Edited by Hong Hyun Jung
Translated Yu Jin Kim
Parasyte: The Grey (4/5)
Overview: The story follows the emergence of a parasitic alien species that takes over humans as hosts to expand its power. A special task force is formed to combat this threat, while one woman develops a strange bond with it.
The Japanese manga “Parasyte” by Hitoshi Iwaaki is reborn with an expanded universe in a new drama directed by Yeon Sang Ho. The original work gained immense popularity for its imaginative premise of parasitic creatures taking over human brains and controlling their bodies, along with its deep philosophical messages. This new adaptation stays true to the core setting but introduces changes to the characters and background to create a distinct adaptation.
Jeon So Nee stars as Soo In, who coexists with a parasitic creature. Koo Kyo Hwan plays Kang Woo, who joins Su In in uncovering the parasites’ motives. Lee Jung Hyun takes on the role of Jun Kyung, the head of a special task force dedicated to the extermination of parasites. Director Yeon Sang Ho is looking to recapture his horror mojo with Parasite: The Grey as his latest films haven’t quite hit the mark except for the critically-acclaimed Hellbound. Thankfully, the trailers have gotten a positive response so far.
Lovely Runner (4/8)
Overview: The story follows a devoted fan who goes back in time to save the life of the artist who made her want to live.
A sweet romance drama perfect for the blossoming season of spring is here. Lovely Runner starring Kim Hye Yoon and Byun Woo Suk is about to make a splash. Based on the web novel by author Kimbbang, it follows the popular trope of time travel, but this time with a focus on a heartwarming story of mutual salvation rather than revenge, which was the central theme in Marry My Husband. Kim Hye Yoon takes on the role of Im Sol, who travels back 15 years to prevent the death of her favorite artist, Ryu Seon Jae. Byun Woo Seok plays Ryu Seon-jae, a popular idol singer who suddenly faces death.
Viewers are excited about the long-awaited youthful romance drama. In particular, the height difference between Kim Hye Yoon (160cm) and Byun Woo Seok (189cm) is making viewers’ hearts flutter. Kim Hye Yoon has shown a refreshing chemistry with tall Rowoon in Extraordinary Yoo, so her chemistry with Byun Woo Seok is also drawing attention. Byun Woo Seok is taking on his first lead role in 7 years.
>> Byeon Woo Seok Raves About Chemistry with Kim Hye Yoon in ‘Lovely Runner’
Blood Free (4/10)
Overview: The story follows the CEO of BF, a bioengineering company that ushered in a new era of artificial cultured meat in 2025, and a retired military officer-turned-bodyguard who intentionally approaches her. They become embroiled in mysterious deaths and incidents, and they chase after the truth behind it all.
Blood Free is the second collaboration between writer Lee Soo Yeon of Stranger and Disney Plus. Following Grid, the series combines Sci-fi and thriller elements to tell the story of a mysterious incident that takes place in the near future. As Grid received mixed reviews due to its complex plot and ambiguous ending, attention is focused on how Blood Free will be received.
The drama stars Ju Ji Hoon, Han Hyo Joo, and Lee Moo Saeng, who has been rising in popularity with his impressive supporting roles in recent works. Han Hyo Joo plays Yoon Ja Yu, the CEO of a giant bioengineering company, Ju Ji Hoon plays Woo Chae Woon, a bodyguard who chases after the truth behind a terrorist incident, and Lee Moo Saeng plays On San, Yoon Ja Yu’s best friend and the research director who co-founded the BF Group.
Missing Crown Prince (4/13)
Overview: The series is about a crown prince who is kidnapped by the woman destined to be his wife. While fleeing for their lives, romance blooms between them.
Suho, who won the hearts of viewers with his role as the mysterious young man in last year’s Behind Your Touch, has taken on his first historical drama since his debut. Missing Crown Prince is a spin-off of Bossam: Steal the Fate, and tells the intriguing story of a crown prince who is kidnapped by the woman who has been chosen to be his concubine. Given the success of its original series, attention is focused on whether Suho’s transformation in the drama will lead to success on the small screen.
Chief Detective 1958 (4/19)
Overview: The story is set in 1958 and follows Park Young Han, a detective who specializes in catching petty thieves. He teams up with three eccentric colleagues to fight against corrupt power and become a detective for the people.
The legendary detective drama Chief Detective is back after 35 years with a prequel. Chief Detective 1958 tells the story of the young days of the legendary detective Park. Lee Jae Hoon takes on the role of the young detective Park, previously played by veteran actor Choi Bool Am, and is joined by Lee Dong Hwi, Choi Woo Sung, and Yoon Hyun Soo. Expectations are high for the return of Chief Detective.
What sets the drama apart is its fresh take on the concept of profiling and the use of analog investigative methods, using innate intuition, insight, and tenacity to solve crimes in an era without CCTV cameras. It will be interesting to see if Lee Je Hoon can create another iconic character like Kim Do Ki from Taxi Driver with his portrayal of Detective Park in Chief Detective 1958.
Edited Hong Hyun Jung: I am a K-content guide who publishes various articles for people to enjoy Korean movies and dramas deeper and richer. I’ll introduce you to the works that you can laugh, cry and sympathize with.
