SBS is bringing a gripping new mystery thriller to the small screen with Queen Mantis, premiering on September 5.
The drama tells the story of Jeong I-shin, a notorious serial killer who earned the nickname “The Mantis” after brutally murdering five men. After serving 20 years in prison, she is unexpectedly released when a copycat crime emerges. Her son, Cha Soo-yeol—now a detective—is forced to work with her, reigniting a fractured relationship while tackling a dangerous investigation. The series promises to blend suspense with emotional depth, showing how the past refuses to stay buried.
At the production press conference held on September 4 at SBS headquarters in Mokdong, Seoul, director Byun Young-joo was joined by stars Go Hyun Jung, Jang Dong Yoon, Jo Sung Ha, and Lee El.
Byun explained his casting choices, highlighting Go Hyun-jung’s ability to transform into an unpredictable character and praising Jang Dong-yoon’s talent for playing layered roles. He stressed that while the main character is a serial killer, the drama does not glorify her actions. Instead, the heart of the story lies with her son, Cha Soo-yeol, who suffers the consequences of her crimes while trying to uphold justice as a detective.
Go Hyun Jung admitted that filming was physically challenging due to health struggles, but credited the support of her colleagues for keeping her motivated. Jang Dong Yoon, who steps into the role of Cha Soo-yeol, said the project resonated with him because of his own tendency to step into problems and seek solutions. Jo Sung-ha plays Choi Jong-ho, the veteran officer who first arrested Jeong I-shin and later guided Soo-yeol into the police force, while Lee El portrays Kim Na-hee, a senior investigator uneasy about Soo-yeol’s sudden placement on the team.
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When comparisons with Netflix’s Prayer Mantis surfaced, Director Byun clarified that while the film centers on a killer motivated by money, Queen Mantis is about a killer who murders for pleasure, making it a mystery thriller that explores psychology and relationships as much as crime.
If you enjoy thrillers that balance suspense with strong character-driven storytelling, Queen Mantis should be on your watchlist. Here’s why:
Go Hyun Jung’s comeback in a bold role: Known for her powerhouse acting, Go transforms into a chilling yet complex serial killer, offering viewers a chance to see her in a strikingly different light.
Jang Dong Yoon as the emotional anchor: Playing a detective torn between duty and personal resentment, Jang brings both intensity and vulnerability to the role, making the mother-son conflict the heart of the drama.
A mix of mystery and human drama: While the show is suspenseful, it’s ultimately about the cost of crime on family and identity, which sets it apart from action-focused thrillers.
Top-notch supporting cast: With Jo Sung Ha and Lee El adding depth to the investigative team, viewers can expect layered performances beyond the leads.
Fresh take on the genre: By focusing not on glorifying a killer but on the emotional fallout of her crimes, the drama offers a different perspective on crime thrillers.
Featuring a strong cast, thought-provoking themes, and a gripping premise, Queen Mantis aims to deliver both suspense and heart, making it a standout entry in SBS’s Friday-Saturday lineup.
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