Son Suk Ku and Ha Jung Woo are in talks to star in director Yoon Jong Bin‘s upcoming political drama Ordinary People. The series is set during South Korea’s Roh Tae Woo administration (1988-1993), a turbulent period marked by the country’s transition to democracy. While Son Suk Ku previously announced plans for an extended break, his potential involvement suggests a change in plans.
Ordinary People: A Political Drama Set in Historic Times
Ordinary People explores the political landscape under Roh Tae Woo, South Korea’s sixth president. Roh, a former military general, played a key role in shifting the nation from authoritarian rule to democracy. The drama’s exact plot remains under wraps, but its historical backdrop promises intense storytelling.
The production team is keeping details tightly guarded, but the combination of Ha Jung Woo, Son Suk Ku, and director Yoon Jong Bin has already generated significant buzz. Yoon is known for gripping narratives like Narco-Saints and The Spy Gone North, making this project highly anticipated.
Ha Jung Woo and Yoon Jong Bin’s Longstanding Collaboration
Ha Jung Woo and Yoon Jong Bin have worked together for nearly 20 years, starting with Yoon’s debut film The Unforgiven. Their collaborations include hits like Nameless Gangster: Rules of Time, Kundo: Age of the Rampant, and Netflix’s Narco-Saints.
“Their partnership is one of the most successful in Korean cinema,” says an industry insider. “Whenever they team up, expectations are sky-high.”
If Ha confirms his role, this will be their sixth project together. Fans are eager to see what they deliver next.
Son Suk Ku’s Potential Role and Hiatus Plans
Son Suk Ku recently worked with Yoon Jong Bin on Disney+’s Nine Puzzles, where he played a detective. His performance was widely praised, and a second collaboration so soon suggests strong trust between actor and director.
However, in June 2025, Son mentioned plans for a long break after finishing his commitments:
“I’m still working right now, but once I finish what I’ve already committed to, I plan to take quite a long break. I’ve learned a lot, but now I want to focus on more meaningful expressions.”
His possible casting in Ordinary People raises questions—whether he postponed his break or if this project was already part of his schedule.
Production Timeline and What’s Next
Filming for Ordinary People is expected to begin in 2026, aligning with the actors’ current schedules. While Ha Jung Woo is set to star in How to Become a Building Owner in Korea, Son Suk Ku recently wrapped up Nine Puzzles and Heavenly Ever After.
Supporting roles will be cast in the coming months, and while no release date is confirmed, the drama is already one of the most talked-about projects in development.
Fan Reactions and Industry Buzz
Fans are excited about the potential pairing of Ha Jung Woo and Son Suk Ku, two of Korea’s most respected actors. Social media reactions include:
“Nine Puzzles just ended, and now Son Suk Ku might work with Director Yoon again? Hope he doesn’t get as intense a role as Han Saem!”
“Ha Jung Woo and Yoon Jong Bin never disappoint. This is going to be epic.”
With such a strong team behind it, Ordinary People could become a major hit, blending political intrigue with top-tier performances.
Credits: JTBC News, MyDramaList