Leading the charge for 2024 is an action series based on Kang Ji-young’s novel, “A Shop for Killers,” set to premiere on Disney+.
Amidst underperformance in the Korean streaming market, rumors circulated about Disney+ considering dismissing its Korean content team and withdrawing from the market. However, they changed direction following the success of “Moving” and the strong performance of “Vigilante.” While not as expansive as Netflix, Disney+ has announced several series scheduled for release in 2024.
“A Shop for Killers” is slated to debut on Disney+ on January 17, 2024, as an 8-episode series.
official trailer of “A Shop for Killers”
synopsis of “A Shop for Killers”
After losing her parents, Jee-an grows up under the care of her uncle Jin-man, who runs a shopping mall. However, after her uncle’s sudden death, she finds herself guarding the mall’s warehouse. Upon notifying the mall’s customers of her uncle’s passing, suspicious individuals begin to intrude, one after another, aiming to loot the shopping mall.
The genre is labeled as noir action, with Director Lee Kwon emphasizing action as the series’ primary attraction, aiming to incorporate diverse action sequences. It’s been dubbed “New Wave Action” by the media.
Regardless of its title, the success of this straightforward plot series arguably hinges on the action performance of its lead actress, Kim Hye-jun. However, there are few examples of actresses who have left a particularly strong mark in action films or series in Korea.
A one-woman action film or series presents a dual challenge. While the actress’s dedication plays a role in its success, the director’s capability is equally pivotal.
casting of “A Shop for Killers”
Lee Dong-wook as Jung Jin-man
The uncle who secretly runs a suspicious shopping mall while taking care of his niece, Jee-an, who lost her parents.
Famous for his role as the Grim Reaper in the hit 2016 drama “Guardian: The Lonely and Great God.”
Kim Hye-Jun as Jung Jee-an
Jee-An, the niece who lost her parents and was raised by her unconventional uncle, finds herself in an unexpected series of events after his sudden death, realizing that his shopping mall is anything but ordinary.
One of the pivotal roles in Netflix Korea’s original series, “Kingdom,” propelled Kim Hye-jun to fame as Queen Consort Cho, gaining recognition among fans. Despite facing criticism for awkward acting in Season 1, her dramatic improvement in Season 2 helped dispel the controversy.
Furthermore, Seo Hyun-woo, Jo Han-sun, Park Ji-bin, Kim Hae-na, and Kim Min were cast in “A Shop for Killers.”
production crew of “A Shop for Killers”
Director Lee Kwon, known for directing the movie “Door Lock” and series “Save Me 2,” is involved in both directing and writing the screenplay of “A Shop for Killers.” Additionally, directing is shared with Director No Kyu-yeop, while the screenplay is a collaborative effort between Writer Ji Ho-jin.
Learn more about the rising popularity of a non-Netflix show in Korea at https://triviaaboutkorea.com/boyhood-coupang-play-and-coupang/
Find the Korean action-packed hero series “Moving” available for streaming at https://www.disneyplus.com/ko-kr/series/moving/51eZUrK4LnAc
