A legendary drama that achieved a peak viewership rating of 36.3% and even had a special episode produced is set to return via Netflix, causing quite a stir across the Korean Peninsula.
According to TV Report’s reporter Heo Jang-won, this drama, which received commendations from the Financial Supervisory Service due to its significant impact, will be available on Netflix. Despite its high ratings and production of a special episode, ironically, the lead actor, known for his outstanding acting, was subsequently banned from appearing on broadcasts. This drama, “War of Money,” aired on SBS in 2007.
Netflix Korea has been working on restoring and enhancing the quality of “War of Money” since May, aiming for a release date of the 25th. The drama, based on a comic of the same name, aired as a Wednesday and Thursday drama, totaling 20 episodes including the special. It depicts a man’s journey of revenge on the world using the money that ruined his life.
“War of Money” quickly gained explosive popularity, breaking a 20% viewership rating by its second episode. It concluded with a viewership rating of 36.3% (according to TNS Media Korea), earning applause.
The main character, Geum Na-ra, portrayed by Park Shin-yang, was originally a successful fund manager with a degree in economics from Seoul National University. However, his family’s downfall due to loan sharks left him an orphan. His father, who ran a sock factory, resorted to using high-interest loans for liquidity, ultimately leading to their ruin. Fueled by a desire for revenge against money and the world, Na-ra transforms into a cold-hearted loan shark, with legendary loan shark Dokgo Chul as his mentor.
The drama’s portrayal of the grim reality of loan sharks, uncommon in dramas at the time, delivered a shocking narrative that brought awareness to audiences. Its impact extended to news and current affairs programs, leading to heightened public interest in the dark side of loan sharks and financial crimes.
This influence contributed to legislative changes, as concerns about loan sharking and its associated problems prompted the government to consider legal measures, culminating in amendments to loan-related regulations. “War of Money” was recognized for its social impact with an award from the Financial Supervisory Service.
Despite its success, the drama’s lead actor, Park Shin-yang, faced an indefinite ban from television appearances after a controversial pay dispute. The intense shooting conditions and conflict over the show’s extension led to turmoil for the cast, especially when Park opposed continuing the show under unfavorable conditions. The conflict escalated to a legal dispute over promised versus actual pay, which Park won.
The drama’s legacy as a highly-rated piece that addressed unique themes continues, as it returns in high-definition on Netflix.