Anticipation Builds for 2026 Crime Thriller 'Scarecrow' Starring Lee Hee-jun and Park Hae-soo

Lee Hee-jun, who married model Lee Hye-jung in 2016, continues his prolific career with an exciting new project. He is set to reunite with Park Hae-soo, his co-star from 'Yakyeon,' in a gripping crime investigation thriller.

Scheduled for release in the first half of 2026, the Genie TV original drama 'Scarecrow' follows a detective investigating a serial murder case who unexpectedly teams up with someone he despises. The story spans from 1988 to 2019, weaving a complex narrative of two men entangled in a 33-year-long rivalry. Directed by Park Joon-woo, known for his work on 'Taxi Driver' and 'Crash,' the series promises intense suspense and a unique alliance of hatred. The reunion with writer Lee Ji-hyun, who collaborated with Park on 'Taxi Driver,' raises expectations for a groundbreaking crime thriller.

The casting of Park Hae-soo, Lee Hee-jun, and Kwak Sun-young has generated significant excitement. Park Hae-soo plays 'Kang Tae-joo,' a principled detective demoted to his hometown of Gangseong. He sees the Gangseong serial murder case as a chance to restore his honor but faces unexpected challenges when he encounters prosecutor Cha Si-young (played by Lee Hee-jun), a former school adversary. As Kang delves deeper into the case, he confronts unforeseen twists.

Park Hae-soo, who adds depth to the complex narrative of Kang Tae-joo, expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “I am grateful to be part of a project that the talented production team has meticulously prepared over a long time. I look forward to working with passionate actors and bringing this story to life with intensity and fervor.”

Lee Hee-jun portrays 'Cha Si-young,' a prosecutor from an elite family driven by insatiable ambition. He aims to solve the high-profile Gangseong serial murder case and leverage the fame to enter politics. However, he finds himself in a precarious alliance with Kang Tae-joo, the ace detective he once bullied in school.

Known for his transformative performances, Lee Hee-jun is expected to deliver another compelling portrayal as Cha Si-young. He shared his excitement, stating, “The script was incredibly engaging. I am honored to be part of such a meaningful project and eagerly anticipate the journey ahead.”

Kwak Sun-young plays 'Seo Ji-won,' a determined and righteous reporter for the Gangseong Daily and a former classmate of Kang Tae-joo. She relentlessly pursues her stories and keeps a watchful eye on the police during the serial murder investigation. Known for her strong acting skills and unique charm, Kwak Sun-young is set to captivate viewers once again.

Kwak Sun-young expressed her enthusiasm, saying, “I am thrilled to connect with viewers through 'Scarecrow.' I am eager to see the energy that the director, staff, and actors will bring to the project. I ask for your support and interest.”

'Scarecrow' will premiere on Genie TV and Channel ENA in the first half of 2026.

Tae Yuna, TenAsia Reporter youyou@tenasia.co.kr