The Murky Stream (Korean: 탁류) is an upcoming South Korean historical drama that promises gripping intrigue and emotional depth. Set in the lawless era of Joseon, the series explores the fate of three very different individuals whose destinies become entwined along the now-corrupted Gyeonggang River—once pristine, now a powerful symbol of a society tainted by greed and lawlessness.
Synopsis
The story centres on Jang Si-Yool (Ro Woon), a troubled man forced into gangster life, Choi Eun (Shin Ye-Eun), a righteous merchant leader, and Jung Cheon (Park Seo-Ham), an idealistic police official determined to fight pervasive corruption. Their struggles play out in a ruthless world where justice is scarce, survival is uncertain, and loyalty is everything.
Key themes:
The Murky Stream (탁류) highlights some key themes such as corruption and lawlessness, survival and loyalty, and Justice and Rebellion. The Gyeonggang River’s descent into murkiness parallels Joseon’s loss of moral standing, setting a bleak but powerful backdrop for battles against oppression and greed.
The characters face unwavering tests of loyalty as they fight to survive and protect their ideals in a world where trust is easily lost. The fight to restore order and dignity anchors the series, driving tense character conflicts and memorable action sequences.
“The Murky Stream” is not just another historical K-drama—it’s an atmospheric, character-driven saga steeped in greed, justice, and redemption. With an acclaimed cast and a stunning production team, it aims to deliver heart-pounding drama and emotional power suitable for both festival audiences and global streaming fans.
Credits & Release Dates
Director: Choo Chang-Min (“Masquerade”)
Screenwriter: Cheon Sung-Il (“All of Us Are Dead”)
Production: NPIO Entertainment, Anew
Main Cast: Ro Woon as Jang Si-Yool (gangster at Mapo Ferry), Shin Ye-Eun as Choi Eun (principled merchant leader), Park Seo-Ham as Jung Cheon (upright official), Park Ji-Hwan as Mu Deok (gangster maintaining order)
Supporting Cast: Jeon Bae Soo, Choi Gwi Hwa, Choi Won Young, Kim Dong Won, Ahn Seung Gyun
Busan International Film Festival Premiere:
World premiere of episodes 1 & 2 in the ‘On Screen’ section
Festival dates: September 17–26, 2025
Disney+ Release Schedule:
Episodes 1–3 release: September 26, 2025
Two episodes weekly; finale (episode 9): October 17, 2025
