Disney+ has released the first look of its upcoming Korean action thriller The Manipulated, starring Ji Chang Wook and EXOโs D.O. (Doh Kyung Soo). The images show the two actors in intense roles, with D.O. playing a cold-hearted villain for the first time in his career. The series is set to premiere in the second half of 2025.
The drama follows Park Tae Jung (Ji Chang Wook), an ordinary man wrongfully imprisoned for a crime he did not commit. He later discovers that his misfortune was orchestrated by An Yo Han (D.O.), a manipulative mastermind who fabricates evidence to frame innocent people. The stills reveal Ji Chang Wook as a desperate prisoner with visible injuries, while D.O. appears in a sleek black outfit, exuding a sinister aura.
Director Park Shin Woo shared his excitement about the project, calling it a “bloody revenge drama” with high-stakes action. The series is written by Oh Sang Ho, known for Taxi Driver and The Roundup: Punishment. The supporting cast includes Lee Kwang Soo, Jo Yoon Soo, and Yang Dong Geun in key roles.
Fans are eagerly waiting to see D.O. in a villainous role, a departure from his usual gentle characters. The actor has previously starred in romantic and comedic roles, making this dark transformation a major highlight. Ji Chang Wook, known for action-packed performances in The Worst of Evil and Healer, is expected to deliver another powerful performance.
The Manipulated will consist of 10 episodes and stream exclusively on Disney+. The teaser shows Tae Jung declaring, โIโm going to get out of here,โ hinting at his fierce determination for revenge. More updates, including the exact release date, are expected soon.
“Iโm thrilled and eagerly looking forward to the release of โThe Manipulatedโ on Disney+. The story follows Tae Joong, an ordinary man whose mundane life is shattered when he becomes entangled in a brutal crime. His quest for bloody vengeance promises a compelling narrative and spectacular action that I believe viewers will find satisfying. Please look forward to it.” โ Director Park Shin Woo
The series marks the first on-screen collaboration between Ji Chang Wook and D.O., adding to the excitement. With a strong production team and a gripping revenge plot, The Manipulated is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated Korean dramas of 2025.
Credits: Disney+ Korea