Get ready for the most explosive K-drama thriller of 2025! “The Manipulated“ starring Ji Chang Wook and EXO’s D.O. (Doh Kyung Soo) has officially locked in its Disney+ premiere date for November 5, 2025, and the newly released poster promises an intense cat-and-mouse game that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
Table of Contents
The Manipulated Gripping First Poster: Face-Off Between Hero and Villain
The official poster has already stirred excitement among fans, featuring Tae Joong and Yo Han face to face in an intense confrontation, highlighted by the black-and-white contrast — symbolizing the battle between victim and manipulator. The teaser poster features Tae Jung and Yo Han locked in a fierce confrontation.
This striking visual immediately establishes the central conflict that will drive the entire series – a wrongfully imprisoned man seeking revenge against the mastermind who destroyed his life.
| Series Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Premiere Date | November 5, 2025 |
| Platform | Disney+ Korea |
| Episodes | 12 episodes |
| Runtime | November 5 – December 3, 2025 |
| Genre | Crime Action Thriller |
Plot Synopsis: Revenge Born from Injustice
“The Manipulated” tells the story of Park Tae-joong (Ji Chang Wook), a model citizen who was mistakenly accused of a heinous crime and sent to prison. Tae-Joong discovers that everything was planned by Yo-Han (Do Kyung-Soo) and he carries out revenge on Yo-Han.
The Storyline Unfolds:
- Ordinary life shattered when Tae Jung is wrongfully imprisoned
- Dark discovery that mysterious Yo Han orchestrated his downfall
- Prison transformation as the mild-mannered man plots revenge
- Deadly confrontation between the manipulated and the manipulator
For more insights into K-drama thriller trends, check out our comprehensive Korean drama guide.
Star-Studded Cast Leading Disney+’s New Thriller
The series stars Ji Chang-wook, Doh Kyung-soo, Lee Kwang-soo, and Jo Yoon-su in what promises to be one of the year’s most compelling ensemble performances.
Main Cast:
- Ji Chang Wook as Park Tae Jung – The wrongfully imprisoned protagonist
- D.O. (Doh Kyung Soo) as Yo Han – The mastermind villain
- Lee Kwang Soo – Supporting role (character details TBA)
- Jo Yoon Su – Supporting role (character details TBA)
This marks another major collaboration between Disney+ Korea and top-tier K-drama talent, continuing the platform’s strategy of investing in premium original content.
Connection to “Fabricated City” – A Fresh Take
The drama series is inspired by the 2017 movie “Fabricated City,” but presented with a new story. Lead actor Ji Chang-Wook and screenwriter Oh Sang-Ho worked together in the original 2017 movie.
What Makes This Adaptation Special:
- Expanded storyline from film to 12-episode series
- Ji Chang Wook returns to revisit similar themes with deeper exploration
- Enhanced character development possible through episodic format
- New supporting characters and subplots exclusive to the series
Explore more about Korean film-to-drama adaptations in our K-entertainment evolution analysis.
Disney+’s K-Content Strategy Continues
The crime-action drama’s premiere date was announced by Disney+ in a press statement, where it will run from Nov. 5 to Dec. 3. This release strategy shows Disney+’s commitment to weekly episode drops that build anticipation and sustained viewership.
Release Schedule:
- Weekly episodes starting November 5
- 6-week run through December 3
- Peak holiday season positioning for maximum impact
- Global Disney+ availability expanding Korean content reach
What to Expect: High-Stakes Action Meets Psychological Thriller
Based on the intense poster and plot details, “The Manipulated” promises to deliver:
Key Elements:
- Prison drama exploring wrongful conviction themes
- Revenge thriller with carefully planned payback
- Psychological manipulation between protagonist and antagonist
- Action sequences befitting Ji Chang Wook’s reputation
- Moral complexity questioning justice and vengeance
Early Industry Buzz and Expectations
It’s been a disappointing year (so far) for streaming platform Disney+ with its K-content, making “The Manipulated” crucial for the platform’s Korean content strategy. The combination of established stars and a proven storyline could be exactly what Disney+ Korea needs.
Why This Could Be Disney+’s Breakout Hit:
- Proven star power of Ji Chang Wook and D.O.
- Compelling revenge narrative with universal appeal
- High production values expected from Disney+ originals
- Strategic November launch timing
For official Disney+ updates and announcements, visit Disney+ Press Center.
The Bottom Line: November Can’t Come Soon Enough
“The Manipulated” represents everything K-drama fans love: stellar casting, intense psychological drama, and a revenge plot that promises to keep viewers guessing. With Ji Chang Wook’s action expertise and D.O.’s acting range, this Disney+ original could be the thriller that defines the end of 2025.
Are you ready for this intense showdown between Ji Chang Wook and D.O.? Share your excitement for “The Manipulated,” and don’t miss our latest K-drama preview coverage for more upcoming must-watch series!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is “The Manipulated” based on a true story?
A: No, “The Manipulated” is a fictional thriller inspired by the 2017 Korean film “Fabricated City.” While it deals with realistic themes of wrongful imprisonment and justice, the story and characters are entirely fictional, created by screenwriter Oh Sang-Ho.
Q: Will “The Manipulated” be available globally on Disney+?
A: While Disney+ has announced the series for November 5, 2025, global availability details haven’t been confirmed yet. The series is currently announced for Disney+ Korea, but Disney typically expands successful Korean content to international markets, so global viewers should watch for official announcements.
