Netflix Drama 'Aema' Depicts 1980s South Korea Erotic Film Industry Struggles

Netflix’s new K-drama "Aema" fictionalizes the making of the 1982 South Korean erotic film "Madame Aema," centering on two actresses: the veteran star Jeong Hee-ran, who rejects nudity roles, and the ambitious newcomer Shin Joo-ae, willing to take risks to rise in the industry. Set against the backdrop of 1980s Chungmuro during Chun Doo-hwan’s military dictatorship, the series explores the misogyny and power struggles within the male-dominated film industry, highlighting the actresses’ evolving relationship from rivalry to solidarity. The show balances satire and drama, portraying the entertainment industry’s glamour alongside its sexism and hypocrisy, with a sharp critique of the systemic oppression women faced. The producer Gu Jung-ho embodies the ruthless, sexist studio system, while the anxious rookie director Kwak In-woo adds complexity to the filmmaking process. Director Lee Hae Young uses the story as a symbol for women confronting prejudice and injustice, delivering a narrative relevant to contemporary audiences. Overall, "Aema" offers an immersive, entertaining, and socially conscious look at a pivotal moment in Korean cinema history.