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New TV series spotlights journalists' fight for truth
Cast members of tvN's new series "Argon" pose for a photo before a news conference in Seoul on Wednesday.. (Yonhap) |
Korea has no shortage of TV series and movies delving into the dynamic and suspenseful world of journalism. But the theme can still be piquant and relevant, especially in this post-truth era swamped by fake news and conspiracy theories, according to Lee Yun-jung, producer of new cable TV series "Argon."
The 8-episode series set to start next week on cable channel tvN depicts journalists' struggle to maintain the core values of fact-based reporting and their emotional struggles and the peer pressure they experience in the process.
In a new conference in Seoul on Thursday, Lee said she wanted to capture the inner workings of newsmaking and the human stories of those working in the industry.
"I could feel great passion from them," having met many reporters in real life while preparing for the drama, she told reporters.
"They daily challenge themselves while trying to overcome their limits. I can say the drama is sort of a coming-of-age story for adults," she added.
The 8-episode series revolves around the investigative reporting team "Argon" that resists anything that gets in the way of reporting the truth. The team has taken the name from the chemical element Argon, totally inert to other substances and resistant to bonding with other elements.
Actor Kim Joo-hyuck plays the charismatic news anchor Kim Baek-jin who leads team Argon. He never compromises his faith in fact-based news reporting.
"The character suits me well in that I always try to listen to the two sides of a story. I seldom jump to a conclusion by listening to one side," the actor said, adding that it appealed to him that the story touches upon human emotions.
For actress Chun Woo-hee of the movies "The Wailing" and "Han Gong-ju," it is her first small-screen appearance. In the drama, she acts as Lee Yeon-hwa, a hardworking junior reporter on contract who joins the team to grow into a trustworthy journalist.
"I am very nervous and excited at the same time, which, actually, is the way I feel every time I start a new project. I like the sensation," Chun said.
While playing the reporter, she learned many new things about the profession.
"Delivering a story isn't all. There seems to be many different factors playing into news reporting, such as conflicts with seniors, editors and interference from those in power and with money."
The producer stressed that the drama focused primarily on people behind newsmaking. And the other cast members agreed.
"After attending so many news conferences, it is my first time to carefully observe how you work. Looking at all of you typing furiously feels strange. It feels as if I am watching my teammates working hard," he said, to the burst of laughter from the reporters.
"Thank you for your hard work," he added.
The Mon-Tue drama will premier at 10:50 on Sept. 4. (Yonhap)