Disney+ Announces Star-Studded Cast for New Crime Noir Series 'I Am a Criminal'

Disney+ has confirmed the production of a drama based on the Kakao Webtoon 'I Am a Criminal,' announcing the casting of Park Seo-joon, Um Tae-goo, and Jo Hye-joo.

Park Seo-joon and Um Tae-goo will meet in a lawless city of the 1980s. 'I Am a Criminal' is a crime action noir set in a lawless city during the redevelopment boom of the 1980s. It follows the story of 'Peng-i,' a demon of the era driven by ambition, and 'Saeng-dak,' a survivalist gang member, as they risk everything for a life-changing heist. The original webtoon by Imugi, serialized on Kakao Webtoon, has been praised for its intricate storytelling, detailed character portrayal, and instinct-driven plot, drawing significant attention from fans with the news of its adaptation.

Park Seo-joon will undergo a dramatic transformation as he takes on the role of Peng-i, a notorious villain embodying the era's desires. Known for leaving a strong impression in every project, including the drama 'Gyeongdo Waiting,' the 'Gyeongseong Creature' series, and the film 'Concrete Utopia,' Park's character Peng-i is a mysterious figure who appears in a region swept by redevelopment frenzy ahead of the 1988 Seoul Olympics. He plunges Saeng-dak and Bok-hee into chaos as he enters the drug business.

Um Tae-goo joins as Saeng-dak, a member of the Buk-gu gang. Known for his commanding presence in dramas like 'Lighting Store' and 'The Woman Who Plays,' as well as the film 'Night in Paradise,' Um's character Saeng-dak betrays his gang and accepts Peng-i's life-altering proposal, shaking his life to its core.

Jo Hye-joo will play Bok-hee, the key supplier in the drug business and Peng-i's first love, steering the story in unpredictable directions. With notable performances in dramas like 'To My Harry,' 'My Demon,' 'The Tale of Nokdu,' and 'Reborn Rich,' Jo's character reunites with Peng-i through the drug business, making unpredictable choices and actions that disrupt the balance.

During the script reading session held before filming, the actors quickly immersed themselves in their characters, exuding overwhelming energy. They shared their excitement and anticipation for the project. Park Seo-joon expressed, "This is a character and story I've been waiting for. It's a project that naturally sparks an actor's ambition. I think I can show a new side of myself through the role of Peng-i." Um Tae-goo stated, "The script is interesting with diverse characters. I'm both nervous and excited, and I'll do my best in filming." Jo Hye-joo added, "The historical backdrop and each character's circumstances and reasons were impressive. It's such an attractive project that I wanted to join immediately after reading the script."

The series will be directed by Hong Won-chan, known for his stylish and fast-paced action in the film 'Deliver Us from Evil,' marking his first foray into series direction. His debut series promises a relentless story of betrayal, greed, and conspiracy, filled with brutal action. 'I Am a Criminal' is produced by New Point and Plus Media Entertainment.

Disney+'s original series 'I Am a Criminal' will be available exclusively on Disney+ worldwide.

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