“Jeongnyeon: The Star Is Born” is set in the 1950s, just after the Korean War, a time of poverty but also of romance. The story revolves around Jeongnyeon, a “born genius of sound”, as she competes and bonds with others on her journey to become the best gukgeuk (traditional Korean opera) actress, portraying a radiant coming-of-age story.
Based on the Naver webtoon of the same name, “Jeongnyeon: The Star Is Born” features a fresh concept centered on women’s gukgeuk, a form of traditional Korean opera popular in the 1950s where all roles are played by women. The drama has been highly anticipated since its production was first announced, as it follows the protagonist’s journey to overcome her limitations and rise to stardom in the gukgeuk troupe.
The drama also brings together a talented team, including director Jung Ji-in, who won the 34th Korea PD Awards’ “PD of the Year Award” for “The Red Sleeve”, and a cast led by Kim Tae-ri (as Yoon Jeongnyeon), Shin Ye-eun (as Heo Yeong-seo), Ra Mi-ran (as Kang So-bok), Jung Eun-chae (as Moon Ok-kyung), Kim Yoon-hye (as Seo Hye-rang), with special appearances by Moon So-ri (as Seo Yong-rye) and Lee Deok-hwa (as Gong Sun-bu), drawing significant public attention.
The first still cuts of Kim Tae-ri as the title character “Yoon Jeongnyeon” have heightened anticipation. In the drama, Kim Tae-ri portrays Yoon Jeongnyeon, a sound prodigy who moves to Seoul from Mokpo with a dream of becoming a gukgeuk actress. Yoon Jeongnyeon possesses a natural vocal talent, rich volume, a wide vocal range capable of hitting both high and low notes, and an expressive ability to convey deep emotions. She is a strong-willed character with a resilient spirit, a sociable nature, and a knack for making friends with anyone.
In a still cut, Kim Tae-ri is seen selling fish in a coastal village in Mokpo, exuding a simple and humble charm with her traditional hanbok top and short, cropped hair, perfectly embodying the role. Her transformation is evident, as she looks like the leader of the neighborhood.
Another still cut shows Kim Tae-ri captivated by a gukgeuk performance, her eyes shimmering with awe as if she has been completely swept away by the spectacle before her. In another scene, she is seen practicing dance under the blue sky, displaying an aura of potential, even in her awkward practice movements.
Seo Ireh and Namon, the original creators of “Jeongnyeon: The Star Is Born”, expressed their deep trust in Kim Tae-ri’s portrayal of “Yoon Jeongnyeon”. The two authors shared their excitement, “We couldn’t believe it when we heard Kim Tae-ri was cast. It still feels unreal.”
Director Jung Ji-in added, “Yoon Jeongnyeon, as portrayed by Kim Tae-ri, may deviate slightly from traditional gukgeuk, but she brings a charm of a different dimension. Her acting was incredible—she felt like an artist from beyond the horizon.”
“Jeongnyeon: The Star Is Born” is set to premiere on Saturday, October 12th at 9:20 PM.
Source: Daum
