Netflix has recently announced its plans to further expand its lineup of international content, with a particular focus on Korea. One of the most compelling reveals for the 2024 Korea slate is the highly anticipated first project by acclaimed director Park Chan-wook. Park, known for his masterpieces such as “Oldboy” and “Decision to Leave,” will release his newest project, “Uprising,” on Netflix at the end of this year. This collaboration between Netflix and Park Chan-wook is undoubtedly an exciting development for Korean cinema enthusiasts and fans of the director’s distinct storytelling style.
In addition to Park Chan-wook’s project, Netflix has also announced the launch of new seasons for popular Korean series. Fans can look forward to the return of beloved shows like “Gyeongseong Creature,” “Hellbound,” and “Sweet Home.” These series have captivated audiences with their unique storylines and compelling characters, making their upcoming seasons highly anticipated.
Netflix is not only focusing on scripted dramas but is also venturing into unscripted shows. Among the exciting additions to the platform are shows like “Physical: 100,” featuring a game show format with 100 contestants vying for the top prize. The first season of “Physical: 100” became the first Korean unscripted series to rank first on Netflix’s global top 10 list for non-English shows. This impressive achievement highlights the growing popularity of Korean content worldwide.
In an effort to diversify its content and provide opportunities for emerging talent, Netflix has pledged to ensure that one in five Korean titles between 2022 and 2025 come from a first-time writer or director. This commitment comes in response to concerns from lawmakers about Netflix’s dominant position in the market. By supporting first-time creatives, Netflix aims to encourage innovation and bring fresh perspectives to its Korean content offerings.
Upcoming originals like “The Bequeathed,” “Bandland Hunters,” “My Name is Loh Kiwan,” and “The Frog” will be helmed by first-time directors. These projects promise to introduce new voices and storytelling approaches to the Korean entertainment industry. By nurturing emerging talent, Netflix continues to push boundaries in the pursuit of captivating and immersive content.
Netflix’s Korean content lineup for the first quarter of the year includes several highly anticipated titles. “A Killer Paradox,” premiering on February 9, boasts an impressive cast featuring Choi Woo-shik, Son Suk-ku, and Lee Hee-jun. Based on a popular webtoon, the series tells the story of a college student who accidentally commits murder and discovers a supernatural gift within himself.
Following on March 1 is “My Name is Loh Kiwan,” starring Song Joong-ki. The series follows the journey of a North Korean defector seeking refugee status in Belgium. There, he meets Marie, a Belgian national and former Korean shooting competitor. This compelling narrative promises to explore themes of identity, resilience, and human connections.
Other titles, such as family drama “Queen of Tears” and comedy mystery drama “Chicken Nugget,” further showcase the diverse range of storytelling that Korean content has to offer.
Netflix’s focus on Korean content has proven to be a smart investment. The first season of “Sweet Home” became the first Korean series to enter Netflix’s top 10 list in the United States, signaling a growing interest in Korean content among Americans. With the highly anticipated release of the third season of “Sweet Home” and other promising projects, Korean content is set to continue captivating a global audience.
Looking ahead, Netflix’s second-quarter releases include the second season of “Gyeongseong Creature,” set in present-day Seoul and directed by award-winning director Chung Dong-yoon. Additionally, beloved actor Park Hae-soo, known for his roles in “Squid Game” and “Money Heist: Korea,” will star in “The Great Flood,” a sci-fi disaster film that promises both thrilling action and compelling performances.
Don Kang, Vice President of Korean Content at Netflix, expressed his excitement for the diverse array of Korean titles coming to the platform this year. Netflix’s commitment to showcasing the true essence of Korean storytellers and nurturing emerging talent bodes well for the future of Korean content on a global scale.
Netflix’s expanding influence in the Korean entertainment landscape highlights the platform’s commitment to providing diverse and compelling content. With renowned directors like Park Chan-wook joining forces with emerging talents, audiences can expect groundbreaking stories and captivating performances. As the demand for Korean content rises, Netflix’s investment in this market proves to be a compelling strategy that benefits both creators and viewers alike.