Will Netflix's Highly Anticipated Series 'My Name is Ahn Eun-soo' Captivate Global Audiences?
On March 5, 2025, the Conrad Seoul Hotel hosted the production presentation for Netflix's original series '폭싹 속았수다' (My Name is Ahn Eun-soo), featuring stars IU (아이유) and Park Bo-gum (박보검). The event was attended by director Kim Won-seok (김원석) and cast members including Moon So-ri (문소리) and Park Hae-joon (박해준).
Set in the 1960s in Jeju, 'My Name is Ahn Eun-soo' follows the adventurous life of the rebellious Ahn Eun-soo, played by IU, and the earnest Kwan-sik, portrayed by Park Bo-gum. The series is penned by writer Im Sang-chun (임상춘), known for her heartfelt storytelling in works like 'When the Camellia Blooms' and 'Fight for My Way', while director Kim Won-seok, recognized for his impactful narratives in 'My Mister' and 'Signal', brings his unique vision to the project. The production has reportedly invested around 600 billion KRW, promising a stellar performance from its ensemble cast.
In the series, IU portrays Ahn Eun-soo from her teenage years into her twenties, with Moon So-ri taking over the role as an adult. Interestingly, IU also plays the daughter of Moon So-ri's character, showcasing her versatility. Park Bo-gum plays the younger Kwan-sik, while Park Hae-joon takes on the role of the middle-aged version.
The title '폭싹 속았수다' translates to 'Thank you for your hard work' in Jeju dialect. Director Kim explained that the series serves as a tribute to the grandparents' and parents' generations while also encouraging the younger generation. He expressed hope that the show could help break down the invisible barriers that exist between different generations and genders today.
Despite speculation that the series might address the Jeju 4.3 Incident, director Kim clarified that the story begins in 1960, after the events of the incident, although the characters carry its emotional weight.
Reflecting on her involvement, IU shared that this is her second collaboration with director Kim, following 'My Mister'. She expressed her eagerness to join the project as soon as she received the script, feeling an immediate connection to the story.
Park Bo-gum mentioned that he filmed the series after completing his military service and was drawn to the project due to the director's meticulous approach. He believes the beautiful depiction of the seasons in the characters' lives will resonate with viewers.
Moon So-ri, a fan of both the director and writer, was thrilled to receive the script, recalling how emotional she felt while reading it. She initially had concerns about IU playing her character's younger version but ultimately embraced the collaboration.
The cast shared their experiences of working together, with IU and Moon So-ri discussing how they connected through subtle details like a beauty mark, which became a signal for their character connection.
As the series approaches its release on March 7, 2025, the cast and director expressed their hopes for viewers to engage deeply with the story, which they describe as a warm narrative about life’s bittersweet moments. The series will consist of 16 episodes, releasing four episodes weekly on Fridays for four weeks.
Fans can look forward to a heartfelt journey that promises to resonate across generations.