BLACKPINK’s Jisoo rumoured to be in talks for drama series ‘Influenza’ by ‘Parasite’ screenwriter Han Ji Won

Soompi, by virtue of YTN, reported overnight that BLACKPINK’s Jisoo is set to headline an upcoming Coupang Play series titled "Influenza" (literal title). In response to the rumours, Jisoo's agency, YG Entertainment, has responded that "She has been presented with an opportunity to be part of 'Influenza' and is currently in the process of reviewing the offer."

The series is to be set within the confines of a high-rise air defence unit situated in Seoul and revolves around the journey of soldier Jae Yoon and his girlfriend Young Joo. The latter, who has just been informed about their breakup, embarks on a daunting quest to reunite with Jae Yoon as both navigate through a horde of zombies.

Reportedly, Park Jung-min will assume the role of Jae Yoon, who joins the military at the age of 26 after attempting to secure an alternative service through employment in the defence industry. Struggling with anxiety about the future, his obsession with his girlfriend eventually leads to their breakup. His journey unfolds against a backdrop of a world dominated by zombies, during which he transforms from an initially unsure individual to a strong leader guiding his squad in their battle against the undead.

Jisoo's character, Young Joo, finds herself in the early stages of her career while awaiting her boyfriend's return from military service. The communication breakdown between her and Jae Yoon results in their breakup. As she embarks on a mission to reunite with her partner, she finds herself facing a world overrun by zombies. Through the trials of survival, she evolves into a resilient figure, gradually discovering her inner strength.

The drama brings together a strong South Korean creative team, including scriptwriter Han Jin-won, renowned for her work on "Parasite," director Yoon Sung Hyun, known for "Bleak Night" and "Time to Hunt," and writer Ji Ho Jin.

Who is Jisoo’s rumoured co-star, Park Jung-min?

Park Jung-min, born on April 3, 1987, in Seoul, South Korea, rose to prominence as a member of the popular boy band SS501. The group, which debuted under DSP Media in 2005, quickly gained traction and garnered a substantial fan following not only in their home country but also internationally.

As a member of SS501, Park Jung-min showcased his talents as a singer, dancer, and entertainer. The group released several albums and singles that showcased their vocal prowess and charismatic performances. Their music often combined various genres, including pop and R&B, and their energetic stage presence helped them become a prominent presence in the K-pop scene.

However, Park Jung-min's talents extended beyond just music; he transitioned into acting, expanding his creative horizons and captivating audiences with his performances on screen. His acting debut came with the Taiwanese drama "Fondant Garden" in 2012, where he showcased his ability to portray complex emotions and build chemistry with co-stars. He further demonstrated his acting skills by taking on diverse roles in various television dramas and musical productions.

One of his notable acting ventures was in the drama "The Greatest Marriage" (2014), where he displayed his versatility by portraying a multifaceted character. In 2019, he participated in the drama "Never Twice," earning praise for his role as a hotelier in a series known for its engaging storyline and ensemble cast.

What is Coupang Play?

Coupang Play is a South Korean streaming platform that offers a variety of content, including movies, TV shows, and original series. It is operated by Coupang, which is one of South Korea's largest e-commerce and online retail companies. Coupang Play provides users with access to a wide range of entertainment options, allowing them to stream content on-demand through their internet-connected devices.

Similar to other streaming services, Coupang Play offers subscribers the convenience of watching their favourite shows and movies at their own pace and on their own schedule. The platform features a diverse selection of content, catering to different genres, preferences, and age groups. This includes popular South Korean dramas, films, variety shows, and international content.

Coupang Play also produces original series and content exclusive to its platform. These original productions aim to provide unique and engaging entertainment experiences for their subscribers, often featuring well-known South Korean actors and celebrities. One of the best examples of a show that originated on Coupang Play is “Squid Game” which was then picked up by Netflix and became a cultural phenomenon in 2021.