Aema is a 2025 South Korean Netflix original drama series set in the fast-growing Korean film industry of the 1980s. The series is inspired by the cultural moment surrounding the making of Korea’s first mainstream erotic film, Madame Aema, and the strong women who challenge the industry’s harsh and often sexist realities.
The story follows Jeong Hee-ran (played by Lee Hanee), an award-winning actress who turns down a leading role due to its explicit content. Stepping into the spotlight is aspiring newcomer Shin Ju-ae (Bang Hyo-rin), whose bold ambition disrupts expectations. Meanwhile, Hee-ran finds herself contractually trapped in the film by a shrewd producer (Jin Sun-kyu), while a passionate rookie director (Cho Hyun-chul) struggles to make his voice heard.
Aema is a drama about power, rivalry, and women reclaiming control in a male-dominated world. It premieres globally on Netflix on August 22, 2025.
Aema Age Rating
Aema is rated TV-MA (Mature Audiences) due to sexual content, strong language, and mature themes. Here’s a closer look at what parents should know:
Violence & Peril
There are no graphic violent scenes in the traditional sense, but the series includes verbal aggression, moments of industry manipulation, and emotional confrontations. Tension builds from power struggles and emotional stress, especially involving the exploitation of women in the entertainment industry.
Language
The dialogue contains strong language, reflecting both the stressful situations and the gritty behind-the-scenes atmosphere of the 1980s film world. There is also sexual dialogue and innuendo throughout the series.
Sexual Content & Nudity
The show features scenes that depict nudity and simulated sexual situations, mainly related to the in-show filming of Madame Aema. These moments are not pornographic but are meant to highlight the objectification of women and the blurred lines between art and exploitation.
Mature Themes
Aema dives into heavy topics like gender inequality, career exploitation, industry corruption, and female empowerment. These are tackled through complex character interactions and emotionally charged storytelling. The series also touches on identity, jealousy, and the cost of ambition.
Is Aema Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–13: Not suitable. The show’s nudity, adult themes, and industry-specific sexual dynamics are inappropriate for pre-teens or younger teens.
Ages 14–17: Not recommended for most. While some older teens may appreciate the historical and feminist themes, the sexual content and complex emotional situations make Aema better suited for mature viewers. Parents should preview episodes before allowing teen viewers to watch.
Ages 18+: Best suited. Aema is clearly intended for adults and viewers who can contextualize its sexual and social commentary within the framework of historical drama and feminist critique.
What Parents Can Do
Preview Before Sharing: Watch the first one or two episodes to decide if it’s appropriate for older teens in your home.
Talk About Real-World Parallels: Use the show as a conversation starter about gender roles, media representation, and standing up against injustice.
Offer Alternatives: If the themes interest your teen but the content feels too mature, consider recommending films or shows about female empowerment with a lower age rating.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for Aema?
A: Aema is rated TV-MA for nudity, sexual content, and mature themes.
Q: Is Aema appropriate for teens?
A: No. It contains explicit material and is best suited for adult audiences.
Q: Does Aema include nudity or sex scenes?
A: Yes, there are scenes of nudity and simulated sexual situations related to the film industry setting.
Q: Is Aema based on a true story?
A: The series is inspired by real events and cultural shifts around the filming of Madame Aema, Korea’s first mainstream erotic film, but the story and characters are fictional.
Q: When and where can I watch Aema?
A: Aema premieres on August 22, 2025, exclusively on Netflix.