The intense first-episode preview of a major Korean drama is generating major buzz just one day ahead of its official premiere.
The show in question is none other than Disney+’s original series 'Low Life.' With a star-studded lineup including Ryu Seung Ryong, Yang Se Jong, Im Soo Jung, and TVXQ’s Jung Yunho, the preview clip released on July 15 has sparked strong reactions from viewers.
The teaser, revealed a day before the full premiere, spotlights the first encounter between Yang Se Jong and Jung Yunho. The tense scene, in which the two clash over a woman, quickly drew attention for its intense energy. Jung Yunho, in particular, left a strong impression with his natural portrayal of a small-town gangster.
Viewers who saw the teaser shared enthusiastic comments like, “That dialect is savage. D-1, finally!!!” “My heart’s pounding just from a short clip,” “Yunho’s acting is great~~~,” “Only one day left now,” “So much charisma,” “His dialect acting is spot on,” “I’m really looking forward to this,” “That casting is insane…” “A lineup of actors you can trust,” “I’m already excited just thinking about it. I’ll be watching the moment the clock strikes 4 tomorrow,” and “This is one of my favorite webtoons. Super hyped. Can’t wait to watch.”
Set off the coast of Shinan, South Jeolla Province, in 1977, 'Low Life' revolves around a group of rural misfits caught up in a web of deception surrounding a sunken treasure ship buried beneath the sea.
The drama is based on the webtoon of the same name by famed artist Yoon Tae Ho, known for 'Moss' and 'Misaeng.' Directed by Kang Yoon Sung and co-written with Ahn Seung Hwan, the series was produced by YWORKS Entertainment.
The story unfolds as rumors spread of a treasure-laden shipwreck filled with priceless antiques off the coast of Shinan. Drawn by the scent of money, swindlers, gangsters, and con artists from across Korea descend on the sleepy fishing village. At its heart is the survival story of small-time scammers and petty thieves whose lives spiral when faced with a once-in-a-lifetime temptation.
Though inspired by true events, including a real 1977 shipwreck and looting incident near Shinan, the drama blends fiction with historical detail to heighten the drama.
The cast is as dazzling as the plot. Ryu Seung Ryong plays Oh Gwan Seok, the crew’s de facto leader, while Yang Se Jong portrays his nephew Hee Dong, who joins him on the treasure hunt. Im Soo Jung plays Yang Jung Sook, an ambitious businesswoman with a hidden agenda. Supporting roles are filled by charismatic actors like Kim Eui Sung, Kim Sung Oh, and Lee Dong Hwi.
Of special note is Jung Yunho of TVXQ, who plays Bulgu, a gangster from Mokpo. He showcases a rich dialect and a colorful performance. “Though he’s a gangster, the character has a lot of warmth,” Yunho shared. “Beyond the appearance, the complexity of his relationships really appealed to me. The encouragement I received from senior actors meant a lot.”
Kim Jong Soo plays appraiser Mr. Song, while Lee Sang Jin portrays the bumbling country bumpkin Na Dae Shik, and Kim Min appears as Seon Ja, a café waitress in Mokpo—each adding their own flavor to the drama.
One of the show’s biggest strengths is its detailed recreation of 1977 and the seaside village atmosphere. The fierce scheming and betrayals among everyday rural folks offer a fresh contrast to today’s darker crime thrillers, bringing a nostalgic charm and warmth. Authentic depictions of regional dialect and everyday life transport viewers directly into the 1970s.
Adding to the tension are tangled webs of greed, betrayal, and shifting alliances that rival the sunken treasure in value. On this treacherous playing field where no one can be trusted, high-stakes psychological warfare unfolds, delivering edge-of-your-seat thrills.
'Low Life' is rated 15+ and captures the gritty essence of period crime dramas. The 11-episode series will stream exclusively on Disney+ from July 16 to August 13.
The first three episodes will drop on premiere day, with two new episodes released every Wednesday thereafter. With its rare coastal 1970s setting, emotional depth, colorful characters, and unpredictable twists, 'Low Life' is already garnering major anticipation from viewers.
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