Ji Hyun Woo Reinvents Himself as a President with Working-Class Roots in “First Lady”

Ji Hyun Woo is preparing for one of the most dramatic transformations of his 23-year career.

In MBN’s new Wednesday–Thursday miniseries First Lady, he steps into the role of Hyun Min-cheol, a factory worker-turned-president whose rise to power is matched only by the turbulence of his personal life.

A Premise Steeped in Drama and Intrigue

Premiering September 24, First Lady is a political melodrama with a unique twist. The story begins with an unprecedented event: a newly elected president asks his wife for a divorce just 67 days before his inauguration. What follows is a tense unraveling of political intrigue, family secrets, and emotional conflict as the couple navigates the public eye and private turmoil.

Written by Kim Hyung-wan (Dream High 2, Hidden Identity), the drama has been in the making for six years, promising a layered and carefully crafted narrative. It is directed by Lee Ho-hyun and produced by Studio Jidam, Artist Studio, and Roadshow Plus.

The cast lineup is equally powerful: Eugene, Ji Hyun-woo, Lee Min Young, Han Soo Ah, Shin So Yul, Kim Ki Bang, and Oh Seung Eun. Together, they’re set to deliver fiery synergy and emotionally charged performances.

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Ji Hyun-woo as Hyun Min-cheol: A President With Working-Class Roots

In the series, Ji Hyun Woo portrays Hyun Min-cheol—a man who grew up in an orphanage, labored in factories, and clawed his way up to the National Assembly before securing the presidency. But instead of basking in victory, he shocks the nation by declaring he wants to separate from his wife, Cha Soo-yeon (played by Eugene), who is on the cusp of becoming the First Lady.

For Ji Hyun Woo, known for his broad acting range across dramas, films, musicals, and music, this role represents both a new challenge and a major career milestone. He described his character as someone who lives by the slogan “I will give it my all”—a man defined by conviction, integrity, and an unshakable commitment to his promises, even in the face of temptation.

One of the early scenes captures Hyun Min-cheol delivering a speech on the podium at the People’s Party headquarters, moments before the presidential vote count. With an emotional smile masking years of struggle, his voice carries both hope and heavy resolve. The contrast between his bright demeanor and the unspoken weight he carries hints at the drama’s central theme: the cost of ambition and the personal sacrifices made in pursuit of power.

Speaking about the project, Ji Hyun-woo admitted, “I was so curious to see how the story would unfold while reading the script. It felt different from anything I’ve done before, so I knew I had to participate.”

The production team echoed his enthusiasm, stating, “Ji Hyun-woo is the very embodiment of Hyun Min-cheol. From his leadership charisma to his deep voice and commanding presence, he captures the essence of a president who inspires the public while navigating chaos. Please look forward to Ji Hyun-woo’s explosive performance at the center of this shocking political and emotional storm.”

What sets First Lady apart is its blend of political power play and raw human emotion. By framing the story around a president who dares to confront both national crises and personal turmoil, the series promises to explore not only the cost of leadership but also the fragile balance between duty and desire.

With Ji Hyun-woo and Eugene leading a strong ensemble cast, First Lady is shaping up to be a must-watch political melodrama—one that could redefine Ji Hyun-woo’s already illustrious career.