Made in Korea Series Review (2025): ‘Made in Korea‘ is Hulu and Disney+’s latest Korean original series. Season 1’s first 2 episodes were released on December 24, 2025; it wastes no time as it takes viewers into a tense world of espionage, crime, and political intrigue. It is set in the 1970s, and it looks to present the perfect blend of real-world geopolitical anxiety with a morally complex protagonist. But is the show worth watching? That’s what we will find out in this Made in Korea series review.
About Made in Korea Series and Rating
- Where to watch: Netflix
- Streaming Date: December 25, 2025
- Director: Woo Min-ho
- Stars: Hyun Bin, Jung Woo-sung, Woo Do-hwan, Cho Yeo-jeong, and others
- Rating: 4/5
Watch Made in Korea First Two Episodes
Made in Korea Plot Overview: A Spy Playing Both Sides
The series opens in 1970 Tokyo. Here, we see a calm and confident businessman named Baek Gi-tae (played by Hyun Bin) boarding a flight to Fukuoka. It started as a routine journey, but it quickly spirals into chaos when terrorists hijack the plane as they start demanding safe passage to Pyongyang. Everybody started panicking, but Baek remained composed.
Baek reveals his intelligence and ruthlessness. He shows his presence of mind while negotiating directly with the hijackers. He even produced bags of meth from his briefcase to manipulate the situation. Thanks to his internal monologue, viewers learn that Baek understands South Korean intelligence tactics far too well. As we come closer to the end of the episode, the truth emerges: Baek is a high-ranking KCIA operative who is secretly running a drug-smuggling operation on the side.
Performances That Carry the Tension
Hyun Bin is the highlight, as he delivered a standout performance as Baek Gi-tae. His portrayal is cold, controlled, and quietly menacing. He is a perfect fit for a man who believes he can outsmart both criminals and the system he serves. Hyun Bin’s screen presence was so charming that it made Baek fascinating even when the plot leans heavily on exposition.
On the opposite end of the moral spectrum is Jung Woo-sung as prosecutor Jang Geon-young. He is a relentless lawman who refuses bribes and shortcuts. His role is introduced later, but his presence immediately establishes the central conflict.
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Direction, Tone, and Atmosphere
Made in Korea takes us to the era that has muted colours, period-accurate costumes, and a deliberate pacing that mirrors classic spy thrillers. The show feels like a blend of The Americans and Mad Men. It is smartly written to present the perfect combination of political paranoia with personal ambition. Most of the pilot episode takes place on the hijacked plane, and it creates a claustrophobic atmosphere that keeps the tension consistently high.
What Works Well
Made in Korea has so many things that make the show great.
- It is an exciting story of a morally complex protagonist with a compelling double life.
- Made in Korea has a strong lead performance, played by Hyun Bin.
- Intriguing historical and political backdrop.
- The first two episodes of the show have served as a high-stakes opening episode that hooks viewers quickly.
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Where It Falls Short
- Some plot developments feel a bit too convenient.
- Japanese authorities are portrayed as almost comically ineffective.
- Limited screen time for supporting characters in the pilot.
Final Verdict: Worth watching or not?
Finally, Made in Korea succeeds because of its central hook, which involves the story of a spy who believes he can balance power, profit, and patriotism without consequences. The first episode occasionally leans on convenient storytelling, but the intrigue surrounding Baek’s dual roles makes the series highly watchable.
With the first two episodes, it is clear that Made in Korea is perfect for the viewers who enjoy slow-burn spy dramas, morally grey characters, and stylish period storytelling. Made in Korea episodes 3 and 4 will be released on December 31, on the occasion of New Year’s Eve.
Watch Made in Korea Series Trailer
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