(Advertising) Agency (2023)

Women on the ball. Delighting, enraging, inspiring, concerning. Excellent script. High-end KDrama.

"Agency" has it all. Viewership has skyrocketed, as have ratings. "Agency" is the hit. Cool freshness, fashion, speed, one or the other rivalry as well as all categories of human manners, even the lowest, underline the handpicked lifestyle ambience. This all guarantees a lot of fun, seriously...

The topic hits the South Korean nerve of the time. The nerve of women in particular, I should add. What may appear to Western eyes as an entertaining office drama with catfights has a completely different explosiveness in the eyes of Asian, especially South Korean viewers: The deeply hidden, rousing topic of the time, which affects everyone, is ´population decline´. The critical nerve bubbling on the surface revolves around ´sexism´ and ´misogyny´. The incumbent President Yoon proclaimed that these topics could be shut into history books, but "Agency" gives him the lie, right on. The KDrama clearly demonstrates how up-to-date it is. More than one South Korean woman in this story, no matter what position – down to the generation of the mothers of those mothers in the series - will find themselves here. And more than one man as well...

It is pleasing to see how razor-sharp and competent the female protagonist proves herself in this man's world. Also pleasantly refreshing side effect here and there: alternative model approaches for female vs. male management styles. And then there is the extravagantly privileged and insolent Jaebeol of the youngest generation who eventually is inspired to break free from her heavy chains of family-clan expectations. Besides their punching power, both lead ladies are palpable, too. Watching the series is a pleasure, even if the topics touched on may also arouse rather different feelings as well... A colorful bouquet of thematically critical, plot-relevant threads is dramaturgically subtly intertwined. In addition to the two female leads, there are also diverting (women´s lib) moving stories about Go Ah-in's employees and colleagues.

Stellar, good-humoured actors. Excellent script. A wonderfully balanced mixture of fun and seriousness, of pace and depth. The coherent details were undeterred on a differentiated, complex overall picture of the current business world. High-end KDrama-'pleasure' – delighting, enraging, inspiring and concerning. And while we are at it, "Agency" is innocently, smilingly, prettily and yet cleverly and valiantly placing a feminism-sting, too.



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SIDE NOTE: --- Misogyny and population decline in South Korean society ---

Without women it won´t do. But South Korean President Yoon has now officially messed with them. There was an enormous wave of protests when he announced that he wanted to abolish the ministry, which had been set up around 20 years ago to support women against sexual assaults and for equal rights, arguing the issue was no longer an issue. Immediately, around 800 organizations formed and stood up. President Yoon, who is promoted and sponsored by a strong conservative, patriarchal current, has blown a hornet's nest. His world – that of macho men – is obviously different from that of contemporary South Korean women.

It is a given fact, that misogyny in South Korea characterizes everyday life throughout all classes. Neither an entrenched, male-dominated business world from the bottom up to the boardrooms, nor professional disadvantage and discrimination of women in the workplace, belong to history yet. In the contrary, recently it has even been fuelled by the election of the current President Yoon. Fortunately, there are opposing movements and criticism. The KDrama "Agency" uses a socially critical magnifying glass here. Nevertheless, there is still a long way to go, although a drastic reflection is desperately needed, in order to be redirect economic development towards a positive light.

The current demographic trend is closely linked to the economic and social situation, which is shaped by antiquated patriarchal beliefs. Those old (apparently always happy to be taken off the socio-cultural shelf, dusted off, polished to a high gloss and then put back again) convictions stand in stark contradiction to the high pace of the high-tech modernity of everyday life in South Korea. This tense paradox is already having a negative impact (not just on women's attitudes towards life, but also) on the country´s economy. The official statistics on population development from August 2022 show declining numbers for the first time. Actually, the country's birth rate is the lowest in the world. There is no trend reversal in sight. The population will continue to shrink. And that is already and will even more so affect the economy. The proportion of women in the working population (at 55.1 percent) could certainly be increased. Although South Korean women are very well educated on average, only a little more than half of them actually bring their skills into business life. Among men, on the other hand, 73.7 percent are employed. This is due not least to the misogynist attitude in all areas. The difference in pay between women and men is estimated at 31.1 percent. Nowhere else in the 38 OECD countries is it THAT bad. Added to this is the disadvantage on the career path. Work-life balance is in its infancy, because the motto is: woman to the stove. Executive suites are for men only. Women are rarely seen here. And if so, then often only for ornament or to fill the image of an empty marketing shell (similar to "Agency").

It's high time that the many misogynists among South Korean men (including their president) arrived in the present. In the long run, a trend reversal can only succeed jointly – at eye level.

