"Spectacular in plot, but tender at heart!" said Lee Junho as tvN's upcoming weekend drama Typhoon Trading (written by Jang Hyun, directed by Lee Na-jung) held its production presentation on October 1 in Seoul.

A Human Office Drama Set in 1997 IMF

The series spotlights ordinary office workers during Korea's 1997 financial crisis, a period when countless people lost jobs but clung to hope by rallying together. Typhoon Trading tells the survival stories of young employees navigating hardship with determination and optimism.

Lee Junho plays Kang Taepoong, a carefree "orange tribe" youth who inherits his father's trading company. When the firm falls on the brink of bankruptcy during the IMF turmoil, he must fight to keep it alive while growing into a true leader. "The script felt warm, hopeful, and even bittersweet," Lee shared. He added that founding his own agency recently deepened his immersion in the role, drawing parallels to Kang's struggles.

Kim Min-ha as a Steadfast Partner

Kim Min-ha takes on the role of Oh Mi-sun, the ace accountant of Typhoon Trading. Sharp and meticulous, she becomes Kang's pillar through the storm. She revealed, "The script's warmth moved me to tears. Every character shines in their own way." To capture the 1997 setting, she researched old terminology and sought guidance from family members who lived through that era.

Chemistry and Realism

Both actors teased their playful yet heartfelt dynamic. "Our characters are emotionally honest, and that transparency feels so youthful and refreshing," Kim noted. Lee added, "Just by looking at Min-ha, a cheerful energy flowed, making ad-libbing fun and natural."

Director Lee Na-jung emphasized the drama's historical accuracy. Production consulted former office workers and borrowed authentic props from museums to recreate late-90s office life on screen.

Following a Hit, Building Their Own

As the successor to the popular Chef of the Tyrant, expectations are high. But instead of pressure, the cast expressed confidence. Lee Junho even received encouragement from Im Yoon-a, his former co-star in King the Land. "She wished me luck, and I'm hopeful that good energy will translate into ratings," he said with a smile.

Promising a heartfelt journey, Kim Min-ha concluded, "This winter, we'll deliver warmth and comfort to viewers." Lee echoed, "It's a drama you won't regret watching."

Typhoon Trading premieres October 11 on tvN.