Hallyu Spotlight: 4 things to know about Disney+’s criminal thriller series Gangnam B-Side

South Korean criminal dramas have quickly earned a steady fanbase for their gripping plot lines and cinematic camera work.

With a wide selection of films in this genre, like The Worst of Evil, Vigilante, and Seoul Busters, Disney+ is one of the many platforms that has continually embraced this trend.

The recently announced gritty and edgy criminal thriller series Gangnam B-Side is next to join this electric lineup. The show boasts a star-studded cast, including Jo Woo-jin, Ji Wook, and Kim Hyung-seo (BIBI).

The drama follows a string of mysterious disappearances in the heart of Seoul, Gangnam.

The investigation escalates into an enigma and three uncanny characters — a detective, prosecutor and outlaw — entangle as they embark on uncovering the truth. Here are four things to know about Gangnam B-Side.

1. The brighter the light, the darker the shadow

Nicknamed the Beverly Hills of South Korea, Gangnam is renowned for all the glitz and glamour. However, Gangnam B-Side aims to showcase the darker underbelly of this region.

“For that glorious side to exist, a dark side must coexist alongside it. I started wondering what stories and lives were there on that dark side,” said director Park Noo-ri.

To add a touch of realism to the film, the director emphasised filming as many scenes in Gangnam as possible. She also wanted to showcase characters with different professions within the region.

2. The mystery

Aside from the mystery surrounding the case, each of the characters holds an air of intrigue. This is particularly true for Min Seo-jin, played by Ha Yoon-kyung.

At first glance, the prosecutor would seem like an average Joe chasing success. However, we often need to make sacrifices to fulfil our ambitions — a sentiment shared by Ha.

“Although she was a normal prosecutor in the beginning, as the series progresses, you can watch how she gets blinded by success, how she develops ambition and what kind of choices she makes. I think she goes through the most inner turmoil out of all characters.”, says Ha.

3. The chemistry

This work marks the second time Ji and Kim are working together after The Worst of Evil. After that, many viewers wished to see them together once more, as their on-screen chemistry was through the roof.

When asked about their thoughts on working together a second time, Kim said: “This time, we were more comfortable with each other, and I think our synergy flowed naturally.”

Their relationship dynamic will inevitably add another dimension to the drama.

4. The mastery

Immaculate camerawork and intricate plot lines are quintessential in almost all K-dramas. However, what sets a series apart is all in the details.

Jo gained 18kg in hopes of showing the weight of his character and looking more the part, as “the typical uncle you have in your life”.

This was the heaviest he’d been since his senior year of high school. He even shared that he tried all the burger restaurants in the neighbourhood to increase his weight.

“You can see the side of me that’s never been revealed before, even from the way I look,” he added.

Gangnam B-side is available on Disney+ starting 6 Nov.