Netflix’s upcoming Korean drama Mercy for None is already making waves even before its June 6 premiere. Starring So Ji-sub in his first action role in 13 years, the dark revenge story has climbed to No.1 on anticipation charts —even before its official release. According to Consumer Insight’s OTT K-Original Content Viewer Report for the third week of May 2025, Mercy For None recorded a 25% awareness rate and 16% viewing intention, making it the most anticipated unreleased k-drama of the year.
The series promises intense violence, emotional depth, and a gripping plot adapted from a popular Naver webtoon.
The drama follows Ki-joon (So Ji-sub), a former gangster who re-enters the criminal underworld after his younger brother Ki-seok (Lee Joon Hyuk) is mysteriously killed. With its 19+ rating for graphic violence, Mercy for None is set to deliver a raw, unfiltered look at loyalty and revenge.
Why Fans Are Excited
So Ji-sub’s return to action is a major draw. His last action role was in the 2012 film A Company Man. The teaser released on May 9 has already garnered over 860,000 views, while an earlier preview hit 1.38 million views in February. Fans are eager to see him embody the hardened yet emotionally complex Ki-joon.
The drama also features a strong supporting cast:
Huh Joon-ho (Kingdom, Bloodhounds) as Lee Joowoon, the syndicate patriarch.
Choo Young-woo (Baeksang-winning actor) as Lee Geum-son, a prosecutor with ties to the gang.
Jo Han-chul (Gyeongseong Creature) as Choi Sung-chul, the syndicate’s power broker.
The Story Behind the Hype
Mercy for None centers on two rival gangs, Joowoon and Bongsan. After Ki-seok’s death, Ki-joon seeks answers—and vengeance. The webtoon’s gritty tone and morally gray characters have earned a dedicated fanbase, and the live-action adaptation aims to stay true to its source.
The series is part of a growing trend of webtoon-based K-dramas and films dominating 2025 releases. Other highly anticipated adaptations include:
Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint (starring Ahn Hyo Seop and Lee Min Ho).
The Remarried Empress (featuring Shin Min Ah and Joo Ji Hoon).
Men of the Harem (rumored to star Suzy).
What to Expect
Early reports highlight the drama’s high production value and intense fight scenes. So Ji-sub underwent rigorous training to perform his own stunts, adding authenticity to his role. The emotional core—Ki-joon’s bond with his brother—is expected to resonate deeply with viewers.
“He is the embodiment of Ki-joon,” a production insider said about So Ji-sub’s performance.
With its mix of brutal action and emotional storytelling, Mercy for None could become one of Netflix’s standout Korean originals this year.
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