What happens when love secretly blossoms amidst the high stakes of a nation’s fate? This intriguing premise drives the upcoming K-drama “Tempest,” set to premiere this September. Starring Korean top actors like Jun Ji-hyun and Kang Dong-won, “Tempest,” also known as “Polaris” (북극성), promises a heart-pounding spy thriller with deep emotional layers. Discover all the details below and also find out why this K-drama deserves a spot on your watch list this September!
“Tempest” (“Polaris” – 북극성) Korean Drama 2025
The highly anticipated K-drama “Tempest” features top Korean creators and actors with incredible talents. If you are a fan of espionage, romance, and political intrigue, then the upcoming series is for you!
Without further ado, let’s explore this exciting new series.
Synopsis: A Spy Thriller with a Diplomatic Twist
“Tempest” centers on Seo Mun-ju, a brilliant former diplomat and ex-UN ambassador. She is renowned for her sharp mind, calm judgment, and diplomatic tact.
She uncovers political maneuvering behind a high-profile assassination attempt. This conspiracy is threatening peace between South and North Korea. Furthermore, this revelation draws her into a perilous and complex web of secrets and power struggles.
Baek San-ho is an elite international special agent with a secret past and an even more mysterious nationality. Silent yet deadly, he becomes Mun-ju’s unlikely partner, acting as a mercenary, diplomat, and operative.
Together, they tackle a mission to expose the truth behind a deadly attack. Their mission is critical: failure could destabilize the entire Korean Peninsula and threaten global security.
As the story unfolds, their professional alliance deepens into a complex bond. Furthermore, loyalty, trust, and even love will be put to the test amid the political espionage.
“Tempest” Cast
Jun Ji-hyun as Seo Mun-ju.
You might know her from hits like “The Legend of the Sea” and “My Love from the Star.” This series marks her comeback to small screens following her 2021 drama “Jirisan.”
In the upcoming drama, she plays a former diplomat and UN ambassador. Sharp, decisive, conflicted over political/moral choices.
Kang Dong-won as Baek San-ho.
“Tempest” marks Gang Dong-won’s grand comeback to the small screen after more than 21 years since his last appearance in the 2004 drama “Magic.” Since then, he starred in numerous films, with his appearance in the hit movie “Dark Nuns.”
In this upcoming series, he portrays a charismatic yet dangerous International special agent with deadly skills.
The ensemble cast, including:
- Kim Hae-sook as Chae Gyeong-sin
- Lee Mi-sook as Im Ok-seon
- Yoo Jae-myung as Director of the National Intelligence Service
- Park Hae-joon as Jun Ik
- John Cho as Anderson Miller
- Oh Jung-se as Jang Jung-sang
- Lee Sang-hee as Yeo Mi-ji
- Joo Jong-hyuk as Park Chang-hui
- Won Ji-an as Kang Ha-na
This stellar cast promises a rich tapestry of characters who drive the espionage and emotional narrative.
The Visionaries Behind “Tempest”
Beyond the stellar cast, the creative team behind the show is also impressive.
Renowned screenwriter Jeong Seo-kyeong penned the drama’s script. She wrote the screenplay for the intricate, emotional stories in “The Handmaiden.” Therefore, her involvement in this show guarantees a thrilling, nuanced story.
Directors Kim Hee-won of “Vicenzo” and Heo Myung-haeng of “The Roundup: Punishment” bring their expertise to the show. This ensures stunning visuals and a dynamic pace.
Expect a blend of genres in the series: thriller, mystery, romance, and action. All of these are carefully crafted into one cohesive narrative.
“Tempest” Premiere Date
Mark your calendars! “Tempest” premieres globally on September 10, 2025, on Disney+ and Hulu. The first three episodes will be released on the premiere date. Then, two new episodes will stream every Wednesday. This nine-episode series promises to keep you engaged week after week.
Why You Can’t Miss Tempest in 2025
Powerful Leads
Jun Ji-hyun and Gang Dong-won are a formidable duo. Their fresh collaboration will light up the screen, promising undeniable chemistry and powerful performances.
Unique Premise & Powerful Themes
Spy romances are popular, but “Tempest” stands out. It blends high-stakes diplomacy, weaving in real political tension around the Korean Peninsula with espionage.
“Tempest” redefines the K-drama spy thriller genre by offering a fresh perspective. The series explores loyalty, sacrifice, and duty, which shows the struggle between personal feelings and obligations.
Sophisticated Storytelling
Two top directors and a renowned screenwriter, who have track records of delivering emotionally rich and visually stunning stories, created this series. Therefore, it will offer more than just action. You can expect a brilliant and emotional story ahead!
International Appeal
Korean-American actor John Cho makes his first-ever appearance in a Korean drama series. The actor has starred in many series and movies in the US. He is best known for his role in the hit movie “Harold & Kumar.” Therefore, his debut in this upcoming K-drama is likely to draw the attention of international audiences.
Are You Ready for the “Tempest”?
Korean drama “Tempest” has been one of the most-awaited new dramas in 2025. Blending a compelling cast lineup, characters, a complex plot, and a stellar production team, the series is an absolute must-watch.
Are you ready to join Mun-ju and San-ho as they face the storm? Please share your thoughts in the comments.
In the meantime, watch the exciting trailers for the new 2025 Korean drama “Tempest” (also known as “Polaris”) below.
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