Watch The Running Mate

The Running Mate is a South Korean political drama that first aired in 2007. It focuses on the intense behind-the-scenes politics of a fictional presidential election in South Korea. The show follows the journey of two politicians, Cha Woo-Hee and Jang Seong-min, as they battle for the presidency.

Cha Woo-Hee, played by actress Yeom Jeong-ah, is a powerful and charismatic politician who is determined to win the presidency at any cost. She is a member of the ruling party and is determined to defeat her rival, Jang Seong-min. While Woo-Hee is confident and passionate, she also has some skeletons in her closet that threaten to derail her campaign.

Jang Seong-min, played by actor Ryu Seung-soo, is Woo-Hee's primary rival. He is not as popular as Woo-Hee but is well-respected among his peers and the public. He is a member of the opposition party and is running as a conservative candidate, promising to bring change to the country's political landscape.

As the election heats up, the two candidates engage in a war of words and dirty tactics as they strive to win over voters. Along the way, they must navigate a web of alliances, secrets, and scandals that threaten to destroy their campaigns.

One of the strengths of The Running Mate is its realistic portrayal of the political process. The show doesn't shy away from showing the seedier side of politics, including bribery, blackmail, and media manipulation. It also highlights the importance of strong campaign teams and the political clout they can wield.

Another highlight of the show is its strong performances. Yeom Jeong-ah and Ryu Seung-soo deliver powerful, nuanced performances that bring their characters to life. Their chemistry is palpable, and their interactions are some of the show's highlights.

The Running Mate also features a strong supporting cast, including Kim Mi-sook as Seo Hye-rim, Woo-Hee's mentor and political ally, and Lee Han-wi as Kang Ik-hwan, a shady political fixer who pulls the strings behind the scenes.

Overall, The Running Mate is a gripping political drama that offers a fascinating look at the complex world of South Korean politics. Its strong performances, realistic portrayal of the political process, and compelling plot make it a must-watch for fans of the genre.