Tempest (2025)

With the genocides in Congo, Palestine and Sudan, viewers want to be entertained not screwed with.

The whole drama is a shit show lol like them trying to sell the peaceful South Korea who wants reunification (which most people in this world support) BUT they make it seem like they're saving North Koreans from their rulers, totally ignoring the fact that Meurica played a big role in the embargo, using South Korea and Japan on many occasions (and probably in the near future, when you see the news)
Also the fact that they acknowledge the the Iraq war was based on lies (which is true) but then mention bombs made by "terrorists" (so Iraqis? racism again? wasn't it a war built on lies?) that ML supposedly saw in his service for the AMERICAN INVADORS
The drama was either made by dumb people, or by people who are actively engaging propaganda, I'm leaning towards the latter, we'll see with the next episodes (only watching to make an informed decision, but I'm watching on a piracy streaming website and my conscience is clear)
In any case, I hope these producers realize that many many people watch the news now, and with the genocides in Congo, Palestine and Sudan, people won't take this crap anymore.

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Check yourself before you insult others

I am an Iraqi who cannot remain silent. South Korea participated in the 2003 war by sending thousands of soldiers to Iraq, contributing to the destruction of our country. Now a Korean series dares to insult Iraq and portray it as a miserable and terrorist land. This is not entertainment, but hypocrisy and an insult to millions of Iraqis. We have an Iraqi proverb that says: "He kills a person and walks in his funeral." And now, after you were one of those who participated in our killing and destruction, you are being exploited on our land after you were one of the reasons for our destruction. But we are not the only country that had a war. Why are you tarnishing our reputation? Why are you happy now? When you thought of producing or acting in these scenes, because of you, the world has started avoiding us. Because of you, apologize to us. Apologize to our past, our wounds, and our martyrs. You brought back the pain that we wanted to forget or were trying to forget. I hate you.

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Ending

I keep saying that these writers don't know how to end a drama. I'm tired of the nonsense endings. I enjoyed this drama tremendously. Story was good, acting great. It could have easily given a ten, but I got the type of ending I hate. How could such a good drama be written and then you are left bewildered trying to figure out the ending. I literally hung on to the very end, fingers crossed, hoping that he shows up. So disappointed in the ending. But I would rewatch but only up to half way in the final episode. I was chanting, strong ending, strong ending but...... And I would recommend.

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Big Feels, Bigger Twists (Freaks Shouldn't Have Power)

It's honestly fascinating that in today's world, with everything going on, we got a kdrama like Tempest, one that basically shows how dangerous it is when “freaks” hold power. For me, the drama often felt like a mirror of our own reality, highlighting just how destructive it can be when weapons fall into the wrong hands.

The plot was strong. The pacing? Yeah, sometimes a little slow, but never to the point of being boring, EVERY single episode left me wanting to click next. Jun Ji Hyun has mentioned she's always admired Kang Dong Won, so I can only imagine what a dream it was for her to act alongside him in something this good. Their chemistry was flawless, and honestly, they need to team up again. The entire cast delivered too; no character felt wasted, whether they had a big role or a small one.

Seo Mun Ju was such a competent character in everything she set out to do, even in her own suffering. Strong, sharp, and straightforward, Jun Ji Hyun played her with so much grace and nuance. At times, I almost believed she really could bring world peace. Baek San Ho, meanwhile, was absolutely fascinating (Calm down, I love Seo Mun Ju as much him loves her): layered, complex, and unwavering in his devotion to Seo Mun Ju. His final scene with Madam President only deepened that complexity.

Political storyline >> Aside from a couple of generalizations, I thought the political side of the story was really good. And honestly, just look at the news around us, and you'll get exactly where the characters' motivations came from.

Romance >> The drama never promised romance, but somehow it delivered. The moments were short, yes, but full of meaning and chemistry. Definitely unexpected, but definitely WORTH IT.

The Finale >> I wasn't disappointed at all. For weeks I'd been convinced the drama would keep us on edge, making us believe until the very last second that our anti-hero, Baek San Ho, was doomed to die. But he didn't, that open door on the ship basically screamed that he was still alive. His final moment, alone in the desert, looking at Polaris while burying Seo Mun Ju's necklace where he always dreamed of taking her, was deeply symbolic. To me, it was him putting his own happiness to rest (or keeping it safe) while letting her move forward. Realistically, their romance could never work with him alive beside her while she's running for president and fighting for peace. And he knew that. So he sacrificed it (I'm guessing here).

Conclusion >> I really think Tempest was a unique kdrama, with great acting, powerful scenes, and a storyline that kept me on the edge of my seat every single week. Loved it.