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It may have some minor subplot issues, but is still an utterly underrated Kdrama

Go Ah-in (Lee Bu-young) is a no nonsense woman whose only purpose is to do her job as a creative director in an advertising agency in the most perfect and flawless possible. At first glance, she was able to finally achieve her ultimate career goal when she was promoted as the first woman to be an executive director (Chief Creative Officer/CCO) at her company. However, Choi Chang-soo (Jo Sung-ha), Go Ah-in's superior had another plan in mind.

At first glance, 대행사 (Agency) is an office drama comparable to Misaeng, but given with a company director's POV instead of an employee's. Both are great in their respective stories, and just love them both.

But for this show specifically, I love that it has a fast-paced flow and deals with the intricate office politics and complex world of the creative industry well, especially for people without creative industry background like me. Each episode increases tension between the main characters, and their rivalry really makes the plot interesting. One may think that this "rivalry" may be tiring for the remaining episodes, but with the addition of new stories and characters along the way, the story just keeps more interesting as more layers are being uncovered.

It's also great to know their respective characteristics and alliances on each factions in the office politics drawn early on. It may be seen as boring as we already know which side a side character is, but it didn't bothered me as much.

Jo Eun-jung (Jeon Hye-jin) is the most "fleshed out" character other than Go Ah-in in terms of her background story. It's quite remarkable to see how she is able to balance out her duties in the office, despite her son's disapproval for his mother to work and resign instead. Also, it's great to show that despite her dilemma, she is fully backed with support by her husband and mother-in-law. With this stigma against working mothers in a conservative yet competitive Korean society, it's quite good, if not refreshing, to know how this show addresses this issue. But then again, I didn't like that the MIL and the father wasn't that helpful to Eun-jung in convincing the son for her to work.

Personally, I knew what the outcomes would be, but would is still gagged with how each outcome are shown. It's like knowing that there would be a plot twist, but doesn't know what that plot twist would be. This is true most particularly with the presentation cliffhanger at episode 8.

The only production lapse that I noticed was during a throwback scene on the second ep where the creative office used modern-type computer monitors when it was set in 2004.

After the 1st half, this show now focused to complex corporate drama and chaebol problems care of Kang Han-na (Son Na-eun). She has an eccentric character and seems reckless on the outside, but is actually smart, if not cunning on the inside.

One complaint is that it would have been better pacing-wise had Han-na be developed into someone who can stand on her own despite facing failures, rejection, despair and loneliness. The romance subplot was just too transactional and there were virtually no chemistry between her and Park 부장. But if the writers really decided to insert this storyline, it would have made more sense had it was inserted towards the end (at least the last 2 episodes). I would have no complaints even if it was rushed since then again, I can't see the chemistry of said romance.

Being nit-picky as well, there were some things that this show failed to explained more. First, is Ah-in and her mother's story. After the episode 12 confrontation, I really hoped that there is more to be discussed and more emotions be shown to really have a a fulfilling closure on their issue. It ended even only through a text, which was appalling since it was built-up very well on the earlier episodes. Second, Ah-in and the budding romance with the CEO of a gaming company. The spark was already there and Ah-in could've enjoyed said romance, but it was just forgotten midway. What happened?

The ending was satisfying in a way that it wrapped the main stories very well, in a compelling but not overdramatic fashion. Yes, it was expected, but then again it was executed perfectly in such that it was not boring. The last episode was very engaging in terms of portraying the cooperation of Ah-in and Han-na for their "common enemies". It was the definition of women empowerment in a society where men are still dominant in many corporate aspects.

Still, every episode ended with a bang. I think the reason why it has a lower MDL rating is due to its delayed subbing. It's very surprising how this is not picked up yet by major international streaming platforms given its high ratings in Korea. It may have minor subplot issues, but is still an utterly underrated Kdrama.

SIDE NOTE:
It will be an unforgettable watching experience for the last 2 episodes. At times, I was reading English subtitles, and at others, it was Indonesian. I was really able to maximize my Korean and Indonesian skills just to get the gist of what they were saying. Still, it is a very rewatchable Kdrama and I enjoyed watching it despite some minor subplot issues.

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Perfect in every regard

Outstanding series in every regard. I was afraid that it would be « makjang style, with dirty plotting, but it is incredibly smart with an unexpected progression of the storylines, fascinating characters and arcs, endearing, subtle, psychological depth, very interesting takes on the work environment. Of course, some will say it is in some regards specific to Korean culture. No, it is just that Korean culture and system is much more transparent in how the world is actually run, without the hypocrisy of the westerners. Elite is the same everywhere, with the same glass ceilings everywhere,… it has been a long time since I have watched such a qualitative program., never boring one single sminute from the beginning to the end, with an awesome cast.

