What happens when politics, power, and passion collide? Tempest is one of 2025’s most anticipated Korean dramas, blending spy intrigue, political conspiracies, and a heart-stopping romance. With an all-star cast led by Jun Ji-hyun and Gang Dong-won, this series sweeps viewers into a dangerous storm where trust is scarce and betrayal is everywhere.
Quick Drama Facts
Drama Name: Tempest (북극성)
Genre: Spy, Political Thriller, Romance
Episodes: 12 (approx.)
Release Date: September 10, 2025
Platform: Disney+ (Hulu in the U.S.)
Director: Kim Hee-won & Heo Myung-haeng
Writer: Jung Seo-kyeong
Plot Summary
The story begins with an attempted assassination of a powerful presidential candidate. Seo Mun-ju (Jun Ji-hyun), a brilliant diplomat and former ambassador to the U.S., suddenly finds herself in the center of a political storm when her husband is accused of being a North Korean spy. Her life spirals into danger as she discovers that nothing—and no one—around her can be trusted. Amid this chaos, she crosses paths with Paik San-ho (Gang Dong-won), a mysterious mercenary with his own hidden agenda. Their uneasy alliance grows more complicated as secrets unravel, loyalties are tested, and the thin line between love and betrayal blurs. As tensions on the Korean peninsula rise and international forces pull strings from the shadows, the storm of Tempest threatens to engulf them all.
Cast and Characters
Jun Ji-hyun as Seo Mun-ju – A composed diplomat whose life changes overnight when conspiracy and betrayal strike close to home.
Gang Dong-won as Paik San-ho – A dangerous yet charismatic agent entangled in Mun-ju’s mission.
John Cho as Anderson Miller – A U.S. diplomat caught in the web of international intrigue.
Park Hae-joon, Lee Mi-sook, Kim Hae-sook, Oh Jung-se, Yoo Jae-myung – Power players and allies who shape the storm around the main leads.
Reasons to Watch
Star-Studded Cast: Jun Ji-hyun and Gang Dong-won’s on-screen chemistry is worth the hype.
High-Stakes Plot: A gripping mix of politics, espionage, and forbidden romance.
Cinematic Quality: Stylish visuals and intense action sequences elevate the viewing experience.
Complex Characters: Every role is layered with motives and secrets that keep you guessing.
Global Appeal: A story that goes beyond Korea, touching on international diplomacy and power struggles.
Where to Watch
Disney+, Hulu, Streaming availability may vary, but global audiences can expect Disney+ rollout in phases.
Final Thoughts
Tempest is not just a drama—it’s a storm that pulls you in with its tension, mystery, and unexpected tenderness. If you love political thrillers with emotional depth and captivating leads, this series should be at the top of your watchlist. Prepare yourself for a ride where every episode feels like standing at the eye of a storm.
Image Credit X Disney Plus
