Disney+ Launches Korean Crime Thriller 'Gold Land' by 'Oldboy' Writer

Disney+ has announced the production of 'Gold Land,' an original Korean crime thriller series scripted by Hwang Jo-yoon, the acclaimed screenwriter known for his work on the iconic film 'Oldboy' (2003). This project marks Hwang's debut in the streaming arena, promising a gripping narrative centered around smuggling and the complexities of escaping one's past.

Set to feature Park Bo-young, recognized for her role in 'Light Shop,' and Kim Sung-cheol from 'No Way Out: The Roulette,' 'Gold Land' follows the story of Heeju, a woman from a small town who inadvertently acquires gold bars from a smuggling operation. As she finds herself pursued by dangerous criminals, Heeju must navigate her way back to a place she vowed never to return. The series is directed by Kim Sung-hoon, known for his work on 'Chief Detective 1958' and 'Confidential Assignment.'

The announcement of 'Gold Land' is a strategic move by Disney+ as it expands its footprint in the Korean content market. With the growing popularity of Korean dramas globally, the platform aims to capitalize on this trend, following the success of its recent titles such as 'Unmasked' and 'Hyper Knife.' According to a report by the Korean Content Agency, the demand for Korean content has surged, with viewership increasing by over 40% in the last year alone (KCA, 2025).

Hwang Jo-yoon's reputation in the industry is well-established, particularly following the critical acclaim of 'Oldboy,' which won the Grand Prix at the 2004 Cannes Film Festival. His ability to weave intricate narratives with profound psychological depth is highly anticipated in 'Gold Land.'

Expert opinions on the series are varied. Dr. Min-Jung Lee, a cultural studies expert at Seoul National University, emphasizes the significance of storytelling in addressing social issues: "Korean series often reflect societal challenges, and 'Gold Land' seems poised to delve into themes of crime and morality, resonating with audiences both locally and internationally."

On the other hand, entertainment analyst David Kim from Media Insights suggests that while the premise is engaging, the challenge lies in execution. He states, "Korean dramas have set a high bar in terms of production quality. Disney+ must ensure that 'Gold Land' meets these expectations to attract a global audience."

The significance of this series extends beyond entertainment; it represents a growing trend where global streaming platforms invest in local content to cater to diverse audiences. According to the latest statistics from the Korea Creative Content Agency, the market for streaming Korean dramas is projected to exceed $1 billion by 2026.

In addition to 'Gold Land,' Disney+ has several other Korean originals in the pipeline, including 'Delusion,' a vampire-themed drama, and 'Low Life,' which explores the lives of deceitful characters seeking treasure. These projects illustrate a strategic diversification of Disney+'s content portfolio aimed at engaging a wider demographic.

As the global competition in streaming intensifies, 'Gold Land' and its contemporaries could play a pivotal role in shaping the future of content consumption, blending cultural narratives with entertainment. The series is set to debut in late 2025, and with the pedigree of its creative team, it is anticipated to draw significant attention from both domestic and international viewers. The success of 'Gold Land' may well pave the way for more Korean narratives on global platforms, highlighting the growing influence of South Korean cinema and television in the international entertainment landscape.