Kim Soo-hyun Stars as 'Counterfeit King' in Disney+ Original Series 'Knockoff'

Kim Soo-hyun is set to become the 'Counterfeit King' in the Disney+ original series 'Knockoff'.

On November 21, The Walt Disney Company Asia Pacific (APAC) hosted the 'Disney Content Showcase 2024' at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore. The event featured top global stars from the U.S. and APAC, offering a sneak peek at theatrical releases and streaming content slated for 2025-2026.

On the second day of the event, Disney unveiled its lineup of Disney General Entertainment and original content from Korea and Japan. Actors took the stage for brief introductions.

Starring Kim Soo-hyun and Jo Bo-ah, 'Knockoff' tells the story of a man whose life is turned upside down by the IMF crisis, transforming from an ordinary office worker to a global 'King of the Counterfeit Market'.

Kim Soo-hyun explained his reason for joining the series, saying, "'Knockoff' features a multitude of charming characters, each with their own survival strategies. I wanted to show how my character, Kim Sung-joon, faces crises, evolves, and grows." Jo Bo-ah, who plays a district office worker, added, "Song Hye-jung is Sung-joon's first love. As a district office worker, she cracks down on counterfeit goods, leading to a hostile relationship with her first love, Sung-joon."

Director Park Hyun-seok, reflecting on the IMF era setting, stated, "We prepared many props and sets to recreate that time. We focused on capturing the emotions and feelings of people who experienced Korean society and events from the late 1990s to early 2000s. We worked hard to create a drama that nostalgically reflects the past and resonates with the present."

Kim Soo-hyun recalled a memorable scene, "My character transitions from an office worker to a merchant and eventually a global counterfeit king. I remember the first scene where he sells goods in the market. Although inexperienced, he manages to persuade customers to buy." He added, "In the series, Yoo Jae-myung plays my father. You can look forward to the chemistry and banter between father and son."

Jo Bo-ah expressed her excitement, "Our work captures modern Korean history from the 1990s and 2000s. It's an honor to air our fairy tale-like series on Disney+. We hope for much love and anticipation."

During the two-day 'Disney Content Showcase 2024', Disney introduced upcoming theatrical releases and streaming content for 2025 and beyond. The event featured previews and exclusive footage from Disney Creative Studios, along with new Korean and Japanese content. Top global stars from the U.S. and APAC attended, with over 500 journalists and partners from 12 APAC countries, including Korea, present.

Singapore - Reporter Kim Ji-won, TenAsia bella@tenasia.co.kr