Episode 1 of "Aema" kicks off in the year 1981, culminating in a glittering award ceremony where South Korean megastar Hee-ran reigns supreme. Yet, when the spotlight dims and she is left to her own devices, Hee-ran's demeanor shifts to one of solemn introspection, revealing a woman unafraid to actively pursue her desires with unwavering determination. This tenacity is evident when her manager, Yeong-bae, presents her with the next script: "Madame Aema." Without hesitation, she hurls it aside upon realizing it's an erotica.
Later that evening, a lavish party unfolds in her honor, orchestrated by her ex-fiancé and producer, Ku Jung-ho, who believes that sex is the ultimate selling point to usher in the roaring 80s. To his dismay, Hee-ran storms in and lays into him for proposing such a venture as "Madame Aema." In an instant, she transforms her fiery temper into a demure, silver-screen charm as she addresses her guests.
Hee-ran masterfully bribes the key reporters and stages a press conference where she embodies elegance itself. With a sugar-sweet voice, she declares that she will never compromise on nudity, casting her decision as a bold stand. The reporters eat it up, hailing her as courageous.
Jung-ho, seething with rage, retaliates by demoting Hee-ran to a minor role named Erika and casting a novice actress as Aema. However, Hee-ran is bound by an exclusive contract with him, with one more film required to terminate it.
Undeterred, Hee-ran devises a plan, approaching Director Kwon, an acclaimed filmmaker she once rejected. He's hesitant to involve Jung-ho in his next project. Hee-ran dons her usual humble and elegant facade, but it remains uncertain whether Kwon is swayed by her charms.
Unwilling to leave anything to chance, Hee-ran instructs Yeong-bae to convince Kwon’s production team to collaborate with Jung-ho’s company. Their ultimate goal: to cancel "Aema" and ensure her final film under Jung-ho’s banner is Kwon’s masterpiece.
Elsewhere, Jung-ho is engrossed in a mission to persuade Mrs. Wang, his habitual investor, to take a gamble on an untested talent. With unwavering confidence, he proclaims his pivotal role in catapulting Hee-ran to stardom and vows to replicate such success with this fledgling artist.
The subsequent day, Hee-ran graces the open auditions for Aema as a judge, exuding an aura of control. Director Kwak, a man brimming with repressed frustrations, is evidently smitten with her, and she cleverly exploits this affection to undermine the audition process. However, her efforts are almost superfluous, as the talent pool proves woefully inadequate. In a rush to depart, Kwak bumps into Ju-ae, who arrives tardily for her audition, unapologetic and blunt in her demeanor. She harbors no qualms about bending the truth to attain her desires. As a tap dancer, she weaves innuendos into her repetitive steps, captivating Kwak despite himself.
Returning to her humble abode, a dilapidated shack shared by single women toiling in nearby factories, Ju-ae remains undeterred by their struggles. She thrives on hope and dreams, her admiration for Hee-ran evident despite their contrasting circumstances. To her delight, Ju-ae learns she has secured a role! Jung-ho, in his typical vulgar manner, attempts to flaunt his influence, but she swiftly dismisses him. Yet, Hee-ran's unexpected appearance turns the tide. She brands Ju-ae as a promiscuous opportunist and summarily dismisses her. Ju-ae retaliates with equal fervor before storming out.
Meanwhile, Yeong-bae's attempts to court Kwon's producer falter, leaving the future uncertain. Determined, Kwak enlists Jung-ho's assistant, Mr. Gi, to track down Ju-ae. The task proves arduous, but Gi eventually locates her at a dance club where she performs. Her fiery spirit shines through as she physics beats Gi and lambasts the production company for exploiting desperate rookies like herself.
In the sanctity of her home, Ju-ae confides in her friend Geun-ha, acknowledging Hee-ran's uniqueness while questioning her own worth. She grapples with mixed emotions towards Hee-ran, whose image looms large on her television screen, resentment simmering over the veteran's treatment of her.
Determined to seize her fate, Ju-ae ultimately steps into the audition room. She sheds her inhibitions and boldly announces her unwavering resolve, pledging to go to any lengths necessary to embark on her journey as an actress. Her ultimate request? To be molded into the next Hee-ran. Upon hearing this, Hee-ran cannot help but break into a knowing, amused smile.