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LOVE LOVE LOVED THIS SHOW!!!!!

If only all shows were as good as this i would die happy;just a joy to watch, acting from everyone was flawless, each character was written perfectly, loved all the little plots and sub plots that went on and ohhhh, the romance between the granddaughter and her driver was just a delight.For me the sign of a good drama is how quickly the time flies in each episode and with this show each episode seemed to be over in minutes.
All in all just a well written, well produced, well acted ( well dressed too!) thoroughly enjoyable drama, im now going to research the writer, director and producer and have a look at what else they’ve been involved in.
Enjoy!

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It's an excellent drama with a balance mix of fun, seriousness, pace and depth.

Go Ah In (Lee Bo Young) is an ambitious woman whose only purpose is to do her job as a creative director in an advertising agency in the most perfect and flawless possible. She gets promoted as the executive director (Chief Creative Officer/CCO) at her company, which is her ultimate career goal. However, her superior, Choi Chang Soo (Jo Sung Ha), has another plan in mind. Furthermore, behind her obvious workaholic nature, she is also struggling with family and mental health issues.

I had a blast watching Agency. The story went all in on showing how a mental health problem can influences work performance negatively, and how challenging it is for someone with a position, like Go Ah In, to survive in a cut-throat work environment, where employees are exploited merely for profit. Despite handling the topic on mental health, it wasn't depressing at all. It is cool, fresh, fashionable and fast-paced. Each episode increases tension between the leads and the rivalry makes the plot interesting. The plot didn't go extreme, there's no makjang elements, but it's still engaging especially the last four episodes. The characters have strong personalities, showed good humour and teamwork. No romance as the main plot but there are great romantic tension between the second leads.

Agency cleverly delivered a feminism-sting through their female leads. I like how competent Go Ah In and her way in managing her team. Then, there is Kang Han Na as the privileged young woman who wanted to break free from her chaebol family expectations. I also enjoyed Jo Eun Jung, she is a working mom who is dedicated to do her job, despite her son's disapproval for her to work and resign instead. Her story showed the stigma against working mothers in a conservative yet competitive Korean society refreshingly.

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Reviews suggest the subtext challenged by this drama is misogyny in SK. There are 5 reviews with an average of 9.5, though the score left on mdl is only 8.1. Personally I wonder that also reflects a misogyny about the subject: impossible to tell because those leaving lower scores have done nothing to explain/justify the reasons for that.
Having watched this at a fairly sprightly manner which kinda speaks for itself, I'm now giving a moment to my thoughts on it. Frankly I'm trying to be objective (translator's note-to work out if there ws anything wrong with it and try not to gush).
Of course it wasn't perfect. Absolutely certain it wasn't a realistic depiction of office politics or the work of an advertising agency for example, but that was actually fine. Sometimes I want realism, sometimes the story is strong enough to be less realistic. I suppose that at times it was toooo sentimental for me, but those moments were pretty fleeting.
On the whole this was an enjoyable drama with interesting stories and many engaging characters. Also (grrrr) some smarmy smug, and over-the-top infuriating baddies too.
Sometimes funny, sometimes very moving, sometimes a little too tense, but very well written, directed, and of course acted. Some of our stalwart character actors in evidence too, and even though they were small parts, they were just lovely to see.
Scores on the doors – 9.5/10 I'd say...

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This drama is written well, but the problem with this well written story is, that's nothing new. In my opinion it is good enough to watch it once, but not for a second time. If you like character developement or drama then this drama could be for you. It even has a romance line, but for the second leads. (It is a nice romance between the second leads though)

The only reason why I even gave this drama a rating of 7.5 is because of that one romance. Otherwise I would've given maybe a 7.0 or a 6.5? (No, probably a 7.0)

So again, if you like character developement, drama and romance then give it a shot, but don't expect the world!

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Cast Shines in This Boardroom Drama

I will watch any series/film Lee Bo Young is in. She’s one of my top 10 favorite actors as is her great husband, Ji Sung. And the entire cast in this one is also outstanding along with most of the writing and directing.

Though I usually don’t care for boardroom politics and business shenanigan plots—which sometimes bog down this story also—it is generally a very enjoyable, satisfying series. Particularly fine are the delightful engagements of characters and, except for the occasional unfortunate screeching, the strong, confident women in mutually supportive and leadership roles are a delight.

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Great show with a few blemishes

This show had me seething at times, basically throughout the first two episodes i was so angry because of the stuff that happened. It could have been a 9 or 9.5 if i didnt have issues with the way the show ended, this might be a personal thing rather than actual issue, though i do think it was out of place and unnecessary, but lets wait with complaints about that till the end.

