The “King of Rom-Coms” is stepping into a world of crime and chaos. Park Seo-joon, known for his charming roles in shows like What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim and Itaewon Class, is set to transform into a ruthless villain for his next project. Disney+ has officially confirmed the production of Born Guilty, a crime-action noir series that marks a significant shift for the beloved actor. The streaming platform shared the first details on March 30, 2026, including photos from the script reading and the full cast lineup, immediately catching the attention of fans worldwide.
Set in the lawless streets of 1980s Seoul, Born Guilty follows a group of ambitious individuals who risk everything for power and survival during a city-wide redevelopment boom. The series is adapted from a popular Kakao Webtoon of the same name by author Lee Moo-gi, promising a gritty and intense narrative that moves far away from the romantic comedies that made Park Seo-joon a household name.
A Dark New Role for Park Seo-joon
For Born Guilty, Park Seo-joon takes on the character of Paeng-i, a notorious villain described as a “devil of the era.” Paeng-i is a mysterious figure who appears suddenly in an area swept up in a redevelopment frenzy ahead of the 1988 Seoul Olympics. Unlike his previous roles, this character is sharp, vicious, and unpredictable. He is a thug who was abandoned at a young age and raised in an orphanage, using his intellect and ruthless determination to overthrow his rivals.
The actor himself expressed his excitement about the project, noting that it is exactly the kind of challenge he has been waiting for.
Park Seo-joon said, “It’s both a character and a story I’ve been waiting for. As an actor, it’s a project I can’t help but want. I think I can show a new side of myself through the role of Paeng-i.”
Joining him in this violent world is Um Tae-goo, who plays Saeng-dak, a member of the North Gang. Saeng-dak’s life is turned upside down when he betrays his organization to accept a once-in-a-lifetime offer from Paeng-i. Um Tae-goo shared that the script felt fun because of the wide variety of characters and admitted feeling both nervous and excited to begin filming.
The Woman Caught in the Middle
The series also introduces Jo Hye-joo, who plays Bok-hee, the key supplier in the drug trade and Paeng-i’s first love. Bok-hee reconnects with Paeng-i through the drug business and is expected to steer the story in unpredictable directions with her unexpected choices. Jo Hye-joo, known for her roles in Reborn Rich and My Demon, was drawn to the unique historical setting and the motivations of the characters.
Jo Hye-joo said, “I was impressed by the historical setting and the unique circumstances and motivations of the characters. It’s such a compelling project that I wanted to join as soon as I read the script.”
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When and Where to Watch ‘Born Guilty’
Born Guilty is being produced by New Point and Plusmedia Entertainment and directed by Hong Won-chan, the filmmaker behind the acclaimed action thriller Deliver Us from Evil. This marks Hong Won-chan’s series directorial debut.
The series is scheduled to premiere sometime in 2027 exclusively on Disney+. While the exact date has not yet been announced, the series will be available for global audiences on the streaming platform. The show consists of eight episodes, suggesting a focused and fast-paced narrative.
For viewers in USA, UK, Canada, and Australia, the series will be available on Disney+ as part of its growing collection of Korean original content. Indian audiences will also be able to stream the show on Disney+ Hotstar. The production is currently in its early stages, with the cast having already completed their first script reading.
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