Park Min-young is set to take on a leading role in a new drama titled Siren (working title), according to recent reports by JTBC on March 18. An insider in the entertainment scene has revealed that, while this project is among several offers being considered by the actress, her agency has confirmed no final decisions have been made yet. Siren draws inspiration from Greek mythology and is based on the Japanese show Ice World, which originally aired on Fuji TV.
This intriguing drama centers around an insurance investigator in Los Angeles, who gets embroiled in a complex case following the mysterious death of a female teacher. It is anticipated that the storyline will be tailored to appeal to Korean audiences.
Overview of Ice World
Ice World unfolds the mystery surrounding a woman named Toko, whose life is irrevocably altered after the suspicious demise of her colleague, Sonoe, a teacher. Initially ruled as an accident, investigations led by Eiki, an insurance investigator, alongside Takeshi, an ambitious detective, reveal disturbing links between Sonoe’s death and the fatalities of Toko’s three former fiancés.
As they delve deeper into the investigation, their determination to uncover the truth intensifies, adding layers of suspense to the narrative.
The Japanese version of the show featured actor Takenouchi Yutaka in the role of Horikawa Eiki, gaining fame through appearances in popular series such as Hoshi no Kinka and Long Vacation. He marked his film debut in 2001 with Calmi Cuori Appassionati.
Matsushima Nanako portrayed Egi Toko and gained international recognition for her performance in Ring. Her acclaimed roles in A Story of Love and Great Teacher Onizuka significantly contributed to her rising stardom.
The original Ice World series was directed by Mitsuno Michio and Tajima Daisuke, with a gripping script written by Nozawa Hisashi, combining elements of suspense and psychological drama that kept viewers captivated throughout its airing.
Park Min-young’s Upcoming Projects
In addition to Siren, Park Min-young will also lead in the Korean adaptation of the Japanese series Confidence Man. The original Confidence Man JP is a comedic tale about a trio of con artists who devise elaborate schemes to swindle corrupt corporations and mafia bosses.
Its immense success led to numerous film adaptations and special broadcasts on Fuji TV, highlighting its popularity.
The Korean version, titled Confidence Man KR, is set to be directed by Nam Ki-hoon, with contributions from Kr and Cmix Zhen Hu Rao, renowned for their expertise in film and television production. The project is being organized under the auspices of High Ground.
Park Min-young’s recent drama Marry My Husband premiered on January 1, 2024, and features her as Kang Ji-won, a woman determined to take control of her fate in life. This series achieved remarkable success, garnering a record-high rating of 12% (Nielsen Korea), making it the highest-rated Monday-Tuesday drama in the history of tvN. Additionally, it maintained the top position in the TV-OTT integrated category for seven consecutive weeks, according to Good Data Corporation.
Its global reach was evident, as the show topped Amazon Prime Video’s global top 10 list for 23 weeks in 61 countries, achieving the number one spot in Thailand and the Philippines.
Park Min-young’s series of fan meetings in Tokyo, Osaka, Bangkok, Manila, and Taipei have also seen resounding success, underlining her popularity with fans across the region.
As she wraps up filming for Confidence Man KR, Park Min-young has recently parted ways with Hook Entertainment following the conclusion of her exclusive contract after three years. The casting for Siren is still in discussion, with no official announcements made regarding the full cast yet.