In an exciting development for K-drama enthusiasts, acclaimed actor Nam Joo Hyuk is reportedly in discussions to headline a new psychological thriller.
On January 28, 2026, industry insiders revealed that the actor has been offered a leading role in the upcoming project titled “Code: Faust Game” (literal title).
The series has already garnered significant attention due to its creative pedigree, as it is set to be helmed by Director Yoo Soo Min, the mastermind behind the critically acclaimed “ Weak Hero Class 1 .”
This potential collaboration between a top-tier actor and a visionary director has immediately sparked high expectations for a high-quality, suspenseful production.
Agency Confirmation and Project Premise
Following the initial reports, Nam Joo Hyuk’s agency released a statement confirming that the actor is currently reviewing the offer with a positive outlook. The drama, “Code: Faust Game,” is an adaptation of a successful Taiwanese series.
The original Taiwanese version, which aired its first season in 2016 and a second in 2019, was praised for its dark, compelling narrative and unique high-concept hook.
The story centers on a mysterious, supernatural mobile application that claims to grant the user any wish they desire. However, these wishes come at a steep and often devastating cost.
Nam Joo Hyuk (Credit: YouTube)
As the title suggests—referencing the classic Faustian bargain where one trades their soul for worldly gains—the series delves deep into the darkest corners of human desire, ambition, and the ethical consequences of seeking shortcuts to success.
A Master of Tension: Director Yoo Soo Min
The involvement of Director Yoo Soo Min is a major talking point for this project. Yoo Soo Min earned widespread praise for “Weak Hero Class 1,” a series that was lauded for its visceral depiction of school violence and its emotionally resonant character development.
Fans of the director’s previous work are eager to see how he will adapt the supernatural and psychological elements of “Code: Faust Game” into a Korean context.
Given his track record for creating intense, character-driven tension, the director is seen as a perfect fit for a story about the psychological toll of a wish-granting app.
Nam Joo Hyuk’s Busy 2026 Schedule
This potential role adds to what is shaping up to be a massive comeback year for Nam Joo Hyuk.
The actor, who recently signed with a new agency, has already completed filming for the highly anticipated Netflix original series “The East Palace.”
Set to premiere in the third quarter of 2026, “The East Palace” is an occult sageuk (historical drama) that also stars Roh Yoon Seo and Cho Seung Woo.
If Nam Joo Hyuk confirms his casting in “Code: Faust Game,” it will mark a significant shift into the psychological thriller genre.
Throughout his career, Nam Joo Hyuk has demonstrated impressive range, moving from romantic leads in dramas like “Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo” and “Twenty-Five Twenty-One” to more grit-filled roles in “Vigilante.”
A role in a dark, Faustian thriller would further solidify his reputation as a versatile actor capable of carrying complex, morally ambiguous narratives.
Anticipation and Global Appeal
As the project is based on a successful international IP, “Code: Faust Game” already has a built-in interest from global audiences familiar with the original Taiwanese drama.
Combined with the star power of Nam Joo Hyuk and the directing prowess of Yoo Soo Min, the series is expected to be a major contender in the 2026 drama lineup.
As of now, fans are waiting for a final confirmation of the cast and more details regarding the production schedule and broadcasting platform.
Given the current trend of high-budget psychological thrillers performing well on global streaming services, many industry analysts predict that “Code: Faust Game” will be a highly sought-after title for international distribution.
In a fusion of athletic performance and high-fashion grace, BLACKPINK’s Lisa has amazed the global audience once again with her latest commercial film (CF) for Nike, in a landmark collaboration with SKIMS.
Released in late January 2026, the campaign sees the global icon and LLOUD CEO transforming into a professional ballet dancer, a role that highlights both her legendary discipline and her unparalleled influence in the fashion industry.
The CF has quickly gone viral, trending across social media platforms for its breathtaking aesthetics and Lisa’s stunning physical transformation.
Lisa (Credit: Instagram)
The Vision: Ballet Core Meets Modern Performance
The campaign, titled “Nike x SKIMS: The Grace of Power,” leverages the “ballet core” trend that has permeated the fashion world over the last year, but elevates it with a focus on athletic functionality.
In the film, Lisa is seen in a monochromatic studio setting, wearing pieces from the exclusive collection that combine Nike’s performance fabrics with SKIMS’ signature body-contouring silhouettes.
The choreography for the CF is not merely decorative; it showcases technical ballet movements including en pointe work and fluid port de bras, demonstrating the extreme flexibility and strength for which Lisa is known.
By portraying a ballerina, Lisa taps into a narrative of precision and dedication—traits that mirror her own journey as a world-class performer.
Industry experts have praised the campaign for its “ethereal yet powerful” tone, which departs from the typical high-energy streetwear aesthetic often associated with Nike.
A Historic Fashion Collaboration
The partnership between Nike and SKIMS (the brand founded by Kim Kardashian) is a significant milestone in the industry, and selecting Lisa as the face of the launch underscores her status as the “Ultimate Global Ambassador.”
This 2026 campaign is particularly noteworthy as it marks one of Lisa’s first major fashion projects following the conclusion of BLACKPINK’s record-breaking “DEADLINE” world tour. “DEADLINE” world tour.
The collection featured in the CF includes:
- Hybrid Bodysuits: Merging compression technology with dance-ready flexibility.
- Nike Air Ballet Slippers: A conceptual footwear piece that blends the classic ballet flat with Nike’s Air cushioning.
- Athletic Tulle Skirts: Performance-grade mesh designed for high-intensity movement.
Global Impact and Fan Reception
The reaction from LILIES (Lisa’s solo fanbase) and BLINKs has been overwhelmingly positive. Within hours of its release, the campaign hashtag topped trends in over 30 countries.
Fans have noted the “serene intensity” in Lisa’s eyes throughout the film, as well as the technical difficulty of the poses she maintains.
This CF is being hailed as a “fashion film” rather than a traditional commercial. It successfully positions Lisa at the intersection of sports, high fashion, and fine art.
Furthermore, the campaign is expected to drive a massive surge in demand for the Nike x SKIMS collaboration, which is slated for a global retail release in early February 2026.
Lisa’s Continued Dominance in 2026
Lisa’s 2026 has started at an unprecedented pace. From her emotional tour finale in Hong Kong to her upcoming acting debut in HBO’s The White Lotus, and now this groundbreaking Nike campaign, she continues to redefine the boundaries of what a K-pop idol can achieve.
Her ability to seamlessly transition from a fierce rap icon on stage to a graceful ballerina in a global fashion campaign remains her greatest strength.
As the “Nike x SKIMS” collection hits stores, the industry is already looking forward to what LLOUD and Lisa will reveal next.
For now, the “Ballet CF” stands as a testament to her versatility and her enduring reign as a global trendsetter.
Stay tuned for behind-the-scenes footage and exclusive interviews regarding the making of this historic campaign.
