Blast from the Past: '100 Times Memory' Revives 1980s Charm with Bus Conductors

JTBC's new weekend drama, '100 Times Memory,' is set to transport viewers back to the vibrant 1980s, a time characterized by analog charm and youthful romance. The series prominently features the now-extinct profession of a bus conductor, aiming to resonate with audiences through a heartfelt narrative of coming-of-age and first love.

Director Kim Sang-ho expressed confidence during the press conference, stating, "There's a purity and freshness unique to the 1980s. Our main theme is 'youth,' a story that everyone can relate to." The drama unfolds in 1982, centering on the friendship between bus conductors Yeong-rye (Kim Da-mi) and Jong-hee (Shin Ye-eun), and their intertwined first love with Jaepil (Heo Nam-joon).

To authentically capture the 1980s aesthetic, the production team meticulously recreated the era. This included sourcing a functional bus from the period and refurbishing its interior and exterior to match historical accuracy. Extensive efforts were made by the art, prop, costume, and makeup departments to ensure a faithful representation. "Beyond historical accuracy, we focused on making the characters look captivating," added Director Kim.

The drama promises nostalgic moments, including the iconic phrase, "Ora-i, if no one is getting off!" Kim Da-mi and Shin Ye-eun are set to showcase strong 'womance' chemistry, with Kim praising Shin's dedication to acting and Shin expressing admiration for Kim's life journey, akin to her character Jong-hee's feelings for Yeong-rye. Director Kim explained the casting choices were made to reflect the era's mature-looking youth, stating, "As the characters grow older and more mature throughout the series, viewers will understand why these actresses were chosen."'100 Times Memory' premieres on the 13th at 10:40 PM.

Kim Da-mi burst onto the scene in 2018 with the film 'The Witch: Part 1. The Subversion,' earning numerous awards for her breakout performance. She solidified her status as a leading actress with the 2020 drama 'Itaewon Class,' captivating audiences with her distinctive style and powerful portrayal. '100 Times Memory' marks her highly anticipated return to television dramas after a significant break.