character arcs, Han Tae Seop is expected to bring a unique vision to this fantasy rom-com.
His work has consistently resonated with both critics and viewers, known for strong pacing, tight plots, and emotional payoff. With Brave New World, he aims to blend supernatural storytelling with grounded emotion.
Lim Ji Yeon: A Career Defined by Versatility
Lim Ji Yeon made her film debut in 2011 with Dear Catastrophe and quickly caught the attention of critics with her fearless performances. She rose to prominence with her lead role in the 2014 erotic thriller Obsessed, where her performance was lauded for its emotional intensity and vulnerability.
Her subsequent roles in High Society, Blow Breeze, Welcome 2 Life, and especially The Glory—where she played a villainous character—cemented her place as one of Korea’s most multifaceted actresses. She effortlessly shifts between genres: thriller, melodrama, historical, and now, romantic comedy.
In 2023, she also appeared in The Tale of Lady Ok, a historical drama where she portrayed a noblewoman caught in palace politics. Her success in period pieces makes her an ideal choice for Shin Seo Ri.
Recently, Lim Ji Yeon has been charming audiences in a completely different format—the reality-variety world—with her appearances in Fresh off the Sea 2, showcasing her down-to-earth charm and wit.
Why “Brave New World” Is Generating So Much Buzz
Several factors contribute to the early hype surrounding Brave New World:
- Genre Fusion: Combining fantasy possession, time-travel logic, historical storytelling, and modern romance isn’t new, but it hasn’t been done like this before.
- Strong Female Lead: Shin Seo Ri isn’t a damsel in distress. She’s a commanding, intelligent, and cunning woman who brings Joseon fire to modern Korea.
- Romantic Tension: A traditional, old-world woman meets a modern capitalist? The romantic and ideological tension is ripe for humor and heartbreak.
- Star Power: Lim Ji Yeon has proven her mettle across film and television. Her involvement alone elevates expectations.
- Director Han Tae Seop: His ability to deliver stories that balance drama and hope ensures this won’t be just a fluffy rom-com.
Expectations for Lim Ji Yeon’s Performance
This role offers Lim Ji Yeon a playground to fully stretch her acting muscles. She will need to:
- Embody the poised arrogance and layered pain of a Joseon-era femme fatale.
- Portray a confused, struggling modern-day actress.
- Master slapstick timing for comedy scenes and intensity for the dramatic moments.
- Build strong chemistry with her yet-to-be-cast male counterpart.
Fans and critics alike are excited to see how she brings all of this to life. This drama could very well become another career-defining performance.
What to Expect from the Premiere
Filming is expected to begin in the second half of 2025, with a tentative premiere date set for early 2026. The series will likely be part of SBS’s weekend drama lineup, positioning it for prime-time success.
Viewers can expect a well-produced, tightly scripted drama with high production values and detailed costuming—especially during Joseon flashbacks.
It’s likely to be released globally on major streaming platforms, possibly via Viki, Netflix, or Disney+, depending on SBS’s distribution deal at the time.
Final Thoughts: Will This Be the Next Big K-Drama Hit?
Korean dramas have long thrived on time-travel concepts, body-swapping tales, and opposites-attract romances. However, Brave New World appears poised to stand out by offering a high-concept plot with emotional depth, satirical social commentary, and a rich character arc for its female lead.
Lim Ji Yeon, known for fully immersing herself into her roles, could very well deliver one of her most entertaining and complex performances to date. With strong direction, a unique storyline, and a fresh mix of comedy, romance, and fantasy, Brave New World could easily become one of the most talked-about dramas of the upcoming year.
Stay tuned for casting confirmations, teasers, and behind-the-scenes looks as production kicks off!
In the meantime, watch Lim Ji Yeon in “Lies Hidden in My Garden”:
