A long-stalled drama project is finally facing its moment of truth.
KBS’s proposed historical series, tentatively titled Plum Blossom, Moon and starring Lee Sun Bin and Kim Myung Soo, has reached a critical crossroads ahead of a network programming review. If the show secures a time slot, production will ramp up quickly. However, if the network delays or rejects the project, the long-delayed series could be shelved indefinitely.
MHN Sports reported on July 22nd that KBS is preparing to hold a scheduling review for Plum Blossom, Moon as early as July 23th. Industry insiders view this meeting as a decisive turning point for the show. Multiple broadcasting officials noted that a green light would rapidly accelerate pre-production, while a rejection would likely cause the project to lose all momentum.
Originally chosen as a winning script in a KBS miniseries screenplay contest, Plum Blossom, Moon is a fictional historical drama set during the Joseon Dynasty. It initially generated buzz after casting Lee Sun Bin and Kim Myung Soo in lead roles. However, the project has undergone numerous revisions since its inception and has languished in developmen for years.
Industry reports indicate the show struggled to build momentum after being transferred to its current production company, ASCENDIO, roughly four years ago. Rising production costs made network executives increasingly hesitant to commit, leaving the series adrift in a rapidly shifting media landscape.
Caution remains high within KBS. Network insiders reveal that the upcoming review will strictly evaluate the show’s market competitiveness, broadcast strategy and overall production stability alongside its creative merits. Some decision-makers have even expressed concerns regarding the lead actors’ star power and ability to carry a prime-time miniseries.
One official noted, “KBS has become much more cautious when deciding its drama lineup. For major projects, the network is closely reviewing actors’ star power and scheduling availability. The overall mood is not very optimistic.”
Another insider added, “Plum Blossom, Moon has been stuck without a clear direction for years. Some believe that if it fails to secure a broadcast slot this time, it may be hard for the project to move forward.”
External issues have also added to the uncertainty. ASCENDIO recently came under scrutiny after being raided by special prosecutors investigating alleged stock manipulation involving Sambu Construction Co., Ltd. Investigators are reviewing financial records and shareholder information linked to ASCENDIO and other related companies.
While there is no direct link between the prosecutor’s investigation and the network’s scheduling review, television executives increasingly view a production company’s financial health as a vital factor when committing to new projects. The controversy was even brought up during a National Assembly committee hearing, where Democratic Party lawmaker Choi Min Hee questioned the vetting process for external producers like ASCENDIO. At the time, KBS President Park Jang Beom responded that he had not been briefed on the matter.
A broadcasting official remarked, “In the past, the focus was on artistic merit and casting, but recently, the production company’s business stability and production capabilities are also considered. Even minor risks are hard to ignore, with investments becoming harder to secure.”
With the review underway, the television industry is watching closely to see whether KBS will finally greenlight the long-delayed drama or leave it stranded in development.
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