In new Disney+ K-drama ‘Tempest,’ assassination ignites intrigue

Get ready to mark your calendars, K-drama and thriller aficionados, because Disney+ has just dropped its latest high-stakes series, "Tempest," and it promises to be an absolute rollercoaster! With its initial three episodes already premiered on September 10th, this politically-charged nine-part Korean drama is set to deliver weekly doses of intrigue and suspense.

The story plunges us directly into a web of conspiracy when Seo Mun-ju (played by the phenomenal Gianna Jun), a Korean ambassador, witnesses the shocking broad-daylight assassination of her husband, Republican presidential candidate Jang Jun-ik (Park Hae-joon). As political tensions around unification reach a boiling point, this tragic event unravels a chain of chaos. Enter Baek San-ho (Gang Dong-won), a mysterious spy whose loyalties are shrouded in ambiguity, yet he finds himself drawn into the investigation after observing peculiar details at the crime scene. Together, Mun-ju and San-ho embark on a perilous journey to unearth the dark truth behind the killing.

Adding to the excitement is the star-studded ensemble cast. Fans have long awaited the pairing of two South Korean giants, Gianna Jun and Gang Dong-won, who finally team up in "Tempest." Viewers will also be thrilled to see Park Hae-joon make his much-anticipated return to television after a 21-year hiatus. The series boasts an impressive international cast, including Hollywood actors John Cho and Michael Gaston, alongside esteemed Korean talents like Lee Mi-sook and Christopher Gorham.

What truly sets "Tempest" apart, beyond its gripping narrative, is the vision behind it. Director Kim Hee-won, known for her work on "Queen of Tears," shared that the series explores profound themes of "love, disappointment, despair, and hope." Co-director Heo Myeonghaeng (from "The Roundup: Punishment") also highlighted the show's unique balance of raw realism with stylish, impactful action sequences. This ambitious blend of thriller, action, and romance is designed to be utterly binge-worthy.

If you're craving a K-drama that’s packed with political drama, thrilling twists, and stellar performances, "Tempest" is certainly one to add to your watch list. Catch the remaining episodes as they are released weekly, exclusively on Disney+.