Gangnam B-Side (2024):
IMDB Rating: 7.5/10
Episodes: 8
Aired: Nov 6, 2024 – Nov 27, 2024
Aired On: Wednesday
Original Platform : Disney+
Status : Ongoing
Also read: 10 Best High School Korean Dramas with Thrilling Twists You Can’t Miss
Gangnam B-Side (Korean: 강남 비-사이드) is a gripping South Korean crime thriller television series that delves into the dark underbelly of Gangnam’s nightlife. Written and directed by Park Noo-ri, in collaboration with Joo Won-gyu, the series stars Jo Woo-jin, Ji Chang-wook, Ha Yoon-kyung, and Kim Hyeong-seo. Premiering on Disney+ on November 6, 2024, the drama explores the complexities of crime, power, and survival in one of Seoul’s most vibrant districts. Gangnam B-Side has already garnered critical acclaim, being selected as one of the six drama series featured in the On Screen section of the 29th Busan International Film Festival.
Cast:
Jo Woo-jin as Detective Kang Dong-u
A resilient detective recently reinstated after being demoted, Dong-u is relentless in his pursuit of justice.
Ji Chang-wook as Gangnam outlaw Yun Gil-ho
A mysterious figure with a checkered past, Gil-ho’s involvement with the disappearances places him in a precarious position.
Ha Yoon-kyung as Prosecutor Min Seo-jin
An ambitious prosecutor aiming to climb the ranks, Seo-jin sees this case as her golden opportunity.
Kim Hyeong-seo (Bibi) as Jae Hui
A bar worker in Gangnam who holds a crucial secret about the disappearances but mysteriously vanishes herself.
Storyline:
Set against the vibrant yet shadowy backdrop of Gangnam’s bustling nightlife, Gangnam B-Side unfolds as a gripping tale of mystery and suspense. The story begins with a series of unexplained disappearances in Seoul’s most glamorous district, shaking the lives of those involved. At the heart of the mystery is Jae Hui, a young woman working at a prominent Gangnam bar. She stumbles upon a chilling secret linked to the vanishings, but before she can reveal it, she too disappears without a trace.
Her disappearance sets the stage for three central characters to converge in a high-stakes investigation. Detective Kang Dong-u, recently reinstated after a demotion, is determined to prove his worth. He dives headfirst into the case, following every lead with relentless focus. Yun Gil-ho, a notorious figure known as Gangnam’s outlaw, becomes a prime suspect due to his shadowy past and his entanglement with the case. Though he’s viewed with suspicion, his motives and connections remain enigmatic, leaving everyone questioning his true role.
Prosecutor Min Seo-jin, driven by ambition, seizes the case as an opportunity to elevate her career. Unafraid to take risks, she is resolute in uncovering the truth, even if it means clashing with those she works alongside.
The trio forms an uneasy alliance as they chase down the truth behind the so-called “black connection” that ties the disappearances together. As they peel back the layers of Gangnam’s glittering surface, they uncover a world rife with corruption, betrayal, and moral compromise. With each revelation, the stakes rise, testing their trust in one another and their commitment to their personal goals.
Gangnam B-Side is a thrilling exploration of crime, ambition, and human resilience, making it a must-watch for fans of intense, character-driven dramas.
Personal Review:
Gangnam B-Side is a masterfully crafted crime thriller that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. With its intricate plot, dynamic characters, and atmospheric depiction of Gangnam’s nightlife, the series offers a fresh take on the genre. Its exploration of moral ambiguity and personal ambition adds depth to the high-stakes chase for the truth. Gangnam B-Side not only captivates with its suspenseful storytelling but also highlights the darker sides of human nature and society. A must-watch for fans of thought-provoking thrillers, the series cements its place as a standout in 2024’s K-drama lineup. A must watch!
