Up for a political Korean drama with a bodyguard-romance trope to die for?
The latest Korean drama series Tempest, starring South Korea’s top actors Jun Ji-hyun and Gang Dong-won, intrigues fans with twists and heart-stopping scenes, blending romance and action.
The Disney+ original series follows Seo Munju (played by Ji-hyun), a former United Nations ambassador, as she uncovers the truth behind the attempted assassination of presidential candidate Jang Junik (played by Park Hae-joon).
Munju discovers the past of Junik, who is also her husband, after he is accused of being a North Korean spy.
As she navigates layers of deceit, state secrets and international conspiracy leading to the White House, her own life hangs in the balance.
Paik Sanho (played by Dong-won), a mercenary with a mysterious past, is assigned by a hidden backer to protect Munju.
Meanwhile, South Korean actors Lee Mi-sook, Oh Jung-Se and Kim Hae-sook add depth and excitement to the series with their performances.
Other international actors include John Cho, Christopher Gorham, Michael Gaston and Spencer Garrett.
Tempest is directed by Kim Hee-won, known for Queen of Tears and Vincenzo, and co-directed by Heo Myeong-haeng, a leading martial arts director in Korea.
The series was written by Chung Seo-kyung, screenwriter of Little Women and produced by Imaginus in collaboration with Showrunners, AA and Skydance.
First collaboration
The political thriller marks the first on-screen collaboration of Dong-won and Ji-hyun, who both called it a dream project.
After years hoping to work together, Dong-won said Ji-hyun motivated him to join the series.
Ji-hyun expressed admiration for her co-star’s style and said she became an even bigger fan after getting to know him personally.
Ji-hyun returns to acting four years after her last K-drama, Jirisan. She is also known for The Legend of the Blue Sea and My Love from the Star.
Dong-won appeared in the horror film Dark Nuns, starring Song Hye-kyo, and also had roles in Peninsula and Uprising.
Disney+ Philippines released the trailer on August 19, which has garnered nearly 5,000 views.
The drama series debuted on September 17 (Philippine time) with three episodes on Disney+. New episodes will be available every Wednesday. – with reports from The Korean Times.