Woo Min-ho’s latest series, “Made in Korea,” premiered on Disney+ on December 24, 2025, marking a significant return for actor Hyun Bin. The series explores the intersection of personal ambition and historical events in 1970s Korea.
Quick Context
“Made in Korea” follows Baek Ki-tae, played by Hyun Bin, a morally ambiguous intelligence officer navigating the corrupt powers within the Korean Central Intelligence Agency. The character’s journey is framed against a backdrop of significant historical events from the era, including the hijacking of Japan Airlines Flight 351 and the unresolved murder of Jeong In-suk. The series weaves these historical narratives into a compelling fiction, inviting viewers to consider the moral complexities faced by its characters.
Character Transformations
Director Woo Min-ho is known for reshaping familiar faces in his projects. He previously worked with renowned actors like Lee Byung-hun and Song Kang-ho, forcing audiences to view them in a new light. In “Made in Korea,” the transformation of Hyun Bin’s character Baek Ki-tae aims to challenge the audience’s preconceived notions of morality and ambition. Woo stated, “I like changing actors’ appearances when I work on a project… By stripping stars of their established images, he invites viewers to see them anew.”
Viewer Reception
Following its release, the series quickly gained popularity, ranking No. 1 in Disney+’s Top 10 TV Shows category for nearly 20 consecutive days. Audiences have found themselves empathetic toward Baek Ki-tae, even as he succumbs to moral decay. The intricate storytelling and atmospheric portrayal of 1970s Korea have resonated with viewers, prompting discussions about the ethical implications of the character’s actions.
What’s Next for Made in Korea
The first season has concluded, with all six episodes now available. Woo Min-ho has confirmed that a second season is in production, scheduled to wrap by March. The follow-up season is expected to delve deeper into the evolving dynamics between Baek Ki-tae and prosecutor Jang Geon-young, played by Jung Woo-sung. As per Woo’s insights, “In season two, which takes place nine years later, he will return armed with weapons of his own.” This evolution promises to keep the audience engaged as the narrative unfolds further.
The focus on ambition and power dynamics continues to be a hallmark of Woo’s storytelling, aiming to provide viewers with a deeper understanding of the characters shaped by Korea’s political and social realities. As the series has already sparked interest and dialogue, fans are eagerly awaiting what the next season will reveal.
Original source: Open the source
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