The Manipulated: Ji Changwook and Doh Kyungsoo Star in New Revenge-Driven Korean Drama on Disney+ Hotstar
Korean dramas have become a global phenomenon, blending heart-stopping action, layered storytelling, and unforgettable performances.
This November, Disney+ Hotstar is set to expand its slate of APAC Originals with the debut of The Manipulated, a twelve-part action drama starring Ji Changwook and Doh Kyungsoo.
The series premieres November 5, 2025, exclusively on Disney+ Hotstar with an intense four-episode premiere, followed by two new episodes every week until the finale on December 3.
A Story of Betrayal and Revenge
At the center of The Manipulated is Park Taejoong (played by Ji Changwook), a driven and compassionate man whose life is torn apart by a crime he didn’t commit.
Once a model citizen surrounded by family and friends, Taejoong’s life takes a devastating turn when he is arrested for the rape and murder of a woman he has never met. Despite his pleas of innocence, he is sentenced to life in prison, stripped of everything he loves.
In prison, Taejoong becomes a hollow version of himself—until he meets a fellow inmate who shares a strikingly similar story. This encounter sparks a shocking revelation: someone is systematically framing innocent people for heinous crimes.
Fueled by rage and a thirst for justice, Taejoong vows to uncover the truth and punish those who orchestrated his downfall.
The drama explores themes of injustice, corruption, and revenge, with every episode promising explosive twists that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
The Manipulated : A Star-Studded Cast and Crew
The Manipulated brings together some of Korea’s finest talent, both in front of and behind the camera.
- Ji Changwook (The Worst of Evil, Gangnam B-Side) takes on the role of Park Taejoong, delivering an emotional performance as a man broken by the system yet driven by vengeance.
- Doh Kyungsoo (The Moon, Swing Kids), widely known as D.O. from EXO, plays An Yohan, a character whose presence adds depth and tension to Taejoong’s quest.
- The drama is penned by Oh Sangho, the prolific screenwriter behind Taxi Driver and Fabricated City, known for his gripping narratives and sharp social commentary.
- Direction comes from Park Sinwoo (The Killing Vote) and Kim Changjoo (Hard Hit), ensuring that the series balances high-octane action with emotional resonance.
This powerhouse team promises a drama that not only entertains but also provokes thought about justice and morality.
Part of Disney+ Hotstar’s Growing APAC Lineup
The Manipulated joins Disney+ Hotstar’s growing roster of APAC Originals, expanding its library of must-watch Korean content.
For fans of crime, action, and psychological thrillers, this series is positioned alongside acclaimed titles such as Nine Puzzles, The Worst of Evil, Gangnam B-Side, and Vigilante.
By investing in high-quality local productions, Disney+ Hotstar continues to establish itself as a go-to platform for global audiences seeking diverse stories with universal appeal.
Premiere and Streaming Details
- Premiere Date: November 5, 2025
- Format: Twelve episodes
- Release Schedule: Four-episode premiere, then two episodes weekly
- Finale Date: December 3, 2025
- Platform: Exclusively on Disney+ Hotstar
Viewers can stream the first four episodes from November 5 and follow Taejoong’s harrowing journey until the electrifying finale.
Why You Should Watch The Manipulated
If you’re a fan of revenge-driven thrillers, The Manipulated offers everything you crave: intense action sequences, emotional storytelling, and a gripping mystery that unfolds piece by piece.
Ji Changwook and Doh Kyungsoo’s performances alone make this series a must-watch, but it’s the layered writing and polished direction that will cement it as one of the standout dramas of 2025.
So mark your calendars, sign up for Disney+ Hotstar, and prepare to dive into a story where justice is no longer served in courtrooms but carved out through determination and vengeance.
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