90/100

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SOMEWAY IT'S OPEN ENDING BUT FOR ME IT'S STILL INCOMPLETE

So as a jun ji hyun fan i was waiting for her comeback after jirisan and kingdom for almost 2-3 yrs now and for me she gave us such a beautiful one man show !! 🥰🥰because all the time my eyes was on her, yeah also on sanho shii 😅😅, the chemistry they shared and shown on the screen is something so beautiful and i never wanna forget this duo!! Beautiful the pairing they did!!

In the end he was like a polaris... Nah... He was like a guardian angel in my eyes for her, because an angel appear when you are in tough times guide us better without us knowing, make us strong.... And once they think we are not anymore that awkward or down but stronger than ever to face things... They secretly leave, with a promise in our heart that once you are in tough position i will be back their to backup you! And thats what sanho here was, he made her learn gun shooting, how to take her of her better, care for her, love her more! Through him she started loving her more and lot.

Even though it maybe not a happy ending i wished to see!! In my head i still believe he will comeback for her!! Because now she needed to build her career better and settle better in that role, once it's all sorted he will be back!! 🥺🥹[i can hope right 🥹😭😭]

Wish there was a sequel episode... Still thank you. I know the plot must have very disturbing for the native people but for me it's all them, sorry. I just want to see her act again. I still want her in more and more dramas! 🥹 actually everyone did so good, such perfect casting!! Will miss this! [ i was actually not watching korean dramas recently but she made me back in track. ]😅🥰

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I found this drama intriguing

I'm not normally into political dramas, but this had a different feel. It hooked me in the first few minutes. It was interesting to watch the tactics used by all the high level forces to eliminate those who have political views that do not align with those of their countries.

Even early on, there were some intense happenings, like the bomb planted in the train seat, and the connection between her and [Mark] Paik Sanho (the agent protecting her) was palpable. He was a true badass.

I loved the chemistry between the leads, especially on his part. He had a way of interacting with her that just shouted his deep affection for her.

It was also refreshing to see actual actors portraying Americans rather than the talentless actors normally seen in kdramas.

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kicking up a real tempest!

This show kicks up a real tempest as it navigates the murky waters (and unfortunately considerably real waters) of the South Asian geopolitics. To a great extent this show felt like any of the top tier shows we have been used to in American Television/Cinema. But the nicest part is that the show does not ape the West in any way; it still feels Asian, grounded, South Korean even, if i may say(though I am a non-Korean). The cinematography and colour pallettes deserve special mention as the soundtrack. The narrative is interesting, specially each of the main characters dreaming about being someone else (someone they hold dear to themselves). However,it is the acting department that scores the highest for me. The relationship between the leads is crackling. Each single actor delivers a stellar performance.

It is true, though last 2 episodes specially ep 9 feel very rushed and everything seems to come to an end way too smoothly and swiftly, but i strongly believe that is an opening for S2 of the show. In 2012 a Hindi-language film called Gangs of Wasseypur was made and released as a 2 part-film. Based on coal mafia in northern-central India, the film (parts 1 and 2) had a total runtime of 5 hours 19 minutes. Though the premise and treatment are very very different, somehow the end of Tempest reminded me of the way Gangs of Wasseypur part 1 ended. Open-ended with a lot of possibilities. Therefore, here's hoping Tempest also has a part 2, rather Season 2.

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Tempest: A Disgusting Recycled Version of Red Swan With Jun Ji Hyun

This drama treats itself as overly self-important, but the execution makes it hard to take seriously. The female lead is portrayed as if she’s the most crucial figure in South Korea’s survival, a diplomat so important that even the president personally interferes in her private life. In reality, ambassadors work behind closed doors, negotiating with careful words and securing national interests quietly, not being turned into celebrity-like figures with the president dictating whether they should divorce or accept minister positions. The idea that the president is heartbroken because she married his political rival, and that she alone can sway the nation’s future, feels like an inflated fantasy rather than political reality.

The attempt at political depth collapses further in the execution. The church scene was outright uncomfortable: the male lead secretly films a married woman, romantic music plays, and she knowingly stares into the camera as if inviting him. It doesn’t read as diplomacy or duty — it reads like an adultery drama in disguise, dressed up with diplomatic jargon that doesn’t mean much, because realistically, South Korea’s foreign policy is dependent on U.S. approval anyway.

The action sequence in the first episode is equally unconvincing. The male lead notices the soldier targeting the FL’s husband but doesn’t act, seemingly waiting for the husband to die so he can “save” her. The soldier miraculously spares everyone else but delays shooting the FL until the ML arrives, and then — conveniently — decides it’s time to pull the trigger. The directing makes it look intentional, as though the plot needed the husband to die for the romance to kick in. What’s worse is the framing: while the FL holds her dead husband and the ML holds the dead soldier, the camera lingers on their eye contact like we’re supposed to feel a budding romance in that tragic moment. It’s manipulative, disgusting, and undermines the seriousness of the setup.

