In an exciting announcement, Netflix has unveiled its major slate of Korean films and series for 2024. This impressive lineup comes after Netflix committed to investing $2.5 billion in Korean content over the next four years, solidifying its position as the leading streamer in the country. With an estimated 6.5 million subscribers, Netflix has become one of the biggest exporters of Korean film and TV content.
Ted Sarandos, the co-chief of Netflix, expressed great confidence in the Korean creative industry and its ability to continue telling compelling stories. This investment decision is a testament to the streamer's belief in the talent and potential of the Korean entertainment industry.
The announcement showcases a mix of first-look images and updates for previously announced projects, along with additional seasons for returning series and fresh commissions. Fans can anticipate the second season of the immensely popular series 'Squid Game,' as well as updates on the eagerly awaited film 'Uprising,' produced by Park Chan-wook.
Returning series include the third season of 'Sweet Home,' produced by Studio Dragon, which will premiere this summer. This season promises to explore a new chapter in a world where monstrous transformations have ended and a new humanity arises. Other returning series include 'Gyeongsang Creature,' 'Single's Inferno,' 'Zombieverse,' and the second season of 'Hellbound,' directed by Yeon Sang-ho.
Yeon Sang-ho, best known for his work on 'Train to Busan,' is also set to deliver a live-action adaptation of the manga 'Parasyte: The Grey' in the second quarter. This thrilling story delves into a world where parasites in human brains threaten society's balance. The project boasts an impressive cast including Jeon So-nee, Koo Kyo-hwan, Lee Jung-hyun, Kwon Hae-hyo, and Kim In-kwon.
The new slate also offers an abundance of romance series for fans to enjoy. From historical love stories such as 'Captivating the King' to modern-day tales like 'Queen of Tears' featuring Kim Soo-hyun and Kim Ji-won, viewers can expect heartwarming and captivating narratives. Medical comedy in 'Doctor Slump,' the spin-off series 'Resident Playbook,' end-of-life comedy-romance in 'Mr. Plankton,' and teen revenge romance in 'Hierarchy' are among the other romantic offerings. Notably, 'The Trunk' starring Gong Yoo focuses on dark secrets emerging from a clandestine matchmaking service.
For suspense enthusiasts, Netflix has an array of gripping series lined up. 'The Bequeathed' explores murders, dark secrets, and family burial grounds, while 'A Killer Paradox' features Choi Woo-sik and Son Suk-ku in an intricate game of chase. 'The Frog' takes place in a mysterious motel, and 'The Whirlwind' revolves around a political feud that needs resolution.
On the film front, Park Chan-wook is set to produce and write the historical drama 'Uprising,' previously known as 'War and Revolt.' Directed by Kim Sang-man and starring Gang Dong-won and Park Jeong-min, the film tells the story of childhood friends turned adversaries and is set to be delivered in the fourth quarter. Other films to look forward to include the romance and drama title 'My Name is Loh Kiwan' starring Song Joong-ki, the action-packed 'Officer Black Belt' with Kim Woo-bin, and the sci-fi disaster film 'The Great Flood' featuring Park Hae-soo.
Netflix's Korean unscripted slate is equally enticing, with the previously announced second season of 'Physical 100,' special agents solving bizarre cases in 'Agents of Mystery,' wealthy show-offs in 'Super Rich in Korea,' influencers competing for attention in 'The Influencer,' and a culinary showdown in 'Unknown Chefs.'
With this impressive lineup of films and series, Netflix continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing diverse and engaging content from the Korean entertainment industry to audiences worldwide. From thrilling suspense to heartwarming romances, there is something for everyone to enjoy. As we eagerly await the release of these exciting projects, one thing is certain – Korean content on Netflix is reaching new heights.
