Midas

Midas is a riveting South Korean drama series released by ViKi and first aired in 2011. The compelling series centers around the thrilling world of high finance and power politics, presenting a captivating narrative that intricately intertwines the struggles, ambitions, and motivations of key players within these sectors. Throughout the series' intense 21-episode run, viewers are given an immersive experience into the highs and lows of life at the top and the relentless pursuit of wealth and influence.

Headlining the series is the charismatic and versatile actor, Jang Hyuk, known for his remarkable range and empathetic performances. In Midas, Jang Hyuk portrays Kim Do-Hyun, a brilliant and ambitious lawyer who has the world at his feet. Do-Hyun, however, is not content with his lot and aspires for more wealth and power than the average individual dares to dream of.

Do-Hyun's life takes a dramatic turn when he enters the world of high stakes finance, enticed by the wealthy and influential Yoo In-Hye, played by the talented Kim Hee-Ae. In-Hye is the daughter of the owner of a powerful conglomerate and has her sights set on even greater heights of wealth and influence.

The narrative picks up its pace as Doe-Hyun becomes involved with In-Hye and her family's business, standing at the precipice of incredible wealth and power. Today's ally could be tomorrow's adversary in this ruthless and relentless world, and seeing how Do-Hyun navigates this treacherous terrain forms the core of Midas's gripping story arc.

The series masterfully explores the intertwining worlds of law, finance, and politics and makes profound statements about the nature of power, ambition, and human nature itself. The intricate plotting and multifaceted character development ensure that the viewer is engaged and invested in the lives of these characters.

Midas delves into the philosophical concept of the moral decay that can come with the relentless pursuit of wealth and power, embodied in the Greek myth of King Midas who transforms everything he touches into gold. This metaphor forms the underpinning of the narrative and provides a meaningful backdrop to the unfolding drama and conflict.

Midas stands out due to its intense drama, the outstanding performances of its talented cast, and its deep and meaningful explorations of human nature and society. Particularly impressive is the magnetic performance by Jang Hyuk. As Kim Do-Hyun, he embodies the passionate ambition and the increasing moral and ethical dilemmas his character faces as he ascends higher up the ladder of wealth and power. The series does a superb job of highlighting the personal cost of this relentless pursuit of wealth.

The captivating Kim Hee-Ae too, is exceptional. She plays the role of Yoo In-Hye to perfection, brilliantly portraying the complex shades of this enigmatic character with finesse. In-Hye complements Do-Hyun's character superbly, adding a layer of complexity and intrigue to the unfolding drama.

Midas is not just a series about high-finance and corporate politics, but it also depicts personal dramas and conflicts experienced by its characters. As the narrative unfolds, viewers witness the characters' individual journeys alongside the wider societal context, contributing to a narrative rich in character arcs that resonate authentically with audiences.

The series is further bolstered by its sharp screenplay and intriguing narrative structure. The multiple plot threads gradually converge to create a truly engaging viewing experience. Furthermore, Midas offers an impressive production design that perfectly captures the glitz, glamour, and high stakes of its central environments.

In conclusion, Midas is a powerful and thought-provoking drama that successfully transcends the traditional schema of Korean series. With its compelling storyline, remarkable performances, and stunning production, it provides a nuanced and captivating exploration of the pursuit of power and wealth and its impact on human relationships and society. For fans of exciting, character-driven dramas with a philosophical underpinning, Midas definitely deserves a watch.