Typhoon family continues its impressive rise in popularity, recently approaching the 10% viewership level after getting off to a strong start with a 5.9% rating. By its eighth episode, the show reached 9.1%, setting new records and earning widespread acclaim for its authenticity and emotional resonance.
At the heart of this success is Korea’s masterful 1997 reconstruction during the IMF financial crisis. Viewers praised the show’s intricate artistic direction, led by Kim Min-hye, for evoking a vivid sense of nostalgia and realism. “Every scene feels like opening a time capsule,” fans commented, underlining how the scenography improves emotional immersion.
Art director Kim Min-hye focused on more than just retro aesthetics. He wanted to portray the values and lifestyles of the people of that era. “We tried to capture not only the images of the period, but also the organizational culture and spirit of both companies and younger generations during the IMF era,” Kim explained. Each character’s space has been designed to reflect their personality and role, providing perfect harmony between setting and narrative.
Kim conducted extensive research, referencing documentaries, news footage, newspapers and magazines from the 1990s to accurately reflect the emotional tone and social atmosphere of the time. Every detail, from the lettering on the store signs to the interior layout of the offices, was designed with a purpose.
The drama’s main office was modeled after a space originally built in 1972. Its open-plan layout was chosen to highlight the warm leadership of the character Kang Jin-young. Furthermore, the depiction of Euljiro, a bustling 1990s area teeming with office workers, reinforces the authenticity of the narrative.
Kim also shared the challenges of sourcing period-appropriate props. Many items were purchased through auction sites and some had to be purchased locally, which was far from easy. Scenes shot abroad in Thailand were also thoroughly researched to align with architectural precision.
Looking ahead, the art team plans to expand the visual richness of the show in the second half, introducing new products alongside the character Taepoong. These elements promise to further deepen the immersive experience for viewers.
Typhoon family airs every Saturday and Sunday at 9.10pm KST on tvN.
Sources: born
