Han Suk-kyu is currently in positive discussions to take on the lead role in the upcoming drama CEO Shin Project, according to Sports Donga's report on 16 January. This comedic series follows the story of "CEO Shin," a man who mediates disputes for individuals facing seemingly impossible odds with slim chances of success.
CEO Shin Project will reunite Han Suk-kyu with director Shin Kyeong-soo, who previously collaborated with the actor on SBS dramas Deep-Rooted Tree and Secret Door. The upcoming series is written by Ban Gi-ri, known for OCN's Dr. Frost and tvN's Missing: The Other Side, and will be produced by Dooframe. Meanwhile, the broadcast platform and premiere date are yet to be announced.
Han Suk-kyu reportedly to play a mysterious business owner in CEO Shin Project
Han Suk-kyu is set to portray CEO Shin, a character who operates a small-town fried chicken restaurant while harboring a mysterious secret. The drama will center on CEO Shin’s attempts to avoid getting involved in local conflicts, only to end up solving various incidents around him.
The role is expected to showcase Han Suk-kyu’s blend of humor and charisma, as his character faces off against villains using sharp wit and physical confrontations. The dynamic between him and the quirky neighbors, along with the fried chicken shop's 'intern,' is anticipated to add an engaging layer to the story.
This marks Han Suk-kyu’s return to television following his Grand Prize win last November for his performance in MBC's Doubt, heightening audience expectations.
About Han Suk-kyu's other recent projects
Han Suk-kyu made a remarkable comeback last year with Doubt, after five years since his Watcher (2019). This performance earned him the prestigious Daesang (Grand Prize) at the 2024 MBC Drama Awards. Rising to prominence in the 1990s, the actor has consistently delivered impressive performances throughout his career.
He is widely recognized for his roles in dramas such as The Moon of Seoul, Dr. Romantic, Pilot, and more. Additionally, he has appeared in renowned Korean films like Green Fish, White Night, The Royal Tailor, Double Agent, and several others.
MBC's Friday-Saturday drama, Doubt, was planned by Namgoong Seong-woo, directed by Song Yeon-hwa, written by Han Ah-young, and produced by Ascendio and Woodside. It premiered on October 11, 2024, at 9:50 pm KST.
Described as a "father-daughter thriller," the drama follows Jang Tae-soo, the nation’s top profiler, as he uncovers the shocking truth about his daughter’s involvement in a murder case he is investigating. This revelation upends his world, as he delves into its depths, torn between trust and suspicion. The project had previously earned high praise during the 2021 MBC Drama Script Contest.
As a single father, Jang struggles to navigate the fine line between trusting his daughter and doubting her involvement in the case. The character, who conveys both tension and confusion, leaves viewers intrigued about the drama’s full narrative.
The final episode of the drama was extended to 90 minutes and aired on November 15 at 9:40 pm KST, 10 minutes earlier than its usual time slot.
Meanwhile, the release date for CEO Shin Project has not been announced yet.