Climax (TV series)

Climax is an upcoming South Korean political survival noir television series directed by Lee Ji-won, who also co-wrote it with Shin Ye-seul, and starring Ju Ji-hoon, Ha Ji-won, Nana, Oh Jung-se, and Cha Joo-young. The series depicts prosecutor Bang Tae-seop, who rises to the top of South Korea's power cartel, and the people surrounding him. It is scheduled to premiere on ENA in March 2026, and will air every Monday and Tuesday. It will also be subsequently streaming on Genie TV.

Synopsis

Climax unfolds against the backdrop of South Korea's powerful conglomerates and entertainment industry, following a couple driven by boundless ambition who'll stop at nothing – including betraying each other – to reach the pinnacle of success.

Cast and characters

Ju Ji-hoon as Bang Tae-seop
Ha Ji-won as Chu Sang-ah
Nana as Hwang Jeong-won
Oh Jung-se as Kwon Jong-wook
Cha Joo-young as Lee Yang-mi

Production

Development

Lee Ji-won, who previously helmed and wrote the film Miss Baek, is directing the series, and also co-wrote the script with Shin Ye-seul. The production is handled by and SLL.

Casting

In December 2023, Ju Ji-hoon reportedly received an offer as the male lead and decided to appear. In November 2024, Ha Ji-won, Nana, Oh Jung-se, and Cha Joo-young were reportedly considering. In November 2025, the casting of Ju, Ha, Nana, Oh, and Cha as the leads was officially confirmed.

Filming

The filming of the Climax was initially scheduled to begin in the second half of 2024, but it was then moved to the first half of 2025. Principal photography began on March 15, 2025, near Gyeonggi Province.