The long-awaited Disney+ series TEMPEST, headlined by Gianna Jun and Kang Dong Won, is finally ready to meet global audiences.
Billed as a “strong melodrama” layered with metaphor and emotion, the series promises not just thrilling action but also a sweeping romance that’s already raising anticipation among K-drama fans.
On September 2, the production conference for Tempest was held at the Four Seasons Hotel in Seoul. The event brought together its powerhouse cast: Gianna Jun, Kang Dong Won, Lee Mi Sook, Park Hae Joon, Kim Hae Sook, Yoo Jae Myung, Oh Jung Se, Lee Sang Hee, Joo Jong Hyuk—alongside directors Kim Hee-won (Queen of Tears, Vincenzo), Heo Myung-haeng (The Outlaws 4), and acclaimed writer Jung Seo-kyeong (Decision to Leave, Little Women).
The story follows Moon-joo (Gianna Jun), a world-renowned UN ambassador, and San-ho (Kang Dong Won), a mysterious elite agent tasked with protecting her. Their pursuit of the mastermind behind a presidential candidate’s assassination uncovers a hidden truth that threatens the Korean Peninsula.
With Gianna Jun’s poise as a diplomat and Kang Dong-won’s shadowy charisma as a mercenary of unclear origin, the series balances espionage, political intrigue, and the slow burn of an “adult romance.”
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Behind the Scenes: Powerhouse Teamwork
Director Kim Hee-won revealed that the drama’s title stems from a symbolic object, teasing: “You’ll discover its meaning by the end of episode 3. Please don’t miss it.” He also emphasized that casting Gianna Jun as Moon-joo was a deliberate choice: “When directors imagine a powerful woman, no one else comes to mind. She was the first and only person on my list.”
Gianna Jun returned the sentiment, saying she was drawn to the project because of Kim Hee-won’s vision and Jung Seo-kyeong’s script. She also admitted, “I’ve been a longtime fan of Kang Dong Won and wanted to work with him before it was too late. Working with him only made me like him more.”
Kang Dong-won, equally admiring, responded warmly: “I was captivated by Ji-hyun’s charm throughout filming. Her cheerful spirit made every day enjoyable.”
Action, Emotion, and Unexpected Chemistry
While Moon-joo is not an action hero, Jun Ji Hyun highlighted the emotional range of her role: “She finds herself in diverse situations, often relying on San-ho’s strength. It allowed me to show many sides of myself.”
Meanwhile, Kang Dong-won’s San-ho is described as a lonely figure, an ace mercenary hardened by life but transformed through his bond with Moon-joo. “He’s a character who would give up everything to protect her. At first, it’s all about cold action, but over time, his fight carries more heart,” he explained.
Director Heo Myung-haeng praised Kang’s physicality and screen presence, remarking, “Even if others perform the same moves, his coolness stands out. You’ll understand when you see it.”
Their chemistry extends beyond action. Both stars teased the drama’s “adult romance,” portraying Moon-joo and San-ho as two individuals from different worlds who gradually discover reflections of themselves in each other.
Gianna Jun quipped during monitoring: “Have we ever acted this much like adults before?” to which Kang Dong-won jokingly replied, “It feels like two people who know something are looking at each other now.”
Supporting Cast, Special Appearances and Release Date
The ensemble cast enriches the drama with depth and variety. Park Hae Joon, praised by Jun Ji-hyun for his effortless charisma, brought warmth to the set. Global star John Cho also joins the lineup, with Kang Dong Won credited for supporting his casting. Jun noted Cho’s unique aura: “He had a natural flow that put co-stars at ease and carried onto the screen.”
Tempest consists of nine episodes released in stages:
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September 10: Episodes 1–3
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September 17: Episodes 4–5
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September 24: Episodes 6–7
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October 1: Episodes 8–9 (finale)
With a dream team of creators, a dynamic lead pairing, and a blend of action, metaphor, and mature romance, Tempest is poised to become one of the year’s most talked-about dramas.
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