Fans of South Korean actor Rowoon are in for a surprise as the star reveals a dramatic new look for his upcoming Disney+ series, The Murky Stream. Known for his clean-cut and charming roles, Rowoon appears almost unrecognizable as a rugged gangster in the historical drama. The series is set to premiere on September 26, 2025, and will explore themes of survival, corruption, and justice in the Joseon era.
Rowoon’s Striking Physical Transformation
In The Murky Stream, Rowoon plays Jang Si Yool, a man who hides his past and becomes a gangster in Mapo Ferry, a key economic hub during the Joseon Dynasty. The actor’s transformation is a significant departure from his previous roles. Instead of his usual polished appearance, Rowoon sports dirt-stained skin, messy hair, and a intense gaze in character posters and stills. The tagline on his poster, “Who are we supposed to trust to survive?” hints at the desperate and gritty world his character inhabits.
This change has sparked strong reactions from fans, who are used to seeing Rowoon smile brightly in variety shows and romantic dramas. Side-by-side comparisons of his real-life appearances and his character in the series highlight the drastic effort he has made to embody the role. Many fans have praised his commitment to the character, noting that this could be one of his most challenging performances yet.
What Is The Murky Stream About?
The Murky Stream is set in a lawless version of Joseon, where the once-clear Gyeonggang River has turned murky, symbolizing the corruption and moral decay of the era. The story follows three main characters whose fates intertwine:
- Jang Si Yool (Rowoon): A laborer who becomes a gangster after his hidden past is discovered by a gang leader named Mu Deok.
- Choi Eun (Shin Ye Eun): The intelligent and principled daughter of a powerful merchant family who aims to lead her guild fairly.
- Jeong Cheon (Park Seo Ham): An honest government official who dreams of eliminating corruption.
The series also features Park Ji Hwan as Mu Deok, a gang member who sees Si Yool as a key to improving his own status. The characters navigate a world where power and wealth dictate survival, and each must make difficult choices to protect their dreams and lives.
Fan Reactions and Anticipation
The reveal of Rowoon’s new look has generated excitement and curiosity among fans and viewers. On social media, many expressed their amazement at his transformation, with some noting that they barely recognized him. Others commended his willingness to take on a darker, more physically demanding role, highlighting it as a sign of his growth as an actor.
One fan shared, “This side-by-side difference has only increased anticipation for his performance, with many praising his commitment to fully embodying the role.” The series is already gaining attention for its strong cast and compelling premise, with fans eagerly waiting to see how Rowoon’s character evolves.
Production and Release Details
The Murky Stream is directed by Choo Chang-min, known for the hit film Masquerade (2012), and written by Chun Sung-il, who wrote The Pirates (2014). Production began in early May 2024, and the series was initially announced as Rowoon’s final project before his mandatory military service enlistment on July 21, 2025.
The drama will first premiere two episodes at the 30th Busan International Film Festival on September 18, 2025, in the ‘On Screen’ section. It will then be released globally on Disney+ starting September 26, 2025, with three episodes. Following the premiere, two new episodes will be released weekly, totaling nine episodes. The series will conclude by October 17, 2025.
Rowoon’s Recent Activities and Upcoming Projects
Rowoon, who debuted as a member of the K-pop group SF9 in 2016, has shifted his focus to acting in recent years. He is known for popular dramas like Extraordinary You, The King’s Affection, and Destined with You. His most recent historical romantic-comedy, The Matchmakers (2023), was well-received by fans and critics.
In early 2025, Rowoon also made headlines for his appearance at the 97th Academy Awards (Oscars), where he was named one of the best-dressed celebrities. While he did not have a nominated film, his attendance was seen as a nod to the growing global influence of Korean entertainment.
Despite his military enlistment in July, Rowoon’s work in The Murky Stream is expected to keep him in the spotlight throughout 2025. The series promises to showcase a different side of his acting abilities, with a darker and more intense storyline compared to his previous works.
Also Read: Rowoon Postpones Military Enlistment Due To Health Evaluation, Awaits Reexamination in August
