netflix Production has begun on “The Generals” (working title), a Korean political drama directed by Yoon Jong-bin in which They are Suk-ku and Ha Jung Woo plays real-life historical figures, Roh Tae-woo and Chun Doo-hwan.
The film is Yoon’s first feature film since “The Spy Gone North” in 2018. The director previously collaborated with Netflix on “Narco-Saints,” the 2022 crime series that gained a wide global audience. “The Generals” reunites him with Ha Jung-woo, who also appeared in that series.
The narrative centers on Roh Tae-woo, a man who cultivates a public image as an everyman while pulling the levers of influence alongside military strongman Chun Doo-hwan. The film traces his protracted attempt to emerge from Chun’s shadow and claim the top job for himself, examining the web of alliances, rivalries, and institutional maneuvers that define his rise.
Son Suk-ku, known internationally for “DP” and “A Killer Paradox,” takes on the lead role of Roh. Ha Jung-woo, a recurring presence in Yoon’s filmography whose credits include “Assassination” and “Along with the Gods,” plays Chun Doo-hwan, Roh’s former military academy classmate turned authoritarian ruler. Ji Chang-wook, most recently seen in “The Worst of Evil,” plays Heo Hak-seong, a young academy graduate whom Roh sees as a persistent obstacle. Hyun Bong-sik, a veteran of “Narco-Saints” and “A Killer Paradox,” appears as Jung Ho-joong, a close classmate of Roh and Chun. Seo Hyun-woo, who appeared in Park Chan-wook’s “Decision to Leave,” rounds out the cast as Park Cheol-woong, a prosecutor in Roh’s inner circle.
“The Generals” is a joint production of Moonlight Film, whose catalog includes “Narco-Saints” and “Karma”, and Sanai Pictures, behind “Hunt” and “Revolver”. The film will stream exclusively on Netflix.