Carefree Youth Upended by 1997 IMF Crisis in South Korea

'Typhoon Company', the new drama starring Lee Jun-ho, has premiered to strong viewership, transporting audiences back to 1990s South Korea. The show's first episode introduces Kang Tae-poong, a member of the "Orange Tribe" - the wealthy and fashionable youth who enjoyed a life of luxury. However, Tae-poong's carefree existence is shattered when the 1997 IMF financial crisis leads to the bankruptcy of his father's company and his father's subsequent death.

The drama's detailed depiction of the era has struck a chord with viewers. From the use of retro TV fonts to pagers and early mobile phones, 'Typhoon Company' meticulously recreates the social atmosphere of 1990s Seoul. It also poignantly portrays the devastating impact of the crisis, showing dedicated employees working without pay and families fleeing their failed businesses.

Upcoming episodes will follow Tae-poong as he takes over his father's collapsed trading company, struggling to survive and grow as a novice businessman. The drama promises to be a compelling exploration of the challenges faced by ordinary people during a time of economic upheaval.