Heo Sung-tae Transforms into a Convenience Store Owner in New Drama 'Fifties Professionals'

Heo Sung-tae takes on the role of Kang Beom-ryong, a former gangster turned convenience store owner.

Following '21st Century Grand Prince,' MBC's new Friday-Saturday drama 'Fifties Professionals' is set to premiere on May 22. On the 20th, the production team released the first character cut of Heo Sung-tae (as Kang Beom-ryong), showcasing his contrasting charms.

'Fifties Professionals' is a salty action comedy about three men who, despite appearing ordinary, were once quite influential. The story follows these men, who have been battered by life and whose bodies may have rusted, but whose loyalty and instincts remain intact as they navigate the second half of their lives. Once at the top of their game, these three men are demoted to the remote island of Yeongseondo after 'the incident of that day,' and the series humorously depicts their quest to uncover the truth that has been on hold for a decade.

In the drama, Heo Sung-tae plays Kang Beom-ryong, a legendary gangster who now runs a convenience store that doesn't even pay minimum wage. After failing to retrieve a 'package' as instructed by Hwang Hwa-san (played by Kim Byung-ok), whom he followed since his back-alley days, and with Hwang Hwa-san wrongfully imprisoned, Kang Beom-ryong sets out to find the 'package' that will restore the glory of the old Hwasan faction. He follows Ho-myeong (played by Shin Ha-kyun) to Yeongseondo, and ten years pass.

The stills released show Heo Sung-tae's contrasting charms as both a gangster and a convenience store owner. Once the second-in-command of the Hwasan faction, Kang Beom-ryong exudes a fierce black aura with his rugged appearance, capturing attention instantly.

On the other hand, as the convenience store owner on Yeongseondo, Kang Beom-ryong's sole focus is on sales and performance. Even when faced with difficult customers, he maintains a smile and showcases the epitome of customer service. His struggle to earn the title of 'Friendly Convenience Store Owner,' while battling persistent drowsiness and occasional dizziness, promises to deliver bittersweet humor.

Heo Sung-tae has consistently delivered powerful performances in films like 'The Age of Shadows,' 'The Fortress,' 'The Outlaws,' and 'Hunt,' as well as in dramas like 'Squid Game' and the 'Casino' series. His portrayal of the ultimate villain Jang Deok-su in 'Squid Game' left a strong impression worldwide, heightening curiosity about the character of Kang Beom-ryong, crafted with Heo Sung-tae's unique charm.

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