After a year-long delay, the TVing original crime series “Villains” has officially confirmed its premiere date. The show, starring Yoo Ji Tae and Lee Min Jung, will finally be available to stream starting December 18. The drama’s release was postponed following a real-life incident involving one of its cast members, making its upcoming debut highly anticipated.
What Happened to the Drama?
“Villains” was originally scheduled to be released in 2023. However, its timeline was pushed back after actor Kwak Do Won was involved in a drunk driving incident in September 2022. The incident occurred after filming for the series had already been completed.
A representative from TVing confirmed the new December 18 release date. When asked if Kwak Do Won’s scenes had been removed from the final edit, the representative cautiously replied that it was difficult to comment due to potential spoilers.
The Story Behind ‘Villains’
“Villains” is a gritty crime thriller that centers on intense clashes and power struggles among criminals. The story revolves around a hyper-realistic counterfeit bill known as the “Supernote.” The chase for this perfect fake money sets off a bloody conflict between the characters.
The series brings together a talented production team. It is directed by Jin Hyuk, who is known for popular dramas like “The Master’s Sun” and “The Legend of the Blue Sea.” The script was written by Kim Hyung Joon, the director behind the thriller film “No Mercy.”
Meet the Characters
The drama features a powerful cast playing complex roles.
Yoo Ji Tae takes on the part of a genius architect of crime who goes by the code name “J.” He is a sociopath with a perfect crime record who views his illegal activities as a form of art.
Lee Min Jung makes a powerful transformation for her role as Han Soo Hyun, the best artist of counterfeit bills. After her life falls apart because of a project designed by J five years earlier, she dives into a whirlwind of greed and revenge when he suddenly reappears. This drama marks her return to television after a two-year break.
Kwak Do Won was cast as detective Jang Joong Hyuk, a corrupt cop who is the final boss of evil. He steals money from thieves without remorse, believing that his wrongdoings are justified because they lead to money and promotions.
Lee Beom Soo plays Cha Gi Tae, the former head of the National Intelligence Service Financial Crimes Team. He resumes his relentless pursuit of J after the various characters from the incident five years ago begin to resurface.
The production team previously shared their excitement about the project, stating:
“The competition between the villains, who each have their own goals and ambitions, as they chase after the incredibly precise counterfeit bills ‘Super Note’ will unfold in a dynamic manner.”
A Look at the Lead Actors
Yoo Ji Tae is a respected South Korean actor with a career spanning decades. He rose to fame through films like “Attack the Gas Station” and gained international recognition for his role as a wealthy eccentric in Park Chan-wook’s acclaimed film “Oldboy.” In addition to acting, Yoo Ji Tae is also a director and a professor in the Department of Film and Video at Konkuk University.
Lee Min Jung is a popular actress known for her roles in various television dramas and films. She and Yoo Ji Tae have previously worked with director Jin Hyuk on the drama “The Tale of Lady Ok,” which ended earlier this year, raising expectations for their on-screen synergy in “Villains.”
When and Where to Watch
“Villains” will premiere on December 18 on TVing, a South Korean streaming service. In a related development, TVing has entered a strategic partnership with the global platform Disney+, officially launching a “TVing Collection” within Disney+ Japan, which may expand the show’s international accessibility.
Also Read: Dear X Episodes 5-6: New Release Date and Time for the Thrilling K-Drama
