Ju Ji Hoon on Climax, Legacy Roles, and Anticipation for Remarried Empress
Actor Ju Ji Hoon has spoken candidly about his current projects and future plans as anticipation builds for the upcoming drama Remarried Empress. Meeting with reporters on April 7 at ENA headquarters in Sangam, Seoul, he reflected on his role in Climax and addressed questions about whether he might symbolically “pass the throne” to fellow actor Byeon Woo Seok, who stars in the soon‑to‑air 21st Century Grand Prince Consort. Ju Ji Hoon humorously remarked that he cannot hand over the crown just yet, as he still has Remarried Empress ahead of him.
Climax, ENA’s Monday–Tuesday drama, depicts the fierce survival struggle of prosecutor Bang Tae Seop, played by Ju Ji Hoon, who enters a cartel of power to reach the top of Korean society. Produced by Hive Media Corp, known for acclaimed works such as Inside Men, The Man Standing Next, Deliver Us from Evil, Spring in Seoul, Harbin, and Made in Korea, the series drew attention for its ambitious scope. Ju Ji Hoon’s character quickly rises to fame after marrying Korea’s top actress, becoming a star prosecutor overnight.
While Climax received positive reviews, some viewers expressed disappointment at the limited romantic storyline between Ju Ji Hoon and co‑star Ha Ji Won. Addressing this, Ju Ji Hoon explained that he carefully considers his role’s purpose before joining any project. He emphasized that he fully understood and accepted the way his character was utilized, and if he had concerns about its direction, he would not have participated. He added that he appreciates viewers’ desire to see more chemistry between him and Ha Ji Won, acknowledging their support with gratitude.
Reflecting on his career, Ju Ji Hoon expressed satisfaction with the diversity of his recent roles. Last year, he showcased his comedic side in Love on a Single Wooden Bridge, a romantic comedy, and then shifted to a darker, more intense portrayal in Climax. He described himself as fortunate to have had such varied opportunities, highlighting the balance between lighthearted and serious performances.
Ju Ji Hoon first rose to stardom in 2006 with MBC’s Princess Hours, which cemented his status as a top actor. Now, with 21st Century Grand Prince Consort set to premiere on April 10, starring Byun Woo Seok as Grand Prince Ian, Ju Ji Hoon was asked if he would symbolically pass the throne. He reiterated that with Remarried Empress still ahead, he cannot do so yet.
He praised director Park Jun Hwa, who previously worked with him on Love on a Single Wooden Bridge, noting his skill in managing sets and his cheerful personality. Ju Ji Hoon revealed that Park had invited him for a cameo in 21st Century Grand Prince Consort, but he declined due to scheduling conflicts with Remarried Empress.
Speaking about Remarried Empress, Ju Ji Hoon expressed excitement for the adaptation of the mega‑hit webtoon, which has already achieved massive popularity online. He hopes the drama will be equally well received, encouraging fans to support the series when it airs. His comments underline both his respect for his colleagues and his commitment to his upcoming project, which is expected to be one of the most talked‑about dramas of the year.
Read: Shin Min‑ah Shines as Empress Navier in Disney+’s The Remarried Empress!
