South Korean stars clash in ‘Made in Korea’: A thrilling crime saga
A new era of crime drama
Two of South Korea’s most celebrated actors, Hyun Bin and Jung Woo-sung, are set to face off in the highly anticipated crime series, Made in Korea. This gripping show, set against the backdrop of the turbulent 1970s, promises to be a rollercoaster of ambition, power, and justice.
The plot thickens
Made in Korea delves into the lives of two men on opposite sides of the law. Kitae, portrayed by Hyun Bin, is a man driven by an insatiable hunger for wealth and power. On the other side stands Geonyoung, a steadfast prosecutor played by Jung Woo-sung, whose mission is to thwart Kitae’s ambitions. Their relentless conflict leads them into an era-defining incident that will alter their destinies forever.
Stellar cast and crew
The series boasts an impressive lineup of talent. Alongside Hyun Bin and Jung Woo-sung, the cast includes Won Ji-an, Seo Eun-soo, Cho Yeo-jeong, and Jung Sung-il. The screenplay is crafted by Park Eun-kyo and Park Joon-seok, known for their work on Sea of Tranquility and A Normal Family, respectively. The series is directed by Woo Min-ho, marking his first foray into television after a successful career in film with titles like The Man Standing Next and Inside Men.
A new venture for Woo Min-ho
For Woo Min-ho, Made in Korea represents a significant milestone as his debut TV series. Woo is also the creative force behind Harbin, a politically-charged action thriller set to premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival and release commercially in Korea next month.
Streaming on Disney+
Fans eagerly awaiting Made in Korea will be able to stream it exclusively on Disney+ in 2025. This move is part of Disney’s broader strategy to expand its Korean content library, which has already seen the release of ten shows in 2024.
Upcoming Korean content on Disney+
Disney+ is not stopping with Made in Korea. The platform has announced a slew of upcoming Korean series, including Knock-Off, starring Kim Soohyun and Cho Boah. This series explores the dark world of counterfeit goods, following a man whose life is upended by the 1997 Asian financial crisis, leading him into a fateful encounter with his ex-girlfriend, now a special police officer.
Expanding the Korean slate
Disney+ is committed to delivering premium, talent-driven dramas. The 2025 lineup includes titles like The Tyrant, Unmasked, Seoul Busters, Light Shop, and the crime thriller Gangnam B-Side, which will premiere at the Busan Film Festival. Other notable series set for release include Tempest, Low Life, and Nine Puzzles.
Personal reflections for enthusiasts
As a cinema and TV series enthusiast, the announcement of Made in Korea is particularly exciting. The 1970s setting offers a rich tapestry of historical and cultural context, providing a unique backdrop for the intense drama between Kitae and Geonyoung. The casting of Hyun Bin and Jung Woo-sung, both powerhouses in their own right, promises a dynamic and compelling on-screen rivalry.
In-depth analysis
The choice of Woo Min-ho as director is a strategic one. His previous works have demonstrated a keen ability to blend political intrigue with personal drama, making him an ideal fit for a series that promises to explore the darker aspects of ambition and justice. The collaboration between Park Eun-kyo and Park Joon-seok on the screenplay further elevates expectations, given their track record of creating nuanced and emotionally resonant narratives.
Distinctive comments
The inclusion of Knock-Off in Disney’s 2025 slate is another highlight. The series’ focus on the aftermath of the 1997 Asian financial crisis offers a poignant exploration of personal and societal upheaval. Kim Soohyun and Cho Boah’s involvement adds star power and depth, ensuring that the series will be both engaging and thought-provoking.
Conclusion
The upcoming release of Made in Korea and other Korean series on Disney+ marks an exciting time for fans of international drama. With top-tier talent, compelling storylines, and a commitment to high-quality production, these series are set to captivate audiences worldwide. Whether you’re a fan of crime thrillers, historical dramas, or character-driven narratives, there’s something in the pipeline to look forward to.
For more information and to watch the trailer, visit Made in Korea.
For more details on Knock-Off, check out Knock-Off.