The upcoming Disney+ K-drama "Made in Korea" is generating considerable buzz, especially after Walt Disney Company Korea's "Open House" event on May 23, 2025, where it was highlighted as one of the most anticipated original series for the second half of the year. Set against the backdrop of the turbulent 1970s, this series promises a gripping narrative of ambition, power, and justice.
"Made in Korea" features a stellar cast led by Hyun Bin and Jung Woo Sung. Hyun Bin portrays Baek Ki Tae, a character driven by an insatiable desire for wealth and power. In stark contrast, Jung Woo Sung plays Jang Geon Young, a prosecutor willing to sacrifice everything to stop Baek Ki Tae's ascent. The series will explore the complex relationship between these two men as they navigate a monumental event that defines an era. The supporting cast includes Won Ji An, Seo Eun Soo, Cho Yeo Jeong, Jung Sung Il, and Woo Do Hwan, adding further depth to the narrative.
The series marks a significant shift for director Woo Min Ho, renowned for his hard-hitting political thrillers such as "Inside Men" and "The Man Standing Next," as it is his first foray into directing a television drama. Given his track record, "Made in Korea" is expected to deliver the same level of tension, intricate character dynamics, and weighty narratives that have become his signature.
According to Kim Won Guk, CEO of HIVE Media Corp, the production company behind the drama, "Made in Korea" has been crafted with meticulous attention to detail, backed by Disney's resources. He confidently stated that the series would "shake the foundations of the K-drama industry" upon its release, promising a viewing experience akin to Woo Min Ho's previous cinematic successes.
"Made in Korea" is attracting attention for its bold thematic direction. It aims to delve into the darker aspects of 1970s Korea, a period of rapid industrialization and political upheaval, tackling issues of corruption, morality, and institutional malfeasance head-on. This sets it apart from many mainstream K-dramas, promising a more profound exploration of the era.
However, the anticipation surrounding "Made in Korea" is also tinged with concerns due to controversies surrounding the personal lives of its lead actors. Disney+ is approaching the situation with caution, refraining from making any statements. This situation is further complicated by the indefinite postponement of another Disney+ series, "Knock-Off," due to a scandal involving its lead actor, Kim Soo Hyun.
Despite these challenges, "Made in Korea" remains one of Disney+'s most anticipated K-dramas, with a reported budget of ₩70 billion. The series is co-written by Park Eun-gyo and Park Joon-suk, promising a well-crafted and compelling storyline. As the premiere date in the second half of 2025 draws closer, viewers are eager to see if "Made in Korea" will deliver on its promise to be a game-changing addition to the K-drama landscape.
