Netflix's 'Variety': Jo Yu-ri and Son Ye-jin Star in K-Pop Drama

Netflix continues to expand its investment in Korean content by announcing a new series titled 'Variety,' which will feature prominent actors Son Ye-jin, known for her role in 'Crash Landing on You,' and Jo Yu-ri, who gained international fame as player 222 in the global hit 'Squid Game.' The series is set in the vibrant and competitive world of K-Pop, aiming to explore the intricate dynamics between idols, executives, and fans.

The casting of Son Ye-jin alongside Jo Yu-ri represents a strategic move by Netflix to leverage their combined star power. According to Ted Sarandos, Co-CEO of Netflix, “Our commitment to Korean stories is evident, and we are excited to partner with such talented actors to delve into the cultural phenomena of K-Pop.” This partnership reflects the growing global interest in Korean entertainment, which has gained significant traction following the success of series like 'Squid Game' and 'Kingdom.'

The series will be helmed by Kim Yong-hoon, director of 'Mask Girl,' which recently topped Netflix's Global Top 10 Non-English TV rankings. Kim's unique directorial style, characterized by tension-building narratives, is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the K-Pop industry’s portrayal. In a statement, Kim expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “K-Pop is not just music; it’s a complex interplay of ambition, art, and fan culture. I aim to showcase these elements authentically.”

In 'Variety,' Son Ye-jin portrays Se-eun, a high-powered entertainment executive tasked with revitalizing a faltering idol group, illuminating the high stakes involved in the K-Pop industry. Meanwhile, Jo Yu-ri plays Seung-hui, a devoted fan whose obsessive admiration for idols allows her to reflect on the fan-idol relationship from a deeply personal perspective. Jo Yu-ri’s dual experience as a former K-Pop idol and an emerging actress positions her uniquely to navigate the complexities of this narrative.

This project not only reunites Netflix with key production partners CJ ENM Studios and UNU but also underscores the streaming giant's ongoing ambition to dominate the Korean content market. The success of previous titles has demonstrated that investing in local stories can resonate globally, leading to significant viewer engagement and subscription growth.

For Son Ye-jin, 'Variety' marks another pivotal collaboration with Netflix as she seeks to diversify her roles post-‘Crash Landing on You.’ She is also involved in other Netflix projects, including Park Chan-wook’s 'No Other Choice,' indicating her rising status in the industry.

As the K-Pop phenomenon continues to thrive, 'Variety' aims to provide an insightful look at the industry's inner workings, potentially attracting an audience eager for authenticity in its portrayal of celebrity culture. The series is poised for release in 2026, further solidifying Netflix's foothold in the evolving landscape of global entertainment.