“Veteran,” the 2015 Korean blockbuster that redefined detective action, returns with its highly anticipated sequel, “I, The Executioner.” Set to deliver more intense thrills, this film follows veteran detective Seo Do-cheol (Hwang Jung-min) as he takes on a ruthless serial killer threatening the nation. Alongside him is rookie officer Park Sun-woo (Jung Hae-in), who brings new energy to the investigation.

Since its release in Korea on September 13, “I, The Executioner” has claimed the No. 1 spot at the box office, amassing over four million admissions in just six days.

A Thrilling Continuation: Detective Seo Do-cheol Returns

Director Ryoo Seung-wan, who helmed the original “Veteran,” returns to bring fans a deeper dive into the psyche of Detective Seo Do-cheol. Ryoo shared his long-time passion for the character, stating, “My affection for Seo Do-cheol has only grown, and I always wanted to explore more of his story.” The veteran detective is back to take on a bigger, more ominous threat—a serial killer who has plunged Korea into fear and uncertainty.

Hwang Jung-min’s Passion for Detective Seo Do-cheol

Hwang Jung-min, who recently won Best Actor at the Baeksang Arts Awards for “12.12: The Day,” eagerly reprises his iconic role as Seo Do-cheol. Reflecting on his return, Hwang shared, “I have sincerely wanted a sequel since we filmed ‘Veteran’ and have been waiting for a long time. Even though it’s been nine years, I hope that audiences would feel that Seo Do-chul hasn’t changed. I wanted to maintain the energy from the first film as much as possible.”

Enter Rookie Detective Park Sun-woo: A New Perspective

Joining the action-packed drama is rising star Jung Hae-in, who plays rookie detective Park Sun-woo. Park is inspired by Seo Do-cheol’s past heroics, making it his mission to serve alongside the seasoned detective. Jung describes his character as grounded in reality, stating, “In a way, the film contains a lot of realistic stories. I think it’s a movie that allows us to think about various things,” highlighting the film’s reflection of contemporary issues.

Themes That Hit Close to Home: The Harmful Influence of Media

“I, The Executioner” explores timely issues such as the dangers of dopamine-driven media, fake news, and the manipulation of public perception. Through these narratives, the film reflects the harmful duality of modern media, where algorithms dictate our realities.

Art director Han Ah-reum remarks, “‘I, the Executioner’ depicts the duality and harm of the media. Director Ryoo Seung-wan addresses the social issues of our time through his signature strength that is action.” Expect a more serious and darker exploration of crime as this sequel delves into the evolving world of digital misinformation.

Mark Your Calendar: “I, The Executioner” Opens in Philippine Cinemas on September 25

“I, The Executioner,” distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Discovery company, is set to hit Philippine theaters on September 25. Get ready to witness an action-packed, socially relevant sequel that is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat. Don’t miss out on this heart-pounding crime drama from CJ ENM!

_{Photo & Video Credit: “Warner Bros. Pictures”}