Overall, instead of giving us a believable political drama, Tempest feels like a rebranded Red Swan — but now with diplomats and politicians instead of chaebols and business elites. The forced romance, especially with a married (later widow) FL, destroys any credibility the story could have had. What could’ve been a sharp, serious drama is reduced to another recycled melodrama with dirty, unrealistic romantic overtones.

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Political Intrigue vs. Family Drama

The highly anticipated spy thriller Tempest, marking the return of the incomparable Jun Ji-hyun, is a show that feels like a cinematic, high-octane political chess match. It's sleek, the action is gripping, and the chemistry between the leads is absolutely electrifying. However, this drama hasn't just brought the heat on-screen; it has practically ignited a wildfire of controversy and debate, especially when it comes to international relations and casting choices. The storyline starts with a bang: a presidential candidate’s assassination that unravels a massive conspiracy involving North Korea, South Korean politics, and American intelligence. The initial episodes are tight, slick, and full of gripping action sequences, perfectly paced to hook a global audience. The creative team, including the writer of Decision to Leave and the director of Vincenzo, truly knows how to create atmosphere and suspense.

However, a recurring criticism is the delivery and pacing of this drama, and I concur. I felt like this complex geopolitical thriller often got bogged down by predictable chaebol family conflicts (scheming in-laws, power plays over inheritance, sibling rivalries). These sections felt distinctly more makjang (melodrama) than espionage, weakening the main narrative drive and causing the suspense to lose momentum. I also thought that the script underutilized the talents of its leads and the compelling international spy elements by pivoting too heavily into domestic squabbles. With all this said, though, Tempest is a well-produced, high-stakes political thriller that is carried by the phenomenal chemistry and layered performances of its two leads and supporting cast. It’s an urgent, engaging watch, even if it occasionally loses its footing balancing a local family drama with an international tempest.

I can’t talk about Tempest without addressing the massive elephant in the room. The female lead, Seo Mun-ju (Jun Ji-hyun), a former UN Ambassador and presidential candidate, was inadvertently at the center of a genuine diplomatic headache. The whole thing blew up over two core issues: the line where Mun-ju says, "Why does China prefer war?" It was a brief phrase that sparked an instantaneous, fiery backlash from Chinese viewers. They called it an insult, slander, and a malicious distortion of their country's image. I say this: it’s a fictional story, for crying out loud, and the outcry spoke more to those viewers’ thoughts about their country than to the drama, just saying. The other issue is that Drama faced heavy criticism for its negative portrayal of the Chinese city of Dalian, allegedly depicting it as a dilapidated shantytown when, in reality, it's a modern metropolis. Viewers felt this was a deliberate attempt to "uglify" the city. I doubt that was the intention, but who am I to judge.

For Jun Ji-hyun, a massive Hallyu star who has built a substantial following and secured numerous brand endorsements in China over the past two decades, this controversy was likely a crisis. Suddenly, her career and even her commercial deals were in question, with brands reportedly distancing themselves to avoid the fallout. It’s a harsh reminder of how fragile the balance between entertainment, culture, and business is in the global sphere. It raises the uncomfortable question of whether an actor can truly be divorced from the political implications of their script, mainly when the script deals with such high-stakes international politics, especially in this part of the world. The second point of debate is one that frequently arises in international K-dramas: the use of English-language dialogue. In a show centered on a former UN Ambassador and American political figures, English proficiency is crucial for realism. I understand where this is coming from, but I thought everyone did pretty well, especially Gang Dong-won. I was very impressed with his diction, accent, intuition, everything – his voice, I mean, he is a package deal.

Rather than point out negatives, I like to focus on the positive. I think the production wisely cast established Korean-American actors, such as John Cho (as Deputy Secretary of State Anderson Miller), in key US-based roles. I especially appreciated that the American characters were played by legitimate Hollywood talent, which is a massive improvement over the often-criticized casting of non-native speakers or random expats in past K-dramas. When Cho's character spoke, the authenticity was there. Where things get nuanced is with the Korean main cast, specifically Jun Ji-hyun, and the main reason is that her character is supposed to be a highly educated former US Ambassador. While her English is generally competent, fitting for a diplomat, there were occasional moments where the delivery felt slightly stiff, but other than that, I thought she did a pretty good job. Frankly, I think the intention to make the show truly international was commendable, and casting John Cho was a genius move.

