A major new K-drama is now streaming on Hulu. The show is called Made in Korea, and it features top stars like Hyun Bin and Jung Woo-sung. The story is a political spy thriller set in the 1970s, a very turbulent time in South Korea’s history. With six episodes in its first season and a second season already confirmed, the show is getting a lot of attention. This guide breaks down what the show is about, what people like about it, and the common criticisms to help you decide if it’s worth your time.
What is the Made in Korea K-Drama About?
The story of Made in Korea begins with a dramatic event: a plane hijacking in 1969 that is diverted toward North Korea. On that plane is a stylish man named Baek Ki-tae, played by Hyun Bin. He seems to be a calm businessman, but he is secretly a high-ranking agent for the Korean Central Intelligence Agency (KCIA).
His mission brings him into conflict with Jang Geon-young, a determined public prosecutor from Busan played by Jung Woo-sung. Geon-young is investigating a drug-trafficking ring and a murder, and his path crosses with Ki-tae’s. While they should technically be on the same side, they quickly become rivals. The show explores their dangerous game of cat and mouse, set against a backdrop of government corruption, criminal networks, and political conspiracies.
Why People Are Recommending Made in Korea
Many viewers and critics are praising the show for several key reasons. First, the production quality is very high. The director, Woo Min-ho, is known for films like Inside Men, and he brings a cinematic style to the series. Hyun Bin has said that each of the six episodes is made to feel like a movie. The show has a distinct, sleek visual style that recreates the 1970s atmosphere well.
The performance by Hyun Bin is widely praised. He plays Baek Ki-tae as a cool, calculated, and ambitious man who is difficult to read. One review called his performance “steely and smooth,” noting that he projects a character who always seems in control. For fans who know him from romantic roles in shows like Crash Landing on You, this is a very different and compelling side of the actor.
The show also mixes real history with fiction. It uses real events from Korea’s past as a setting for its fictional spy story. This approach gives the drama a weighty backdrop and offers international viewers a look into a complex period they might not be familiar with.
“โMade in Koreaโ takes on a bold attempt in really intertwining actual historical events, but also with these fictional characters that have been developed for the story,” said star Jung Woo-sung in an interview.
Points of Criticism and Viewer Debate
Despite the praise, Made in Korea has sparked some debate, particularly around the performance of co-star Jung Woo-sung. His portrayal of prosecutor Jang Geon-young features bursts of loud, theatrical laughter and intense emotional outbursts. Some viewers and reviewers have found this acting choice to be distracting or over-the-top.
However, other analyses suggest this may be an intentional character choice. Some reports indicate that the director and actor designed this mannerism to show the character’s internal stress and a “crazy persona” he uses as a defense mechanism in a brutal world.
Another point of discussion is the pacing and plot complexity. The story involves many elements: KCIA agents, drug smuggling, the yakuza, and political power struggles. Some viewers feel the plot can be difficult to follow, especially as it tries to cover a lot of ground in just six episodes. A social media user noted the story could feel stretched out, commenting that something explainable in a two-hour movie was made into a longer series.
Streaming Details and Episode Schedule
Made in Korea is available internationally on Disney+ and in the United States on Hulu. The first season has six episodes.
The first two episodes were released on December 24, 2025. Episodes 3 and 4 followed on December 30, 2025. Episode 5 became available on January 7, 2026. The season finale, Episode 6, was released on January 14, 2026. The entire first season is now available to stream.
A second season has already been confirmed and is in production. It is expected to be released in the second half of 2026.
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Final Verdict: Should You Stream It?
So, should you watch Made in Korea?
Stream it if you enjoy: Stylish, well-produced political thrillers. Complex, morally gray characters, especially a cool and calculating anti-hero. Historical settings that blend real events with fiction. Shorter, movie-like series seasons with high production value.
Consider skipping if you prefer: Simple, easy-to-follow plots. Consistently likable heroes. Faster-paced action from start to finish. Shows that avoid darker themes of corruption and moral ambiguity.
The show has been given a “Stream It” recommendation by several reviewers who highlight the central intrigue of Hyun Bin’s double-dealing character as the main draw. While some elements like Jung Woo-sung’s performance and the complex plot have divided opinion, the strong central performance, cinematic quality, and unique historical setting make it a notable entry in the spy thriller genre.
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