In the forthcoming JTBC weekend drama A Virtuous Business, the four Bangpan Sisters—portrayed by Kim So Yeon, Kim Sung Ryung, Kim Sun Young, and Lee Se Hee—are set to make a bold statement.
The newly released main poster features the sisters with the provocative slogan, “You, straighten up your desires,” signaling their mission to tackle long-standing societal taboos.
Premiering in October, A Virtuous Business delves into the lives of these four women who embark on a door-to-door sales venture for adult products in a rural village during 1992, a time when discussing sex was heavily frowned upon. The drama focuses on themes of independence, personal growth, and friendship, as the Bangpan Sisters challenge the deeply ingrained norms of their conservative community.
The four lead characters each bring their own unique perspective and struggles to the narrative. Kim So Yeon plays Han Jung-sook, the determined leader of the Bangpan Sisters. Her character faces personal challenges with her unfaithful husband, who frequently finds himself entangled with the law and lacks financial stability. Kim Sung Ryung portrays Oh Geum-hee, the elegant and intellectual member of the group, who feels stifled by her traditional husband, despite having led a refined life. Kim Sun Young takes on the role of Seo Young-bok, a passionate and vibrant individual who juggles the demands of raising four children and a husband who constantly showers her with affection. Lastly, Lee Se Hee plays Lee Joo-ri, a single mother who grapples with societal judgment and skepticism about her role and appearance.
The main poster, unveiled recently, vividly illustrates the sisters’ transformation as they set out to sell adult products, challenging the restrictive norms of their village. They are depicted in glamorous, eye-catching outfits, symbolizing their defiance against the conventional expectations of the time. This visual representation underscores their mission to confront and reshape the hidden desires of their conservative community.
The drama highlights how individuals often conceal their true desires and experiences, from avoiding adult humor to hiding personal truths, especially in a conservative environment like 1992. The Bangpan Sisters aim to bring to light the notion that women not only have the right to explore and enjoy their own sexual desires but also deserve to be open about them. By doing so, they confront the hypocrisy and restrictive attitudes of their society, offering a new perspective on sexual wellness and empowerment.
The production team behind A Virtuous Business expressed that while they may not have anticipated the groundbreaking nature of their show, the Bangpan Sisters’ endeavor to challenge societal taboos represents a hopeful narrative of self-discovery and empowerment. Their door-to-door sales venture becomes a vehicle for exploring and rectifying forbidden desires, presenting a bold challenge to the status quo. The cast’s powerful performances are expected to bring a sense of authenticity and relatability to the story, making it resonate deeply with viewers.
As the show prepares to debut, A Virtuous Business promises to engage audiences with its audacious storyline and strong performances, inviting viewers to reconsider their perceptions of desire and societal norms through the eyes of these trailblazing women.
