By Kim Young-sik, Within News
(SEOUL, April 6, 2025) — Actor Lee Je-hoon continues to command attention in JTBC’s weekend drama The Art of Negotiation (협상의 기술), showcasing his magnetic presence and depth as the unflinching Yoon Joo-no amid unpredictable negotiations and rising tension.
In the latest episodes of the series (written by Lee Seung-young and directed by Ahn Pan-seok), Yoon Joo-no, played by Lee Je-hoon, faces a critical mission from Chairman Song (Sung Dong-il): to successfully sell a golf course in Chungbuk—Green View Country Club—in order to secure a promotion to executive director. Despite escalating challenges, Joo-no demonstrates calculated composure, captivating both his in-universe peers and viewers.
As of episode 9, Joo-no accepts Chairman Song’s task and sets out with the M&A team to finalize the deal. During negotiations with Green View’s CEO Lee Hyung-taek (Son Jong-hak), Joo-no firmly states the conditions of the sale—including replacing the current CEO—demonstrating both transparency and strategic assertiveness.
However, the process takes a twist. A surprise buyer emerges: former Sanin Construction executive Lee Hoon-min (Yoon Je-moon), working alongside the antagonistic Ha Executive Director (Jang Hyun-sung).
Suspicion grows, and Joo-no requests Yumin IB’s Director Kang Sang-bae (Park Hyung-soo) to verify the buyer’s intentions and confirm employee succession terms, highlighting his meticulous and principled approach.
The episode intensifies when a ₩100 million cash withdrawal from Green View is discovered, with no record of how it was used.
The only individuals with access are CEO Lee and finance team leader Jung Bon-joo (Jang So-yeon), a childhood friend of Oh Soon-young (Kim Dae-myung). The cliffhanger ending—Soon-young spotting Bon-joo leaving the bank—raises further suspicions.
Meanwhile, Joo-no engages in a tense conversation with senior figure Jang (Lee Sung-jae), hinting at a hidden scandal from the past involving manipulated stock prices of Jumbo Pharmaceutical. When asked what he’ll do if the board opposes a re-investigation, Joo-no calmly replies, “Then we’ll find out who the real culprit is,” igniting curiosity about his ultimate goal in returning to Sanin Group.
Lee Je-hoon’s performance has been praised for its complexity and restraint. As Joo-no, he maintains calm authority at the negotiation table and swiftly adapts to unforeseen variables, using subtle expressions and tone shifts to convey layered emotions. His piercing stare, especially during confrontations with Lee Hoon-min, delivers palpable tension.
Critics and viewers alike are lauding his portrayal: “Every line carries weight,” “Lee Je-hoon is the art of negotiation,” and “His tone and pacing are next-level.” His charismatic visuals and compelling voice further enhance the drama’s immersive appeal.
With unexpected twists and growing intrigue, The Art of Negotiation airs Saturdays and Sundays at 10:30 p.m. KST on JTBC.
Photo courtesy of JTBC broadcast stills
