Disney's highly anticipated spy thriller series "Tempest," featuring A-list Korean actors Jun Ji-hyun and Gang Dong-won, premiered its first three episodes on Wednesday, immediately capturing attention for its groundbreaking portrayal of women in political power. The series opens with a powerful monologue from former U.N. ambassador Seo Mun-ju, played by Jun Ji-hyun, who declares: "I had a dream. In the dream, I was a man." As her husband, a charismatic presidential frontrunner, delivers an impassioned campaign speech, Mun-ju initially remains in the background before gradually stepping into the spotlight, symbolizing her journey from the sidelines to center stage.

"Tempest" distinguishes itself as more than just a conventional spy thriller by placing complex female characters at the heart of Korea's political landscape. The series follows Mun-ju's transformation from supportive political spouse to presidential candidate after tragedy strikes. When she returns to Korea from her diplomatic post to support her husband's presidential campaign, an extremist from an anti-unification group assassinates him, leaving Mun-ju devastated but determined. Her alliance with San-ho, a stateless mercenary played by Gang Dong-won, forms the show's central narrative, but it's the abundance of tireless, idealistic women throughout the series that truly commands viewers' attention.

The drama takes a bold departure from traditional Korean political storytelling in a pivotal scene where Mun-ju, after escaping a bomb-rigged train with San-ho's assistance, addresses a crowd of enthusiastic supporters. She boldly confronts the criticism she faces: "Some people say I cannot be president because I'm a woman and a diplomat, without a traditional political background. Some say I shouldn't even run with my late husband's party. Others say I'm unfit to lead because I spent much of my life outside Korea. Yet all of you believe I can bring change, work toward peaceful reunification and be a president for the weak, the forgotten and the unheard." This heartfelt declaration electrifies the crowd and marks her definitive entry into the political arena.

Where most Korean dramas have traditionally cast men as presidents, kingmakers, and rising political stars in ways that mirror real-life politics, "Tempest" deliberately takes a different approach by entrusting these powerful roles to women. This creative choice reflects Korea's shifting political climate and changing social dynamics. Among the most compelling characters is Mun-ju's formidable mother-in-law, Im Ok-sun, portrayed by veteran actress Lee Mi-sook. Ok-sun emerges as a cunning power broker who treats even her own children as pawns in an elaborate political chess game, demonstrating the ruthless calculations required in high-stakes politics.

After failing to secure the presidency for her son, Ok-sun strategically shifts her political ambitions toward Mun-ju, becoming both mentor and manipulator. Her behind-the-scenes machinations embody the drama's vision of female kingmakers and strategists who operate in the shadows of power. Ok-sun skillfully coerces party leaders and methodically removes political threats that could endanger Mun-ju's presidential campaign. In one particularly revealing scene, she coaches Mun-ju on leveraging public perception, advising: "The public sees you as Joan of Arc – the woman who stood unarmed before a gun to protect her husband. You need to keep them seeing you that way and make them shed tears for you."

The series further breaks from conventional storytelling by portraying Korea's sitting president as a woman. Chae Kyung-sin, played by Kim Hae-sook, presents a complex character who combines warmth and humility with steely determination, embodying the archetype of the seasoned career politician. Despite her maternal exterior, President Chae possesses the political acumen to navigate complex international relationships. She delivers a sobering warning to Mun-ju about the realities of presidential power, explaining that ultimate authority often resides in global corridors of influence that extend far beyond Seoul's reach.

Completing this woman-centered political ensemble is Lee Sang-hee as Yeo Mi-ji, who serves as Mun-ju's chief of staff, trusted confidante, and steadfast companion since their days working together abroad. Mi-ji represents unwavering loyalty in the treacherous world of politics, functioning as more than just a professional colleague but as a true friend prepared to follow Mun-ju into any dangerous situation. Her character adds depth to the series' exploration of female solidarity and professional relationships in high-pressure political environments.

With its refreshing cast of female power brokers, idealistic leaders, and strategic masterminds, "Tempest" boldly reimagines Korea's political landscape for a contemporary audience. The series offers viewers a provocative new vision of leadership that challenges traditional gender roles in political storytelling, suggesting that the future of Korean politics – both fictional and real – may increasingly feature women in positions of ultimate power and influence.