JTBC’s highly anticipated new Friday drama 'The Good Man' has unveiled its first still cuts, sparking strong excitement among viewers. The series draws even greater attention as it marks the first Korean drama produced by Hive Media Corp, the company behind critically and commercially successful films like '12.12: The Day,' 'Inside Men,' and 'Deliver Us from Evil.'
'The Good Man' is an emotional noir that tells the story of Park Seok Chul, the eldest son of a third-generation gangster family who has lived with emotional wounds, and Kang Mi Young, his first love, who dreams of becoming a singer. The drama maintains a noir sensibility while also offering a warm perspective, portraying passionate love, harsh reality, and slivers of hope all at once.
The series is also notable as the drama debut of a production team renowned for their work in film. Director Song Hae Sung, known for emotionally rich films such as 'Failan,' 'Boomerang Family,' and 'Maundy Thursday,' co-directs with Park Hong Soo, who delicately captured emotional fractures in the drama 'Lost.' Writers Kim Woon Kyung ('The Moon of Seoul,' 'Steal Heart') and Kim Hyo Seok ('Yadang: The Snitch') round out the strong creative lineup with their screenplay.
Actor Lee Dong Wook plays the lead role of Park Seok Chul, a young man who once dreamed of becoming a writer like Hemingway but ends up living as a gangster to survive. Despite enduring a harsh environment, he has remained steadfast, and when he resolves to leave his regretful past behind, he fatefully reunites with his first love, Kang Mi Young. In this role, Lee Dong Wook sheds his polished image to portray a rough-edged but emotionally deep character, expanding his acting range.
Actress Lee Sung Kyung takes on the role of Kang Mi Young, a woman who dreams of becoming a singer but struggles with stage fright. Though she faces setbacks, she refuses to give up on her dream. Her reunion with Seok Chul brings a renewed sense of hope and a turning point in her life. Lee Sung Kyung is expected to express the character’s complex emotions with her signature sensitivity and expressive gaze.
The newly released stills capture the growing closeness between the two characters after their reunion. Seok Chul gently comforts a nervous Mi Young, and the two exchange heartfelt glances, conveying moments of comfort and tenderness that transcend a typical romance. Their emotional journey, reconnecting after a long time apart, will serve as a key element of the story.
Lee Dong Wook shared his thoughts on working with Lee Sung Kyung, saying, “She’s thoughtful and full of ideas on set. Her bright and cheerful energy was a huge help.” He added, “To Seok Chul, Mi Young is both his salvation and the reason he wants to keep living,” succinctly defining his character’s emotions.
Lee Sung Kyung also praised her co-star, saying, “Lee Dong Wook was considerate and open to exploring the character together. It was a set filled with warmth and sensitivity.” She added, “'The Good Man' is a story of first love: pure, clumsy, but deeply sincere. I hope many people will find comfort and resonance in it.”
The first teaser video has also been released, further heightening anticipation. It shows Park Seok Chul, once the ace of his gang, trying to walk away from his criminal past and start anew, only to find himself entangled in conflicts within the organization and external pressures. A confrontation with Kang Tae Hoon (played by Park Hoon), who utters the chilling line, “Of all people, it had to be you, Seok Chul,” hints at a complex relationship beyond mere rivalry and raises the suspense.
Set against the backdrop of tough realities outside the limelight, The Good Man blends romance and humanity, delivering an emotional experience within the unique genre of emotional noir. Through the fierce lives of its characters, the drama aims to leave a lasting impression on viewers.
Anticipation is running high among fans, with reactions like: “I’ve been waiting for a drama like this from Lee Dong Wook,” “Can’t wait to see his acting range,” “Great casting—this looks promising,” “Beautiful visuals, I’m intrigued,” “Yes, this is the kind of genre I wanted,” and “Lee Dong Wook’s noir? Count me in. Hoping for The Good Man to succeed!”
'The Good Man' will premiere as JTBC’s new Friday drama on July 18 at 8:50 PM KST, airing two consecutive episodes every Friday to kick off the weekend.
There’s growing curiosity about how this team’s transition from the big screen to television will pay off.
SEE ALSO: 'The Good Man' starring Lee Dong Wook unveils new poster ahead of anticipated premiere
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