Disney+ has announced the release date for its highly anticipated Korean political drama, Uncle Samsik, featuring renowned actor Song Kang-ho in his television series debut. The show is set to premiere with five episodes on May 15 exclusively on Disney+ globally and on Hulu in the United States. Following the initial launch, the 16-part series will continue with two episodes per week until a three-part season finale airs on June 19.
Directed by esteemed Korean writer and filmmaker Shin Yeon-shick, known for works such as The Russian Novel and Cobweb, Uncle Samsik is his first venture into television series. The storyline is set in 1960s Korea and revolves around Kim San, an ambitious idealist determined to elevate his country's status. As a recipient of the Albright Scholarship, San aspires to modernize Korea into an industrial powerhouse, mirroring the prosperity seen in America.
The narrative unfolds as San crosses paths with Pak Doochill, also known as Uncle Samsik, a cunning operative willing to employ any means necessary to achieve their shared objectives. Together, they forge an unlikely partnership, maneuvering through the intricacies of the existing system with a common vision of a thriving future.
The cast features Byun Yohan portraying the optimistic young politician alongside Song Kang-ho, who embodies the enigmatic character of Uncle Samsik. Song Kang-ho's participation in the series marks a significant milestone for Disney in South Korea, given his stature as one of the nation's most esteemed actors. With a prolific career spanning collaborations with esteemed directors like Bong Joon-ho, Park Chan-wook, Lee Chang-dong, and Kim Jee-woon, Song's involvement adds further prestige to the project.
