Disney is preparing to launch one of the most anticipated Korean drama series of the year with "Tempest," a sophisticated espionage romance that brings together two of South Korea's most celebrated and commercially successful actors. The high-profile production features Jun Ji-hyun, also known internationally as Gianna Jun, and Gang Dong-won in leading roles, marking a significant collaboration that has already generated substantial industry buzz.
The series centers around diplomat Moon-ju, portrayed by Jun Ji-hyun, who becomes consumed with uncovering the truth behind the shocking shooting of a presidential candidate. Her dangerous investigation becomes intertwined with the mysterious special agent San-ho, played by Gang Dong-won, who emerges from the shadows to protect her as she delves deeper into the conspiracy.
"Tempest" represents a major television comeback for both stars, carrying particular significance for their respective careers. For Jun Ji-hyun, known for her roles in "My Love From the Star" and "Assassination," this marks her return to television following her appearance in tvN's heavily criticized series "Jirisan." Gang Dong-won, celebrated for his performances in "Uprising" and "A Violent Prosecutor," is making an even more dramatic return to television after a remarkable 21-year absence from the small screen.
During a press conference held in Gwanghwamun, Seoul on Tuesday, both actors revealed that their mutual desire to work together was the primary motivation for joining the project. Jun Ji-hyun expressed her longtime admiration for her co-star, stating, "I've been a long-time fan of Gang. I chose this project because I truly wanted to work with him. I liked Gang's appearance, but getting to know him as a person during filming made me like him even more, and I've become an even bigger fan. With Gang playing San-ho, it created a bit more synergy for me as Moon-ju."
Gang Dong-won echoed these sentiments, explaining his decision to return to television after such an extended hiatus. "I chose this project because of Jun. Somehow, Jun and I hadn't had the chance to work together before. I'm really happy we could do this this time," he said. Regarding the transition from film to television production, Gang noted, "The long shooting schedule wasn't particularly difficult. The only difference was that the amount we filmed in a day was a bit more than shooting films. Preparing for my acting was the same – I didn't feel much difference compared to working in films."
Behind the camera, "Tempest" boasts an impressive creative team that adds to the series' credibility and potential for success. The project is co-directed by Kim Hee-won, who previously helmed the hit series "Queen of Tears," and Heo Myung-haeng, known for "The Roundup: Punishment." The script is crafted by Chung Seo-kyung, who served as co-writer for the critically acclaimed 2022 film "Decision to Leave," bringing significant expertise to the project.
Director Kim Hee-won elaborated on the series' thematic depth and universal appeal during the press conference. "When we're young and see world news, we tend to think, 'That doesn't really have anything to do with me.' But as we grow older, we realize, 'That wave is rising and coming toward me.' This work contains the question, 'What should I be looking at in the place where I live?' I believe not only Korean viewers but also international audiences might be able to ask themselves that same question."
While carefully avoiding any plot spoilers, Kim further discussed the emotional core that drives the narrative. "The universal emotions underlying the work are things people experience in life – love, disappointment, despair and hope," she added. The creative team has focused on developing a meticulously structured storyline that gradually builds both tension and emotional resonance throughout the series.
Kim provided insight into the series' pacing and structure, revealing how the show will unfold for viewers. "Up until episode 3, the focus was on dramatically conveying where the characters were, what stories they had and what kind of background existed. From episode 5 onward, it really hits the accelerator, with many large-scale sequences appearing. Starting from episode 6, the emotional elements come into play. And every week, one big secret is revealed."
"Tempest" will be released in a strategic rollout schedule designed to maintain viewer engagement and anticipation. The first three episodes will drop on September 10, followed by episodes four and five on September 17. Episodes six and seven will be released on September 24, with the final two episodes concluding the series on October 1.
