Netflix is set to release The Scandal, an eight-episode series adapting the 18th-century French novel Les Liaisons Dangereuses, relocating the story to Korea’s late Joseon dynasty. The series serves as a modern reinterpretation distinct from the 2003 South Korean film Untold Scandal, which also adapted the same novel to a Joseon setting and became one of South Korea’s highest-grossing films rated 19+.
The new adaptation features a prominent cast including Son Ye-jin, Ji Chang-wook, and Lim Jin-a (known as Nana), under the direction of Jung Ji-woo, who has previously directed acclaimed films such as Happy End (1999) and Eungyo (2012). Jung emphasized that his version is not a remake of the 2003 film but a fresh adaptation rooted directly in the original novel. He explained that the characters and their relationships were completely rewritten to explore new narrative directions and provide greater depth not possible within the film’s two-hour format.
The extended episodic structure allows the series to delve into previously unexplored character dynamics and themes. Jung highlighted that the late Joseon era’s societal sophistication makes it a compelling backdrop to examine human desire—a central theme typically suppressed in that conservative period. “The late Joseon period was a much more sophisticated and refined society than we had imagined,” Jung said. “It was fascinating to explore a story about desire, which is part of human nature, against the backdrop of Joseon, a period when such desires were strictly forbidden.”
Lead actress Son Ye-jin noted that the series gives Lady Cho, a key figure, a more nuanced emotional portrayal as opposed to the simpler, more calculated antagonist seen in the film adaptation. This approach aims to create a multilayered narrative that adds complexity to the character’s motivations and relationships.
In terms of cultural presentation, the production incorporates traditional Korean elements both visually and sonically. Jung integrated pansori—a classical Korean musical storytelling style—into the series, structuring the narrative around this traditional art form to emphasize its beauty and cultural significance for international audiences.
The series’ visual design highlights bespoke hanbok costumes developed in collaboration with designer Tchai Kim, drawing inspiration from minhwa, traditional Korean folk paintings. This approach sought to create distinct and authentic palettes for each character, enhancing the period’s aesthetic while showcasing Korean heritage on a global platform.
The Scandal becomes available on Netflix, inviting viewers to experience a historical period drama that blends Joseon societal mores with the provocative themes of the original French novel.