Inside Men Drama Undergoes Major Overhaul, Ju Ji Hoon Targeted for Lead Role

The adaptation of the box office Korean film Inside Men (2015) is currently in the midst of a storm of significant changes that are shaking its production process. After being announced as one of the most ambitious drama projects of the year, featuring a star-studded cast and award-winning director, this project is instead facing a series of lead actor changes, the director stepping down, and adjustments to the shooting schedule that hinder the progress of production.

Since the first news was announced, this drama has immediately captured public attention due to its adaptation of the legendary political-thriller film by Woo Min Ho, which was commercially and critically successful thanks to the outstanding performances of Lee Byung Hun and Cho Seung Woo. The film revealed the dark side of power, political corruption, and manipulative media networks, with a sharp and intriguing approach.

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1. Project Background and Initial Expectations

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The 2015 film Inside Men is known as one of the most successful R-rated films in South Korea. Now, the drama version is expected to "expand the world" of the film by exploring political conflicts and corruption in the 1980s-1990s era.

Previously, senior actor Song Kang Ho has been announced as the main character, playing Lee Kang Hee, originally portrayed by Baek Yoon Shik in the film. Additionally, various big names such as Lee Moo Saeng, Soo Ae, Shin Seung Ho, and Kim Ji Yeon (Yeri) are reported to be in talks to join as supporting cast or female lead roles.

2. Song Kang Ho's Withdrawal and Schedule Shift

In July 2025, shocking news emerged that Song Kang Ho decided to withdraw from the project. His main reason was a scheduling conflict after production experienced delays and script revisions. The production initially planned to take the script for two seasons, but it changed to one season with 12 episodes at once, which extended the actor's involvement time. This decision opened a vacancy for the role of Lee Kang Hee and triggered the search for a suitable replacement actor.

3. Koo Kyo Hwan's Rejection and Ju Ji Hoon's Offer

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Previously, Koo Kyo Hwan was reported to be in talks to play Ahn Sang Goo, the main antagonist role that was played by Lee Byung Hun in the film version. However, in the latest reports, Koo Kyo Hwan declined the offer. Instead, Ju Ji Hoon's name emerged, who has been offered the role of Ahn Sang Goo. His agency stated that the actor is currently considering the offer.

4. The Entry of Lee Sung Min and Negotiation for the Lead Role

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With the departure of Song Kang Ho, the production team is reported to have offered the role of Lee Kang Hee to Lee Sung Min. Initially, Lee Sung Min was linked to another role (Jang Pil Woo) before this change. However, he is now reviewing the offer to be the lead actor. A source from Hive Media Corp mentioned that besides Lee Sung Min, the production team is also still looking for a new director after the initial director stepped down.

5. Behind-the-Scenes Changes: Director and Production

Director Mo Wan Il, who was previously scheduled to lead this project, is reported to have stepped down from the directorial position. Until now, the production team is still looking for a suitable replacement to lead this project.
Hive Media Corp, as the production house, stated that changes in the cast and creative team are steps to maintain the quality of the adaptation.

The adaptation drama Inside Men is currently at a critical point: several major actors have withdrawn or declined roles, the main director has exited, and the production schedule has been revised again. Nevertheless, the emergence of names like Lee Sung Min and Ju Ji Hoon as potential replacements brings new hope that this project can still proceed with high quality. Will this series be able to get back on the production track with a solid team? Stay tuned for official confirmation about the permanent cast, new director, and shooting dates to be announced next, Klovers!

(kpl/saf)