K-Drama To Watch? New Thriller Series Shows Two Young Men Kidnap Their Own Friend

The South Korean entertainment industry, particularly its television drama sector, has continuously pushed boundaries in storytelling, giving audiences thought-provoking and unique narratives. Wavve‘s newest thriller series, Deal, stands as the newest proof of this innovation, exploring the dynamics of friendship under the pressure of an unplanned kidnapping.

In Deal, the age-old theme of kidnapping takes on a refreshing twist — focusing less on the monetary gain and more on the intricate relationship between the three main characters. While the plot sees them chase after a whopping ₩10.0 billion KRW (about $7.40 million USD), the real tension is in the unraveling of bonds forged over time.

When debt-ridden medical student Jae Hyo (played by Kim Dong Hee) plans a fake kidnapping of his friend Min Woo (played by Yoo Soo Bin) after a night of heavy drinking, things take a turn for the unexpected. With Jung Sung (portrayed by Yoo Seung Ho) inadvertently getting involved, the trio finds themselves navigating the unforeseen consequences of their actions.

Deal has garnered attention even before its official premiere, with an invitation to the 28th Busan International Film Festival‘s “On Screen” section — a segment dedicated to highlighting promising drama series from various streaming platforms.

The director, Lee Jung Gon, known for his acclaimed feature Not Out (2021), emphasizes the emotional journey the characters embark on in this tumultuous situation. During a press conference in Busan, Lee shared his thoughts on what he aimed to do with portraying the precious friendship between the three young men.

Although the narrative weaves through kidnapping, hostages, and money, my vision was to highlight the flux in the trio’s relationship as they faced varying challenges.

— Lee Jung Gon

Yoo Seung Ho, who plays Jung-sung, was particularly drawn to the complexity of the narrative and his character. Reflecting on his decision to be part of the series, he revealed what made him take on the role.

The story of friends kidnapping their friend was intriguing. It offered me a chance to delve into a character I’ve never portrayed before.

— Yoo Seung Ho

For fans of K-Dramas looking for an enthralling watch that not only serves suspense but also delves deep into human relationships, Deal promises to be an unforgettable experience. The series is set to premiere on Wavve this Friday and will subsequently be available to international audiences on the American streaming platform Rakuten Viki.

In the saturated genre of thrillers, Deal brings a fresh perspective, and for those who appreciate a gripping narrative coupled with intricate character dynamics, this series should be the next on their watchlist.