Few dramas can make the art of negotiation feel this electrifying. tvN’s “New CEO Project” has done exactly that transforming tense deal-making into some of the most emotionally charged moments on television. With only two weeks left until its finale, anticipation is soaring as fans eagerly await how President Shin’s journey will end.
To celebrate the final stretch, tvN aired a special episode titled “New CEO Project: A Collection of Refreshing Negotiations” on Monday, October 13. The recap revisited President Shin’s (Han Suk-kyu) sharpest negotiation triumphs and the charismatic teamwork between Jo Philip (Bae Hyun-sung) and Lee Si-on (Lee Re). While today’s broadcast (14th) takes a short break for South Korea’s friendly football match against Paraguay, episode 9 will return stronger than ever on Monday, October 20.
What keeps viewers hooked isn’t just the cases it’s how President Shin approaches every situation with calm precision and quiet empathy. From mediating a dispute between broadcasters and market vendors to resolving a hostage crisis and exposing corruption and real estate fraud, he’s become the face of level-headed heroism. His methods blend razor-sharp logic with a deeply human touch, creating negotiations that feel both cinematic and real.
But it’s the chemistry within his unconventional trio that’s truly stealing hearts. President Shin, Jo Philip, and Lee Si-on unlikely partners running a small chicken restaurant as their base deliver moments of warmth, humor, and heartfelt teamwork. Shin and Lee Si-on share a father-daughter-like tenderness, while Shin and Jo Philip’s constant head-butting adds a playful spark. Even Jo Philip and Si-on’s bickering has evolved into a teasing bond that fans can’t stop rooting for.
Beneath all the clever tactics and witty exchanges, however, lies a growing sense of tragedy. President Shin’s painful past the loss of his son 15 years ago at the hands of Yoon Dong-hee (Min Sung-wook) resurfaces as he begins the search for truth and closure. His emotional struggle adds an unexpected layer of vulnerability, elevating “New CEO Project” beyond a drama about deals into a moving story about redemption.
As the series races toward its conclusion, “New CEO Project” is proving to be more than just a corporate drama it’s a masterclass in how resilience, empathy, and intellect intertwine. With only four episodes left, fans are bracing for storms of emotion and revelations that could change everything. Episode 9, airing Monday, October 20, promises negotiations that will shake the foundations of every character involved and perhaps, redefine what power truly means.
