ENA’s Monday-Tuesday drama Climax has captivated viewers from the moment it aired, thanks to its unconventional plot and intense direction.
The first episode aired on March 6th quickly drew in audiences with its bold exploration of desire, set against a massive power structure that intertwines politics, business, and the entertainment industry.
Prosecutor Bang Tae Seop (played by Ju Ji Hoon), who comes from a factory worker background, is driven by his ambition for power after his father’s death. He rises to prominence by marrying top actress Chu Sang Ah (Ha Ji Won). But their relationship is anything but loving, it’s driven more by their individual ambitions and strategic moves.
As the power game unfolds, new players enter the picture: Kwon Jong Wook (Oh Jung Se), a second-generation chaebol; Lee Yang Mi (Cha Joo Young), a formidable business figure; and the mysterious informant Hwang Jung Won (Nana). The tension builds up when Bang Tae Seop uncovers a secret connecting the political and business worlds, placing him at the heart of the game and leaving viewers eagerly anticipating what comes next.
One of the most talked-about moments from the first episode was the daring kiss between Chu Sang Ah and Bang Tae Seop. Set in a bathroom, the passionate kiss sparked an immediate reaction online, with comments like, “I couldn’t look away,” “That was an adult kiss,” and “Is this really for 15+?”—showing just how intense the moment was.
Cha Joo Young also delivered a standout performance. Having made a strong impression in The Glory and The Queen Who Crowns, she once again wowed viewers with her transformation into Lee Yang Mi, a powerful businesswoman. Her portrayal was so convincing that viewers felt she had completely shed her previous on-screen image.
The direction of Climax also garnered praise, particularly for its cinematic style. Directed by Lee Ji Won, who earned acclaim for the film Miss Baek, the drama stood out for its high-quality visuals and attention to detail. Many viewers were quick to comment on the stunning production, with reactions like, “ENA’s visual quality is insane!”
At the production presentation, Director Lee Ji Won expressed confidence in the drama’s success, saying, “With the talent of the cast, I believe this will be the highest-rated show in ENA’s history.” When Ju Ji Hoon jokingly mentioned the success of Extraordinary Attorney Woo, the director smiled and replied, “Did Extraordinary Attorney Woo go over 20%? We can do the same.”
He also emphasized that “the work itself is more important than the ratings,” adding, “This project is made with passion and sincerity alongside the actors. We’ve given everything we’ve got, and I’m confident it will be enjoyable.”
With its gripping plot, complex characters, and cinematic direction, all eyes are on whether Climax can rise to the level of a box-office hit, even surpassing Extraordinary Attorney Woo.
The Climax airs every Monday and Tuesday at 10 PM on ENA and is also available for streaming on Genie TV and Disney Plus.
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