K-drama fans, get ready! One of the most anticipated Korean dramas of the year, Tempest ( also known as Polar Star), is set to make waves in 2025. With a star-studded cast led by Jun Ji-hyun and Gang Dong-won, gripping spy thriller storytelling, and global streaming on Disney+ and Hulu, this drama is already creating buzz across the world.
If you love intense political thrillers mixed with emotional depth and a touch of romance, Tempest is a must-watch. Here’s a complete guide with the release date, detailed synopsis, cast, and reasons why it’s one of the most talked-about dramas of 2025.
Tempest 2025 K-Drama: jun ji-hyun, Gang Dong-won
Tempest (2025) Release Date
Tempest will premiere on September 10, 2025. Fans can stream it on Disney+ (internationally) and Hulu (U.S.). Unlike the typical one-episode release format, the show will drop its first three episodes on launch day, keeping fans instantly hooked. After that, new episodes will air weekly until early October. Episodes: 9 total Duration: Approx. 60 minutes each Finale: Expected in early October 2025
Tempest Synopsis – What’s the Story About?
At the heart of Tempest is a thrilling story about espionage, betrayal, and survival on a global stage. The drama follows Seo Muh-ju (played by Jun Ji-hyun), a former UN ambassador who finds herself entangled in a deadly conspiracy after a shocking assassination attempt. She is smart, fearless, and determined to protect not only herself but also the fate of her country.
Tempest 2025 K-Drama: jun ji-hyun, Gang Dong-won
Her path collides with Baek San-ho (Gang Dong-won), a mysterious and highly skilled mercenary. Although he appears to be cold and dangerous, his true motives remain unclear. Together, the two must navigate a world of spies, double agents, and political games— where trust is fragile and danger lurks at every step. As the conspiracy deepens, Seo Mun-ju and Baek San-ho must uncover the truth before chaos engulfs the Korean peninsula. But can they survive the storm when powerful forces are determined to silence them? This gripping narrative blends high-stakes action, political intrigue, and emotional character arcs, making it one of the most ambitious K-dramas of 2025.
Main Cast of Tempest
Tempest 2025 K-Drama: jun ji-hyun, Gang Dong-won
The casting of Tempest is nothing short of spectacular, featuring some of Korea’s biggest stars along with internationally recognized names:
- Jun Ji-hyun ( Gianna Jun) as Seo Mun-ju A former UN ambassador whose intelligence and determination make her a key figure in unraveling the conspiracy.
- Gang Dong-won as Baek San-ho A skilled mercenary with a dark past. His loyalty and true intentions will keep viewers guessing until the very end.
- Kim Hae-sook as President of South Korea A powerful and fierce leader who must navigate both personal and political threats.
- John Cho as Anderson Miller The U.S. Deputy Secretary of State, whose involvement adds a global dimension to the plot.
- Supporting Cast: Park Hae-oon, Yoo Jae-myung, Oh Jung-se, Lee Mi-ssok, Won Ji-an, Joo Jong-hyuk, and more. International actors Christopher Gorham and Michael Gaston also appear in major roles, further broadening the drama’s global appeal.
Why You Should Watch Tempest
- Global Spy Thriller Vibes – The drama tackles international politics, espionage, and conspiracies, making it more than just a typical romance or melodrama.
- A-List Cast – Jun Ji-hyun and Gang Dong-won’s pairing is enough to make this drama a hot topic, but add John Cho and Kim Hae-sook, and it becomes unmissable
- Hollywood-Level Production – Backed by Skydance and Seoul Action School, fans can expect movie-like visuals, powerful fight scenes, and gripping tension.
- Short & Intense – With just 9 episodes, Tempest avoids filler and delivers a tightly packed, action-driven narrative.
Final Thoughts
Tempest (2025) isn’t just another K-drama– it’s shaping up to be a global phenomenon. With a September 10 release date, a powerful storyline, and an unbeatable cast, it’s one of the most ambitious projects of the year. Whether you’re a fan of political thrillers, action–packed stories, or star-studded dramas, Tempest deserves a spot on your must-watch list
Don’t miss the premiere of Tempest on Disney+ and Hulu this September. Get ready for a whirlwind of suspense, action, and unforgettable performances.
Also Read: Top 12 New September 2025 Korean Dramas Premiering: My Youth, Queen Mantis & Must-Watch K-Dramas