Kim Da-mi is stepping into a nostalgic romance set in the 1980s, portraying the heartfelt emotions of first love with a fresh yet retro touch.

At the press conference for JTBC's upcoming weekend drama A Hundred Memories, held on September 11 in Seoul, director Kim Sang-ho and cast members Kim Da-mi, Shin Ye-eun, and Heo Nam-jun introduced the project.

A Retro Youth Melodrama

A Hundred Memories tells the story of two bus conductors—Yeong-rye (Kim Da-mi) and Jong-hee (Shin Ye-eun)—navigating friendship, dreams, and their intertwined affection for Jae-pil (Heo Nam-jun), the son of a department store owner. Set against the backdrop of 1980s Korea, the series captures both the innocence and intensity of youth.

Kim Da-mi plays Ko Yeong-rye, a model employee on Bus No. 100 for Cheonga Transport. Despite suffering from motion sickness, she works tirelessly to support her education, even chasing down passengers who skip fares. At night, she studies at an evening high school, where she meets Jae-pil and experiences a love that feels absolute. "Her first love is larger than life—an overwhelming emotion of the era," Kim shared.

Cast Transformations

Shin Ye-eun portrays Seo Jong-hee, Yeong-rye's spirited best friend who dreams of escaping her difficult home life. She embraced 1980s fashion—bell-bottoms, denim jackets, and long straight hair—to highlight Jong-hee's individuality. "This role is a chance to show a distinctive image that stands apart from the other conductors," she explained.

Heo Nam-jun plays Han Jae-pil, the wealthy yet troubled heir. "He may look like a prince on a white horse, but he also has flaws. I wanted to show his tough exterior masking a vulnerable heart," Heo said.

Authentic Details and Emotional Storytelling

Director Kim Sang-ho emphasized the meticulous attention to detail: "We secured an actual bus from the era to recreate both the interior and exterior. Beyond the setting, the story focuses on universal emotions that transcend time."

The drama traces the characters' growth from their youthful 20s to a more mature stage of life. Viewers can also expect nostalgic props and sentimental scenery that bring the 1980s vividly back to life.

Kim Da-mi added, "Every character feels alive, and I hope viewers will fall for each of their charms. This drama will warm hearts and stir emotions as we head into the year's end."

A Hundred Memories premieres on September 13 at 10:40 p.m. on JTBC.