Jang Dong-yoon Takes on Bold New Role in 'Mantis' with Go Hyun-jung

Actor Jang Dong-yoon, who made headlines a decade ago for apprehending a robber, is now marking his 10th year in the entertainment industry. Known for his gentle image, Jang is set to take on a daring new role alongside Go Hyun-jung.

Jang will star in the SBS drama 'Mantis,' premiering on the 5th, where he will play the son of Go Hyun-jung's character. 'Mantis' is a crime thriller that unfolds 20 years after the capture of a notorious serial killer, as copycat crimes emerge. The story follows a detective who must collaborate with the 'Mantis,' whom he has despised his entire life, to solve the case.

In the drama, Go Hyun-jung portrays the serial killer mother 'Mantis,' while Jang Dong-yoon plays her detective son who has harbored a lifelong hatred for her. This unconventional setup has garnered significant attention from both the industry and the public even before its release. Jang's role as a detective seeking justice while grappling with his mother's brutal truth is particularly noteworthy.

Jang Dong-yoon first gained fame in 2015 when he subdued a robber during his college years, leading to his debut in the entertainment world. Despite having no prior acting experience, he quickly landed leading roles, showcasing an extraordinary career trajectory. However, while he starred in several projects, including KBS2's 'The Tale of Nokdu,' he struggled to maintain the initial buzz of his debut. His recent work, ENA's 'Flowers Bloom Even in Sand,' also saw modest ratings of 1-2%.

Jang has often been cast in roles that align with his gentle appearance and soft image, which some critics argue has limited his acting range. In 2023, he attempted to break this mold by taking on his first villain role in the film 'Devils.' However, some viewers criticized his distinctive voice tone, and the film received mixed reactions.

For Jang Dong-yoon, 'Mantis' represents more than just a challenge; it is an opportunity for a career resurgence. Industry insiders believe that 'Mantis' will be a pivotal test of Jang's true acting capabilities.

Reported by Kim Se-ah, TenAsia haesmik@tenasia.co.kr