A high-stakes political conspiracy, a mysterious assassination attempt, and a cast packed with global stars — Tempest is setting sail to become one of the most gripping Korean dramas of the year.
Launching on September 10, 2025, exclusively on Disney+ Hotstar, this nine-part international spy thriller marks the streaming debut of iconic actress Gianna Jun on the platform, alongside a powerful performance from Gang Dongwon.
Directed by Kim Heewon, famed for Queen of Tears and Vincenzo, and co-directed by top action choreographer Heo Myeonghaeng (The Roundup: Punishment), Tempest weaves a thrilling tale that stretches across countries, governments, and secret operations.
A Crisis on the Korean Peninsula
Set against the backdrop of growing tensions on the Korean peninsula, the series begins with a shocking assassination attempt on presidential candidate Jang Junik.
What follows is a deep dive into a tangled web of rogue nations, secret agents, and high-level corruption.
Gianna Jun stars as Seo Munju, a former UN ambassador and skilled diplomat determined to uncover the truth behind the attack.
As she follows a trail of buried secrets, Munju realizes that this is no ordinary political crisis — it’s a full-blown international conspiracy that could destabilize the entire region.
With the presidential candidate accused of being a North Korean spy, Munju is drawn into a dangerous investigation involving classified intelligence, military secrets, and global players.
A Star-Studded Cast with Global Appeal
Tempest boasts one of the most impressive international casts ever assembled in a Korean drama:
- Gianna Jun (My Love From the Star, Kingdom) as Seo Munju
- Gang Dongwon (Peninsula, Uprising) as Paik Sanho, a mysterious mercenary tasked with protecting Munju
- John Cho (Star Trek, Murderbot) as Anderson, a U.S. Assistant Secretary of State
- Park Haejoon as candidate Jang Junik
- Lee Misook, Christopher Gorham, Michael Gaston, and Spencer Garrett round out the internationally diverse cast, bringing gravitas and complexity to their respective roles.
Each character adds a new layer of intrigue, with shifting loyalties and hidden agendas keeping viewers constantly guessing.
Action, Suspense, and Global Stakes
As Munju gets closer to the truth, she faces increasing threats from all sides. Protecting her is Paik Sanho, a hardened operative with his own murky past. His loyalty — and personal feelings — are tested as the two navigate a geopolitical chessboard involving players all the way to the White House.
From high-octane action sequences to quiet moments of psychological tension, Tempest promises to deliver cinematic storytelling at its finest. The drama is written by Chung Seokyung, known for Decision to Leave and Little Women, adding further prestige to the production.
Tempest will debut with a three-episode premiere on September 10, exclusively on Disney+ Hotstar. After that, two episodes will be released weekly, with a two-part finale dropping on October 1.
This release schedule gives fans a satisfying weekly experience while keeping the suspense tight and the stakes high.
Disney+ Hotstar’s Ongoing K-Drama Success
Tempest is the latest in a growing slate of premium Korean dramas on Disney+ Hotstar. The platform has seen recent success with titles such as:
- Nine Puzzles (the most-watched Disney+ Hotstar K-drama of the year)
- A Shop for Killers
- Moving
- Hyper Knife
With its global cast, gripping political plot, and top-tier production, Tempest is expected to continue this trend, drawing both K-drama fans and international thriller enthusiasts.
Whether you’re a fan of geopolitical intrigue, pulse-pounding action, or award-winning Korean storytelling, Tempest is a must-watch drama event this fall.
With international espionage, power struggles, and a plot that dares to challenge political boundaries, Tempest will surely set a new standard for cross-border storytelling.
Don’t miss the premiere on September 10, only on Disney+ Hotstar.
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