Son Hyun-joo Announces Sudden Retirement in 'Chairman Kang the New Employee' Sparking Succession War
Son Hyun-joo's sudden retirement in JTBC's new drama 'Chairman Kang the New Employee' triggers a fierce battle for succession among heirs.
In the new JTBC weekend drama 'Chairman Kang the New Employee' (Creator Kim Soon-ok, Script by Hyun Ji-min, Directed by Go Hye-jin), which premieres on the 30th, Chairman Kang Yong-ho (played by Son Hyun-joo) of Choi-seong Group suddenly expresses his intention to retire during a management meeting, prompting potential successors to engage in a diligent struggle for succession.

Kang Yong-ho is a legendary entrepreneur who grew Choi-seong Group from the 20th largest conglomerate to within the top 10 through bold drive and cool judgment. Emphasizing top performance, he is also known for his strict standards in evaluating people, creating a sense of tension among those around him.
His daughter, Kang Jae-kyung (Jeon Hye-jin), and son, Kang Jae-sung (Jin Goo), have been in fierce competition for the successor position for a long time. As they have each been proving their management performance in their own ways to gain recognition from their father, who values competence, his sudden retirement announcement is expected to further stimulate their competitive spirit and significantly influence the drama's story development.
In the photos released by the production team, Kang Yong-ho, Kang Jae-kyung, and Kang Jae-sung are seen commuting together. Between Kang Jae-kyung, who has a relaxed expression, and Kang Jae-sung, who is actively explaining something, Kang Yong-ho looks straight ahead with an expressionless face. The subtle atmosphere between the three suggests the tense and cold relationships surrounding Choi-seong Group.
When Kang Yong-ho announces that he will begin the formal succession process, Kang Jae-kyung and Kang Jae-sung show determined looks rather than surprise, revealing their strong will for the succession competition. The fierce battle for management rights that the two siblings will unfold is expected to be a major point of interest in the drama.
Viewers are drawn to wonder what the reason is behind Kang Yong-ho's decision to step down from his position as chairman.