Overall i think the shows plot and storytelling was great with a few minor issues here and there, it focuses mostly on company politics of the main leads and tangentially on lives of some of the office workers and executives. All of it felt pretty well written, i liked the struggle of the new copywriter employee of liking her demanding job while trying to have family life and convince her kid to let her work. All the characters were pretty well written, the heiress was pretty fun and felt quite refreshing compared to some other shows. She was portrayed as a bit arogant cause of her money, acting a bit naive and childish at times but still pretty smart and driven when she actually wanted something. Son Na Eun was adorable in the role, she was the reason i started the show too, so it was nice that her character turned out as someone i can enjoy watching.
Lee Bo Young was great as the main lead Go Ah in. Her character was portrayed as quite strong and driven, considered a b*tch thats greedy and after money, by many of her colleagues. The portrayal of her struggles and unstable mind felt pretty realistic and her slowly getting close with her colleagues felt nice.
Portrayal of the other characters and the hierarchy of seniors and their juniors captured quite well. at least from i know, the korean work culture and hierarchy/respect structure.

Anyways like i said it could have been a 9 or higher, but i didnt really like the ending. More concrete spoilers ahead
First the main leads rival in the company got fired, which felt quite satisfying for a bit, but then they had a moment with other employees sending him off with respect after all the backstabbing he has done, which i didnt enjoy, but eh i can get over that. Then the main lead was appointed CEO and they had a bit of a cheesy first day welcome for her with like a freeze frame style ending with everyone smiling and being a bit smug. Ok, not my cup of tea, but it was nice enough. Should have ended there But no straight after that there was a year later epilogue of the main lead having her own agency and everyone from her original team left with her and they all own a few percent of it, cause why not. It felt so out of place, if i ever rewatch the show, i am stopping it before the eppilogue starts. Not only did it feel out of place to put it there they also added a scene of everyone cheesily listing their percenteges and then she looks straight into the camera to tell us something.

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Women against sly old foxes misogynist

"Agency" can be interpreted as a drama of a ‘women team’ against a ‘men team’ to gain power in an advertising agency. First of all, I thought that misogyny only happens in Kdrama. I have watched a few dramas that degraded women in general (like the character of Yoon Tae Goon in Through the Darkness when she was looked down upon by her senior only because she is a woman). But maybe misogyny really happens in Korean society.

The drama begins with a promising plot featuring Go Ah-in (portrayed by Lee Bo-Young), who is a strong female protagonist. She is struggling against a few misogynists in the company who tried to deny her power and authority. There exists a thinly concealed prejudice against women despite their competency.

Go Ah-in’s character is inspiring, despite the conflicts she had been dealing with the unfair management, she remained strong against those men who keep tugging her down. Although behind a strong façade, there lies fragile anxiety that keeps hunting her, forcing her to rely on medication to calm her down. Her loneliness is understandable, growing up alone and broken, she has built her own defense mechanism along the way.

Until Chairman’s daughter joined the company. Kang Ha-na (portrayed by Son Na-eun) is the Grand chairman’s granddaughter little brat. Although she looked like she could walk on everyone’s nerves the moment she entered the company, she was smart nevertheless.

To survive in the company, Go Ah-in knows she needs to be tactical, so she can lead her team further and she has to choose a team to survive, it's either Kang Ha-na or Kang Han-soo. Apparently, Kang Ha-na had a beef with her brother, Kang Han-soo, who is the current Vice President.

Go Ah-in and Kang Ha-na are definitely an awkward pair, to begin with, but they have chemistry since they have mutual goals. Strong women competed against those sly old foxes in the company, you know it was never easy.

This drama is quite addictive even though the ending is quite predictable, a tad bit cliché I must say but it’s heartwarming to those who enjoy independence.


Review's Video: https://youtu.be/Ly6bX8YvdhU

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Nice and crisp, girl power without toxicity.

Menu= Synopsis/Concept ~(8)
Ingredients/Recipes= Script Writer ~(10)
Chef= Director ~(10)
Flavors/Taste= Actors/Performances ~(10)
Restaurant/Decor= Wardrobe Production-Value ~(10)
Waiter/Service= Editing/Pacing/Cinematography ~(10)

Starter/1st Act ~(10)
Main Course /2nd Act ~(8)
Dessert/3rd Act ~(9)

Lee Bo Young delivers and shows why Korean actress should just be given all roles in all dramas worldwide, I’m purposely being hyperbolic.

The secondary romance plot was an unexpected and welcome surprise.

The 16 episodes go by pretty quickly.
Nice show but no rewatch.

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