The show’s emotional core hinged entirely on its two leads, which is understandable. However, I think the supporting cast, composed of veteran actors, was critical in escalating the tension from a political thriller to a full-blown family and international conspiracy. Their characters are the primary drivers of the "chaebol family conflicts" that interweave with the espionage plot, creating multiple, simultaneous layers of threat around the leads, and so on to character analysis:

Seo Mun-ju (Jun Ji-hyun): The Sharp Diplomat Mun-ju is no mere "politician's wife"; she is the driving force of the plot. She's a skilled former UN Ambassador, sharp, principled, and an intellectual force. Jun Ji-hyun plays her with a marvelous balance of polished stoicism and deep, suppressed pain following her husband’s assassination. The brilliance of her character is that she remains active and resilient, never a passive victim, as she navigates the treacherous waters of her influential, chaebol in-laws and international espionage. She uses her intelligence as her weapon, a refreshing contrast to the action hero.

Paik San-ho (Gang Dong-won): The Brooding Mercenary Gang Dong-won, returning to TV after a long hiatus, embodies San-ho as a mysterious, near-mythical international agent. He is the quiet shadow, the physical force who protects Mun-ju with deadly efficiency. Their relationship is a masterclass in slow-burning, intense chemistry. It’s the classic "spy protects diplomat" trope, but their dynamic—her poise and his quiet, almost obsessed protectiveness—is electric. The actors themselves have been praised for redefining on-screen tension; every loaded glance or moment of shared silence is more compelling than any overt romantic gesture.

The Architect of Domestic Intrigue: Lim Ok-seon (Lee Mi-sook), the influential Chairwoman of Aseom Shipping and Seo Mun-ju's mother-in-law, embodies the ruthless chaebol matriarch with a lethal political edge. Veteran actress Lee Mi-sook imbues the character with an imposing, calculating presence, drawing comparisons from critics to iconic cinematic villains. Ok-seon is initially Mun-ju's chief antagonist, driven by contempt for her daughter-in-law's humble background. However, her primary motivation is power and control. Following her son's assassination, she swiftly pivots her political ambitions, realizing Mun-ju is her new, albeit reluctant, vehicle to maintain influence. This creates a fascinating and dangerous dynamic: their relationship is not one of trust, but of an uneasy, high-stakes alliance where every shared glance is a battle of wits. Ok-seon is the primary driver of the domestic threats, ensuring that Mun-ju cannot escape the chaebol family power struggle even while facing international conspiracies.

The Volatile Insider: Jang Jun-sang (Oh Jung-se), Mun-ju's brother-in-law and a prosecutor, functions as the most volatile and unpredictable internal threat. Played by the versatile Oh Jung-se, Jun-sang is a man consumed by deep-seated inferiority and sibling rivalry. Despite his professional competence and standing within the legal system, he has always lived in the shadow of his now-deceased brother, a former presidential candidate. His character arc is rooted in his emotional wounds, which manifest as complicated motivations, anger, and professional jealousy. His position as a prosecutor gives him access to information and resources that can either aid or critically undermine Mun-ju's investigation. He is a powder keg in the narrative, always threatening to derail the larger mission due to his own personal resentments.

The International Power Player: Anderson Miller (John Cho), the U.S. Deputy Secretary of State, is vital to the show’s geopolitical credibility. The decision to cast an established Hollywood figure like John Cho ensures a level of authenticity and gravity often missing in K-dramas' portrayals of Western characters. His character is a high-ranking Korean-American official caught in the thick of the US government's response to the crisis on the Korean Peninsula. Miller serves as a crucial bridge—a source of intelligence, a potential ally, and a reminder of the massive international forces at play. His involvement instantly elevates the conspiracy from a regional affair to a global power struggle, providing the diplomatic context that Mun-ju, as a former ambassador, must navigate.

The Inciting Incident: Jang Jun-ik (Park Hae-joon) Mun-ju's late husband is the origin point of the entire tempest. Although his screen time is minimal, his character’s past actions and secrets were the lifeblood of the conspiracy. By far the most important character who was initially presented as a charismatic and peace-loving presidential candidate, however, as Mun-ju investigates his assassination, she uncovers a legacy of hidden information, paranoia, and deep entanglement with both the North Korean and chaebol world. He is a portrait of a man who was clearly not who he appeared to be, setting up the central mystery and forcing Mun-ju to confront the dangerous truth about the man she married.

Ultimately, Tempest is undeniably a gripping drama, but its script has proven to be a dangerous territory. It’s a show that forces its audience to think not just about the fictional spy plot, but about the real-world issues of cultural representation, political sensitivity, and the heavy cross an actor has to bear for the words in their script. At the very least, it's made me think. With all that said, it's a must-watch for fans of high-quality action thrillers and political dramas. It succeeds as a gripping espionage story elevated by a world-class cast and a taut script, offering both intellectual intrigue and heart-pounding action.

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