Han So-hee and Jeon Jong-seo Team Up for Neo-Noir Drama ‘Project Y’
‘Project Y’ unfolds in Gangnam, Seoul, where two close friends concoct an outrageous money heist. The series is scheduled for production later this year
Han So-hee (left) for 'My Name,' and Jeon Jong-seo (right) for 'Ballerina.' Photos: Courtesy of Netflix
It’s double trouble this time—but a seriously sultry and suspenseful serving as Han So-hee and Jeon Jong-seo—deep-dive into the recesses of darkness. Project Y (working title) is their upcoming neo-noir drama, with the two leads as two friends pursuing a risky plan.
There’s something so winning about Korean noir, thanks to its high-end production, smart storytelling, and stellar performances. Even with their gritty rawness, these sleazy, carnal alleyways are too alluring to ignore. In such a story as Project Y, Han and Jeon are akin to twin flames lighting up the screen, intensifying the intrigue.
In Gangnam, Seoul, two close friends concoct an outrageous scheme to pilfer eight billion won (about USD six million) worth of gold bars before fleeing discreetly from the spot—essentially the crux that drives Project Y. As the press reports, the series is scheduled for production later this year under the artistic supervision of director Lee Hwan.
Money heist narratives pique interest, but I am more interested when two female actors are in command of the action. A depth of intricacy and mystery might as well be brought to the plot in the interplay between the two strong women, making for an exciting and absorbing viewing experience.
The casting decision is unique for Project Y and affords an occasion to look at aspects of female empowerment, teamwork, and the nuances of interpersonal interactions. With each of the two women’s distinguishing traits and temperaments, their personal stories will be a draw. The contrast and occasional parallels in their characters, I’m sure, will weave an elaborate web of emotions and tensions to drive the plot forward.
Han So-hee is a star thespian. Whether playing a lone wolf, a home wrecker, a failing high school student, a conquering hero, the girl next door, or pretty much anyone else, she consistently turns up top marks on the screen. Han, who first gained prominence for Money Flower (2017), 100 Days My Prince (2018), and Abyss (2019), moved into starring roles in The World of the Married (2020), Nevertheless (2021), My Name (2021), and Gyeongseong Creature (2023–2024), with works crossing over into comedy, drama, romance, thrillers, and more. Even so, the way she appeals as an action heroine remains her biggest win.
Likewise, Jeon Jong-seo’s characters on-screen and their respective circumstances are tangible and profoundly felt, revealing solid work by a seasoned actor. Burning (2018), a psychological thriller film led by the revered filmmaker Lee Chang-dong was her initial prestigious release.
The Call (2020), her next, gave her the Baeksang Arts Award for Best Actress—Film. From then on, the 29-year-old has been building up honors. She amassed renown with hit titles such as Mona Lisa and the Blood Moon (2021), Money Heist: Korea—Joint Economic Area (2022), Ballerina (2023), and Wedding Impossible (2024), among other stories.
Her portrayal in Ballerina merits special recognition: she morphed into an avarice that wrecked all in her wake, stopping at practically nothing to exact her vicious revenge for justice.
I’m thrilled about the two actors’ epic collaboration on this gripping drama littered with conflicting morals, desperation, and dangers. I anticipate seeing them break boundaries through their ethically dubious and flawed actions and also seeing the way each of them develops and navigates the challenging circumstances that encompass them in this neo-noir piece.
