In a gripping new teaser for Netflix’s upcoming action thriller series Trigger, South Korean stars Kim Nam-gil and Kim Young-kwang are thrust into a high-stakes battle against an unprecedented surge of gun-related crimes in a nation unaccustomed to such chaos. Set to premiere on July 25, 2025, the limited series promises a pulse-pounding narrative that explores corruption, morality, and the fight for control in a society on the brink. The teaser, released on July 9, 2025, offers a tantalizing glimpse into a world where two men with conflicting motivations are forced to confront a cunning arms dealer and a nation spiraling into disorder.
Directed by Yoo Sun-dong, known for his work on The Outlaws, and written by Kwon Tae-ho and Yoon Hye-ryung, Trigger depicts a South Korea grappling with an unfamiliar crisis: the widespread proliferation of illegal firearms. The nation, historically known for its strict gun control laws, faces a sudden and inexplicable influx of weapons, leading to rampant crime and societal upheaval. At the heart of the story are two men—Moon Baek, played by Kim Nam-gil, and Oh Jin-seung, portrayed by Kim Young-kwang—whose opposing ideologies and methods set the stage for a complex and uneasy alliance.
Kim Nam-gil stars as Moon Baek, a principled police officer and leader of the Firearms Control Task Force. Moon Baek is driven by a steadfast commitment to justice, determined to dismantle the black-market arms trade that threatens public safety. His character is depicted as a resolute figure, haunted by the chaos unfolding around him yet unwavering in his mission to restore order. In the teaser, Moon Baek is seen navigating tense standoffs, his sharp gaze and steady hand underscoring his resolve to confront the crisis head-on.
Opposite him, Kim Young-kwang embodies Oh Jin-seung, a charismatic and cunning arms broker who operates in the shadows of the black market. Oh Jin-seung is a master manipulator, described as a “wily fox” whose intelligence and resourcefulness make him a formidable adversary. Yet, as the teaser reveals, Oh Jin-seung’s motivations are not purely self-serving. Faced with the escalating consequences of the gun epidemic, he finds himself drawn into an unexpected partnership with Moon Baek, their conflicting goals creating a dynamic tension that drives the series’ narrative.
The production of Trigger is a testament to Netflix’s commitment to high-budget Korean content, with a reported investment of 30 billion won (approximately $22 million USD). This substantial budget is evident in the teaser’s polished cinematography, intense action sequences, and atmospheric portrayal of a nation in crisis. From high-speed chases to intricately choreographed shootouts, the series promises to deliver the adrenaline-fueled spectacle that fans of the action thriller genre crave, while also delving into the psychological and ethical dilemmas faced by its protagonists.
The narrative also explores broader themes of corruption and societal decay, as the influx of illegal firearms exposes cracks in South Korea’s institutions. Moon Baek’s task force battles not only the arms dealers but also the systemic failures that allow such chaos to flourish. Oh Jin-seung, meanwhile, navigates a world where profit and survival are intertwined, forcing him to confront the consequences of his own actions. The teaser hints at a climactic showdown between the two men and their common enemy, an elusive figure whose influence fuels the nation’s descent into anarchy.
Trigger marks another milestone in Netflix’s growing slate of Korean dramas, building on the global success of series like Squid Game and Song of the Bandits. Kim Nam-gil, celebrated for his commanding performances in Song of the Bandits and Through the Darkness, brings a gravitas to Moon Baek that anchors the series’ emotional core. Kim Young-kwang, known for his versatility in projects like Somebody and On Your Wedding Day, infuses Oh Jin-seung with a magnetic charm that makes his character both alluring and unpredictable.
The teaser concludes with a striking image of Moon Baek and Oh Jin-seung standing side by side, their weapons drawn as they face an unseen threat. The moment encapsulates the fragile alliance at the heart of Trigger, raising questions about whether their partnership can withstand the pressures of their conflicting motives and the chaos surrounding them. As the premiere date approaches, anticipation is building for a series that promises to blend heart-pounding action with a nuanced exploration of morality and sacrifice.
Trigger will be available for streaming on Netflix starting July 25, 2025, offering viewers a thrilling journey into a world where the line between hero and villain is razor-thin. With its stellar cast, high production values, and a story that tackles timely issues, the series is poised to captivate audiences worldwide.
