One of Korea’s most iconic actresses, Lee Young-ae, is officially returning to television after 26 years. Her upcoming KBS2 weekend drama Walking on Thin Ice is slated to premiere on September 20, 2025, and has already generated major buzz as the most anticipated K-drama of the season.
Set against the backdrop of a mysterious crime, Walking on Thin Ice tells the story of Kang Eun-soo (Lee Young-ae), a devoted mother whose world unravels after she discovers a suspicious bag filled with drugs. Her life takes a dangerous turn when she forms an unlikely partnership with her daughter’s art teacher, Lee Kyung (played by Kim Young-kwang), a man with a secret identity.
Directed by Song Hyun-wook (The Beauty Inside, Another Miss Oh) and written by Jeon Young-shin, the drama promises intricate storytelling and intense performances.
This marks Lee Young-ae’s first KBS appearance since 1999’s Invitation. Her return as Kang Eun-soo showcases a woman pushed to her limits, balancing maternal love with survival instincts. Meanwhile, Kim Young-kwang portrays Lee Kyung, a charismatic teacher hiding a duplicitous life. His dual persona adds suspense and moral complexity to the story.
The teaser released on August 5 heightened anticipation. In just 30 seconds, it showcased Eun-soo’s psychological breakdown, life-or-death chases, and the chilling line, “Nothing happened,” delivered with haunting calm. The production team praised the chemistry between Lee Young-ae and Kim Young-kwang, promising viewers “unprecedented tension” and “a layered emotional experience.”
The cast also features Park Yong-woo, Bae Soo-bin, Jo Yeon-hee, and Hwang Jae-yeol, all of whom bring depth to this intense ensemble drama. As the countdown begins, Walking on Thin Ice is set to challenge and captivate audiences when it premieres on KBS2 at 9:20 PM KST, September 20.
Sources: daum