‘IRIS’ which airs on Wednesday and Thursday night on KBS 2TV at 9:55 p.m. has gained much popularity over recent weeks. An audience rating jumped 30 percent in the first three weeks. The plot of this drama center around the tense relations between North and South Korea. Two groups have got entangled in a secret organization called IRIS. A talented agent of South Korea, played by Lee Byung-Hun, becomes a hostage in a greater game for power. He falls in love with his superior, played by Kim Tae-Hee. He comes to a crisis for survival. His colleagues who love Kim Tae-Hee point the muzzle towards him.

1. Reasons for gaining popularity
The production cost of IRIS is about 20 billion won. It was shot on location; the Czech Republic, Hungary, China, and Japan. The spectacle included the scene of bombing, a running fight, a gunfight, and a bed scene. And the director cast popular actor and actress as the main characters. Especially, a noticeable actor is Lee Byung-Hun. He made a comeback to the television in six years. He is recognized as the best in his field. He played in a Hollywood movie, ‘G. I. Joe’. In addition, Kim Tae-Hee, Jung Joon-Ho, Kim Seung-Woo, and Kim So-Yeon who represent Korea’s film scene participate in filming.

2. Romantic scene between Lee Byung-Hun and Kim Tae-Hee
Their bed scene has attracted wide attention. The scene was not passed after deliberation. But it was disclosed on internet and was fast climbing up the popular search words list. In addition, a scene of kiss which is called ‘candy kiss’ has become popular among the public. The blossoming romance between Lee and Kim promises to add some spice to the series.

3. Difficult situations of IRIS
KBS(Korean Broadcasting System) and film company failed in the conclusion of a contract until the new broadcast on October 14th. There were different views on the terms of a contract. They barely reached an agreement. And there is a legal battle between the original author and film company. The film company was sued for copyright infringement.
Some people criticize this legal battle is a ‘noise marketing’.

Ahn Seong-Bin  ahnbin1205@changwon.ac.kr

<저작권자 © The Campus Journal, 무단 전재 및 재배포 금지>