The Disney+ original series 'Made in Korea' returns with an expanded scale and a deeper storyline. Set against the backdrop of South Korea's tumultuous modern history in 1979, the series depicts an inevitable clash between those at the pinnacle of power and those who have fallen to the bottom.
On September 2, a production presentation for 'Made in Korea Season 2' (referred to as 'Mainco2') was held at the Conrad Seoul Hotel in Yeouido, Seoul. The event featured director Woo Min-ho and cast members Hyun Bin, Jung Woo-sung, Woo Do-hwan, Seo Eun-soo, Won Ji-an, Jung Sung-il, Noh Jae-won, and Cha Hee, who discussed the project.
Set to premiere on September 9, 'Mainco2' takes place nine years after the first season, which achieved the highest global viewership last year. The series is a noir drama that captures the chaotic period leading up to the 10·26 incident and the 12·12 military coup, focusing on the reckless ambitions of Baek Gi-tae (played by Hyun Bin) and the counteractions of Jang Geon-young (played by Jung Woo-sung), along with the perilous journeys of characters pursuing their own desires.
Director Woo Min-ho noted, "While Season 1 featured different stories in each episode, Season 2 follows a single narrative from start to finish. If the previous season was a 'children's fight,' this one is an 'adult's fight.'" He added, "Whereas 'The Man Standing Next' and 'Seoul's Spring' focused on the perspectives of those deeply involved in historical events, 'Mainco2' captures the viewpoints of fictional characters and bystanders, using historical events as a backdrop to explore the characters' desires and choices."
Hyun Bin reprises his role as Baek Gi-tae, the acting head of the Central Intelligence Agency. He explained, "Despite having achieved a higher position and greater wealth than in Season 1, Baek Gi-tae is driven by even greater ambitions. He faces loneliness as he confronts forces trying to stop his unchecked power and finds himself in danger due to bold choices."
Jung Woo-sung, who plays Jang Geon-young, a special advisor who lost everything in Season 1, is fueled by a desire for personal revenge. He stated, "Having been thrown to the ground, Jang Geon-young rationalizes his personal vendetta under the guise of public justice as he seeks to bring down Baek Gi-tae." He added that portraying a similar era to his previous work, 'Seoul's Spring,' was refreshing and liberating as it delves into individual desires and nature within a nationalistic system.
Woo Do-hwan, portraying Colonel Baek Gi-hyun of the Security Command, hinted at a more mature character. He remarked, "In Season 1, Gi-hyun was like a 'middle schooler,' but in Season 2, he has become an adult with firm beliefs. He will confront his brother Gi-tae more fiercely to protect his family."
The series also highlights the roles of female characters. Seo Eun-soo plays Oh Ye-jin, the first female prosecutor in South Korea's drug investigation unit. He expressed confidence in portraying a strong and determined character who fights against the world, transcending the limitations of being a woman.
Won Ji-an, who plays Ikeda Yuji, a key figure in the Japanese underworld, urged viewers to look forward to intense action and confrontations as her character pursues her goals without hesitation.
Additionally, Jung Sung-il joins the cast as Cheon Seok-jung, the chief of staff at the Blue House, while Noh Jae-won plays Pyo Hak-soo, the head of the Busan branch of the Central Intelligence Agency, who undergoes significant changes. Cha Hee portrays Baek So-young, who becomes deeply involved in her brother Gi-tae's business, adding depth to the narrative.
Finally, Director Woo expressed confidence in the cast's performances, stating, "The actors have delivered their roles exceptionally well, making it a pleasure to watch." Hyun Bin encouraged viewers, saying, "We have returned with a story that is deeper and broader, so please stay tuned until the end." 'Made in Korea Season 2,' which promises intense power struggles among adults, consists of six episodes and will premiere on Disney+ on September 9, releasing two episodes weekly.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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