Korea's Chaotic Past: "Made in Korea" Season 2 Explores Tumultuous Era

Premiering September 9 on Hulu and Disney+, "Made in Korea" Season 2 continues its exploration of a tumultuous period in Korean history, set against the backdrop of 1979. This installment delves into a nation grappling with political upheaval, including a presidential assassination and ensuing military coups.

The narrative advances nine years from Season 1, a deliberate choice by director Woo Min-ho to allow for significant character development. Key figures like Baek Ki-tae have ascended within the Korean Central Intelligence Agency, their methods and relationships altered by their rise. His younger brother, Baek Ki-hyun, has also gained influence, leading to increased friction between them.

The series, known for its noir aesthetics, portrays themes of political ambition, revenge, and greed masked by patriotism. While the fate of prosecutor Jang Geon-young from Season 1 remains a mystery, his return is anticipated, seeking revenge under the guise of justice.

Reflecting a broader trend in Korean streaming, "Made in Korea" opts for a condensed six-episode season, offering a tighter, more cinematic narrative compared to its predecessor. This approach aligns with platforms like Disney+ recruiting film directors for shorter, prestige series. The drama concludes with this season, but its writer is already developing a new series, "The Koreans," set in the 1990s.