Korean drama fans, get ready—another gripping crime thriller is about to hit your screens. “Villains,” the highly anticipated Korean crime action series, is set to premiere exclusively on HBO Max on December 18, 2025.
Starring the powerful duo Yoo Ji-tae and Lee Min-jeong, this eight-episode drama promises intense storytelling, high-stakes action, and a deep dive into the darkest corners of Korea’s criminal underworld.
The series comes from TVING, one of Korea’s leading streaming platforms, and has already caught global attention thanks to its star-studded lineup and bold premise.
Produced by Taewon Entertainment and CJ ENM, “Villains” blends crime, mystery, and action into a tightly woven narrative that will keep viewers on edge.
A Story of Criminal Masterminds, Power Struggles & Survival
At the heart of “Villains” is a deadly battle for control over a mysterious and highly valuable object: the Supernote, an ultra-precision counterfeit bill that can fool experts and machines alike.
More than just fake currency, the Supernote is a symbol of power—one that ignites chaos and conflict among Korea’s most dangerous criminals.
The series follows:
J (Yoo Ji-tae)
A brilliant criminal strategist known for his icy charisma and meticulous planning. Yoo Ji-tae, known globally for his performances in Money Heist: Korea – Joint Economic Area and Vigilante, brings intensity and nuance to this morally complex anti-hero.
Han Soo-hyun (Lee Min-jeong)
A master forger with exceptional artistic skill and an unmatched eye for detail. Lee Min-jeong, acclaimed for Fates and Furies and Once Again, returns to the screen in one of her most daring roles yet.
Together, J and Soo-hyun must navigate a dangerous web of betrayal and deception as rival villains hunt for the Supernote. Their uneasy partnership is further complicated by the relentless surveillance of the National Intelligence Service (NIS), who are determined to trace the source of the counterfeit chaos.
Top-Tier Production Led by Renowned Directors and Creators
“Villains” is helmed by some of the biggest names in Korean drama production:
- Directors: Jin Hyuk (The Tale of Lady Ok, Sisyphus: The Myth) and Park Jin-young
- Executive Producers: Kim Young-chan and Jang Hye-min
- Creative Producers: Kim Soo-young
- Chief Producers: Yang Chang-hoon and Lee Jung-joo
- Writer: Kim Hyung-joon
With such an experienced team shaping the series, viewers can expect a visually polished, tightly written, and emotionally gripping experience. From thrilling chase sequences to psychological mind games, the drama pushes every element to deliver a blockbuster-level narrative.
A Must-Watch for Fans of Korean Crime & Thriller Genres
Korean dramas have gained immense global traction for their ability to mix strong character development with cinematic action—and “Villains” follows proudly in that tradition. The dynamic between the two leads, combined with the escalating danger surrounding the Supernote, creates an atmosphere of tension and unpredictability.
Whether you’re a fan of heist dramas, criminal intrigue, or morally grey anti-heroes, “Villains” offers everything needed for a binge-worthy experience.
Why You Should Watch Villains on HBO Max
- High-stakes storytelling built around the Supernote
- Powerful performances by Yoo Ji-tae and Lee Min-jeong
- Top-tier production quality from Korea’s most respected creators
- Thrilling blend of crime, action, and psychological drama
When “Villains” lands on HBO Max this December 18, make sure you’re ready—because once the chase begins, there’s no looking away.
Stream as co-conspirators become enemies, only to partner and betray each other again in Eillains on HBO Max from December 18.
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