Actors Ju Ji-hoon, Ha Ji-won, Nana, and Oh Jung-se are set to lead the intense series, which explores what happens when powerful figures collide in a ruthless battle for control.

Ambition, betrayal, and dangerous alliances take center stage in the upcoming political noir drama “Climax”. The drama dives into the hidden structures of influence where alliances are formed and broken, and survival often requires betrayal. According to the production team, the story reflects elements inspired by real-world scandals involving politics, business, and the entertainment industry, adding a sense of realism to the narrative.
Ju Ji-hoon takes on the role of Bang Tae-seop, a prosecutor determined to climb to the top of Korea’s power structure. With no influential family or connections, the character has struggled within the system but his ambition eventually pushes him toward the world of politics.
The character has earned the nickname “The Doberman of the Seoul Central District Prosecutors’ Office,” reflecting his relentless determination once he sets his sights on a goal. Ju Ji-hoon described the character as someone driven by a deep desire to be recognized.
“Tae-seop is someone who struggles because he wants to be acknowledged,” the actor said.
“It reflects the pressure and ambition that many people experience in society.”

Ha Ji-won portrays Chu Sang-a, a top actress whose glamorous career is shaken after she becomes connected to a mysterious murder case. Her life changes dramatically when she enters a marriage with Tae-seop, forcing her to navigate both personal and political turmoil. The drama marks Ha Ji-won’s return to television after about four years, and she described the role as a new acting challenge.
“I was drawn to the complexity of the character,” she said.
“She carries both the brilliance of her past success and the anxiety of her present situation.”

Nana plays Hwang Jung-won, an intelligence informant who carries out Tae-seop’s secret orders and becomes a key figure in the unfolding events. Meanwhile, Oh Jung-se portrays Kwon Jong-wook, the heir to the powerful WR Group who faces a battle over his inheritance.
Both characters add additional layers to the drama’s web of alliances and rivalries.

Director Lee Ji-won shared that the production team paid special attention to the story’s narrative arc.
“Since the title is ‘Climax,’ we worked very carefully on the buildup and conclusion,” the director said.
“The ending will be particularly powerful.”
‘Climax’ premieres March 16 at 7 p.m. on ENA.