Set in the 1980s, the series portrays fearless women standing up to a brutal era

Netflix is set to drop a fierce and fearless new original series titled Aema, and lead actress Honey Lee is stepping into her boldest role yet.

A Star Who Won't Be Silenced

In Aema, Honey Lee plays Jung Hee-ran, a top actress navigating the cutthroat Korean film industry of the 1980s. She finds herself at odds with a system that demands obedience, compliance, and exposure—literally. Alongside her is rising rookie actress Shin Joo-ae (played by Bang Hyo-rin), who also refuses to bow to the industry's harsh demands.

Together, the two women challenge outdated norms, rejecting the degrading expectations placed on female stars. As the poster tagline says, "In a time obsessed with stripping them down, they turn the tables—with fire."

A Dark Glimpse Into the Industry's Past

The trailer for Aema paints a grim yet riveting picture. Jung Hee-ran refuses to appear in the highly sexualized film Madam Aema, resisting blatant pressure to strip for the camera. In retaliation, film executive Koo Joong-ho (Jin Seon-kyu) demotes her and casts Shin Joo-ae as the lead instead.

Despite being pitted against each other, both women maintain their dignity and defiance. Shin Joo-ae follows directorial orders but begins questioning the intent. Meanwhile, Jung Hee-ran refuses to compromise her values, even as the industry sidelines her.

Rebellion, Resistance, and Revolution

The show escalates as both actresses confront the dark underbelly of the film world. There are explosive scenes—literally. In one, glass shatters violently; in another, Jung Hee-ran throws a punch straight at Joong-ho. Her chilling line, "Let's go to hell, Joong-ho," hints at the series' emotional intensity and unpredictable twists.

Based on Real Shifts in Korean Cinema

Aema is set during a pivotal moment in Korean history—right after the 36-year-long curfew was lifted in 1982. It reimagines the release of the real-life erotic film Madam Aema, Korea's first midnight screening title, as the backdrop for a story about two women who dare to resist a corrupt system.

Aema premieres August 22 on Netflix, promising a sharp, rebellious narrative with strong feminist undertones.