‘Tempest’ Creators on Korean Spy Thriller With Gianna Jun, John Cho
Disney+ recently released its new spy thriller series, “Tempest,” which features a star-studded cast including Gianna Jun, Gang Dongwon, John Cho, Lee Misook, and Park Haejoon. The show follows a former diplomat as he uncovers an international conspiracy that stretches from Seoul to the White House. With the first three episodes launching on Sept. 10, “Tempest” is being hailed as the streaming platform’s “tentpole original of the year.”
In an exclusive interview with Variety, co-directors Kim Heewon and Heo Myeonghaeng discuss their collaborative approach to blending intimate character work with large-scale international intrigue. Kim, known for her work on “Vincenzo,” emphasized the importance of grounding the high-stakes espionage in emotional truth. She highlighted the need for action sequences to serve a purpose beyond spectacle, ensuring that they contribute to the emotional depth of the story.
Heo, known for his mastery of kinetic action, embraced a character-first approach to storytelling in “Tempest.” He aimed to create a complex and layered narrative filled with obstacles and intricacies, rather than a straightforward action-driven plot. The series boasts an impressive international lineup of actors, chosen for their ability to engage viewers and work seamlessly together on set.
The visual language of “Tempest” is grounded in realism, with a focus on creating a sense of authenticity in both the action sequences and the overall aesthetic of the show. The sea serves as a unifying visual metaphor throughout the series, reflecting the emotions of the characters and the turbulent world they inhabit.
“Tempest” represents Disney+’s commitment to producing premium Korean originals for a global audience. According to Carol Choi, executive VP of original content strategy at The Walt Disney Company Asia Pacific, the series exemplifies the platform’s ambition to create high-quality, talent-driven content that resonates with viewers worldwide.
As Korean content continues to gain popularity on the global stage, “Tempest” stands out as a showcase of the country’s storytelling prowess and a template for international collaboration. With its blend of intimate character work and thrilling narrative elements, the series aims to captivate viewers on a journey through the intricate storytelling of writer Chung Seokyung, leaving them in awe of the experience.
