Get ready for a thrilling return to 1970s Korea! Disney+ has just announced the renewal of its gripping crime series, 'Made In Korea,' for a second season – and the wait for Season 1 is almost over! Mark your calendars because the premiere is set for December 24th of this year. But here's where it gets controversial... Could this series become Disney+'s next big global hit, potentially rivaling other Korean dramas? Let's see what it's all about.
Season 1 boasts a stellar cast, featuring Hyun Bin (of 'Crash Landing On You' fame), Jung Woosung, and Woo Dohwan. All three actors graced the stage at Disney's APAC Showcase in Hong Kong, generating major buzz for the series. Hyun Bin reunites with director Woo Min-ho, rekindling a successful partnership after their collaboration on the historical film 'Harbin.'
If you're already hooked, you'll be thrilled to know that production for Season 2 has already commenced. However, patience is key – the premiere is slated for late 2026. This extended timeline suggests a significant expansion in scope and production value, promising an even more immersive and captivating experience.
'Made In Korea' plunges us into the turbulent world of 1970s Korea, focusing on Baek Kitae (played by Hyun Bin), a KCIA agent shrouded in secrecy. Ambitious and driven by a relentless pursuit of power, Kitae lives a double life. By day, he's a dedicated agent; by night, a cunning smuggler. This duality allows him to rapidly ascend the ranks, using his illicit operations to consolidate power, protect his brother (played by Woo Dohwan), and funnel vast sums of money into the agency. Think of it as a Korean 'Breaking Bad,' but with espionage and political intrigue.
But and this is the part most people miss... Kitae's seemingly unstoppable rise is threatened by one incorruptible obstacle: Jang Geon-young (played by Jung Woosung), a tenacious prosecutor who refuses to be swayed by bribes or intimidation. This sets the stage for a high-stakes showdown between two powerful men, each determined to bring the other down. Who will emerge victorious? The series promises a gripping narrative filled with twists, turns, and moral ambiguities.
Behind the scenes, 'Made in Korea' is penned by the talented writers Park Eunkyo (known for 'Sea of Tranquility' and 'Mother') and Park Joonseok ('A Normal Family'). The series is produced by Hive Media Corp, ensuring a high-quality production value.
The release schedule for Season 1 is as follows: the first two episodes premiere on December 24th, followed by another two episodes on December 31st. A single episode will be released on January 7th, culminating in the finale on January 14th. Get ready for a binge-worthy start to the new year!
Now, here's a question for you: Do you think 'Made In Korea' will live up to the hype? Can it truly capture the complexities of 1970s Korean society and deliver a compelling crime drama? And perhaps more controversially, will it appeal to a global audience beyond fans of Korean dramas, or will it remain a niche series? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!
